From boutique to bed & breakfasts, and darling to daring, Thoroughbred Country has lodging options to enhance a weekend away
Step away from ordinary and into refreshingly extraordinary places to catch true R&R in Thoroughbred Country, South Carolina. Situated along I-20, between Atlanta and Charleston–just east of Augusta, Georgia, Thoroughbred Country is comprised of several cities with rolling countryside, parks, charming downtown squares and Civil War Sites. Ditch the chains when it comes to lodging and indulge in rooms nestled in historic antebellum homes, cozy cottages and unique boutiques that assure a getaway where the accommodations promise to leave you recharged.
1.) Wisteria Cottage–Immerse yourself in country living with a stay at Wisteria Cottage. This Blackville, South Carolina, bed and breakfast is the perfect place to unplug and escape from it all. It sits on 25 stunning acres of picturesque land, complete with trails, bird-watching opportunities and a gorgeous garden. The 1940s rustic hideaway sleeps four, with two bedrooms, one bath with a claw foot tub, and a small kitchen. While you’re there, learn how to utilize the plethora of herbs in Ms. Lill’s garden. Book here.
2.) The Inn at Houndslake–Make your vacation a hole-in-one with a stay at The Inn at Houndslake. This cozy South Carolina inn holds 30 distinctive rooms, each with a golf course view. Houndslake Country Club features a 27-hole championship course designed by Joe Lee, who also designed courses at La Costa and Disney World. In addition to hitting the links, enjoy the bright azaleas, an elegant dining room and invigorating pool. Book here.
3.) Magnolia Shadows–European elegance meets Southern charm at Magnolia Shadows. This Ridge Spring bed and breakfast is for traveling horseman and travelers, alike. The 1895 historical plantation home offers horse boarding and is pet-friendly. Pack up Fido and enjoy the manicured pastures, magnolia trees, pool and gardens that epitomize South Carolina living. Book here.
4.) Barnwell State Park–Pack for adventure with a stay at South Carolina’s Barnwell State Park. This striking park is located on the coastal plain and includes three lakes. Take advantage of nature trails, picnic shelters, fishing opportunities and boat rentals. Pitch a tent under the stars or snuggle up in one of the five cozy cabins on site. Book here.
5.) The Willcox–Step back in time at The Willcox. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this white-columned Southern hotel offers elegant suites and rooms adorned with period antiques, cloud soft beds and deep soaking tubs. Get pampered inside a serene intimate spa or take a dive in the landscaped pool. Situated in historic downtown Aiken, South Carolina, enjoy a full Southern breakfast buffet each morning, then step out and explore this treasured downtown. Book here.
6.) The Birdnest Inn–A stay at this tranquil Bed & Breakfast will keep you close to the action while hidden amongst the trees. Experience the charm of The Birdnest Inn with unique artwork each with a story of its own, private baths, plenty of books to read and a farmhouse breakfast. Book here.
7.) Miss Alda’s Inn–Come, relax and be part of the family at Miss Alda’s Inn. This quaint 1925 home near Barnwell, South Carolina, serves as a bed and breakfast and is complete with four bedrooms, each with private baths. Sip on sweet tea while lounging on the porch or relaxing in one of the peaceful interior rooms. Tour the many nearby historical sites, take advantage of golf and hunting packages or just sit back and cherish the still of the country. Book here.
8.) Carriage House Inn–Indulge in comfortably elegant surroundings at the Carriage House Inn. This boutique hotel sits on Aiken’s Main Street and epitomizes its hometown by exquisitely combining chic surroundings in its historic Southern frame. The Carriage House Inn boasts 37 rooms, outdoor porches, a delicious complimentary breakfast and more amenities for guests to enjoy. Book here.
9.) Lookaway Inn–For over a century, Lookaway has nobly stood overlooking the historic town center of North Augusta, South Carolina. This historic Southern mansion is a classic Beaux-Arts jewel from the 1800s. Guests enjoy large, elegant bedrooms, private bathrooms and landscaped courtyard and gardens. Book here.
10.) Annie’s Inn–Get out of the work weeds and step into high cotton at Annie’s Inn in Monmorenci, South Carolina. This unique bed and breakfast is housed in a pre-Civil War, Greek Revival style plantation home. Guest rooms each have private baths and include a full country breakfast. Guest cottages are beautifully designed to blend in the old architecture while offering modern amenities. While it may be tough to leave your beautiful room or cottage, the outdoor porches and stunning pool, surrounded by cotton fields, are more than enough to entice soaking in the country air. Book here.
11.) 419Hayne–Enjoy luxurious accommodations featuring unique art, cozy furnishings and top of the line decor handpicked by one of Aiken’s local interior designers. Offering four individual suites, with the main entrance hallway being the only shared space, 419Hayne is the perfect place for equine enthusiasts, corporate travelers and visitors wanting to explore the surrounding area. Rooms are available for short-term rentals or extended stays. Book here.
If You Go
Soak in the scenes of rural America by visiting The Jim Harrison Gallery in Denmark, South Carolina. The gallery celebrates the renowned late artist. Get a glimpse into the life and work of the beloved Southern artist who preserved small town America throughout his career. Jim Harrison passed away in June 2016, but his legacy lives on through his extraordinary works. For more information, visit www.JimHarrison.com, 1-800-793-5796.