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Libby Wiersema lived in California and Alabama before settling in South Carolina 38 years ago,
where she's covered the state's best culinary offerings and tells the stories behind the food.
They are small, quaint and popping up across Charleston. Boutique hotels are charming Holy City visitors with their blend of luxury, character and local flavor. What they lack in size, however, is more than compensated for by the big personalities and creature comforts they offer.
So, what makes a hotel “boutique?” Having fewer than 100 rooms, for one. An intimate vibe with nods to local culture and distinctive touches are all hallmarks of the boutique style.
These overnight jewel boxes speak the language of modern travelers, delivering contemporary luxe while capturing the historic flavor of Charleston.
Here are a few of the newest boutique hotels to try on your next visit.
86 Cannon
A zero-edge saltwater pool is a stunning focal point at 86 Cannon.
Distinctive touches: Appointed with rare antiques from across the globe, some dating back to the 1500s; imported Frette Italian linens and locally handcrafted custom mattresses; nightly manager reception in the grand ballroom with imported cheeses and charcuterie
The Pinch
Cozy up with cocktail in front of the courtyard fireplace at The Pinch.
Rooms: 22 guestrooms and 3 extended-stay residences
Style: Soulful blend of modern design with nods to Charleston heritage
Property: Housed in two circa 1843 Victorian-style structures and one newly constructed building. Two full-service restaurants: Quinte (oyster house & bar) and Lowland (Southern Tavern) located in the historic Lequeux-Williams House.
Distinctive touches: In-room washers and dryers, full kitchens, lots of living plants for a home-like feel
The Nickel Hotel
The courtyard at The Nickel oozes Southern charm with its wrought-iron, fountain and greenery.
Style: Refined mix of Lowcountry and European grandeur
The Property: New five-story construction on Upper King with a lushly designed interior courtyard and rooftop bar and lounge called Rosemary Rose
Distinctive touches: Public spaces include a library and guest-only cocktail bar, guestrooms have full kitchens, washers and dryers, some with private balconies, spa-style rain showers
The Palmetto Hotel
Interiors at The Palmetto capture Charleston's coastal essence and relaxed refinement.
Style: Refined Lowcountry luxury with garden and fine art vibes
Property: Brick and wrought-iron facade with green spaces inspired by Charleston’s ethereal gardens
Distinctive touches: Rooftop terrace, lounge and cafe, Lowcountry swing bed and stunning six-panel mural by local artist Linda Fantuzzo in lobby, complimentary mini bar, Matouk robes
Hotel Bella Grace
Hotel Bella Grace's property includes a historic Charleston single house.
Libby Wiersema lived in California and Alabama before settling in South Carolina 38 years ago,
where she's covered the state's best culinary offerings and tells the stories behind the food.
