The Inn at Palmetto Bluff, an Auberge Resort

PALMETTO BLUFF, S.C. (July 27, 2011) –The Inn at Palmetto Bluff, an Auberge Resort located in the Lowcountry of Bluffton, S.C., has been awarded the prestigious Five‐Diamond Award by American Automobile Association (AAA). Demonstrating the highest levels of excellence, The Inn at Palmetto Bluff has been acknowledged as one of North America’s most luxurious accommodations. Less than one‐half percent of more than 31,000 properties approved by AAA achieve this prestigious distinction.
“We are thrilled to receive the AAA Five‐Diamond award and are honored by this recognition from one of the most esteemed and discerning organizations in the travel industry,” said Mark Harmon, Principal and Chief Executive Officer, Auberge Resorts.
The AAA Five‐Diamond Award is one of North America’s most sought after symbols of excellence. To be considered for the AAA rating, both lodgings and restaurants must undergo an extensive inspection by one of the organization's professionally trained inspectors. These inspectors evaluate numerous hotels and resorts in North America, awarding the AAA Five Diamond based upon accommodations, service, amenities and overall experience.
“This award is a true testament to our dedicated team members and to our ongoing commitment of delivering unforgettable and personalized experiences to all of our guests,” said Marty Wall, General Manager, The Inn at Palmetto Bluff.
A resort with a Five‐Diamond Award truly reflects the characteristics of the ultimate in luxury and sophistication. Accommodations are first class, setting and decor are extraordinary, and service exceeds all guest expectations while maintaining an impeccable standard of excellence.
The Inn at Palmetto Bluff features 50 spacious guest cottages and 40 Village Homes that pay homage to the region’s rich heritage, and are set amid the 20,000 acre residential community and conservation preserve of Palmetto Bluff.
Situated in the Lowcountry of South Carolina between Charleston and Savannah, Georgia, Palmetto Bluff is part of the Crescent Resources residential real estate portfolio and the
largest remaining waterfront property on the East Coast, encompassing an extensive nature preserve; river access and walking trails; a vibrant Village center complete with river access, boat storage and canoe club; a distinctive food and wine program, and a Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course. An array of southern‐style residential neighborhoods ranging from multi‐million dollar legacy family compounds to more traditionally sized, single‐family lots are currently available. For Inn reservations or more information, please call (866) 706‐6565 or visit www.palmettobluffresort.com.
ABOUT AUBERGE RESORTS
Auberge Resorts is a collection of exceptional hotels, resorts and private clubs, each with a unique personality that assures a memorable guest experience. While Auberge Resorts nurtures the individuality of each establishment, all are characterized by a set of communal elements: intimate, understated elegance; captivating locations that inspire exceptional cuisine and spa experiences; and gracious yet unobtrusive service. Among the Auberge collection of distinctive properties are: Auberge du Soleil, Napa Valley, Calif.; Calistoga Ranch, Napa Valley, Calif.; Encantado, Santa Fe, N.M.; Esperanza, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico; The Inn at Palmetto Bluff, Bluffton, S.C.; Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa, Rancho Santa Fe, Calif.; Element 52, Telluride, Colo.; and the Aspen Club, Aspen, Colo., with several others currently in development. For more information about Auberge Resorts, please visit www.aubergeresorts.com.
ABOUT CRESCENT RESOURCES
Crescent Resources is a real estate development company with interests throughout the southeastern United States. Based in Charlotte and established in 1969, Crescent is known for its single‐family, multifamily and resort residential communities. Crescent also owns and manages business and industrial parks and shopping centers. Visit www.crescent‐resources.com for more information.
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MEDIA CONTACT: Rachel Esserman / Lindsey Henn

(July 16, 2008) -Auberge Resorts today announced that Marty Wall has joined the Inn at Palmetto Bluff as General Manager. Wall, who is a veteran with the luxury hotel market and the Southeast, will be responsible for all resort operations.

"Marty has distinguished himself as and excellent manager and leader and we are pleased to welcome him to The Inn at Palmetto Bluff," said Eric Calderon, Chief Operating Officer of Auberge Resorts. "His dedication to exceptional service and fine cuisine are evident in his many professional achievements."

Wall most recently served as General Manager of The Woodlands Resort & Inn in Summerville, S.C. Under his leadership, The Woodlands received the prestigious Mobil Five-Star and AAA 5 Diamond ratings for both lodging and dining. In addition, the property was consistently recognized by Travel + Leisure and Conde Nast Traveler magazines at the top of their rankings.

Prior to Woodlands he gained much of his luxury hospitality experience with Four Seasons Hotels, where he worked for 16 years primarily in Houston and Philadelphia in a variety of positions. Wall is a product of West Virginia State College in Charleston, WV where he studied Business Administration. In 2003 the Charleston, South Carolina campus of Johnson & Wales University recognized Marty with an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Business Administration and Hospitality Management.

The acclaimed Inn at Palmetto Bluff is situated on 20,000 acres of land overlooking the May River in the Lowcountry of South Carolina. The resort features 50 spacious guest cottages, cottage suites and Village Homes that pay homage to the region's rich heritage; a Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course is woven seamlessly through the natural landscape; a world-class spa and movement studio; and signature River House Restaurant that draws upon the bounty of indigenous ingredients found in the area. Guests also have access to the Inn's Wilson Lawn and Racquet Club and a number of recreational activities including guided nature tours, boating, kayaking and exploring miles of biking and walking trails.

For reservations or more information, please call (866) 706-6565 or visit www.palmettobluffresort.com.