Nestled in rural Grundy County, Tennessee, The Caverns have attracted music lovers and adventure seekers for years. Featured on PBS, their Cavern Sessions (formerly Bluegrass Underground) have broadcasted the whimsical thrill of experiencing live music deep within a palatial cave.
The concert experience itself remains a bucket-list item for music lovers across the globe, and now the venue has expanded the adventure to include accommodations onsite. Debuting in April 2023, The Yurt Village at the Caverns is the best way to experience the Cavern Sessions in real life.
When I spoke with Joe Lurgio, General Manager at The Caverns, he shared what makes the new glamping options so appealing. “About 70% of our music visitors come from out of state; some are international visitors, even,” Joe explained. Traveling so far, and to such a rural destination, could prove burdensome for many, which led The Caverns to build a village of twenty yurts on their property. A short walk leads visitors from the Yurt Village to the Caverns.
While the Yurts aren’t traditional cabins, they aren’t as rustic as tent camping, either. In fact, the yurts are the epitome of glamping in luxury. Inside, guests will find that the canvas structures are temperature-controlled with large beds, private bathrooms, and a kitchenette. The beds feature beautiful hand-carved wooden headboards and charming quilts that elevate the experience. Outside, the yurts are surrounded by striking decks for outdoor lounging. All of these features, work together to create the ultimate escape. One of the most appealing features, however, is the communal fire pit located near the center of the Yurt Village.
Joe explained that one of the unique benefits that has developed from building the Yurt Village is a sense of community amongst concertgoers. Picture this: You make it to the Yurt Village, get settled, then head to a concert you’ve been looking forward to. Fast forward to later that evening, and you’re lounging next to a bonfire, making friends with other visitors who love the same bands and music as you. According to Joe, friendships and comradery are built around the fire ring, which was a founding principle when the Yurt Village was designed.
But it’s not all about the concerts. The Caverns offers adventure for all kinds of visitors and cave enthusiasts. Seven days a week, you can book guided tours through several of their caves, some more strenuous than others. One tour allows guests to learn about the Behind-the-Scenes magic of the Cavern Sessions, while another tour takes guests deep into parts of the caverns seen by only a few. The guided tours range from highly adventurous to more leisurely.
For those interested, be sure to plan ahead. Bookings fill up quickly, especially with more popular musicians. In addition to yurts, The Caverns also boast an impressive campground for visitors who prefer the rustic experience, and there are plans to expand with additional yurts and campsites in the future.
To find out more and book your own excursion to the Caverns of Grundy County, visit their website at www.thecaverns.com.