With the topic of “Here Comes the Holiday Season” selected by Ann-Christine for this week’s photo challenge, we knew that whatever we shared had to be different since there’s not much “sameness” compared to past years: no Empty Stocking Fund, no office parties, and no gatherings of friends and family. So we took off for a week at Pawleys Island with a Christmas gift to ourselves on the front end: a weekend stay at The Cloister at Sea Island in Georgia booked by our goddaughter, Lauren Gunnels of Ortelius Travel Advisors.
Tasteful is our word of choice in describing seasonal decor at The Cloister — “appealing to those who appreciate gracious service and heartfelt hospitality,” according to their website. Since 1928, this Forbes Five-Star award-winning resort has opened its doors to those who value privacy and luxury. The Cloister was also the site of the G-8 Summit in 2004, hosted by President George W. Bush. So, for one weekend, we imbibed in The Cloister’s surroundings, all dressed up for the holidays.
With a towering Christmas tree in traditional reds and green, the gathering room in the main building welcomes guests with a crackling fire in the fireplace, comfortable seating, and poinsettias to add the colors of the season.
More trees line the hallways where shops offer seasonal surprises as well as fine apparel and accessories for men and women.
Little holiday decoration is needed in the ground floor restaurant since red is the dominant color. Guests can order from a menu or customize a bountiful breakfast — just for the asking.
In the atrium of the main building, guests are treated to hot coffee and pastries served from a gingerbread house.
In another section of The Cloister known as The Lodge, old-world style dominates the dark-paneled room, providing an intimate experience for those waiting for a table in the dining room or enjoying the bagpipe serenade before dinner.
Outside, natural decorations continue in the traditional colors of red and green — but you may want to look past it all to see the river and marsh beyond. If you’re lucky enough to be on the patio at sundown, you can see lighted angels on the bridge beyond and that welcoming sky. (Breathe in. You’re at The Cloister!)
We enjoyed it all: the quiet of the surroundings, the history of this famous resort, the beauty of the area, and hospitality offered by each staff member. Visiting The Cloister at Christmas puts a new spin on the term “enjoying the holidays,” but in reality, any time would be a good time to be there!
Happy holidays,
Rusha & Bert
For more memories and celebrations, head to Ann-Christine’s site. Or contribute a post of your own by linking to hers. It’s great fun to see how the holidays unfold all around the world!
For travel information, contact Lauren Gunnels of Ortelius Travel.
kzmcb
Beautiful. Happy Christmas to both of you.
Oh, the Places We See
And the same to you!!!
Grammy Writes
What a gorgeous place, and beautifully decorated! Luck you!
Oh, the Places We See
It was a combo of Christmas and Anniversary for us. We just can’t think of much to give each other anymore. Happy holidays to you!!!
Grammy Writes
We do the same thing! When we can travel again, we have several “gifts” to take! By the way, that was suppose to be “LUCKY” you!
Oh, the Places We See
😊
WanderingCanadians
This looks like such a wonderful place to visit during the holiday season!! I love all the Christmas decorations and gingerbread house.
Oh, the Places We See
It’s a marvelous place — not our usual type of places to stay, so maybe that’s why it’s a special treat!
Sue
Looks a great place to stay, Rusha!
Oh, the Places We See
It’s a beauty, inside and out.
Amy
Fabulous indeed. Beautiful photos, Rusha. Good to see many people enjoy the resort, so glad you did.
Oh, the Places We See
And lots of young people. Plenty of activities for children as well. Kinda surprising to us.
maristravels
What a fabulous looking resort hotel. I could just do with a long stay there now. I’d hole up in my room with a few well-chosen books and have room service for a couple of days! I’ve got so used to my own company now that I no longer need the presence of others – although I’m not saying don’t call and visit!
Oh, the Places We See
This would be a great place to hike up! I have shots of our lovely room but it wasn’t decorated for Christmas. Gorgeous and well-appointed.
Pit
What a wonderful place!
I wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year,
Pit
Oh, the Places We See
Same to you!!!
Toonsarah
This looks like a wonderful place to stay, especially at this time of year! No hotels or restaurants open here, and in London even non-essential shops have just been told to close down. It’s going to be a quiet Christmas …
Oh, the Places We See
We were surprised that there were as many people there as there were. For one reason, there was a wedding. And another — well, people travel during the holidays, I suppose. Whatever the reason, we’re glad we finally saw this pretty resort. It’s probably our last time, but glad we did it.