SPRINGTIME BLISS: Southern Boutique Hotels, Inns, and B&Bs

by Denise K. James

Chain hotels often cannot provide the true flavor of a region, but for those of us traveling around the Southeast, we’re in luck: independent lodging options aplenty are waiting to check us in. All of them honor our favorite locations with corresponding art, cuisine, architecture and excursions, which create a memorable sense of place. In this three-part series on Southern Boutique Hotels, Inns and Bed-and-Breakfasts, we’re introducing you to a few of our regional favorites. These spots have everything you need and want from an overnight stay – cozy linens, great coffee – as well as special scenery, surprising touches, and, because we’re Southern Flavor, great food and drinks. Now that it’s spring, we’re heading to the middle of the state, where the landscape is verdant and the lodging gives you a firsthand view of its beauty and history. Happy travels, and rest easy.

BEAUTY MEETS LUXURY IN LANCASTER: KILBURNIE, THE INN AT CRAIG FARM

What once was a home in the heart of Lancaster, South Carolina – a quaint mill town just south of Charlotte – is now a luxurious bed & breakfast known as Kilburnie, the Inn at Craig Farm. Saved from its slated demolition in 1998 and relocated to the historic farm three and a half miles away, the picturesque abode was placed on new foundation and re-assembled with the original wood, preserving its storied character for years to come.

Celebrating 25 years as a bed & breakfast this May, the Kilburnie is owned and helmed by former New York City restaurateur Johannes Tromp and has become a favorite of repeat guests for the peaceful setting and views as well as the hospitality and privacy. All of the rooms are spacious and stylishly decorated, boasting not only high-end bedding praised on Tripadvisor but also hydro-therapy tubs and separate walk-in showers. The detailed ceiling cornices in both the breakfast room and guest parlor were meticulously restored by the wellknown artist Jim Shore, who also painted some major portraits for the common areas and hallway, according to Tromp.

Each morning, a gourmet breakfast awaits guests at their preferred time. Prepared by Kilburnie’s innkeeper, who just happens to be a trained chef, the feast includes fresh fruit, home-baked muffins, savory sides, coffee, tea and juice. Afterward, guests can opt to enjoy a guided tour of the grounds, including the English-inspired gardens, or stroll the nature trails surrounding the property.

SOUTHERN CULTURE MEETS GLAMOUR IN AIKEN: THE WILLCOX

Known as the living room of the community and a second home to its visitors, The Willcox, a fixture of Aiken, South Carolina since 1898, represents the effortless glamour of a bygone era. The hotel has welcomed an array of distinguished guests over the years, such as Winston Churchill, Elizabeth Arden, Harry Vanderbilt and even Franklin Delano Roosevelt – many of whom enjoyed its award-winning restaurant, currently helmed by executive chef Philip Friesen.

Open for all three meals of the day, as well as afternoon tea, The Restaurant at the Wilcox serves a menu of upscale cuisine with Southern, regional flair. Highlights include the Berkshire Pork Chop (with a parmesan grit cake, apricot brandy butter, crispy kale and pickled mustard seeds) and a CAB 16-ounce ribeye with crispy frites and roasted garlic herb compound butter. A private label caviar is available to commence the meal, and an assortment of cocktails, mocktails and wines complete the experience. According to General Manager Matthew Sayer, the Restaurant’s new Afternoon Tea, from 3 until 5 p.m. every afternoon, is “wonderfully popular with guests as well.”

Overnight guests can choose from 16 spacious, distinctive bedrooms and seven private suites at The Willcox. All include a generous sitting area, writing desk, bed blanketed in cool white linens and their own sense of character. Some have fireplaces. The next morning, guests enjoy complimentary breakfast cooked to order in the dining room and can relax with the Wilcox’s saltwater swimming pool and on-site spa – or venture to town to experience equestrian activities and culture.

NOSTALGIA MEETS PROGRESS IN ABBEVILLE: THE BELMONT INN

Originally known as the Eureka Hotel, The Belmont Inn was conceived by Mr. P. Rosenberg, a one-time resident of Abbeville, South Carolina who felt that “a modern hotel [would] do as much toward the building up of [the] city as any enterprise.” Following a formal opening in August 1903, the hotel became a landmark of the 20th century, hosting vaudeville stars traveling between Miami and New York City and a number of notable guests such as Fanny Brice, Jimmy Durante, Ricky Nelson, President Jimmy Carter and Kelly McGillis. In November 1984, a freshly renovated Belmont Inn was unveiled to the public, featuring 25 rooms with private baths, modern conveniences and decorative touches to honor its storied past.

A new on-site restaurant, The Gated Tavern, opened at the Belmont Inn in February of this year and serves an American Italian menu plus seasonal daily specials. Classic Southern fare, such as the Gullah Shrimp and Grits, are a hit with the crowd, as well as modern dishes such as the Wine Braised Short Ribs – the restaurant “strives to offer opportunities to enjoy classic dishes while daring them to experience something new,” according to staff. Patrons will also enjoy the speakeasy vibe in the Tavern’s bar area, which serves a select menu of appetizers and entrees, as well as top shelf bourbons and local craft beers.

Overnight guests at the Belmont Hotel enjoy the atmosphere of an earlier era, thanks to heart pine flooring and custom-built period furniture – but with modern touches like high-speed internet. After a refreshing night of slumber, walk to local shops and restaurants around the historic Abbeville Square, or visit the Abbeville Opera House for live performances.

COMFORT MEETS CREATIVITY IN COLUMBIA: HOTEL TRUNDLE

Since 2018, Columbia, South Carolina’s Hotel Trundle has earned fans far and wide with its prime location in the city’s historic Main Street district. Housed inside of three restored buildings from the early 20th century – a furniture store, an auto parts store and a paint and wallpaper shop – Hotel Trundle celebrates everything about the city, from the local art and craftsmanship to the culinary scene. Amenities are designed to make guests feel welcome from the time they check in – complimentary beverages, plenty of gathering spaces to hang out with friends, family and strangers, and walking distance to everything Columbia has to offer.

Though it doesn’t operate an on-site restaurant, Hotel Trundle is dialed into Columbia’s foodscape, and staff will happily offer their feedback on a variety of dining destinations, including James Beard award-winner Lula Drake Wine Parlour. “Our proximity gives guests the perfect opportunity to explore Columbia’s celebrated food scene, all while enjoying the comfort and charm of Hotel Trundle,” says Rita Patel, Hotel Trundle owner.

Guests who stay overnight with Hotel Trundle – or at one of the sister lodging options, The Flutter Wing and The Dens – will find accommodations not only luxurious but local, with morning joe from Loveland Coffee, curated artwork from Columbia artists and even locally crafted bed frames and mattresses. After a complimentary breakfast prepared by Sarah Simmons, a James Beard-nominated chef, Columbia’s shopping and attractions are all a hop and a skip away and ready for exploration.