My “Worth It!” feature of the month is the enchanting low-country estate, The Inn at Palmetto Bluff, located just 30 minutes north of the Savannah Airport in South Carolina on 22,000 acres of pristine wilderness along the May River.
This surprisingly delightful retreat is an exceptional multi-generational family get-a-way as much as it is an very romantic weekend escape for couples. The Inn does a spectacular job of making all guests feel as though they are the only guests being spoiled.
I recommend the river front cottages for the couples who want to laze on their porch with a glass of wine, take long bike rides on the 22,000 acres of tree lined trails, or simply float down the May River on the Grace.
FYI – Clients of Resort to Laura Madrid also receive the following when staying in Cottages at Palmetto Bluff: Upgrade upon arrival, subject to availability, Daily breakfast for up to two in-room guests in River House Restaurant or room service, Two-seater golf cart for duration of stay.
For families, extraordinary period-decorated Village Homes from 2 to 4 bedrooms, are as comfortable and personal as your family’s own holiday home, and with all of the top end amenities one expects every day.
FYI – Clients of Resort to Laura Madrid also receive the following when staying in the Village Homes at Palmetto Bluff: Daily breakfast for all guests in the house at River House Restaurant or room service, A $50 credit towards grocery services (guests will receive a grocery list when they book).
Children are welcomed and catered too but couples will find that the River-Front cottages and adults-only pool creates a very soothing environment for those that are escaping for some romance!
Spring and Fall are the prime time to visit, but even February can have absolutely perfect sunny weather for a boat trip, game of croquet, round of golf, a swim in one of the two pools, or a day of horse back riding. The activities are endless from fishing, to kayaking, to historic day trips to Daufuskie Island and environmental tours through the vast South Carolina lowland marshes.
One thing that is unique is the history of the 1902 Winston estate and the absolutely breathtaking and idyllic restoration of the grounds. Once guest take the 4 mile drive into the property, they are taken back in time by the quaint village feel complete with shops, restaurants, and even a chapel – a stunning setting for a wedding.
I immediately pictured my own family here riding bikes to the Lawn and Racquet Club for the “big competition”, meeting up at the River House or Canoe Club for a cold beverage, or taking a boat out from the town dock. The cuisine throughout the resort will surprise and delight even the biggest foodies with its dedication to locally sourced and organic farming. Under the direction of an engaging Southern-born and raised food and beverage director, the team brings to life the history of low country cooking in a way that is modern and creative but honors its roots and local traditions – including using staff grandparent’s recipes for the house cured sausages, home-made biscuits, and stone ground grits. Keep in mind the the shrimp and oysters come right from the May River and could not be more memorable. Dining and wining at the Inn will certainly delight!
My score is an A+++ because the resort is so unexpected, so welcoming, elegant but casual, and makes guests feel that they have travelled a million miles away, rather than just 30 minutes from the Savannah Airport.
A GEM IN EVERY WAY!
When to go: Now! Fantastic activities for Easter and 4th of July! In the Fall, BOOK EARLY for the sell-out MUSIC TO YOUR MOUTH CULINARY FESTIVAL (http://www.musictoyourmouth.com/default.asp) and the February WoofStock is a must for dog lovers who like to bring their dog for a weekend dedicated to Fun with Fido! (Think doggie treats available at the bar while you sip your fig martini)
