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Whether they’re checking out the newest restaurants or enjoying a stay at a bed-and-breakfast, contributing writers share their unique insight and stories from exploring the Palmetto State.
Situated on 180 wooded acres, Hotel Hartness features 15 miles of walking and biking trails, a moody cocktail bar, a waterfront restaurant and a spa.
From whimsical décor to historical ambiance, these new boutique hotels are upping the ante on modern Southern hospitality.
Recently named No. 1 Best Resort in South Carolina by Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards, Hotel Hartness in Greenville has so much to offer you might not want to leave the grounds. Situated on 180 acres of wooded land laced with 15 miles of walking and biking trails, this mid-century French Manor-style building has 73 guestrooms, a moody cocktail bar, a waterfront restaurant and a spa. Décor is luxurious and sophisticated, with warm touches such as local art and reclaimed wood accents.
Patterson Kitchen + Bar at Hotel Hartness exudes a warm ambiance.
New from Hotel Trundle in Columbia are The Flutter Wing and The Dens, unique residence-style accommodations in thoughtfully restored historic buildings. The Flutter Wing features five large guest rooms overlooking Main Street, each with custom-built furnishings, large picture windows and original hardwood floors. The rooms share a large outdoor patio with a variety of seating vignettes. The Dens are extended-stay accommodations, some with multiple bedrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, living rooms and backyards. Situated in historic brick duplexes, The Dens are an easy stroll to downtown’s shopping, restaurants and coffee shops.
Stepping through the doors of The Palmetto is like visiting Charleston in its golden age of long, lazy seaside holidays.
Charleston’s brand of Southern hospitality is all about putting people at ease, and every facet of The Palmetto was designed with the Holy City’s casual luxury in mind. Set in the historic district, stepping through the doors is like visiting Charleston in its golden age of long, lazy seaside holidays. Guest rooms have plush bathrobes, slippers, Bamford toiletries and Nespresso coffee machines.
Set on the banks of the broad Kiawah River, The Dunlin on Johns Island is a family-friendly retreat just 40 minutes from historic Charleston. The resort has 72 cottage-style guest suites, and 19 villas decked out in mint green and crisp whites. Suites are centered around a main lodge, pool and riverfront restaurant, with options such as fireplaces, wraparound porches and soaking tubs.
Set on the river that runs through the heart of Georgetown, The George Hotel has an eclectic mixture of vintage fabrics and furnishings combined with local art.
Georgetown is enjoying a revival, and The George Hotel is the most happening place to take it all in. Set on the river that runs through the heart of town, the hotel has 56 airy guest rooms, most facing the water. Décor is an eclectic mixture of vintage fabrics and furnishings combined with local art. Though this hotel is all about nature, you’ll find plenty of luxurious touches, including Bellino linens, Malin + Goetz toiletries and an atmospheric restaurant serving traditional Lowcountry cuisine.
Located in historic downtown Beaufort in a former toy store, The Emerald is a unique self-service boutique hotel. Rooms feature premium linens and extra-comfy beds with tidy, contemporary décor. Enjoy a short stroll to Bay Street’s bustling restaurant scene.
Opening in 2025
Loaded with beach coolness, Compass Hotel by Margaritaville in North Myrtle Beach has 150 guest rooms, indoor and outdoor pools, and an iconic 5 O’clock Somewhere Bar & Grill. The laid-back aesthetic doesn’t shy away from color, with bright, quirky palettes and fun accessories in every room.
The Cooper is the only luxury waterfront hotel in Charleston. This six-story, 225-room hotel has retail space, a sprawling 7,000-square-foot spa and fitness center, an infinity-edge pool with harbor views, waterfront café and a rooftop lounge. Rooms are fresh, bright and airy, with design nods to its French Quarter location.
Whether they’re checking out the newest restaurants or enjoying a stay at a bed-and-breakfast, contributing writers share their unique insight and stories from exploring the Palmetto State.