WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS, W.Va. – One of a kind is the type impression left on so many visitors the first time they lay eyes on the legendary Greenbrier.
Started in 1778, it has remained one of the country's most exclusive resorts -- originally attracting elites from the nation's capital.
"It was healthy, but they could also talk politics. They could talk business, they could marry their children off," Dr. Robert Conte, the historian for The Greenbrier, said. "And all this went on in the stagecoach days and then after the Civil War people started to come here by railroad."
Host to 26 U.S. presidents, The Greenbrier has also been frequented by royals, Hollywood stars, and professional athletes over the years. But in addition to the luxury and prestige -- one of the things they're most known for is the hospitality of their staff.
"There are gonna be plenty of people taking care of you if stay here and you're going to get the top level of service," Cam Huffman, one of the public relations directors for the resort, said. "Our motto kind of is, 'The answer is, yes. What's the question?'"
Along with world-class golf, guests can also take in horseback riding, fishing, falconry and a private casino just to name a few activities. The hotel has been decorated by the same company for 70 years. There have been numerous upgrades over the years, but not a lot changes at The Greenbrier.
"I think if nobody told you anything about the history of the place you'd walk in and say, 'Wow! They don't make 'em like this anymore,'" Conte said. "'There's gotta be a great story' you know?"
The public relations department says about 150,000 guests stay at The Greenbrier each year. During their peak season, basic rooms start at about $300 a night.
