Near Aiken and beyond, a getaway with spas, yoga and more
THOROUGHBRED COUNTRY, SOUTH CAROLINA—JULY 2024—Yearning for “me time,” slow journeys and immersion in nature? Thoroughbred Country, South Carolina, known for its equestrian sport history, has a slow and gentle side that beckons wellness-seekers. Located west of Columbia and encompassing the anchor cities of North Augusta and Aiken, South Carolina, this four-county region is bordered by Interstates 20, 26 and 95.
Sometimes referred to as “Undiscovered South Carolina,” Thoroughbred Country includes Aiken, Allendale, Bamberg and Barnwell counties. With genteel small cities, green countryside and photogenic small towns, the area offers accommodations with spa retreats, yoga classes and ways to reconnect with nature. Here are three to consider:
Lazy Dog Acres is like walking into a dream. This respite actually was a vision-the owner longed for a place for guests to experience the pastoral life while gathering for weddings, for solitude and rejuvenation. It’s located on 15 acres near Ehrhardt, a tiny town that has preserved much of its history and slow way of life. The renovated farmhouse has also retained its character and charm, offering a cozy yet elegant ambiance. Each of the three rooms are designed to accommodate a different getaway style. The Wedding Suite includes a spacious dressing room and a private garden tub bathroom. The Farmhand Room also has a private bath and the option to adjoin to the Wedding Suite. In the barn, The Bunkhouse and its detached bathroom is perfect for glampers.
Small group yoga classes, weekend retreats and other gatherings are held periodically, with meals, accommodations and more included at varying price points. Lazy Dog Acres’ on-site spa, the Lavender Cabin, is a by-appointment retreat for facials, Reiki, Reflexology and stretch therapy with products made from lavender grown on the property. 6293 Ehrhardt Rd, Ehrhardt, South Carolina 29081; 803-824-9303
In Aiken County, sprawling over 1,000 acres of gently rolling hills bordered by canopies of forests, Stable View is well known as an equestrian training facility, but it has also become a gathering place for retreats and for plant and wildlife enthusiasts. Stable View received the inaugural Land Stewardship Award from the Southeast Regional Land Conservancy for caring landowners who go above and beyond to protect their habitat. Explore 15 miles of trails, surrounded by a working horse farm, stables, equestrian arenas and cross-country fields.
The former sporting lodge has been repurposed with the comforts of a well-appointed home. Cottages, barn residences, loft-like “hunt boxes” and cozy apartments are designed for short or long-term stays. Commune with the horses with a stay in the Two Sox room, a two-bedroom, two-bath suite above the horse stalls, where they might be heard gently neighing to each other. RV hook-ups with water, sewer and a variety of views sprinkle the property. Guests have access to a washer/drying in equipped barns and in rider lounges. The property is LEED Gold certified, meaning it adheres to high standards of indoor environmental conservation.
Yoga and healing arts classes are held weekly. Nature walks and other outdoor activities can be organized, and arrangements can be made to rent electric bicycles and other equipment for more adventure and fun. ADA Accessible and pet friendly. 117 Stable Dr, Aiken, South Carolina 29801; 484-356-3173
For an in-town experience with plenty of dining and attractions, head to Aiken. In the late 19th century, as the railroads pushed farther south, Aiken became the home of the famed Winter Colony where Vanderbilts, Astors and other Golden Age notables vacationed. Golf, croquet, polo and other equestrian pursuits became pastimes that are still treasured today. This genteel and manageable small city admirably combines historic preservation with a contemporary vibe.
The Willcox, established in 1898 as “the” hotel for those who traveled to the Winter Colony. It’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places and awarded “World’s Best” 2024 by Travel + Leisure, Conde Nast Traveler’s “Reader’s Choice” and Southern Living’s “South’s Best.” Renowned for its atmosphere, impeccable service and excellent cuisine, this white-columned, old-fashioned Southern hotel offers suites elegantly appointed with period antiques, cloud soft beds, deep soaking tubs, fine dining and a serene intimate spa.
Book massage, body and facial treatments in fire-lit rooms with expert therapists and aestheticians. Add-ons include a Yoga Retreat-a two-night stay, a private yoga session with certified instructor, a hot stone massage and a sumptuous breakfast. A Sleep Well Tonight amenity includes a cashmere hot water bottle turndown, premium essential oils with known calming properties, a meditation DVD and meditation pillow and a bedside Sleep Sound System with 36 natural sleep-improving sounds. 100 Colleton Ave SW, Aiken, South Carolina 29801; 803-648-1898
Continue the wellness journey with an immersion in nature, for meditation isn’t only practiced while sitting in a quiet room. Take a moving meditation with a slow kayak trip on the Edisto River, the longest free-flowing blackwater river in North America where the water is colored by the tannins in the leaves and vegetation. Glide your way through a woodland sanctuary of pine, oak, cypress and tupelo, hearing the call of woodpeckers and wood storks. In Bamberg County, folks find relaxation floating down the South Fork of the Edisto River. Also check out Aiken State Park, home to the Edisto River Canoe Trail, where kayak and canoe rentals are available.
Take a drive and drink from God’s Acre Healing Springs. These legendary waters have been in use since before the 1700s. Native Americans believed in the springs’ natural healing powers and brought wounded Revolutionary War soldiers here. Bring a jug to take on your travels. The acre of land surrounding the springs was legally deeded to God by its owner in 1944. Springs Ct, Blackville, South Carolina 29817; 803-284-2444
For more on where to dine and what to do, go to www.TBredCountry.org