Luxury Southern Hospitality was on full display during our 3-day stay
Palmetto bluff, south carolina
USA
While Hilton Head, South Carolina remains a big draw for travelers seeking a variety of recreational activities and lively beach life, those who prefer a quieter Southern experience would do well to plan a visit to the charming town of Bluffton and the gorgeous Montage Palmetto Bluff and Signature Spa Montage.
Less than 25 miles from Hilton Head Island lies the stunning Lowcountry community of Palmetto Bluff. Situated on 20,000 acres, Palmetto Bluff is blessed with pristine maritime forests, stunning landscapes, marshes, inland lagoons, several lakes and the historic May River. In addition to all of this natural beauty there are countless examples of authentic Southern architecture, showcasing the talents and expertise of some of the finest home builders in the region. The overall effect is one of timeless elegance and understated luxury, easily capturing the essence of the Lowcountry’s historical and cultural heritage.
Amidst the carefully manicured streets, brick pathways, colorful gardens and dozens of charming coastal cottages sits the five-star Montage Palmetto Bluff, widely recognized as one of the finest resort hotels in the South. Located a short walk or golf cart ride (available 24/7) from the Village Green and Wilson Mansion Ruins in the heart of Wilson Village, the hotel’s impressive presence and historical significance undoubtedly make it the crown jewel of this environmentally conscious, active lifestyle community
The Montage Palmetto Bluff is owned and operated by Montage International, a luxury hospitality group with several high-end hotels across the United States and internationally. Montage International is known for its exceptional service, first-in-class accommodations, and unique destinations. In 2016 the Montage Palmetto Bluff completed a carefully executed $100 million dollar expansion and renovation, thus improving on its status as one of the company’s premier properties
Our first stay at the Montage
Since moving to Savannah, Georgia in 2021 we have visited Palmetto Bluff several times, exploring the property on our bikes, playing tennis and enjoying lunches at the Canteen in Moreland Village and Buffalos restaurant in Wilson Village.
Oftentimes while driving home from our day trips the conversation would invariably shift to planning a longer stay to truly immerse ourselves in the beauty and magic of this unique place. The opportunity finally came in early July, when I celebrated a landmark birthday, with a three-day stay at the Montage.
On a sunny Tuesday morning, we loaded our bikes, tennis gear, swimsuits, and some good poolside reading and set off for the hour-and-a-half drive to Palmetto Bluff. Despite the forecast predicting rain for our three-day stay, we chose optimism over the weather reports.
The Inn
With its 152 rooms and suites the Montage Palmetto Bluff was designed to evoke the grandeur, hospitality and style of the original Wilson Mansion and on that score it clearly lives up to its mission. From the moment that we pulled into the sweeping, horseshoe-shaped driveway leading to the hotel entrance, we immediately felt the splendor of this iconic property. The visual impact was even more arresting with six, two-story tall pillars draped top-to-bottom with red, white and blue banners held over from Palmetto Bluff’s 4th of July festivities.
As the valets warmly greeted us, we felt as as though we were stepping into another world. This is the South, after all, and the hospitality shown by everyone, from the valets and golf cart hosts to the front desk staff and friendly restaurant servers is truly first class.
Check-in was a breeze, and our second-floor, light-filled room was spacious and well-appointed, with a great view of the adults-only pool, lagoon and the “backyard” of the Inn. Our bags were delivered in short order and after quickly settling in we headed to the pool for a quick plunge before enjoying some tacos at Fore & Aft while overlooking the lagoon.
The Cottages, Village Homes and Signature Residences
The Montage has a combination of 48 cottages and cottage suites with over half facing the May River while many others face the grand Lagoon. They are connected by brick-lined pathways lending a charming, small enclave feel to them. Ranging in size from 1,183 to 1,576 square feet they are ideal accommodations for guests wanting more privacy or families looking to spread out a bit more than a room at the Inn.
All of the cottages are equipped with a mini-fridge, wet bar, coffee makers and fireplaces along with expansive screened porches, enhancing the Lowcountry comfort and convenience. These thoughtful touches offer a blend of luxury and practicality while creating a more homelike atmosphere.
All of the amenities and activities offered to guests of the Main Inn are also available to guests of the cottages, including access to the pools, fitness center, complimentary beach-style bicycles and the Spa Montage along with Concierge services.
For guests seeking a more home-away-from-home experience there are 45 Village Homes which are fully equipped with all the comforts of home, including full kitchens, multiple bedrooms and bathrooms. These homes are located throughout Wilson and Moreland Village and possess some of the Bluff’s more unique architecture.
In addition to the Village Homes there are also 10 Signature Residences, located across the road to the main entrance of the Inn. These spacious homes offer guests a more removed and quiet experience, yet are just steps away from the Inn and all the amenities. For families who enjoy the familiar creature comforts of home with plenty of room to spread out the Signature Residences make extended stays all the more inviting.
It’s no wonder that over the years generations of guests have made annual return trips to Palmetto Bluff to celebrate birthdays, weddings, family reunions, holidays and special occasions. With the option of cottages, Village Homes or Signature Residences guests have the freedom to choose the best accommodation for their stay.
The River House
The River House is home to River House restaurant, Buzz coffee shop, Hush speakeasy, one ballroom, two boardrooms, lounge space with porches, and offices. It also has a more secluded and quiet pool with great views of the property.
The upscale, on-site restaurant at the River House serves delicious Southern cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients. Guests can enjoy their meals in one of two elegant dining rooms or accompanied by stunning views of the May River.
With its picturesque setting and refined ambiance the River House is a popular venue for weddings, receptions and other special events. Event coordinators can tailor the indoor/outdoor spaces to accommodate a wide range of occasions.
Culinary Delights
Our two dinners, one at Octagon and the second evening at the River House, were spectacular, featuring incredible food and gorgeous views. Dining at Octagon, with its superb local-to-table menu, felt like enjoying a meal on the porch of a grand Southern mansion, with the haint blue ceiling evoking memories of days gone by.
Our leisurely dinner at the River House, with its floor-to-ceiling windows offering sweeping views of the May River, was the highlight of our second day. The delicious food, upscale ambiance, and excellent service made for an incredible evening and a great way to celebrate my birthday.
Before departing Palmetto Bluff we enjoyed a leisurely lunch at Buffalos in Wilson Village. Buffalos is one of the Bluff’s most popular gathering spots, with a choice of indoor, screen porch or outdoor dining. Offering up a Lowcountry menu of salads, local seafood, a variety of sandwiches and Niman Ranch burgers, Buffalos is a great spot to enjoy seasonally fresh food…some of which comes from the Palmetto Bluff Farm.
After undergoing a significant renovation lasting several months, Buffalos is back to great form showing off a new, light filled interior along with an updated menu. Our lunch of Caesar salads and burgers was as good as ever.
Be sure to check out the back of the menu to catch up on the interesting backstory of Buffalos and why there is a buffalo head hanging in the restaurant!
Activities
Following a morning swim on the last day of our stay we enjoyed an hourlong Eco-tour of the Inland Waterways with Cassie, Palmetto Bluff’s naturalist. It made for a great excursion as Cassie shared stories of the flora and fauna of the property along with her well informed history of Palmetto Bluff.
In addition to the Eco-tour, Palmetto Bluff also provides a wide array of opportunities to immerse yourself in nature, whether it’s biking, playing tennis or pickleball, kayaking, swimming, fishing, or taking a long walk on the numerous nature trails. It’s truly an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise.
And, of course (pun intended!) there’s plenty of golf at either of Palmetto Bluff’s two stunning and challenging courses…the 18-hole May River Golf Course or the new nine-hole Crossroads.
Additionally, you can enjoy dolphin boat tours and excursions to Daufuskie Island, which is only accessible by boat. For those who prefer a more relaxed stay be sure to check out the menu of available services at the Spa Montage. The best part is that you don’t need to leave Palmetto Bluff to enjoy any of these wonderful activities.
The Montage Staff
A special thanks
