Inn at Middleton Place

Situated on a plantation that dates back to 1741 and is a National Historic Landmark, the Inn at Middleton Place blends history with modernity, housed in minimalist block-like buildings covered in huge windows and surrounded by gorgeous wooded grounds. The 65 acres feature 100-year-old oaks, blooming azaleas, beautiful magnolias, and a meandering river. There are plenty of places to enjoy the natural surroundings, whether it's taking a walk along the Ashley River or relaxing by one of the man-made ponds on the property, such as the lovely Butterfly Lakes shaped to look like butterfly wings. The beautiful natural surroundings make their way indoors as well by way of floor-to-ceiling windows that provide a green backdrop to the bright and airy spaces. Warm wooden panelling and floors lend interiors a rustic and cozy feel. The high-ceilinged lobby pairs the wooden furnishings with Oriental rugs and beige couches and armchairs for a sunlit and inviting atmosphere.

The inn is located on the grounds of the historic Middleton Place Plantation in a fairly secluded area on the banks of the Ashley River. The beautiful wooded area is a peaceful getaway about 40 minutes from historic downtown Charleston. There's not much within walking distance besides the grounds, which include the House Museum, gardens, and stables. There are other historic plantations nearby including Drayton Hall and Magnolia Plantation, which are both within a 10-minute drive. The Charleston International Airport is about a 30-minute drive.

Rooms at the hotel have a rustic, cabin-like appeal with hardwood floors, wood-burning fireplaces, and handcrafted wooden furniture. Shutters cover floor-to-ceiling windows which offer lovely views of the river, woods, or courtyard. Rooms have flat-screen TVs, coffee machines, mini-fridges, and free Wi-Fi, as well as thoughtful touches like small bags of trail mix, bottled water, and fresh flowers. Spacious bathrooms have custom-tiled shower/tub combos, large vanities, and natural Sprout Out bath products. A suite is available with a wraparound deck, living room area, and separate shower and tub. Guests should be aware that rooms might have a wood smoke smell due to the fireplaces, which might pose issues for some. 

The hotel provides a free breakfast including muffins, homemade granola, and fresh fruit. A hot breakfast is also available for an additional fee in the restaurant. Guests appreciate the evening reception with appetizers, wine, and beer, but recommend arriving early before refreshments run out. The restaurant serves traditional fare like okra soup and shrimp and grits for lunch, as well a more formal dinner menu including local seafood and organic chicken. The restaurant is closed on Mondays, but the inn offers a Monday night "dinner and a movie" special. 

The sprawling, nature-filled grounds are rich in wildlife and offer plenty of activities, including kayaking on the Ashley River and guided horse trail rides (with additional fee). Guests of the inn receive free admission to the House Museum and gardens as well as tours of the plantation, stable yards, and fields. There's also an outdoor pool on the grounds. Other amenities include a small game room with a TV, computer, printer, and various books and board games. Wi-Fi is free throughout, as is parking, and the hotel accommodates pets for a fee.