If you are looking to explore a different part of North America, a road trip through the South is a fantastic option to discover Georgia and South Carolina’s beauty. Read on for my favorite places to stay in these stunning states.
Savannah, Georgia, is filled with American history and beautiful properties. The Andaz Savannah is located in Ellis Square, the heart of the Historic District, and surrounded by nearby restaurants and shopping. The Perry Lane Hotel is a charming Luxury Collection Hotel that comes with a stunning rooftop bar for great views of Savannah.
An absolute must-do is the trolley tour that takes you through the different squares of Savannah. Avid Forrest Gump fans can head to the famous bench (with their own box of chocolates) for a photo, and lovers of all things spooky will enjoy the historic Bonaventure Cemetery. Cemeteries are not usually on “things to do” lists, but this one is filled with history, serene beauty in its classic low country landscapes and has made cameos in several movies over the years. If you are interested in religious history and beautiful architecture, one of the first synagogues in the United States is in Savannah and is still operational to this day.
After you have enjoyed the city of Savannah, you would head 30 minutes north to the impeccable Montage Palmetto Bluff. This resort’s setting is unique in that it sits on land the size of the island of Manhattan, so social distancing comes naturally, making it an extremely pandemic friendly option. They offer accommodations in the main building and have cottages and homes that are great for extra space or multigenerational reunions post-pandemic. The grounds are not only on a nature conservancy perfect for kids to explore but also include a seemingly endless list of activities. The Montage comes fully equipped with a golf course, tennis club, small provisional market, stables (even with a “paint the pony”) activity, skeet shooting, bike rentals, fishing, boat, and scenic tours, paddle boarding, bowling, and games, dining outlets, and swimming pools, to name a few!
Once you are ready to move on, hop in the car and up to Charleston, South Carolina, about 1.5 -2 hours away, to continue your fun adventure. .Nicknamed the Grand Dame, stay at the elegant Belmond Charleston Place for a luxurious experience inspired by South Carolina’s old southern charm. For a more mid-century and modern style, The Dewberry borders Marion Square and is a favorite spot for locals and travelers alike. If you have a little extra time after exploring Charleston, the Sanctuary at Kiawah Island and Golf Resort is just a short drive from Charleston for some beach time.
The food in Charleston, South Carolina, is unmatched. Rodney Scott or Lewis Barbecue are the best spots for a local take on American classic barbecue dishes. Butcher and Bee or Leon’s Oyster are musts for incredible food in a casual atmosphere. Husk is the place to be for higher-end dining, and if you haven’t snagged a reservation, the real foodies line up at Fig at 5:00 PM each night in hopes of scoring a table.
A road trip through the South might be the perfect way to scratch that travel itch without traveling too far. Reach out, and let’s get your Southern adventure planned and booked!