The Dollywood Company is embarking on an ambitious investment strategy, which will see the Smoky Mountain resort invest over half a billion dollars on its properties over the next ten years.

Kickstarting the investment in properties plan is the construction of the HeartSong Lodge & Resort, 302-room accommodation located next to Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa.

The new property is due to open in 2023, marking another period of growth for Dollywood and the wider Smoky Mountains region.

The lodge will feature a range of lodging options for couples and multi-generational families, including spacious suites and bunk rooms.

The five-storey resort will feature themed suites and loft rooms. Many of the rooms will include balconies and spacious rooms with high ceilings with exposed beams.

Commenting on the plans for the new HeartSong Lodge & Resort, Dolly Parton said: “I’m so proud of this place that we’ve been able to build here in the Smokies.

“I always dreamed of accomplishing two things with Dollywood. I wanted to give jobs to the folks who live here, and I wanted to give visitors another reason to come and experience the beauty of the Smoky Mountains.

“We celebrated our 35th season last year, so I think it is fair to say we’ve been able to do that. I’m so happy with what we are doing to make sure our guests have a great season this year and being able to announce the new HeartSong Lodge & Resort is just one more way we’re going to be able to help families reconnect, explore and discover together. I truly believe the natural beauty of the Smokies, and the warmth of this special place will inspire every guest to nurture the ‘heartsong’ within them,” Parton continued.