Charleston

With its gracious houses standing along the narrow and tortuous streets, “America's most historic city” knows how keep its 18th century charms. The American Civil War was declared there. Charleston has as an architectural emblem : the octagonal bell-tower of its episcopal church St Philips.

The Gardens of Magnolias, in the North-West of the city, were planted in 1830 and extend on 10 hectares. Two other parks deserve your attention: Cypress Gardens, in the north of Charleston, formerly a rice plantation, and Middleton Gardens, whose fame dated back long before the American Revolution.

Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge

On the coast in the north of Charleston this reserve counts among its hosts the eagles (bold eagle), white aigrettes, herons and giant sea turtles. Bull Island is the best place to see them. A boat comes from the island to take visitors in Moore's Landing.

Myrtle Beach

Further north, on the coast, you will arrive at the famous and very “chic” seaside resort of Myrtle Beach with its 100 km of beaches, some of them are almost deserted.

In the proximity, Brookgreen Gardens possess the largest outdoor collection of American sculptures, presented in a vast park strewn by secular oaks, on the field of an old rice plantation.

Upcountry

The areas of Upcountry and Greenville-Spartanburg, in the North of the State, are famous for the beauty of their landscapes, their cultural activities and their historic sites along Blue Ridge Mountain.

In Spartanburg, the Walnut Grove Plantation, built in 1765, is a splendid example of the life in the area until 1830. Of a sober and simple Georgian architecture, the house keeps its ancient furnitures.

Turning to the sportive side, turbulent water of the Chattooga river is very suitable for rafting.

Photos : SC Department of Parks,

Recreation & Tourism