2018 Has Been Designated as the “Year of the Bird” and To Mark the Occasion, The Swag Will Offer Birding Hikes on Select Dates.

Waynesville, NC (May 9, 2018) —   In recognition of 2018 designated as the “Year Of The Bird,” The Swag will feature birding hikes with expert birder and nature columnist, Dr. Bob Collier throughout the year.  A birder for three decades, Dr. Collier will lead guided hikes from July 1-6, September 2-7 and October 14-19.

Along with the hikes, guests can participate in a daily 7:30 a.m. birding on the lawn program.  During the morning birding session and on guided hikes, guests learn how to identify birds by sight and sound.   Dr. Collier who became hooked on birding 30 years ago, said the Swag is a unique birding environment due to its 5,000-foot elevation and the fact that it shares a one-mile border with Great Smoky Mountains National Park.  “We see many birds here that you don’t see at lower elevations,” said Dr. Collier.

There are currently 230 recorded bird species residing in the 800,000-acre Great Smoky Mountain National Park.   The 14-room Swag, located on a 225-acre parcel, has recorded 108 bird species.  Some distinctive high elevation birds seen at The Swag include the Common Raven, Pine Siskin, Black-throated Green Warbler, Canada Warbler, Northern Parula and the Red Crossbill.  He noted that sightings of the Scarlet Tanager tend to be the biggest visual crowd pleaser while the Wood Thrush is the auditory favorite. “Many of our birds first become apparent by sound since we  hike through wooded areas,” notes Dr. Collier.

2018 was designated the “Year of the Bird” as it marks the centennial of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act which is considered the most important bird protection law ever passed.  “The beauty of birding is that all you need to carry is good pair of binoculars and you can enjoy the experience anywhere in the world, discovering new birds in new locations,” says Dr. Collier.

The Swag is open for the season through November 25.   Rates start at $520 per night, with a two-night minimum.    All prices include a hearty breakfast, picnic lunch, evening social hour on the front porch with hors d’oeuvres, four-course dinner, welcome gift and hikes and programs led by Special Event Leaders (including the birding program).  Suite and Cabin accommodations also available.  Single rate, less $50 per night.   For reservations or more information visit www.TheSwag.com or call 800-789-7672.

About The Swag
The Swag offers 14 luxurious accommodations, most with wood burning stone fireplaces, allowing guests a peaceful environment where they can rest, relax and rejuvenate. Located on a secluded mountaintop just outside Waynesville, North Carolina, the inn is an ideal destination for romantic getaways, weddings, corporate retreats and much more. The 2.5-mile private drive leading to the inn climbs more than 1,000 feet. For more information, visit The Swag online.

MEDIA CONTACT:  Rebecca Werner, Tel:  917-370-5005 Email:  Rebecca@nullwernerpr.com