Carolina Cool
On the coast of South Carolina, Charleston romance meets contemporary classic at the Grand Bohemian
Characterized by sweeping live oak trees, cobblestone streets, horse-drawn carriages and a rainbow of historic homes, it’s easy to understand why visitors from across the globe flock to Charleston, South Carolina. Nicknamed the Holy City for the abundance of church steeples punctuating its skyline, you won’t find a better example of idyllic allure and Southern hospitality.
When it comes to visiting Charleston, it’s best to stay in the heart of it all in Charleston’s Historic District. And for accommodations that don’t sacrifice Charleston-style charm for luxury, book a stay at The Kessler Collection’s Grand Bohemian Hotel Charleston. Encompassing just 50 rooms, the luxury boutique hotel is nestled at arm’s length from the best shopping, dining and historical destinations the city has to offer.
Upon check-in, guests will be greeted with eye-popping artwork and vibrant colors that borrow their flair from historic Charleston’s French influences. Inspired by Richard C. Kessler’s fondness for the arts, the hotel is also home to the Grand Bohemian Gallery, which highlights local and international artists alike. Equally artful are the bird’s-eye views of the city visible from the hotel’s rooftop French-inspired restaurant, Élevé.
For a perfect day in Charleston, there are plenty of guided walking, biking and carriage tours—but visitors can also explore the city by foot, or rent a bike from Holy Spokes, Charleston’s bike-share program. For a mix of high-end and local shopping, head to King Street, located just one block from the Grand Bohemian. You’ll be able to follow King to The Battery, a historic seawall promenade along the Charleston Harbor.
Here, you’ll also find White Point Garden, a public park that’s home to historic military relics and dreamy live oak trees. Make sure to pay a visit to Charleston’s iconic Rainbow Row, a series of 13 historic houses in Charleston’s trademark pastel hues. Nearby is the 8-acre Waterfront Park, where visitors can stroll along the lawn or claim a porch swing and watch for boats from the covered pier.
Back at the Grand Bohemian, wine lovers should head to the Bohemian Wine Tasting Room. Choose from 32 wines that range from classic favorites to unique finds. For a lesson on the history of wine making, reserve a spot in one of the Grand Bohemian’s 90-minute wine-blending classes Nibble hors d’oeuvres and sample a range of wine varietals while (with help from an expert sommelier) you create your own custom wine blend, bottled with a personalized label, to take home.
Conclude the evening with a visit to the Grand Bohemian’s rooftop terrace bar, which serves up craft cocktails and sweeping views of the Charleston skyline. Falling in love with Charleston is easy, especially when you can call the heart of the city home—even if just for a few days.