Darling Hill Retreat began as a dream and has since become reality.

The Cabin

In December 2022, we fell in love with a Cabin on a hill and 21 acres in Middle Tennessee – the view, the land, the rustic wood, even the large stucco fireplace. From the moment we stepped inside, we knew it had potential to become something truly special for anyone and everyone who would come to visit – Darling Hill Retreat.

 

After the large purchase, we had a small renovation budget to work with which meant sweat equity for us!!! With the help of family members, one in particular, Donnie Gannon (Lisa’s brother), our wonderful talented neighbors, and friends – Lisa took charge and made her vision come true- during the renovation, we wanted to keep the cabin’s warm rustic charm but add in modern amenities and finishes and a kitchen!!! Yes, that’s right there wasn’t anything for a kitchen except a sink – refrigerator and plug in stove!!! Lisa wanted a rustic, yet luxurious cozy feel.

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Every room has a story behind it, whether it was from curating the space from thrifting furniture and accessories, to salvaging kitchen cabinets from a 1938 home in Monteagle, TN, to a bar made from barnwood and a live edge piece of wood made into a fabulous bar and island housing the stove. We named some of the rooms to reflect the encounters we had while curating and thrifting specific pieces such a pair of restoration hardware chairs purchased from Gunner Nelson (Ricky Nelson’s son) – thus we have a bedroom called the Garden Party Room. The Hall of Fame is filled with vintage signed autograph photos of country music legends, such as Loretta Lynn, George Jones, Tammy Wynette, Tanya Tucker, and so much more signed to Rick when he was a young boy– You will have to come visit us for the rest of the story on that one!!!! We have held on to these for over 50 years just waiting for the right spot and it’s a blessing to share with others.

 

Lisa was born and raised in Shelbyville, Tennessee, so Darling Hill has a big heart for Tennessee Walking Horses – you will find lots of vintage TWHNC in the Cowboy Up room along with vintage ranch attire, makes you feel like your sleeping in a cowboy bunk house except the bed is really comfy! We are so close to Bonnaroo- We had to make the upstairs the Roo Room and the Master Suite is named Hello Darlin – from what?? Is it the last name Darling or Conway Twitty’s hit??

 

The Brand

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Lisa’s Brother, Donnie Gannon, drew, designed, and welded our Brand as a birthday gift to Lisa on her 60 th birthday – the brand actually symbolized Rick + Lisa Darling, which is
how we came up with the name Darling Hill Retreat – as the upside down “L” looks like a Hill!

 

The Reality

In May 2023, we had professional photos made for the short term rental platforms and by June, 2023 we welcomed our first guests! What started as a dream and a vision has grown into a retreat filled with history, character, and heart. As love and laughter and making memories continue on between the walls with each guest experience. We hope when you visit, you feel the same warmth, creativity, and love that went into every corner of Darling Hill.

Make your Own Experience @ Darling Hill Retreat!