Why Winter and Spring Retreats Are Worth a Second Look
For companies looking to get the most out of their corporate offsite, the season matters just as much as the venue. While summer and fall are often considered prime seasons, winter and spring corporate retreats offer distinct advantages—especially in a place like Evins Mill, just an hour outside of Nashville. These quieter seasons often provide more availability, a more relaxed atmosphere, and a unique opportunity for teams to disconnect from day-to-day operations in a cozy environment and refocus on what matters.
The Natural Setting Makes a Big Difference
Evins Mill's location on Tennessee's Highland Rim gives it a year-round edge in scenic appeal, but the property takes on a special character in winter and spring. During winter, the woods become more open and expansive, allowing guests to take in dramatic views of the bluff, creek, and waterfalls. The landscape is peaceful and calm, providing the ideal setting for deep thinking, long-form collaboration, or simple rest.
In spring, the property transforms as wildflowers bloom and trees regain their color. Water levels rise, making the property's iconic Carmac Falls even more impressive. For companies launching new initiatives or resetting after Q1, the seasonal symbolism of growth and renewal is hard to beat. Trails come alive, the decks offer warmer afternoon sun, and the entire atmosphere feels optimistic and refreshed.
Corporate Groups Benefit from Off-Season Scheduling
Planning a retreat in winter or early spring also offers logistical advantages. Because these seasons fall outside traditional vacation and holiday windows, team members are generally more available. This makes attendance easier to secure, especially for companies with dispersed or hybrid teams. For those traveling from out of town, Nashville's airport remains accessible year-round, and Evins Mill is a straightforward drive from the city.
Cold Weather Doesn't Limit Group Activity
Contrary to what some may assume, winter does not mean being stuck indoors. At Evins Mill, winter offers a wide range of engaging indoor and outdoor options. The lodge features inviting spaces with fireplaces, perfect for relaxed meetings, strategy sessions, or breakout discussions. When teams need a break, they can enjoy recreational amenities like billiards, board games, puzzles, darts, and movies.
Outside, guests can hike the on-property trails, explore the mill pond, or simply gather on a covered deck with a warm beverage. Even during colder months, guests routinely walk to the base of Carmac Falls—a favorite destination that remains open and beautiful all year.
The property's covered Solstice Lodge is another draw, especially in spring, offering groups a flexible private gathering spaces that are cozy and inviting, but still immersed in nature.
Spring Weather Adds Energy to the Experience
By late March and into April and May, the property comes alive. Trails soften underfoot, and the forest canopy returns. The spring air is crisp without being cold—ideal for walking meetings, trail exploration, or casual group discussions on one of the decks overlooking the bluff. Lawn games become popular again, and meals served outside take on a celebratory feel.
Because Evins Mill includes a full-service dining team, companies can customize menus to reflect seasonal produce and preferences. Whether it's a casual lunch break between planning sessions or a more elevated evening dinner, the meal experience is part of what sets the retreat apart. Dietary needs are accommodated, and the resort's kitchen makes use of locally sourced ingredients whenever possible.
Opportunities to Strengthen Team Culture
Winter and spring naturally lend themselves to different types of conversations. Winter is a time for looking back, evaluating performance, and clarifying direction. It's well-suited for executive retreats, budget planning, or setting priorities for the year ahead. Spring is more future-oriented. It's a great time to energize teams, align departments, and get everyone working toward shared goals.
Both seasons offer moments of quiet that support connection. Without the distraction of crowds or over-programmed schedules, teams tend to unwind more easily. That's where trust is built. The retreat format encourages collaboration, transparency, and meaningful dialogue—things that are often hard to foster in the day-to-day rhythm of office life.
Winter and Spring Are Easier for Attendees
From a human resources perspective, these seasons tend to be easier on employees. Fewer people are balancing personal travel, school breaks, or summer childcare. When a retreat is announced for February or April, it's less likely to conflict with other obligations. That means you'll get better attendance, better focus, and likely a better return on your investment.
Evins Mill's on-site lodging includes 20 guest rooms. Each room has a private entrance and a private deck overlooking the creek, which means guests can truly unwind in the evenings without needing to travel offsite. With meals included and no need to leave the property, teams can stay engaged from the moment they arrive to the moment they check out.
Built-In Recreation That Supports Downtime
Not every moment of a retreat needs to be structured. In fact, some of the most valuable outcomes come from downtime. At Evins Mill, that downtime still feels intentional—offering space to reflect, relax, or connect with peers.
Winter options include indoor games, fireside chats, reading nooks, and creative planning sessions. Spring brings out the recreational options—cornhole, ladder golf, fishing, and photography walks are all popular. Because the setting is intimate and spread out across 40 acres, there's room for everyone to find their pace.
The waterfall hike remains a consistent favorite across both seasons, as does time spent on the decks or near the pond. Some teams even request guided discussions or facilitated team-building exercises, which the Evins Mill team can help coordinate in advance.
Booking Tips for a Smooth Planning Process
If you're considering a winter or spring retreat at Evins Mill, it's a good idea to plan early—especially if your team requires overnight lodging. Aim for six to nine months out for best availability. Weekdays tend to book faster for corporate groups, but weekends are sometimes available as well. Be prepared to share the size of your group, your preferred meeting style, and any dietary restrictions.
The Evins Mill staff will walk you through the planning process—from choosing lodging to customizing your meal plan and helping you incorporate recreational elements. That support is one of the reasons so many companies return year after year.
Ready to Plan Your Winter or Spring Retreat?
Whether you're aiming to kick off a new initiative, align leadership teams, or simply give your staff the reset they deserve, winter and spring offer the perfect conditions for meaningful progress.
To learn more or to book your seasonal corporate retreat, contact Evins Mill at www.evinsmill.com or call 615-269-3740. Our team is ready to help you create an experience your employees won't forget.
