Chocolate comes up often in conversation with Betsy Conte, when discussing The Greenbrier hotel’s plans for Valentine’s Day. The hotel’s director of social activities thinks of those plans as a “sweet escape” -- literally and metaphorically -- for couples seeking a special way to mark the day.
Technically, The Greenbrier’s homage to St. Valentine is called the “Romance and Roses” package, covering the period from Friday, February 10, to Tuesday, February 14, 2012. For one night of double occupancy (at $509.50) the package includes chocolate, champagne and roses in the room, a buffet breakfast in the main dining room, dancing in the main lobby, rose-petal turndown service (for Friday and Saturday night only), complimentary valet parking and a free portrait of the couple celebrating the romantic getaway.
In addition, couples signing up for the Romance and Roses stay can take advantage of numerous discounts: on spa services, beauty treatments, jewelry purchases.
For additional fees, the resort offers other options for enhancing the mood of togetherness: a private carriage or sleigh ride for two, around the extensive and beautifully landscaped grounds ($250 for 45 minutes); and his and her fitness training ($175).
The celebrants can also enjoy the sensual pleasures of “taking the waters,” available year round at The Greenbrier. The resort got its start, after all, with the discovery of natural mineral waters in the area in the late 1700s. For more than 200 years, travelers have flocked to White Sulphur Springs to partake of the allegedly healing properties of the spring minerals. The traditional “sulphur soak” is still one of the spa treatments available at The Greenbrier, but the options have expanded considerably over the centuries -- to include such treats as aromatherapy baths, aromatherapy massage, reiki and hot stone massage.
Chocolate therapy is also part of the Valentine’s Day celebrations. Conte hints at the possibility of a special dessert from executive pastry chef, Jean Francois, a master craftsman with chocolate. Guests can also satisfy their sweet tooth by visiting the hotel’s CandyMaker shop, which makes its own sinfully rich chocolates and other confections.
Located close to the Virginia border, The Greenbrier’s 6,500 acres are nestled in a tranquil corner of southeastern West Virginia, not far from Interstate 64. The resort is about 80 miles (90 minutes) from Roanoke. For reservations, call 1-800-453-4858.
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