Editor’s Note: Because of the increase in gas prices the Daily News is bringing the community this continuing series on vacation ideas and trips within a short distance of the tri-state area.

Need a vacation but don’t have a lot of money to spend? Gas prices forcing you to re-think travel plans that take you hundreds of miles away? Don’t care for flying or you do not enjoy those long delays at airports? If any of these scenarios describe you, Berry Springs Lodge in nearby Sevierville, Tennessee may just be the answer.

Nestled on a hilltop, this secluded bed and breakfast offers a tranquil retreat that is only minutes from the Smoky Mountain National Park, Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Dollywood, Splash Mountain and so much more.

Berry Springs Lodge offers several amenities that appeal to even the most discriminating traveler. From bountiful country breakfasts to free high speed Internet Wi-Fi, innkeepers Patrick and Sue Eisert have thought of everything to make guests feel welcome. Tripadvisor.com guest reviews rank Berry Springs Lodge #1 for B & B’s in Sevierville. Statements like “Haven in the mountains” and “Total relaxation: A great retreat” only begin to describe the hospitality that you feel when you walk through their doors.

Each room is tastefully decorated and has its own private bath, television, balcony and individual climate control. You may also choose a room that has a whirlpool or even a fireplace.

Be sure to take in all the activities that the lodge has to offer such as hiking the Lodge’s beautiful grounds, going fishing or spending some time shooting pool or playing Ping-Pong. There is also plenty to do in the surrounding area such as shopping or sightseeing. The Lodge can even schedule a massage for you in the comfort of your own room. Then to make the evening complete, be sure to taste one of Sue’s desserts that are available every night. Have a peaceful night’s rest and awake the next morning to the smell of frying bacon or homemade banana bread! You are always welcome to have seconds on those huge breakfasts but take it from me, you will get full on the first serving.

Berry Springs Lodge is offering now through December 31, 2008 a “2008 DVD GAS Special”. You save $40 off weekday rates and $20 off weekend rates (two night minimum stay) when you bring in a new or used DVD for the guest library. Use those funds for a tank of gas! For more information on this and other specials, plus a list of all lodge happenings and amenities, visit their website at www.berrysprings.com.

Berry Springs Lodge is a private haven that my husband and I love to visit. We have been there for every season and I cannot pick a favorite. My husband’s favorite is Christmastime with all the decorations, lights, trees, roaring fireplace in the den and if he’s lucky, snowflakes. Being able to get away from it all is always a treat but at the Berry Springs Lodge luxury and first class service make that treat truly delectable!

Tabitha Webb is Webmaster and a staff writer for the Daily News. She can be reached via e-mail at twebb@middlesborodailynews.com.