When baby the alligators hatched at the edge of the May River at Montage Palmetto Bluff recently, they were born into the lap of luxury. The Montage staff naturalists were alerted and immediately worked to secure the hatchlings, who will stay with their mother for two years. They will snack on shrimp, small fish, and bugs like flies and snails, under the protective eye of their parents, the four-legged ones and the Montage staffers. Caution tape roped the area and nearby trail, so humans and reptiles alike would remain safe.
This incredible respect for the environment and the 20,000 acres of natural beauty that surrounds the Montage property is evident in every detail at the luxury resort in South Carolina.
And, this month, programming is in place for guests to celebrate the Earth with education and immersive experiences to showcase the dolphins, raptors, reptiles, and sea turtles who make their homes in and along the May River.
Wake with the birds, grab a coffee in the inn lobby and join the Dawn Chorus at Palmetto Bluff. Over 300 species of birds, including an array of migrant birds during the spring, create a symphony as the maritime forest comes to life. If rising early isn’t your idea of fun, there are guided bird walks through the trails. Hear and see more than 50 species of birds, and learn about their habitats and the preservation efforts of the Palmetto Bluff Conservancy.
Or, join oyster recycling efforts. The culinary and service teams are working to return 100 percent of the oyster shells back into the May River to help continue the oyster population. Baby oysters need shells to adhere to for their growth, so the oyster population growth is limited by the number of shells available in the waterways.
While honoring the environment is top of the list at Montage, it’s the hospitality and gorgeous amenities that will make you feel like you are the most important thing on earth. Recently renovated for the finest dining, The River House served us one of the best meals we’ve had this year. The waitstaff was gracious and attentive and the spirit-free cocktail the bartender created for me was beautiful and thoughtful. I felt seen.
Spending time at Montage means living your best life. Whether it’s grabbing a bike and tooling through the canyon of towering oaks or nosing around the neighborhoods of million dollar (second) homes in Palmetto Bluff, you’ll feel connected.
Kayaking, paddling or cruising on the May River is convenient, with 32 miles of waterfront on the property. Explore the Coastal Carolina marshlands, fly-fishing for redfish in the salt marsh flats or casting for largemouth in the freshwater ponds, trolling for trophies in the Atlantic or head out for an easy cruise to Hilton Head.
Montage’s programming, dining, multiple experiences, and luxe accommodations all reflect the very best of what makes the Lowcountry special. Go with wide eyes and you’ll find the serenity that only our Earth can provide.