 
The 160-year-old luxurious wonder was built to soothe weary residents needing a weekend or summer respite from the close, hot quarters of the city. Now it’s visited by as many snowbirds as Mobilians. The hotel survived not only the Civil War — it served as a Confederate hospital and there is a Confederate cemetery on the grounds — and a major fire, but also numerous hurricanes. Due to Katrina, the hotel has recently undergone a $50 million renovation, yet it still manages to retain a rustic charm. This is a place to make memories. You can often see weddings on the beach or in the gardens, underneath the ancient live oaks. The sultry air, seabirds, bright flowers, and Spanish moss give the place a romantic feel. There are lots of honeymooners, of course, but also families on first vacations, and families who’ve been coming for generations. There are two golf courses, Azalea and Dogwood, which are on the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. In addition, there’s a European-style spa and salon, swimming pools, lush walking trails, a croquet lawn, and a 37-slip marina. The sunsets are spectacular, and everyone always stops to witness them with awe and silence, perhaps deeply feeling an old memory or adding a new one. Or perhaps there’s simply a peace or presence there that makes life, for a moment, a little nicer. |
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