WinShape Retreat Center: A Quiet, Restorative Haven in Rome, Georgia
After a few delightful days in Decatur, Georgia, I packed my things and continued north to Rome — Rome, Georgia. My destination was the WinShape Retreat Center, where I planned to meet my husband and take a pause from the usual rush of travel.
We left the busy Atlanta airport behind and traveled along quieter country roads. About two hours later, the bus turned into a long, tree-lined driveway that led us into a landscape of rolling fields and grazing deer. The approach felt like a slow unfolding, a deliberate entry into a place designed for rest and reflection.
The WinShape Retreat Center sits on a large, historically rich property that once served as a dairy farm for Berry College. The campus-like layout includes substantial white brick buildings grouped around a central courtyard. Each structure, many constructed brick by brick by college students years ago, carries architectural flourishes such as spires that give the complex a timeless, handcrafted quality.
I loved the small details—the birds that perched atop the spires, filling the air with song, and the carefully chosen accents throughout the grounds. The property’s restoration and new purpose were made possible when the owner of the Chick-fil-A chain recognized the site’s potential and invested in its transformation. Their vision and resources helped preserve the beauty of the place while adapting it as a retreat destination.
Walking through the courtyards and dining halls, I noticed thoughtful design at every turn. Elegant chandeliers hang above dining tables, and the decor blends rustic charm with refined touches. Little details—accent pieces, comfy chairs placed just so, and quiet corners by the water—invite you to slow down, sit, and breathe.
The buildings and outdoor spaces are arranged to create an atmosphere of calm. Paths wind past ponds and landscaped lawns, encouraging reflection and conversation. It’s a setting designed for restoration, whether you’re there for a conference, a retreat, or simply a quiet getaway.
Our days at WinShape felt like a gentle reset. The combination of beautiful architecture, peaceful grounds, and the intentional care put into every detail made it easy to step away from the noise of everyday life. Meals, gatherings, and quiet moments by the water all contributed to a sense of renewal.
More than the buildings or the furnishings, it was the people and the atmosphere that made our stay meaningful. The hosts, fellow guests, and the natural surroundings all contributed to a warm, welcoming experience. We left with hearts full and spirits refreshed, thankful that our time in Georgia continued a little longer.
As we drove away down the winding driveway, we carried that sense of calm with us. The next stop on our journey was Savannah, but the peaceful interlude at WinShape stayed with me as a reminder of how restorative thoughtfully preserved places can be.
PS: I looked into the center’s history and found it fascinating how the property evolved from a working dairy to a retreat campus. If you’re interested in learning more about WinShape’s background, there are many resources available through the organization’s historical information.