Exploring Kentucky’s historic, beautiful Bourbon Country rewards whiskey buffs with an abundance of bourbon distilleries, bourbon tours, bourbon bars, and even bourbon-centric restaurants. Bourbon Barrel Retreats takes that hospitality a step farther.

Situated on 50 gently rolling acres between Bardstown and Lawrenceburg in the heart of Kentucky Bourbon Country, Bourbon Barrel Retreats is unique among the area’s lodging options. In fact, the trademarked design makes them the only barrel-shaped rental cabins in the entire United States.

Inside the curved-wood walls of their barrel, guests discover 300 square feet devoted to a king-size bed, a kitchenette, and a well-appointed bathroom. Seven of the nine barrel cabins include private outdoor hot tubs to relax in the evenings. 

Proprietors Tony and Christina Happeny aren’t new to distinctive accommodations, having previously constructed a glamping spot of geodesic domes south of Nashville. 

“We call the barrels modern-rustic-cozy,” Tony said in a news release. “They’re bigger than everyone anticipates—the ceilings are 10 feet tall.”

How did this bourbon-fan’s daydream become reality? 

“We wanted to elevate the experience for visitors in this region, and came up with the idea of bourbon barrels,” Happeny continued. “At that point, it was just a concept, no one had done it, so we couldn’t just copy something and run with it. We built a prototype to test the dimensions and be sure it was weatherproof. I knew that if we could make it work, people would be into it—and they are. It took off fast. We’re drawing plenty of out-of-staters visiting in groups, so it’s been great.”

So great that Bourbon Barrel Retreats expects to open a new onsite restaurant and whiskey tasting room in summer 2025. 

“That addition will enable our guests to experience some special pours, plus our own upcoming custom bourbon release, without needing to leave the property,” Happeny said. “People especially enjoy gathering around our communal firepits in the evening with a bottle or two they picked up along their journeys. They share their bourbons—and their opinions.”

Given Bourbon Barrel Retreat’s prime location central to 20 distilleries (including Buffalo Trace, Four Roses, Heaven Hill, Wild Turkey, and Woodford Reserve), guests can be somewhat overwhelmed by choices when venturing out. That’s why Bourbon Barrel Retreats provides a free concierge service that tailors personalized daily itineraries that can include distillery tours, tastings, meal reservations, and even beyond-bourbon activities such as Kentucky’s famous thoroughbred farms. 

“We know the area and how to deliver the best experiences along a route that saves our guests valuable travel time,” Happeny said.

Speaking of savings, Bourbon Barrel Retreats offers a 15 percent discount to all active and veteran members of the military, and reduced rates for groups. “Our focus here is to provide a unique place to stay,” Happeny said, “and five-star hospitality.”

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