Southern Exposure With Black Southern Belle: Greenbrier Resort

The Greenbrier Resort is nestled in the Allegheny Mountains in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia and is unlike anything else in the world. Referred to as “America’s Resort” it is the combination of Luxury Estates, Resort and in many ways an amusement park for adults and families. The 11,000-acre retreat offers 710 rooms, 96 guest and estate homes, 20 restaurants and lounges, more than 55 indoor and outdoor activities/sports, spa, casino, 36 retail shops, ten lobbies, 40+ meeting rooms, and a complete conference center facility.

Its rich history dates back to 1778 when it first opened and later in 1913 British-born American architect Frederick Julius Sterner designed the expansive hotel. Throughout its life the grounds have served as a: hospital and headquarters for the US military and a getaway home to prestigious politicians, celebrities, royalty and (26) US presidents. In 1946, Dorothy Draper was commissioned to redesign the hotel and in turn, transformed it into a new bold personality and hospitality haven that the world sought out.

Dorothy Draper’s marvelous and iconic style is an interior designer’s paradise, and now Carleton Varney continues the legacy of eye-catching design. It’s vivid color, large geometric and floral patterns, and meticulously selected furniture is, in my opinion, perfect. Even though Greenbrier is half the size of Disney World, it manages to have the charm of a bed & breakfast and undeniable leisure.

Being a design enthusiast, I could spend all my time just touring the property. Its 20 restaurants offer a large variety of different cuisines and dining experiences. The spa is a pampering experience that feels like a deluxe time capsule to America’s prime years. There is something for everyone at all times, and the resort is accommodating in providing its guests with individual itineraries. So if you want an opulent and fun resort escape without long lines and crowds, Greenbrier Resort is the perfect place for you!


Michiel Perry is the founder of Black Southern Belle, and a regular contributing editor for ASPIRE DESIGN AND HOME magazine. See more of her work here!

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