Greenville, South Carolina, has established itself as one of the South’s most attractive cities, and now it has a stylish boutique luxury hotel to boot. Opened last summer, the Grand Bohemian Lodge Greenville, a part of the upscale Kessler Collection and Marriott’s Autograph Collection, stands next to the serene 32-acre Falls Park on the Reedy, and the rushing sound of waterfalls echoes across the hotel’s balconies. If that’s not enough to entice, here are four more reasons to book a stay.
Dramatic Design
By incorporating wood, stone, and other natural materials, the 187-room Grand Bohemian emulates the lodges constructed in many U.S. National Parks during the early 20th century. Two giant geodes greet guests at the entrance, adding a sparkly contrast to the earthy tones. Other nature-inspired flourishes include antler-shaped chandeliers, as well as an oak-tree mosaic that snakes along the hallway of Poseidon Spa.
Art Appreciation
The multimillion-dollar trove of art on permanent display is drawn from CEO Richard Kessler’s personal collection and features oil paintings of the American West as well as intricate, Native American–made turquoise wearable art. Want to take something home? An on-site gallery offers head-turning paintings, sculptures, and jewelry, with at least half of the pieces made by regional artists.
Get Together
There’s a gathering space for every kind of guest here. Families (and their pets) will enjoy hanging out around the lobby’s floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace. Those seeking quiet contemplation will savor the library or the verandah overlooking the waterfalls. Merry-makers will seek out the refined Southern cuisine—Carolina bison tenderloin, Chattooga River rainbow trout—at the restaurant, Between the Trees, then make their way to the downstairs bar, Spirit & Bower, which features more than 130 whiskeys and a patio firepit surrounded by Adirondack chairs.
Prime Location
The hotel’s central location offers easy access to many of the city’s attractions. For active vacationers, the multiuse Swamp Rabbit Trail follows the Reedy River for 22 miles, passing through several parks and the historic Furman University campus. Downtown’s Main Street, with its independent boutiques and eclectic restaurants, is just steps away, as well. Pick up something to read at M. Judson Booksellers, located in a converted courthouse, then enjoy kabobs at Aryana Afghan Cuisine and Belgian beer at The Trappe Door. It’ll seem as if the whole world is at your doorstep.
From $349, kesslercollection.com
