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SPRINGS ETERNAL
Leave from: Washington, D.C.
The jaunt: Stagecoaches started pulling up to West Virginia's Greenbrier Resort 200 years ago, filled with politicos and high-society types seeking the healing mineral waters of White Sulphur Springs. These days the decidedly less bumpy journey through the Virginia countryside—set to the clickety-clack of a lounge car from Union Station—is as soothing as the destination. The six-hour trip deposits you across the street from this 721-room estate and its 6,500 Allegheny acres. Then all the driving you'll have to do is on one of the Greenbrier's three championship golf courses, which have hosted the likes of Dwight Eisenhower and Arnold Palmer. (Well, if you insist, you can hop in a 4x4 for an off-road driving course—the fun is worth the fossil fuels.) The treatment list at the Greenbrier's spa has come a long way since the days of soaking in sulphur-water-filled tubs, though you can still do that if you like.
Your chariot: Amtrak has a daily departure from Union Station to White Sulphur Springs.
Check into: Even the "intermediate" rooms at the Greenbrier have Dorothy Draper's legendary floral prints and gorgeous views of the estate.
Greenbrier Resort
Tel: 800 453 4858
Doubles from $379
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