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Grove Park Inn
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Center for Carolina Living Rapture. That’s what you’ll find at the Grove Park Inn in Asheville. Once home to F. Scott Fitzgerald, the grand old hotel boasts a huge fireplace, sweeping mountain views and a first-class spa.
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Greystone
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Center for Carolina Living The Greystone Inn
A treasure in a mountain setting at Lake Toxaway, NC.
Photo courtesy of The Greystone Inn
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Palmetto Hospitality - Inn Style: A Recipe Guidebook to the Finest Inns in South Carolina
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Visiting
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Luxury Carolina Inns, Hotels and B&Bs
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any small hotels, inns and B&Bs are sprinkled throughout the Carolinas. Most have history behind them. Others rely on fantastic scenery, or world-class golf to pamper their guests. Whatever your pleasure, whatever your taste, you'll find it across the Carolinas.

Here, in alphabetical order by city and state, are the Four- and Five-Diamond accommodations that also made our best-dressed list:

Choose from these North Carolina Luxe Inn Towns
~ Asheville ~ Boone ~ Cary
~ Cashiers ~ Chapel Hill ~ Charlotte
~ Durham ~ Greensboro ~ Highlands
~ Lake Toxaway ~ Pinehurst
~ Wilmington

Choose from these South Carolina Luxe Inn Towns
~ Beaufort ~ Bluffton
~ Charleston ~ Conway ~ Greenville
~ Hilton Head Island
~ Kiawah Island ~ Latta
~ Myrtle Beach ~ Simpsonville
~ Summerville  
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Albemarle Inn, Asheville, NC. 828-255-0027. This stately Greek Revival mansion, situated within Asheville’s famed Grove Park District, offers a regal welcome complete with a sweeping staircase and claw foot tubs in every room. For breakfast, savor warm Carolina cinnamon poached pears and honey-lemon mascarpone cheese before a steaming egg Florentine in a tomato-basil vinaigrette.

Grove Park Inn Resort and Spa, Asheville, NC. 828-252-2711. It’s been called a grand lady and a real southern belle without an ounce of snobbery. Imagine the taste of shitake encrusted wild salmon, served with spinach gnocchi and smoked tomato beurre blanc.

Richmond Hill Inn, Asheville, NC. 828-252-7313. This grand Victorian mansion was built in 1889 as a private residence. Today, it welcomes guests for a romantic interlude. Their pan-seared Maine scallops feature parsley whipped potatoes and a lobster-vanilla bean sauce along with a curly endive salad with grapefruit.

Inn on Biltmore Estate, Asheville, NC. 828-225-1660. With a century-old legacy of hospitality, beauty and comfort, guests have the unique opportunity to stay on George Vanderbilt’s grand estate. Afternoon tea embodies the best of a most civilized tradition, with scones, fruit breads, tea pastries and more.

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Lovill House Inn, Boone, NC. 828-264-4204. Towering, 16-foot hemlock hedges mark the entrance to this 11-acre mountain retreat. The fully restored, 1875 farmhouse, built by a Civil War hero and state senator, exudes Southern hospitality with inviting wraparound porches and wood-burning fireplaces, hot breakfasts and an evening hosted social hour.

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Umstead Hotel and Spa, Cary, NC. 919-447-4000. This brand new, AAA Five-Diamond and Mobil Five-Star rated hotel lives up to every one of its numerous accolades, as does its world-class spa and casually elegant Herons restaurant.  For an old-world indulgence, don't miss warm buttermilk scones, with house made lemon cream and fruit preserves, during Afternoon Tea in the hotel's elegant lounge.

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Innisfree Victorian Inn & Garden House, Cashiers, NC. 828-743-2946. Imagine your own private veranda with expansive views of the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains and sparkling waters of Lake Glenville. Inside the inn you will be warmed by Irish coffee served fireside, gourmet meals in an elegant, octagon-shaped dining room and a constant supply of homemade delights in the kitchen.

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Carolina Inn, Chapel Hill, NC. 919-933-2001. Recognized as one of America’s “cultural resources worthy of preservation,” the Inn has played an important role in the life of the University of North Carolina. Entrees mix regional foods such as braised Colorado lamb shank with creamy Anson Mills grits, roasted beets, and truffle-flavored braising jus.

The Siena Hotel, Chapel Hill, NC. 919-929-4000. Brimming with old-world charm, The Siena Hotel, one of North Carolina’s finest luxury boutique hotels, “embodies the spirit of Italy in the heart of North Carolina,” applauds Condé Nast. Executive Chef Jim Anile combines high quality produce from local, independent farmers with imported Italian food specialties for an array of distinctive dishes.

The Fearrington House, Near Chapel Hill, NC. 919-542-2121. A true gem, with Five Diamonds from AAA and Five Stars from Exxon Mobil. Exceptional quality in dining and accommodations. (Taste the roasted wild striped bass with buttered leeks, Hoppin’ John, and shrimp ravioli with a parsley butter sauce.)

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Ballantyne Resort, Charlotte, NC. 704-248-4000. Accolades abound for this grand resort for unparalleled service, a spa rated among the “Top Five in North America,” (Condé Nast) and a world-renown golf course. Indulge yourself with the grilled veal chop, served with an Alaskan king crab spring roll and truffled potato mousseline in a vanilla port reduction.

Charlotte Marriott SouthPark, Charlotte, NC. 704-364-8220. Formerly the Park Hotel, this Charlotte gem has been featured in numerous international magazines such as Bon Appétit. The Sunday Brunch at Smoky’s Grill has been called the “best in Charlotte” and features made-to-order omelets, chilled seafood, a selection of fine continental cuisine and sensational flaming desserts.

Hilton Charlotte Center City, Charlotte, NC. 704-377-1500. A hotel with all the comfort and amenities of home, and then some. Curl up in Hilton’s signature “Suite Dreams Bed” within an oversized room after an exciting day of shopping in downtown Charlotte. The Union Grille features continental cuisine with a local flair.

Omni Charlotte Hotel, Charlotte, NC. 704-377-0400. Experience the excitement of one of the country’s favorite up-and-coming cities in this luxurious hotel in the heart of Charlotte’s financial district. Dazzling shops, restaurants, and the Charlotte Convention Center will be at your fingertips, while graciously appointed guest rooms let you retreat a world away from the hustle and bustle.

The Duke Mansion Historic Inn, Charlotte, NC. 704-714-4400. Delight in a tradition of gracious hospitality The Duke Mansion has extended to great leaders of the 20th Century, often at the hands of the mansion’s most famous owner, James Buchanan Duke. Today, as a B&B, guests might choose to enjoy a breakfast of banana pancakes topped with maple syrup and cranberry butter with warm apple wood smoked bacon and creamy buttered grits.

The Westin Charlotte, Charlotte, NC. 704-375-2600. Envelop yourself in the contemporary glamour of downtown Charlotte is this modern and ultra luxurious hotel. Pamper yourself with one of the hotel’s signature manicures before a dinner of gourmet American fare at the trendy Ember Grille.

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Arrowhead Inn Bed & Breakfast, Durham, NC. 919-477-8430. Numerous publications, such as Southern Living, USA Today, and Food and Wine have touted this historic gem for its gracious hospitality. This fully restored 1775 manor house features cozy fireplaces in every guest room, delectable breakfast feasts, and charming, colorful gardens that together create a truly relaxing and memorable stay.

Washington Duke Inn and Golf Club, Durham, NC. 919-490-0999. Built in the style of an old English country inn, the hotel lobby and hallway are graced with Duke family treasures and art. Guests might choose to enjoy the filet mignon with whipped potatoes, sautéed asparagus and a Roquefort fondue with Meritage syrup.

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Grandover Resort & Conference Center Golf & Spa, Greensboro, NC. 336-294-1800. Surrounded by 1,500 acres of oak, pine and dogwood covered hills, this European castle-inspired resort offers a spa, golf and tennis. One cannot resist the jumbo crab cakes with whipped lobster potatoes, charred balsamic-glazed corn on the cob and scallion remoulade.

O. Henry Hotel, Greensboro, NC. 336-854-2000. Nestle into a deep, mohair club chair for evening cocktails or afternoon tea, (complete with freshly baked scones with clotted cream and preserves) in the grand social lobby – the heart of the O. Henry. Rich wall paneling, signature Magi beds and even a London Taxi are among the charms of this elegant boutique hotel that recaptures the essence of bygone days.

Proximity Hotel, Greensboro, NC. 800-379-8200. This stylish new hotel offers many amenities, but perhaps the most awe-inspiring is a healthy stay, thanks to the hotel being considered one of the greenest in America.  Savor fresh, local ingredients at The Print Works Bistro, with a calming view of a lovely restored stream.

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Old Edwards Inn and Spa, Highlands, NC. 828-526-8008. From your champagne arrival to the heated-tile floors in your sumptuous guest room, every detail of your stay ensures a memorable visit to beautiful Highlands. In cozy ambiance enjoy honey cardamom glazed organic salmon with grilled onion pepperonade, caviar crème fraîche and caper berries.

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Greystone Inn, Lake Toxaway, NC. 828-966-4700. This magnificent, six-level Swiss mansion, built in 1915, echoes the finesse and substance of Europe. Their spa is a place to be pampered and rejuvenated in the finest style and lakeside dinners are a romantic, gourmet dining experience.

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The Carolina, Village of Pinehurst, NC. 910-295-6811. Built in 1901, this historic hotel is the centerpiece of Pinehurst Resort and offers a Victorian structure in more than 200 rooms. Within walking distance from the world-famous spa, The Carolina is a luxurious relaxing break from everyday life in a world-class resort atmosphere.

The Holly Inn, Village of Pinehurst, NC. 910-295-6811. Its doors were first opened before the turn of the 20th century. Today, fully restored, it offers distinctive dining options featuring regional cuisine in an elegant southern grill. The Tavern features an authentic, hand-carved Scottish bar.

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Graystone Inn, Wilmington, NC. 910-763-2000. An historic landmark that started life in 1905 as the Bridgers Mansion, the Graystone is known as one of America’s most romantic hideaways, as well as one of the most elegant structures in the historic section of Wilmington. A stunning mahogany-paneled library and music room invite guests to linger.

The Verandas, Wilmington, NC. 910-251-2212. This B&B was originally a Victorian Italianate Mansion, built in 1853. After extensive restoration (and awards for the work they’ve done), the B&B features antiques and original artwork, and boasts an exclusive select registry recommendation.

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The Rhett House Inn, Beaufort, SC. 843-524-9030. Called one of “10 great places for the All-American honeymoon,” this veranda-wrapped beauty is rich in history and charm. Guests fortify themselves for a busy day with a variety of homemade treats including muffins, French toast and fresh fruit, take a break with afternoon tea, and enjoy cocktails in the evening.

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The Inn at Palmetto Bluff, Bluffton, SC. 866-706-6565. Set on a centuries-old sea island, this distinctive resort embodies an elegant, Lowcountry lifestyle, from the Plantation-style lodge to surrounding cottages and villas.  Simply relax and rejuvenate, or embark on  guided excursions, but always finish your day with nightly hot s'mores around the brick fire pits.

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Charleston Place, Charleston, SC. 843-722-4900. Located “at the corner of heart and soul,” this beautiful hotel is ideally situated in the middle of historic Charleston, surrounded by narrow cobblestone streets, charming antique stores and sophisticated galleries. At the Charleston Grill, try the oven-roasted venison tenderloin over sawmill gravy tossed with portobellas and haricot vert in a blue oyster mushroom and Cognac jus.

French Quarter Inn, Charleston, SC. 843-722-1900. With elegant, classically appointed French décor, this lovely inn is located in the heart of Charleston. Incoming guests are greeted with champagne and ladyfingers, and afternoon wine and cheese awaits the weary afternoon shopper. Finish the evening with freshly baked cookies and milk.

HarbourView Inn, Charleston, SC. 843-853-8439. This modern harbor front hotel offers old-world charm in a setting filled with fine antiques and collectibles. With flavored teas and snacks available all day, and a wine and cheese reception each afternoon, guests find themselves refreshed from indulging in the serious business of shopping and exploring.

John Rutledge House Inn, Charleston, SC. 843-723-7999. This is the only home that belonged to one of the 55 signers of the U.S. Constitution that’s open to overnight guests. A stay in this elegant antebellum treasure offers the opportunity to experience history as well as warm Southern hospitality.

Market Pavilion Hotel, Charleston, SC. 843-723-0500. Imagine sweeping views of downtown Charleston, glistening under a star-laden sky, from the hotel’s rooftop lounge and pool. Beforehand, enjoy a filet of grouper, baked with shrimp in Grand Marnier beurre blanc, at Grill 225, the hotel’s four-star restaurant.

Planters Inn, Charleston, SC. 843-722-2345. Awaken to breakfast on a silver platter, brought to your room. In the afternoon, upon your return from sightseeing in Charleston, enjoy iced tea or cocktails in the parlor. The acclaimed, four-star Peninsula Grill offers such delicacies as wild mushroom grits with Lowcountry oyster stew and benne crusted rack of New Zealand lamb . . . and don’t forget their celebrated “Ultimate Coconut Cake!”

Renaissance Charleston Hotel Historic District, Charleston, SC. 843-534-0300. In the heart of Charleston’s downtown historic district, enjoy the convenience of taking repose just off Market Street, mere steps away from elite shops and boutiques and numerous historic sites. The hotel’s signature restaurant features Lowcountry cuisine with a southern flair.

Wentworth Mansion, Charleston, SC. 843-853-1886. Awarded Five Diamonds from AAA, the mansion has been called a pristine example of America's Gilded Age. With Tiffany stained-glass windows and a thousand other details, it's a residence in the middle of downtown Charleston like no other. The restaurant includes a wine list of almost 300 bottles and a broiled filet of lobster served atop Pineapple Hopping John and finished with a caramelized ginger hollandaise from award-winning Chef Marc Collins.

The Boardwalk Inn at Wild Dunes, near Charleston, SC. 843-886-6000. With 1,600 acres of oceanfront a mere twenty minutes from Charleston, this resort has been a favorite for more than two decades, especially with its award-winning children’s tennis program. The Sea Island Grill offers guests the freshest seafood available.

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The Cypress Inn, Conway, SC. 843-248-8199. Twelve miles from Myrtle Beach, yet worlds away in the lovely small town of Conway, this inn features a five million-year-old river outside its door. Luxurious in decorations and amenities, guests can choose from hot air balloon rides, decadent chocolates, divine bath salts, and just down the street, fabulous dining at Rivertown Bistro.

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The Westin Poinsett, Greenville, SC. 864-421-9700. Surround yourself in the elegance and charm of a completely restored 1920s hotel in the heart of picturesque downtown Greenville. After a day of sightseeing, shopping and dining (in the hotel’s Spoonbread Restaurant – don’t miss the shrimp and grits!) relax with a drink in the piano bar while a guest musician tickles the ivories.

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Crowne Plaza Hilton Head Island Beach Resort, Hilton Head Island, SC. 843-842-2400. Spend your days taking lazy strolls along the Atlantic on the beach, (Voted one of America’s Top 10 Beaches by the Travel Channel) or partake in a wide range of invigorating pursuits, from playing a round of golf to swimming laps to shopping for treasures around the island. On Sundays, treat yourself to an elegant champagne brunch.

Hilton Head Marriott Beach & Golf, Hilton Head Island, SC.
843-686-8400. Prop your feet up on your private balcony and just take in the view. Whether you want to pamper yourself with massages and salon visits or challenge yourself with golfing, fishing, canoeing or biking, all is at your fingertips. When dining at Conroy’s, don’t miss the fresh grilled salmon topped with jumbo lump crabmeat and a Dijon cream sauce.

Hilton Oceanfront Resort, Hilton Head Island, SC.800-845-8001. Luxurious, spacious guest rooms and stunning ocean views suggest a stay in a private beach house at this acclaimed resort. Indulge yourself at The Ocean Tides Spa after a day of world-class tennis or golf or take a cruise in a catamaran along the private beach during a day of fun in the sun. Fresh seafood is served up nightly in the gourmet restaurant, Mostly Seafood.

Inn at Harbour Town, Hilton Head Island, SC. 843-363-8100. This 60-room luxury inn features 100% Italian cotton Frette linens, and a private butler on each floor! Add that to 24-hour room service, magnificent views, and full service business capabilities, and you've got a great choice for business and family vacations.

The Westin Resort, Hilton Head Island, SC. 843-681-4000. Offering exquisite service in elegant, comfortable surroundings, this resort adds superior meeting amenities to its long list of pluses, including over-sized rooms, three championship golf courses and more. A number of restaurants offer varied dining experiences from casual to award-winning contemporary American in a bistro setting.

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Kiawah Island Golf Resort, Kiawah Island, SC.
843-768-2121. A wide, immaculate beach that covers 10 miles offers a relaxing respite from everyday life. The island also enjoys its own river, meandering lagoons and pristine marshlands, all intermingling with five championship golf courses, 30 miles of biking trails, and numerous tennis courts. Guests choose from a number of restaurants including the Turtle Point Sports Bar & Grill, which features an array of well-prepared steak and seafood dishes with a variety of special sauces.

The Sanctuary, Kiawah Island, SC. 877-683-1234. The Five-Diamond Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort has been called the crowning jewel to Kiawah Island, a stunning oasis already recognized for its world-class golf, pristine beaches, and natural beauty. With an ocean view, enjoy the grilled filet mignon, served with a sautée of fingerling potatoes, crabmeat and asparagus, on a rich vanilla-asparagus purée with hollandaise sauce.

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Abingdon Manor, Latta, SC. 843-752-5090. First and second floor verandas frame this historic, Greek revival country inn near Florence. On select dates, don your Abingdon Manor apron and enroll in the manor’s renowned cooking school, where you will learn to chop and dice your way to a scrumptious, six-course dinner.

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Marina Inn at Grand Dunes, Myrtle Beach, SC. 877-913-1333. In the heart of Grand Dunes resoirt, which spans 2,200 ares overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway, the Marina Inn is a Mediterranean-style oasis.  After a sunset cocktail at the waterfront, savor local grouper, grilled asparagus and creamy Anson Mills polenta in a shell fish cream.

Myrtle Beach Marriot Resort at Grande Dunes, Myrtle Beach, SC. 843-449-8880. Escape to this oceanfront, 2,200 acre, plantation-style resort where luxurious guest rooms, an attentive staff and an extensive collection of both sporting and leisure activities will soothe and rejuvenate even the weariest traveler. Spectacular oceanfront views compliment fresh, seasonal entrees while dining at Ocean’s on 82nd.

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Ryan Nicholas Inn, Simpsonville, SC.
864-286-6000. This new Georgian mansion near Greenville is a B&B from Monday through Thursday, when guests can enjoy a romantic getaway and sumptuous in-room dining. Weekends, the Inn is home to larger events for business and entertaining.

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Woodlands Resort & Inn, Summerville, SC.
843-875-2600. With Five diamonds from AAA, this magnificent Greek revival home near Charleston is famous for luxurious rooms and superb services amidst a beautiful rural setting on 42 private wooded acres. The spa offers massage and body treatments, while the award-winning dining room (Condé Nast Traveler calls it one of the top three restaurants in North America) incorporates genuine Asian influences from Executive Chef Tarver King.

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Katherine O. Pettit has worked as a writer, magazine editor, printer and public relations consultant. The Columbia resident has published more than 250 articles in magazines and newspapers. Her writing explores a variety of subjects including travel, lifestyles, business and management.

Kristen F. Anthony has worked in magazines, newspapers, marketing and corporate communications. She has contributed to a variety of projects, from an award-winning newspaper special section on veterans to the 2006 Southern Living-Progressive Farmer Idea House. Kristen earned her BA in Communications Studies from Furman University in Greenville, S.C., and now calls Columbia, S.C., home.
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