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Leave Your Troubles at the Office
September 12, 2007
Hilton Head offers guests sensory relief, relaxation and golf, too
By A.E. Smith
When I arrived for my first treatment at the newly opened spa at Westin Hilton Head Island, my therapist paused at the door and held out a small, handwoven seagrass basket. This, she explained, was a burden basket where I was to put my worries and stress and not carry them through to the treatment room. I must have looked skeptical since if I had to check all the preoccupations I tote around with me when I travel, I would need an extra-large suitcase. But once I dropped those worries off, they did stay absent for the remainder of my trip.
Flashy, high-energy destinations can be impressive and memorable, but they aren't necessarily relaxing. For awardees who really need a chance to decompress, Hilton Head Island, a small spit of land off the coast of South Carolina, is the perfect remedy. The island was the first community in the United States designed to be ecologically sustainable. A quarter of the pristine salt marshes and forests are permanently preserved, and no building can rise higher than the tallest magnolia or oak tree.
This foresight means that today Hilton Head is refreshingly free of the advertising billboards and architectural assaults that mar so many other waterfront areas. Residents take their legacy seriously, and regulations are strictly enforced—the morning I arrived coincided with a visit from a tree inspector who ensures property owners aren't overtrimming their native trees. "Trees come first here," remarked one local.
This philosophy of conservation does not mean that the island isn't open to improvements. The 412-room Westin just completed a $5 million renovation in April, the highlight of which is the opening of the first Heavenly Spa in the continental United States. Many treatments use or are inspired by locally sourced ingredients, including sweetgrass, sea salt and indigo. The spa also boasts the first ergonomically designed Heavenly Massage Bed in the United States; it uses Westin's signature linens. The effect is pure bliss.
Hilton Head is known as a top spot for golf, and attendees can choose from 15 locations, including courses designed by Pete Dye, Jack Nicklaus and George Fazio. Cultural tours that explore the area's antebellum history or connect guests with the island's robust artistic community are also popular, and scenic Harbour Town provides great opportunities for shopping and sightseeing. Those who want to see more of the carefully conserved scenery can opt for kayaking tours through the salt marshes. But for a more soothing outing, just head to the shore. The island's 12 miles of beaches are firmly packed and perfect for walking, biking or just sitting and enjoying your new freedom from worry.
Planner Resources
Hilton Head Island Visitors & Convention Bureau
(800) 523-3373
www.hiltonheadisland.org
Accommodations
Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa
(843) 681-4000
www.starwoodhotels.com/westin
Hilton Head Marriott Resort & Spa
(843) 686-8400
www.hiltonheadmarriott.com
Sea Pines Resort
(866) 561-8802
www.seapines.com
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