The Greenbrier is one of America's oldest and most prestigious resorts. Located on 6500 acres in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, it boasts 803 rooms, including suites, guest houses and estate houses. Amenities include three championship golf course, tennis courses and a (great) 
spa. It is one of 218 hotels recognized by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
Leisure activities include carriage rides, hunting and fishing, cooking demonstrations and shopping. In addition, you can attend the Falconry Academy, the Off-road Driving School, or go whitewater rafting, or horseback riding. Not much chance to get bored.
This destination was first cited in documents as "a place to take the waters" in 1778. As roads improved, it became more and more popular. In 1838, Martin Van Buren stayed there...one of 25 presidents to have done so. The resort was originally a group of cottages and a dining room for people who came to drink from and bathe in the springs. In 1858, the Grand Central Hotel, nicknamed the "Old White" was built. In 1910, the arrival of the Chesapeake and Ohio Railroad and a $2 million investment allowed the building of The Greenbrier Hotel, which opened in 1913.
During World War II the U.S. Army purchased the resort and converted it into a 2000 bed hospital and rehabilitation center called the Ashford General Hospital. During its four years in this role, almost 25,000 soldiers were admitted and treated.
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I had the pleasure of staying at the Greenbrier for a few days last March...on somebody else's 
nickel. We stayed in a suite which had a huge sitting area, two televisions, a table and chairs, supremely comfortable beds, a deluxe bathroom, and huge walk-in closet. When we reported a small flaw in the accommodations, not only was it immediately taken care of, but a generous sample of hand-dipped chocolates was left behind.
Meals in the main dining room offers sophisticated dining with several choices in a wide selection of courses--appetizers, soups, salads, entrees, desserts. While staying at the Greenbrier is expensive, all meals are included. And these are without a doubt top-flight meals.
Later this month I will be visiting friends in West Virginia. When I was asked if I would like to take a day trip to Greenbrier and maybe indulge in a couple of spa treatments, I didn't have to think twice. 
There is one other thing I would like to do this time that I missed last visit. In 1950, the U.S. Army 
approached the resort about building an emergency relocation center or bunker to be used by Congress in the case of war. This concrete bunker was built and remained top secret for 30 years, as a place to sheter members of Congress in the event of a nuclear attack. Last year, the Federal Government released control of the 112,544 square foot bunker, which is located 700 to 800 feet below the
West Virginia wing of the resort.
Sadly, when I visited, last April, the bunker was undergoing some repairs, and tours were not offered. I hope to rectify that later this month.
The only thing better than staying at fancy hotels is staying at fancy hotels on someone else's nickel...and room service for breakfast.
Posted by: Shawn Lea | September 12, 2005 at 10:52 PM