PINE MOUNTAIN — Callaway Gardens announced Thursday it acquired ownership of The Lodge and Spa at Callaway Gardens.

“This is a historic moment for Callaway Gardens,” said William “Bill” R. Doyle III, president and CEO for Callaway Gardens. “Our founder, Cason J. Callaway, built the first hotel rooms in the 1950s to provide Gardens guests a place to stay with after-tax proceeds used to support the Gardens and its endeavors. The addition of The Lodge and Spa is a strategic move to further enhance the Gardens’ experience and solidify its future.”

The Lodge and Spa, which opened in November 2006, features 149 guest rooms and suites accented with Athos Menaboni’s original artwork, outdoor fireplaces, a restaurant, a lounge, a pool with a cabana and conference meeting space as well the 13,000 square foot Spa Prunifolia. The Lodge and Spa is LEED — Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design — certified.

“The planning stages of a 10-month renovation will begin almost immediately to include all guest rooms, meeting rooms, public areas, restaurants and spa,” Doyle said. “Our design goal will bring The Lodge and Spa forward while at the same time maintaining the integrity of the overall Gardens’ experience Cason Callaway envisioned.”

For reservations for getaway weekends, meetings, retreats, and weddings, or for more information, call 1-800-463-6990 or visit www.callawaygardens.com.