“And I would say for me, there's only a very small number of times where I really felt convicted that this is the path for me in life. This is the thing I'm supposed to do. And this was one of those moments where it just felt really clear. Getting to buy The Swag, it wasn't like it was a dream come true, because I don't think I had bold enough or big enough dreams to dream that. It was beyond a dream.”
We’re in great company with Annie Colquitt, who along with her husband David, became stewards of both The Swag and Cataloochee Ranch, two mountaintop resorts bordering the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina, where they have continued a heritage of hospitality while elevating the comforts and cuisine of these intimate hideaways.
Together, Annie and David dreamt of owning a modest family business together, but what they ended up with was so much more - sharing their passion for travel, their love for the outdoors, their talent for hospitality, their craft for luxury accommodations, and their commitment to the community - with guests from around the world.
In the spirit of Thanksgiving, Annie shares a humble and honest story of how these two Relais & Châteaux honored resorts came to be and how far she and her family are willing to go to ensure they stand strong for generations to come - no matter what other storms they may weather.
Top Takeaways
[3:25] From becoming best friends to falling in love, from raising their children to building a family business together, Annie and David’s story is a source of laughter and learning for us all.
[6:40] A multigenerational friendship with the Matthews family, a memorable honeymoon and a handshake deal later, how Annie and David found themselves the new stewards of The Swag, “this was one of those moments where it just felt really clear, this is the path for me in life.”
[15:15] With little experience and lots to learn, Annie and David found themselves presented with the opportunity to own their neighboring property, the Cataloochee Ranch, beloved by the Alexander family for generations, yet in search for a new vision.
[19:05] The history of The Swag and Cataloochee Ranch can be seen, heard and felt throughout their winding halls, in the stories of returning guests and tenured staff, in the warm welcome of their timeless aesthetics.
[22:40] The Swag experience is built atop a mountain summit on meaningful history, connected community, rejuvenating amenities and breathtaking scenery.
[30:45] Cataloochee Ranch is an old frontier made new, mixing classic ranch fun with exceptional accommodations and cuisine, inspiring a sense of adventure across all generations.
[39:15] In light of recent events, the devastation that Hurricane Helene left Western North Carolina in, Annie and David are a beacon of hope, giving over two million dollars to the recovery, restoration and rebuilding efforts of their surrounding community.
Notable Mentions
Hemphill Bald Trail
Gooseberry Knob
2024 & 2025 Experts in Residence
Chef Jeb Aldrich at Switchback
