5 Southern getaways that are worth the drive.
If I meet someone who can’t place where I’m from by my accent, they know as soon as they hear the word y’all. Do y’all know what I mean? If you do, then this blog post is for you. If not, I hope this blog post convinces you not to overlook the South on your next trip around the USA.
While travel in 2020 can feel like a bit of a moving target, I’m keeping tabs on what’s open and the best places to go. I’ve rounded up five Southern US getaways that are worth the drive for those of you in the Southeast. If you’re open to traveling right now, I’ve also included my recommendations on where to stay. These boutique properties would be thrilled to host and pamper you, and we've even noted a few promotions going on for summer travel. If you’re not ready to travel yet or if you live nowhere near this part of the US, that’s okay too – y’all sit tight, have a read, and update your bucket list for next time.
No. 1: South Carolina’s Low Country
South Carolina’s Low Country is full of character and Southern hospitality. Think live oaks and Spanish moss, shrimp-and-grits, and raised houses with deep porches and tall shuttered windows. We think it’s the perfect long weekend getaway or even a great week-long vacation to take in all the activities and spend time visiting Savannah, Charleston, and Hilton Head. Spring is a great time to visit when everything’s in bloom, and the weather is ideal.
Where to stay? Montage Palmetto Bluff, open on June 4, 2020. Why? Life on the Bluff defines laid back luxury. It’s nestled along the scenic May river, just 20 minutes south of Hilton Head. There is something for everyone here - fishing, boating, exploring the islands of the marsh, fantastic spa, great dining, bowling, biking, SUP’ing, kayaking, walking, shooting, paintball, bird watching, and not to mention a Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course.
Contact us to learn more about their current promotions such as 4th night free on top of the usual Abbay’s Escapes amenities you’ll receive if you book with us, such as daily breakfast, $100 resort credit, a room upgrade subject to availability, & other extras.
No. 2: Lake Oconee in Greensboro, Georgia
What’s in Greensboro, Georgia you ask? Georgia’s second largest lake located halfway between Atlanta and Augusta. Come to relax, cast a line, ride bike or get on the water by renting jet skis and boats. If you’re looking for a more laid-back option, you can also rent out kayaks, canoes and paddle board, or even have a captain take you around for a sunset cruise.
Where to stay? The newly renovated Ritz Carlton at Lake Oconee just 75 miles from Atlanta is the ultimate lakeside retreat and is open. It opens the door to spectacular golf experiences on five championship courses, a relaxing day of fishing or boating on Lake Oconee, unwinding at a world-class spa, or dining on a patio under the stars. As our client, you’ll be privy to daily breakfast for two, a $100 resort credit, and upgrade on arrival & early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability.
No. 3: Smoky Mountains of Tennessee
Great news comes as the Great Smoky Mountains National Park has reopened. We all know it’s great for hiking and picnicking, but here is a fun fact: anglers find more than 500 miles of fishable streams in the park, including a wild trout habitat. When you’ve had your fill of nature, many towns near the park are perfect for a brief stint of antiques or crafts shopping.
Where to stay? My next visit to Tennessee, I’ll be making it to Blackberry Farms which is now open. It’s a boutique luxury property, just a quick drive from the Knoxville airport – easy to get to but hard to leave! Come for the incredible food, idyllic scenery, and warm hospitality. It’s a splurge, but no detail is overlooked on this gorgeous property. You can explore the 4200-acre working farm on horseback, by canoe and mountain bike or on intimate walking trails. Quieter activities include a massage at spa, reading in a hammock or fly-fishing in Hesse Creek, one of the best spots in Tennessee. Yes, please!!
Blackberry Farm and its sister, Blackberry Mountain, are open. As our client you can expect all of the extras and amenities, upgrades and credits!
No. 4: Charleston, South Carolina
Looking for more Southern charm? Look no further because we couldn’t leave Charleston, South Carolina off of the list (even though we already listed a South Carolina destination). I had to. Charleston is a must-visit historic city with all of the Southern charm. Also come for the vibrant food scene – be sure to ask us for restaurant recommendations. While not everything is open yet, here is a list of what is currently is open in Charleston, and it updates every 15 minutes. There are also fantastic antique shops and some great historic tours. For a road trip, it’s well paired with a visit to the low country mentioned in no. 1. Check out Charleston’s quaint and charming character in the photos below.
Charleston | Unsplash
Charleston | Unsplash
Charleston | Unsplash
Where to stay? Hotel Bennett is open with exception of the spa which is scheduled to open July 1st. Why? Guest rooms and suites are carefully designed with custom furnishings and design that reflect Charleston’s heritage and Southern grace – we are talking designer pedestal tubs, pristine showers, luxurious bedding and locally inspired artwork. I recommend a 3-night getaway (see promotion below) for couples or girlfriends. Bonus is the rooftop pool and cabanas with a panoramic view of Charleston.
Contact us to learn more about their current promotions such as 4th night free on top of all the usual Abbay’s Escapes’ amenities you’ll receive if you book with us. Get inspired by photographs of Hotel Bennett below. I’ve been picturing myself relaxed at the rooftop pool…
No. 5: Henderson Beach in Destin, Florida
With pristine beaches and gorgeous turquoise water, this part of Florida can make you feel like you’ve been mistakenly transported to the Caribbean instead. Familiar with this area but looking for something a little bit different? I have a place in mind, just next to the Henderson Beach nature preserve, a 208-acre, environmentally protected preserve.
Where to stay? The Henderson, a Salamander Beach & Spa Resport, is open with exception of the spa which is scheduled to open July 1st. Why? The property boasts that elegant yet comfortable coastal vibe we love, AND it’s ideally situated along pristine beaches in Destin, adjacent to the Henderson Beach nature preserve. The reserve offers peace and privacy and handy nature walks.
Contact us to learn more about their current promotions such as 4th night free on top of the usual Abbay’s Escapes amenities you’ll receive if you book with us, such as daily breakfast, $100 resort credit, a room upgrade subject to availability, & other extras.
Honorable Mentions
I couldn’t complete my list without including a few other Southern honorable mentions (which also include the usual perks for being an Abbay’s Escapes client). I have included opening dates that we know as of today, May 25th, and will update these dates according to any new information we receive.
Sunset Key Cottages in Key West, Florida: OPEN
The Water Color Inn in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida: OPEN
The Cloister at Sea Island in Sea Island, Georgia: OPEN
Maison de la Luz in New Orleans, Louisiana: OPEN
The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort in Kiawah Island, South Carolina: OPEN
As always, please let us know if you have any questions about summer travel or what it will look like in the current environment. We love hearing from you!