Once a grand family home set amongst rolling pastures, sparkling lakes, and lush canopied woodlands, Hotel Hartness is now a 73-room boutique hotel situated on a 482-acre property — just a short drive from downtown Greenville, South Carolina. One of our writers recently had a chance to experience everything this retreat has to offer, and she’s sharing her experience. Take a look!
STAY
The estate-turned-boutique hotel is situated amid countless trees, so the drive onto the winding road through the property is enchanting. The hotel is part of Hartness, an up-and-coming neighborhood community akin to popular destinations such as Serenbe and Trillith in nearby Atlanta.
A stone drive leads to the lobby. Here, what was once the manor home’s front doors beckon visitors for check-in. From the point of entry, the accommodation oozes contemporary appeal with a hint of sexiness. Local art in various mediums adorns the walls, while rich fabrics cover the furniture.
Rooms have an equally stunning aesthetic. Deluxe rooms start at 345 square feet of what the resort describes as “casual luxury,” while suites begin at a roomier 457 square feet. Both room types are stylishly appointed with modern furnishings and feel comfortably spacious, with cozy beds and lovely views.
EAT + DRINK
The Hartness family shares a passion for aviation, evident in details throughout the hotel.
Tuck into Captain for lunch, where a menu inspired by world travel awaits. Items are cheekily named. There’s the Alpha, Bravo, Delta Cobb Salad and the Soaring Over the South Bento featuring pimento cheese, bacon jam, hushpuppies, and fried green tomatoes. For a lighter option, the spicy ahi tuna offers a refreshing medley of avocado, pickled slaw, carrot ginger purée, and crispy rice.
By happy hour, the moody decor in the Captain sets the scene for the evening to come. Classics like the Manhattan and the Captain’s Old Fashioned are available, as well as new-wave creations like the Blueberry Limoncello Martini and the Blackberry Lavender High Ball.
For a decadent dinner in an upscale atmosphere, make a move to Patterson Kitchen + Bar, a contemporary American restaurant influenced by traditional South Carolina fare. The corn and crab chowder is hearty and sumptuous, and the pan-seared duck from nearby Timberock Farms is served with a crisp salad doused in a zippy citrus vinaigrette.
EXPERIENCE
Beyond exploring the grounds via walking and biking trails, Spa H — just a short walk from the hotel – is well worth a visit.
Once inside, the interiors blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape. Soft woodsy tones are punctuated by metallics, and even the wallpaper in the relaxation room mimics the moss-covered pine trees seen around the pond. There is plenty of space for coed relaxing before or after a treatment. I could have easily spent hours (or even the entire day) luxuriating at the spa.
And of course, bustling Greenville is just a short drive away. There, you can meander the vibrant downtown, which offers plenty of local shopping and dining. Don’t miss the cascading city center, Reedy River Falls, especially from the Liberty Bridge, the only single-suspension bridge of its kind in our hemisphere.
Keep this luxe new spot in mind for your next visit to the area — and before you set your itinerary, be sure to check out our weekend guide to Greenville!
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