Summer vacation is speeding by, but there's one escape you may not have taken. Without the family or significant other... a female-only breather may be the relaxing break you really need. One of my favorite properties on the planet, the Four Seasons Atlanta has introduced their 'Girls Just Want to Have Fun' weekend package that lasts until September. If you're seeking a way to get away from it all while catching up with your closet friends, this is the best route. It's also ideal for a solo retreat. Perks include generous spa credits, gorgeous food and an unbelievable room.

Four Season's robes, slippers and marble baths are standard as are L'Occitane toiletries. 

You check in to a luxe abode complete with sparkling wine, fresh fruit, comfy robes and a gorgeous bath. While tempted to stay inside, their Park 75 restaurant and lounge are so inviting that it's hard to stay put. Even if you spend your nights reading or talking with divine room service, you won't be able to resist the elegant Sunday brunch. Lots of indulgences, but an equal number of diet friendly offerings are on display. They also have an amazing menu of creative cocktails (trust me, you will want to sample more than one).

A big bonus -- the extremely comfortable beds

The spa is quaint, lovely and staffed by some of the most talented professionals in Atlanta. I took advantage of the Vitamin C Peel facial and could instantly see a difference. The relaxing head and shoulder massage that came with the treatment left me instantly revived. I had boundless energy to shop and explore the countless haunts in the nearby Midtown neighborhood, which is fantastic! When I didn't want to walk or carry bags, I was scooped up by the complimentary house Jaguar sedan. 

Part of the Sunday Brunch display.. perfect for pairing with mimosas...

The dessert display at Sunday Brunch 

Time with friends (and to ourselves) is so limited, which is why I appreciate this kind of offering so very much. Four Seasons Atlanta goes above and beyond-- setting up luncheons, happy hours, cooking classes, bike rides or whatever you would like to create your ideal girls' getaway. The pricing makes it realistic, the location is accessible and the pampering makes a difference. If there's only one thing you do for yourself this summer.... make this your splurge. I promise it will be completely worth it! 

Look for more ATL trip details on my next post and please do share your experiences for the perfect summer weekend! 

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When I got the chance to jump on Tim Nichols' bandwagon when he was offered a suite at the gorgeous Four Seasons in Midtown, I immediately cleared my calendar and signed right up. I've stayed at this property many times, so I knew what to expect.... complete perfection (and then some). The lounge in this hotel is one of my top picks in the world for a cocktail, and the rooms never disappoint. I love everything about the entire place.

The grounds at the Four Seasons Atlanta are immaculate.

Our one bedroom suite came with a fantastic bed, fresh flowers, and Bvlgari products in two marble baths.

Instead of being on assignment and trying all things new as usual, we returned to very traditional places: familiar (but still fun) restaurants and haunts. And, I found them as comforting as always. Possibly even a bit better than I remembered.

The grilled chicken club on housemade pretzel bread and vinegar chips at Buckhead Diner

For starters, we had lunch at Buckhead Diner. Still the same after all these years, with a waitstaff I estimate has been there since day ONE. For dinner, we elected to go to New York Prime. Big steaks, live music (soft cover tunes by a one-man-show) and possibly the most immaculate service in the city...with steaks and seafood to match.

Shrimp are oversized and swimming in yummy sauce at New York Prime

The banana creme pie at New York Prime is reputable for good reason-- amazing! 

One of the best parts about staying at the locale in Midtown is the walking proximity to some seriously clever patio dining (or drinking) havens. South City Kitchen, Tin Lizzy's and Front Page News

 are right around the corner. 

Just two blocks from the hotel, we rediscovered the ambiance on the patio of long-time hang, Front Page News. They should write a book on 'how to do patio dining right'

On our way back to Nashville, we stopped and scooted our butts into a booth at Houston's to dive into delicious fare we desperately miss now that the mainstay is absent from Nashville's West End neighborhood. No photos were taken, as I was too busy eating. It was super nostalgic.... and oh so delicious.

What are your top choices for classic restaurants in Atlanta? Hoping to see your picks here on the Southern Sophisticate!  read more