Grand in Greenville

If your idea of South Carolina is limited to sandy beaches along the Atlantic coastline and marshy Low Country landscapes, the city of Greenville will expand some horizons. Located in the foothills not far from the Nantahala National Forest and about an hour’s drive south of Asheville, North Carolina, the rapidly growing Greenville metro area offers a pleasing combination of city comforts and country charm. Only recently plopped down right in the heart of the city is the Grand Bohemian Lodge Greenville, a beautiful property built on what is arguably the most beautiful slice of land in the region.

The 187-room hotel sits perched high above the Reedy River, a mountain stream that cuts through the heart of Greenville. A collection of waterfalls splish and splash within a stone’s throw of the hotel’s lobby. And the Grand Bohemian’s backyard is Falls Park, a gorgeous public park laced with walking paths, flower beds and benches to sit upon and enjoy the natural setting. In fact, the 22-mile Swamp Rabbit Trail meanders through the park and continues north to the town of Travelers Rest.

A boutique lodging and part of the Kessler Hotels brand, the Greenville property embraces its picturesque location with a mix of luxury and rustic charm. A four-sided river stone fireplace greets guests as they arrive. A broad balcony overlooking the Reedy River and park lure many outside, perhaps with a cocktail from the lobby bar. Like all Richard Kessler hotels, original artwork peppers the interior and exterior spaces, many featuring Native American themes. Sculptures, paintings, geode crystals, collections of ancient arrow heads and more are everywhere. No space is too small to receive some extra attention to detail. For example, look for the Indianhead pennies in the elevators.

The hotel’s signature restaurant is Between the Trees. The reason for the name is easy to discern. Step out on the riverside deck and you’ll see why. Carolina bison carpaccio, grilled elk loin and seared rainbow trout highlight the menu created to favor regionally sourced ingredients. Downstairs, Spirit & Bower is a handsome lounge with soft leather chairs, a fireplace, and classic clubby appeal.

A stone-covered veranda, complete with a large fire pit seating area, is especially attractive when weather permits. Small bites served here include wagyu beef sliders, spicy pork flatbreads and Chattooga trout dip, along with top shelf bourbons and whiskeys.

There are a number of worthy restaurants located within a short walk of the hotel. Cross Greenville’s signature Liberty suspension bridge to Main Street and one passes by a number of local eateries and shops. Smoke on the Water is a casual “saucy southern tavern” (as it calls itself) serving bar eats like homemade pimento cheese, spicy crab dip and stuffed potato skins, as well as barbecue standards such as pulled pork, beef brisket and baby back ribs. Just up the block is Foxcroft Wine Co., a more upscale establishment featuring cheese and charcuterie plates, cast iron-seared ribeye and roasted salmon. Both are less than a ten-minute stroll from your room at the Grand Bohemian. Though, when the setting is this luxurious, you may choose not to cross the river at all. u