Discover Trailborn Hotels: Marriotts New Adventure Lodge Experience

As the desire for unique travel experiences grows, many travelers are seeking accommodations that allow them to immerse themselves in nature. In response, Marriott Bonvoy has introduced Trailborn Hotels & Resorts, a new brand of adventure lodges designed to serve as gateways to breathtaking outdoor destinations.

I recently had the pleasure of spending two nights at Trailborn Highlands, nestled in the picturesque mountain town of Highlands, North Carolina. Located about three hours from Atlanta and Charlotte, this charming lodge is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. I brought my mom along for some quality bonding time, and I would gladly return for another visit.

Here’s a closer look at what makes Trailborn Hotels a fantastic choice for your next adventure or a tranquil retreat.

Trailborn Hotels & Resorts aims to be a “seamlessly curated jumping-off point to the most extraordinary outdoor destinations in the world.” While Trailborn Highlands is the flagship location, the brand also features other properties in stunning natural settings. Each one is designed to provide a unique boutique hotel experience, blending comfort with the great outdoors.

When you think of an “adventure lodge,” you might envision rustic cabins in remote locations. However, Trailborn properties offer modern, stylish accommodations in central locations, surrounded by miles of hiking trails and charming small towns just waiting to be explored.

Upon arriving at Trailborn Highlands, my mom and I drove through winding mountain roads, eventually finding the lodge tucked away behind trees. The 63-room, two-story building features earthy tones, natural materials, and mid-century modern furniture that perfectly complement the beauty of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains.

Our room was cozy yet thoughtfully designed, complete with decorative quilts, a linen spa robe, and even a cooler bag for our outings. The ambiance was modern and inviting, reminiscent of a family road trip—minus the musty sleeping bags.

One of the highlights of Trailborn Highlands is its affordability. Our queen balcony room, featuring two queen beds and a private balcony, started at an impressive $158 per night this fall. However, do keep in mind that a rental car is advisable for exploring the area.

The lodge is perfectly situated to feel like a serene getaway while still offering a plethora of activities. Within a 20-minute drive, you can access various hiking trails, and a short walk takes you to the charming town of Highlands. Alternatively, you can take advantage of the complimentary cruiser bikes provided by the hotel.

Trailborn Highlands encourages social interaction among guests with inviting gathering spaces designed for relaxation and connection. The indoor lounge is filled with photo books and vintage board games, along with complimentary coffee, tea, and pastries for breakfast. Outside, you’ll find picnic tables, cornhole, and a fire pit, complete with s’mores kits available for purchase at the on-site market.

During our stay, we missed the Thursday evening live music and drinks event, but we did enjoy a meal at the nearby Highlands Supper Club, a rustic log cabin that serves delicious Southern comfort food.

Another highlight was the outdoor Nordic spa, which features a wood-fired sauna, cold shower, and private fire pit. After a long day of hiking, spending an hour in the misty mountain air was the perfect way to unwind, albeit at an additional cost of $50 for up to two guests or $75 for four.

While Trailborn Highlands is ideal for connecting with nature and your travel companions, it may not cater to larger groups seeking traditional amenities like a pool or fitness center. Instead, the focus is on curated experiences that highlight the local culture and natural beauty. Options include activities like fly fishing, rock climbing, and forest bathing, as well as more unique experiences like a wood-burning cutting board workshop or a dinner and show in Highlands.

Each Trailborn property offers a distinct set of curated activities, so be sure to check the Experiences page for what’s available at your chosen location. During my two-day trip, my mom and I were too busy hiking and exploring to take advantage of any organized experiences, but with so many options, I can imagine filling a longer stay with exciting adventures.

For those who prefer city life, with its museums and fine dining, you might find the offerings at Trailborn Highlands limited after a couple of days. However, for nature enthusiasts, the lodge is a treasure trove of outdoor activities and relaxation.

Since Trailborn Hotels & Resorts joined Marriott Bonvoy earlier this year, members can earn and redeem Marriott points when booking a stay. Members earn 10 base points per dollar spent and gain elite night credits toward Marriott status when booking directly through Marriott or Trailborn channels. Just remember to add your Bonvoy number to your reservation.

While Trailborn properties offer some standard Bonvoy benefits like complimentary Wi-Fi and welcome gifts for elite members, certain perks—such as discounted member rates and guaranteed lounge access—are not available at these adventure lodges. If you’re a top-tier elite member, you might prefer staying at traditional Marriott properties to maximize your benefits.

Room rates at Trailborn Highlands start at $140 or 41,000 Marriott points per night this fall but can rise to $400 or 75,000 points on weekends next May. While this may not be the best way to maximize your points, especially for certain room types, you can still earn points toward future redemptions by booking a paid stay with one of Marriott’s credit cards.

Trailborn is not the only hotel brand embracing outdoor experiences. Marriott Bonvoy has also added Postcard Cabins, a collection of tiny cabins located within a two-hour drive of major cities, while World of Hyatt has partnered with Under Canvas for glamping experiences, and Hilton Honors has introduced AutoCamp’s collection of Airstream trailers and other outdoor accommodations. With so many options, it’s easier than ever to earn and redeem points for a nature retreat.

My time at Trailborn Highlands was filled with activities, both on-site and nearby, all within a relaxed and casual atmosphere. It felt like the perfect setting for an outdoor family reunion, provided your group isn’t too large. Whether you’re seeking a solo retreat, a romantic weekend, or a family getaway, Trailborn Highlands offers a welcoming environment for nature lovers.

In conclusion, if you’re looking to reconnect with the great outdoors while enjoying comfortable accommodations, Trailborn Hotels & Resorts might just be the perfect choice for your next travel adventure.