Orchard Inn opens new spa addition to bed and breakfast

By Dale Potruski

Tryon Daily Bulletin contributor

SALUDA — Those who take the winding twisting road to the top of the mountain will find a secluded sanctuary in the woods — the Spa at the Orchard Inn, at the outskirts of downtown Saluda.

It has been nine years since Marc and Marianne Blazar took over as proprietors of the historic lodge, which was built in 1929 to house employees of the railroad and their families seeking a vacation retreat.

While their successful lodging business has kept them busy, this enthusiastic couple wanted more.  Their restaurant, Newman’s, built a reputation serving breakfast, dinner and catering on-site weddings.  

Nine months ago, Marc and Marianne broke ground on “The Spa” adjacent to the main historic inn and watched it take shape along a picturesque mountain ridge.  

“We envision the spa as an added amenity for our guests,” Mark said. “However, we’d certainly invite local residents and the general public to take advantage of all that we offer.” 

Local contractors and artisans have built this structure entirely of local timber and stone. Above the spa facility are two modern spacious guest suites, each featuring an unobstructed view of the Blue Ridge Mountains (the Mountain View Suite is ADA approved and easily accessible to guests with mobility issues). 

There is no better way to pamper oneself, or someone special, than with an indulgent, relaxing massage, the owners said.  

“We offer many types of massages and a world class selection of products and soaps,” Marianne said. 

Guests may languish in their plush monogramed robes while enjoying wine or champagne by the fire after a massage and shower. Soothing ambient music, a warm and inviting environment, soft fragrant flowers and a panoramic view follows at every turn.  

Another door opens to a large room with gleaming hardwood floors, a massive flat-screen TV and that magnificent mountain view. Marianne refers to this space as “The Yoga Room” and mentions that, “We hope to be organizing classes soon.”

Those who step outside will hear wind chimes cast a magical spell over the gardens, where a rock path, flanked by a cascading creek, shows the way to the inn. Chickadees, Titmice and Nuthatches serenade visitors from the trees.

When asked if plans might include a pool or a zip line, Marc and Marianne agreed, as this may all be part of phase two for the Orchard Inn and Spa.  

For nearly a decade, this dedicated chef and her husband have brought the Orchard Inn to the forefront of “places to stay” and “places to dine” when visiting the Blue Ridge.

Those interested in learning more may visit orchardinn.com.