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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.
An up-and-coming generation of Charleston hotels is blending traditional elegance, contemporary ambience, artistic flare - and a few surprises - for a multidimensional effect that's redefining the overnight experience for visitors.
While there will never be a shortage of comfy rice beds and turndown packets of benne wafers for travelers seeking a conventional stay, this current breed of properties is as interesting as some of the sights on your itinerary.
The Restoration is a stunning example of a meticulously envisioned destination that aims to deepen the Charleston experience by offering cultural, social and distinctive hedonistic pleasures rich enough to tempt you to skip an outing or two to enjoy the amenities and more.
Stylish Accommodations
Contemporary comfort meets Charleston charm at The Restoration.
It won't take you long to get the double entendre behind the name of this hotel, where restoration efforts extend beyond the architecture to encompass the body, soul and imagination of all who stay here.
Five rustic Charleston buildings, adjoining at points between Wentworth and King streets, have been renovated with careful attention paid to preserving historical details while added contemporary touches reflect the modern lifestyle of the "New South."
The buildings of The Restoration, dating from 1886 to the 1970s, complement one another while maintaining distinguishing features. This 54-suite property blends the best of old and new with exposed brick, wood floors, plush furnishings, equipped kitchens and luxury baths.
If size matters, you've got options from 500- to an impressive 2,300-square-feet of stylish digs. At the high end is a gorgeous and roomy three-bedroom rooftop terrace suite - perfect for family getaways or corporate gatherings. High-speed Wi-Fi, smart TVs, personal iPads and Beekman 1802 farm-crafted soaps and lotions are standard perks in every suite, as is a light complimentary breakfast, delivered in a picnic basket to your door.
Fabulous Features
The Library is a gathering place that houses a sophisticated collection of books.
Guests can soak up some culture at The Restoration's in-house library, an attractive common space designed for lingering and socializing over wine and port in the evening.
Called the "heart of the hotel," there's even a librarian on-site to assist you in checking out or purchasing a book from the eclectic selection of titles.
Fringe Benefits
Stunning views of Charleston are always on the menu at The Watch. (Image by Chris Carter)
For a soothing treat, sip your brew in The Restoration's quaint, adjacent courtyard. When the South Carolina sun gets to be a bit much, take a cooling dip in the Indigo Pool on the fifth floor. It's modest size doesn't invite serious swimming, but the terrace locale and adult vibe make it perfect for socializing and cooling down. Adult beverages optional.
For sublime dining, take the elevator all the way to the top to The Watch: Rooftop Kitchen & Spirits, serving farm-to-table New American cuisine and handcrafted cocktails. Sweeping views of the city and stunning sunsets are also on the menu.
For the Motorcycle Enthusiast
Explore the Open Road project to get a motorcycle made your way.
Have a vision for your perfect steel stallion? You can make it a reality through a unique program offered by The Restoration. Through the Open Road package, guests are invited to dream up, design, and ride away on a fully customized motorcycle hand-built by The Restoration's own master craftsmen.
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.
