4/26/2022
It interesting how your expectations and actual experience compare, sometimes met, sometimes less than and sometimes greater than expected. Linda identified the Greenbrier Resort in White Sulphur Springs West Virginia as a destination. The visit for lunch and a stroll around far exceeded my expectations. This place is rich in history and the architecture and interior design are stunning, really eye popping in each space.
Credit for this magnificent resort goes to Dorothy Draper, who in 1948 transformed this grand structure from a makeshift war hospital to a world class resort. Her use of rich design features and bold modern color creates interior spaces which I find amazing. Architectural Digest declared the redecorated Greenbrier, Dorothy Drapers Masterpiece. Of note is the chandelier in the main bar is from the movie Gone with the Wind (picture).
The early draw to the area was the use of the White Sulphur Spring for healing properties during summer retreat. The original spring still seeps Sulphur tainted warm flow, beneath a canopy. Railroads were eager to bring tourists to the cool breezes in the mountains and the first hotels were built. 28 presidents have visited the Greenbrier location, the first in 1815. The current building is the third to be located here. On site is the original golf course, a couple of other 18 hole courses, tennis, guided; fishing, canoeing, rafting, falconing and more. The main building has hotel rooms, function and dining rooms. It also has a casino, and many high-end shops.
We planned to lunch at the Sam Snead Restaurant by the old golf course, but they were not serving today, Draper’s Cafe in the main building was a good alternative, and a bit pricey. A score card, below is from a round with Sam Snead and President Eisenhower, guess who won?
The Presidents Cottage was built in 1834 as a private retreat by a New Orleans merchant. When sold, it was used as a lodging house, and six presidents have stayed there. The main building is now a museum, a worthwhile stop. A chapel on site is open to the public and has a beautiful interior space, fitting with the resort.
A special tour is offered to the “new section” added in 1958. This new building was a secret project initiated by congress during the cold war to create an emergency shelter for congress. The shelter is deep underground, beneath the new “hotel building”, and heavily fortified with concrete and multi-ton steel doors. This shelter was kept secret until 1992, when leaked by the press.
One last sweet topic, there is an on-site chocolatier by the entrance on the rear side, where two ladies are crafting the most tempting chocolate treats before your eyes, on the way in, and the way out. Nice !
Retired and Loving It 