Perfect Pairings: Charleston & Bluffton

Charleston and the tranquillity of Lowcountry life as we take you on an exclusive journey through the cultural highs and beauty of South Carolina. Submerge into unique experiences with exclusive access and gourmet delights as our expert guides show you the best-kept secrets of this region, soaking up architecture, wild adventures, magical waterways and stunning vistas.

United States of America
5 nights private tour from GBP £4,700

Charleston and the tranquillity of Lowcountry life as we take you on an exclusive journey through the cultural highs and beauty of South Carolina. Submerge into unique experiences with exclusive access and gourmet delights as our expert guides show you the best-kept secrets of this region, soaking up architecture, wild adventures, magical waterways and stunning vistas.

Perfect Pairings Charleston and Bluffton
Journey highlights
  • Sink into the magical timelessness of Charleston with a bespoke guided architecture walking tour 

  • Let the tranquillity wash over you as you submerge into the beautiful shores of Lowcountry life 

  • Embrace the early morning adventure to explore the Bluffton waterways with a sunrise kayaking tour 

  • Lean into the simpler life as you explore Daufuskie Island relishing in the white sand beaches, eclectic arts scene and artisan crafts 

Our tailor made journeys include:
  • Your dedicated Travel Consultant who will take care of arrangements
  • Private international airport transfers in destination
  • Your own private, English-speaking local guides
  • Unique experiences, hand-picked by our Journeys team
  • Entrance to must-see local sites
  • Dedicated 24/7 team providing in-country support and guidance
  • Complimentary access to My Scott Dunn – industry-leading travel app providing pre-departure information and in-journey support

When to visit

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Best time to visit
Good time to visit
Average time to visit

The best time to visit Charleston is during the spring, between March and May. The blooming Magnolia trees make for a picture-perfect city landscape and the temperatures are warm. The summer months of July and August can be incredibly hot and humid, so a few days in the city should be rounded off with a trip to the coast. Winter can be pleasant, but there is a slight chill in the air that deters most tourists.

South Carolina has a humid subtropical climate with mild winters, and fairly hot and humid summers. Average temperatures in January and February are in the upper teens, while average temperatures from May through September stay in the high 20s (°C). Temperatures in October, November and December tend to drop to the low 20s and mid-teens. It can get fairly cool in this area during the winter months, so you will need to bring some sweaters and light jackets if you plan to be outside during the day.

Itinerary

Day 1-3

Charleston, South Carolina, United States of America

Embrace South Carolina's opulent old-world charm as you arrive at the timeless luxury of Charleston Place, a grand 17th-century residence with an Italian marble lobby and staircase, crystal chandeliers and luxurious suites. Make sure you drop by the Charleston Grill for their delicious crab cakes accompanied by the sounds of live jazz, enjoy a cocktail at the Thoroughbred Club, or head to the spa for some serious pampering.  


Make it the perfect start to your day, with an early morning swim in the pool followed by a sumptuous breakfast at The Palmetto Café before your day's adventure. Charleston oozes a magical timelessness surrounded by narrow cobblestone streets, horse-drawn carriages, antique stores, sophisticated galleries and spectacular antebellum homes. With your first experience you will be taken on a guided private walking tour through the heart of Charleston’s 18th century walled city, exploring flourishing gardens, private homes, and its local historic market - allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the progression of Charleston’s architectural styles over the past four centuries, from Georgian to Art Deco. You will have privileged access to one of Charleston’s most beautiful private homes, here you will relish in a private musical and spoken word performance as you sip on a refreshing mint julep cocktail on the porch of this magnificent home.


After another delicious breakfast your private driver will take you to your next hotel, the Montage Palmetto Bluff. Along the way, stop for a guided VIP experience as you step back in time arriving by horse-drawn carriage (no better way!) to Charleston’s Middleton Place. An 18th century rice plantation and National Historic Landmark boasting 65 acres of America's oldest landscaped gardens. Delve into the property’s intriguing history, stroll through the beautiful gardens and get a glimpse into life on a working plantation as you explore the Stableyards and House Museum. 

Accommodation: The Charleston Place ( 2 nights )
Day 3-6

Bluffton, South Carolina, United States of America

Plunge into tranquillity as you arrive at Montage Palmetto Bluff, nestled on the beautiful shores of the May River. A luxury low-country resort, surrounded by a nature reserve and palmetto trees, bicycle trails and waterways, a retreat to the Montage will be nothing short of idyllic.


After your first luxurious evening, rise and shine early for a sunrise kayaking tour through the maze of Lowcountry waterways. Be awed by this quintessential Lowcountry landscape, paddling through a seemingly endless labyrinth of salt marsh waterways. Along the way, your guide will share insights into the natural and human histories of this mesmerising region. Keep an eye out for resident wildlife, including storks, herons, and a friendly local dolphin pod.  


To top off a wonderful day amongst the nature of South Carolina, the hotel offers a selection of culinary delights in the early evening. Sip on homemade lemonade and indulge in freshly baked cookies during the social 'porching hour' at The River House or sample traditional Southern cuisine such as shrimp 'n grits. After a casual dinner at Buffalo's or the upscale Octagon head to the firepit to roast s'mores. The sound of nature will surround you here, taking you away from everyday life, leading you into paradise. 


After breakfast you will be picked up by golf cart and escorted to the marina for a half-day adventure to Daufuskie Island! Only accessible by boat with just a few paved roads, it will take you back to a much simpler time where you can discover the historical landmarks, while an eclectic arts scene keeps the spirit of the island alive and thriving. Once there you’ll hop into a golf cart for a tour of the island to discover the Gullah culture and traditions led by a local historian. Together you will meet with local artisans who are keeping the island’s colourful art scene alive, with a chance to visit a family-owned pottery shop and local metalworkers’ workshop.

Accommodation: Montage Palmetto Bluff ( 3 nights )
We design each itinerary around you, so this suggested itinerary is a starting point that we can tweak or transform into something completely bespoke to you.
Call us on 020 3813 3729 to start planning your holiday.

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