TOP 3 LOWCOUNTRY WEEKEND GETAWAYS
Does anyone else seem to be stuck in a mid-summer rut? The hustle and bustle from Spoleto is over and the only exciting excuse to slowly approaching is Independence Day. To top it off, I gasp for air whenever I venture outside thanks to typical Charleston humidity. While tourist season is temporarily slowing down, downtown is WAY too hot and too crowded to fully relax here on the weekends.
While it is true that Charleston is a weekend getaway for most of the tourists we see on the carriage tours trotting down our streets every day, where do locals go to escape the sweaty craziness of mid-summer Charleston? I researched a handful of spots in the low country and beyond– all within a few hours’ drive- that are perfect to disappear to for a random weekend. We all know The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island, The Cloister at Sea Island, Wild Dunes on Isle of Palms, and the Inn at Harbour Town in Hilton Head, these smaller B&B’s and inns are not only charming, but also more special.
This Georgetown, South Carolina bed & breakfast is rooted in history and natural beauty. Established in 1718, this fully-preserved 1000-acre property is secluded and provides guests the opportunity to slowly step back in time as you approach the estate on its 1.5 mile long scenic driveway. The planation was voted a Top 10 Romantic getaway by Charleston Magazine, and it is only 2 hours away directly up the 17!
This inn is steadily gaining popularity and press, and rightfully so! The resort offers various private cottages and village homes. Amenities include a gym with fitness classes, heated pools, a golf course, and a spa… just to name a few. I think The Inn embodies a luxurious essence of low country living… all under under ancient oak trees and Spanish moss! The resort is only 90 miles from downtown Charleston.
Located in South Carolina’s second-oldest city, Beaufort, SC, this 4-diamond inn is 70 miles from downtown Charleston and was voted the Reader’s Choice Bed & Breakfast. Sandra Bullock, Gwenyth Paltrow, Ben Affleck, and Tom Hanks (just to name a few) have all stayed here while filming movies in Beaufort. It is a romantic antebellum home (circa 1820) ÃÂ located in the middle of the town’s scenic historic district. You’ll receive a glass of champagne and cheese plate upon arrival and a homemade, complimentary Southern style breakfast every morning. Southern hospitality at it’s best!