Peace and Rejuvenation

Written By: Marjorie N. Deal | Issue: March 2024

Winter on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau encourages a natural slowdown, a time to embrace the stillness – to turn inward.

And on a cold, icy weekend, two local girlfriends headed to The Greystone Inn for a Winter’s getaway with only one item on the agenda – a deep, soul-soothing exhale.

The Greystone Inn is nestled on the shores of Lake Toxaway –and it comes with a show-stopping arrival. After turning into The Lake Toxaway Country Club, the winding drive to the inn provides a kaleidoscope of scenes – Blue Ridge Mountains, breathtaking lake vistas, and simply stunning mountain homes.

As my travel buddy prepared for her highly anticipated massage at the spa, I settled into my room. Oh, the instant comfort. The antique furnishings (my heart sings when I turn a glass doorknob), the warm and roomy spa robe that simply insisted on being worn, and a delightful eucalyptus scented room spray – it was the trifecta of coziness.

Dinner time approached, along with a tangible excitement. The Restaurant at Greystone Inn is known for its unsurpassed lake views – a dramatic backdrop to the evening.

Our meal was beyond delicious, it was a choreographed dance of textures and flavors. The rich, smoothness of Crispy Pork Belly with the tartness of pickled shallot; the subtle Grilled Spanish Octopus enhanced by harissa and charred lemon. Executive Chef Peter Brinckerhoff was equally delightful – generous with his time at each table, and graciously accommodating to dietary allergies.

Enhancing the candlelit atmosphere was a warming fireplace and inviting wine list. On this rather chilly evening, we chose a Daou cab. It did not disappoint.

After dinner, we headed to the Mansion Bar for dessert – you know – disguised as a night cap. Warm wood and leather furnishings, a crackling fire – it was the ideal spot to put an exclamation point to the day. The bar boasts an intriguing array of spirits, an impressive specialty cocktail list, and fun, knowledgeable bartenders.

We both landed on espresso martinis – and toasted to the most enjoyable, stress-free, laid-back day.

The next morning – after a sound night’s sleep wrapped in sumptuous bedding – we found ourselves gleefully back at The Restaurant enjoying gluten-free pancakes. Yes, gluten free. Yes, delicious. And cappuccinos. And omelets. It may have been cold outside, but inside we were full of joy and sunshine.

We made our way back to the Mansion and plunked down in leather chairs strategically placed by a roaring fire. We read, knitted, and enjoyed the muted conversations spiraling throughout the room – appreciating that the inn is a gathering place to locals.

In between knitting and contemplative conversations, I became intrigued by the historic photos adorning the walls of the Mansion. Greystone Inn began as the private home of Lucy and George Armstrong in 1915.

“I’ve traveled the world twice and I believe Lake Toxaway to be the most beautiful and special place on earth,” Lucy said. Her only request when she sold her home many years later was that it be “enjoyed by many.”

After a devastating flood and decades of abandonment, Lucy’s home reemerged as The Greystone Inn in 1985 – rebuilt and reimagined into one of the top hotels in the world.

At the end of our Winter’s respite, I felt a great gratitude for Lucy and her vision of over 100 years ago that brought me – and countless others – a deep sense of peace and quiet rejuvenation.