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Seven South Carolina Labyrinths for Meditative Walking
Libby Wiersema
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.
When things get complicated, many people unwind with a meaningful meander through a labyrinth. These circular walkways, rooted in ancient traditions, are symbolic of life's many expeditions—the journey from outer turmoil to inner peace. South Carolina is home to several of these meditative spots, many of them open to the public. But before you set out on your mini pilgrimage, it's a good idea to review the fine points of labyrinth design and etiquette.
A labyrinth is a spiral path that takes you to the center and back to the perimeter again, not a maze with dead ends designed to create confusion.
Labyrinths are typically laid out in circuits—the number of concentric rings you must walk to arrive at the center. While 11 circuits are sometimes seen, most are composed of seven—considered a mystical number that represents the pathway through the heavens.
Pause before embarking on the path to encourage a sense of contemplation.
At the center, spend a little time in stillness before your return journey.
If you meet others along the way, it is proper to quietly pass them.
Travel at your own pace, be it a leisurely walk, an energetic stroll or a joyful dance.
Call your labyrinth destination before you go, as hours for public access are subject to change.
Here are seven labyrinths to get you started on your journey toward relaxation and self-reflection.
Hopelands Gardens, Aiken
Hopelands Gardens is the vision and gift of Hope Iselin, who planned the gardens to surround her winter estate 100 years ago.
This labyrinth is situated amid 100-year-old live oaks on a 14-acre public garden bequeathed to the city by the late Mrs. C. Oliver Iselin, who had made her winter home on the property. It consists of a granite center and series of brick pavers arranged within an octagon, much in the style of the 13th century labyrinth in France's Amiens Cathedral.
Inn at Middleton Place, Charleston
These formal landscaped gardens were envisioned by Henry Middleton in 1741 and reflect the grand classic style that remained in vogue in Europe and England into the early part of the 18th century.
Hours: Open to the public on Sundays; open to inn guests every day Type: Medieval, seven circuits Installed: 2003 Admission: Adults (14 and over), $29; children (6-13), $10; students (14 and over with ID), $15; and children 5 years and under are free.
Designer Stuart Bartholomaus took inspiration from the labyrinth at Chartres Cathedral in France to create this contemplative pathway. This grassy labyrinth is a natural fit for Middleton, the nation's oldest landscaped gardens where something beautiful is always in bloom.
Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
The labyrinth at the MUSC Office of Health Promotion was developed to give individuals a place to contemplate, relax, and find peace.
Hours: Always open Type: Classical, three circuits Installed: 2017 Admission: Free
Designer Holly Bendz used grass and stone pavers to create this labyrinth, an inviting circuit for visitors wishing to walk for relaxation, peace and contemplation. A project of the MUSC Office of Health Promotion, it is a key component of a comprehensive effort to promote good health and wellness throughout the community.
This labyrinth was created to honor the journey of those facing long-term illness and cancer. The concrete and inlaid stone design makes it easy to traverse via wheelchair for those with limited mobility.
Mepkin Abbey, Moncks Corner
In Moncks Corner, Mepkin Abbey offers a serene retreat with its expansive gardens and peaceful atmosphere.
Hours: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., daily Type: Medieval, seven circuits Installed: 2004 Admission: None, though donations are welcome
Tall grasses, blooming plants and other foliage create the walls of this labyrinth, located on the gorgeous, ethereal grounds of Mepkin Abbey. Designed by Stuart and Mary Bartholomaus, this series of circuits measures approximately ½ mile to the center—plenty of time to quiet the mind and absorb the peaceful vibe.
Springbank Retreat, Kingstree
Hours: Daylight hours, but call before visiting Type: Classical, seven circuits Installed: 2003 Admission: None, but "love" offerings accepted
Though the path, built by Marcy Walsh, is a simple construction of stone and plantings, its positioning beneath shady giant live oaks makes for a stunning sight. A visit to the 80-acre retreat is a contemplative journey. A walk on this labyrinth deepens the experience.
Brookgreen Gardens, Murrells Inlet
The roughly 1,400 sculptures that dot the property of Brookgreen Gardens represent the works of every era of American sculpture from the 1800s to the present.
Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., daily Type: Medieval, seven circuits Installed: 2009 Admission: Included in park admission; adults $22, seniors $20 (65+), children (4-12) $12, and children 3 years and under are free
Another design by Stuart Bartholomaus, this labyrinth is composed of rock and garden features that complement the grounds of this iconic sculpture park. Located near the north end of the Trail Beyond the Garden Wall and alongside a creek, it seems as natural an addition as any of the foliage, flowers or artwork.
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.
