STAY IN STYLE

The best luxury hotels, resorts, and inns of the Carolinas.

words SUNNY HUBLER / photos courtesy Hotels

TThough not every occasion calls for a hotel upgrade, when the time is right you’ll want to choose discerningly. For your next celebration, vacation, or self-care sojourn, try one of these stays. From the mountains of Western North Carolina to charming Charleston, the splendor, detail, and excellent service of these hotels will take your trip from rote to remarkable.

Uptown Experiences

The Ritz-Carlton Charlotte ritzcarlton.com

The Ritz-Carlton Charlotte offers luxury lodging directly in the center of the city. A penthouse-level Spa and Wellness Center, sweeping city views, and a total of four onsite restaurants and bars all within the heart of Uptown make this hotel a Charlotte classic. If you choose to enjoy one of their suites, you’ll receive a spacious living room, parlor, and bedroom, access to a fitness room equipped with a Peloton Bike, formal dining for eight with a prep kitchen and wine cooler ensuite, an elevated honor bar, SFERRA fine Italian linens, and a large, full marble bathroom featuring an oversized garden bathtub and shower.

The Ballantyne Hotel

Indulge in luxury and sophistication at the incomparable Luxury Collection Hotel in Charlotte. Nestled in a prime location, guests are blessed with easy access to premier shopping at SouthPark, exhilarating outdoor activities at Whitewater Center, as well as tantalizing dining and entertainment options in the Ballantyne neighborhood. Bask in supreme relaxation at The Spa at Ballantyne or take a refreshing dip in one of the hotel's sparkling pools. Delight in the art of high-tea, complemented with an exquisite variety of sweet and savory bites. Immerse yourself in the unparalleled luxury of the Luxury Collection Hotel, Charlotte. theballantynehotel.com

The Ivey’s Hotel

This Parisian-style luxury, boutique hotel located in Uptown’s Fourth Ward offers comfortable accommodations, fine dining, and breakfast. Want to kick things up? In the Executive Suite, you’ll enjoy a luxuriously appointed room with a king bed, turn down service, frette linens and towels, a 55-inch Sony 4K television, fully stocked mini-bar, lutron controlled lighting, and spalike bathroom with a mistral bath. You’ll also be able to enjoy all-day snacks, and an evening cheese and charcuterie board accompanied with wine and champagne.

theiveyshotel.com

The Dunhill Hotel

In the historic Dunhill Hotel, you’ll be able to enjoy sophisticated accommodations enhanced by gracious Southern hospitality and the hotel’s ideal location in the heart of Charlotte’s Uptown.

One of our favorite offerings is the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art Package. It includes overnight accommodations, a welcome amenity from the Bechtler, two Bechtler Museum of Modern Art admission tickets, a special discount in the museum store, and a glass of wine for each guest at The Dunhill Hotel’s lobby bar. dunhill.com

Grand Bohemian Charlotte

Opened Uptown in 2020, The Grand Bohemian boasts 254 guestrooms, all inspired by classic Argentinian style and art. True to the other Grand Bohemian collection hotels, the Charlotte version offers luxurious, modern accommodations, a spa, a private park and a rooftop bar. For an experience you won’t forget, book the Presidential Suite and enjoy a 1,380 square foot room with two king beds, two and a half baths, a sweeping city view, three 60inch TVs with LED screens, and a minifridge. marriott.com

Kimpton Tryon Park

The Kimpton Tryon Park Hotel considers itself part of the “New South” culture in Uptown Charlotte, where the buzzing energy of a major city blends with traditional hospitality. You can pop up to the rooftop, Merchant & Trade, for an expertly crafted cocktail set 19 stories above Romare Bearden Park, or lay your head to rest on luxe linens in one of their soothing guest rooms. With the Penthouse Suite, you can stretch out in nearly 1300 square feet. The suite features a luxurious king bed, a separate presidential suite living room, a large bathroom, plush bathrobes, an oversized desk, dining table, Italian frette linens, a fully stocked honor bar, and beautiful views of Uptown and the Knights Ballpark. tryonparkhotel.com

Duke Mansion

Built in 1915, The Duke Mansion has been home and host to scores of leaders of the 20th century. James Buchanan Duke’s most lasting legacies, including Duke University, Duke Energy and the

Duke Endowment, took shape at the home. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Mansion is operated as a nonprofit where all proceeds are used to preserve and protect this community treasure. The Dowd Suite is what the Mansion calls their “most elegant and luxurious room”—it boasts a beautiful view of the courtyard and gardens; appointed with a king sized bed, a shared sleeping porch, and a spacious bathroom with a large soaking tub and a shower for two. dukemansion.com

AC Hotel SouthPark

Immerse yourself in the sophisticated, European-inspired design of the new AC Hotel Charlotte SouthPark. Purposefully created to allow busy travelers to relax and connect with others, the new hotel is six miles from Charlotte’s city center and just over ten miles from Charlotte Douglas International Airport. The SouthPark Mall, Mint Museum, and Blumenthal Performing Arts Center are also a short distance away. The AC Lounge and rooftop bar concept, Cordial, offer options for dining and craft beverages. The King Suite is 614 square feet with a living room. marriott.com

The Omni Hotel

Centrally located in the heart of Charlotte’s walkable Uptown financial district, the Omni is the perfect destination for business and leisure travel. Linked to twelve city blocks via a sky bridge, the hotel is just moments from top attractions like Discovery Place and the Bechtler. The Suite Parlor, at 740 square feet, is a generous, residential-style suite with plenty of privacy, a spacious “parlor” area with a king bed, living area, conference table (seating up to six), wet bar and full luxurious bathroom. omnihotels.com

Morehead Inn

Opened to the public as the Morehead Inn in 1984, the house quickly began to experience the acclaim and appreciation of its many visitors. An elegant Southern estate endowed with quiet elegance and fine antiques, the spacious, historic Dilworth home features intimate fireplaces, luxurious private rooms. and a fourbedroom carriage house. Stay in the spacious Worthington Suite on the ground floor of the historic Carriage House: It boasts a large living room area with a stone fireplace, wet bar, and refrigerator. The separate bedroom area has a queen sized bed. moreheadinn.com

Marriott Uptown

Set in the heart of Uptown Charlotte, this modern hotel offers chic guest rooms and suites featuring floor-to-ceiling windows with city skyline views, gleaming hardwood floors, an open-plan lobby with a coffee social hub, Coco and the Director, and all-day dining at Stoke Charlotte. For something special, try the 1187 square foot Presidential Suite with a private access floor. There are separate living and dining areas, and complimentary business services offered. marriott.com

Mountain Escapes

Greystone Inn

Lucy Armstrong built her estate on Lake Toxaway in North Carolina in 1915. Over a hundred years later, her home has grown into an elegant testament to the passion she felt for the area with The Greystone Inn. The natural splendor of the Nantahala National Forest surrounds the inn's stone facade: The architecture evokes turn-of-the-century glamor that has evolved to embrace modern simplicity. Swiss mountain chalets inspire the large square windows and gray board siding with white trim. The estate was privately owned until 1985 and underwent many renovations. Its most recent improvement occurred after the property exchanged hands in 2015. The Greystone Inn closed its doors in January of that year as it underwent a multi-milliondollar restoration. It reopened in May 2018. greystoneinn.com

Half-Mile Farm

Half-Mile Farm, a luxury country inn owned and operated by Old Edwards, is a place where serenity is paramount. The inn, in the mountains of Highlands, NC, restricts lodging access to guests over the age of 18 and strictly enforces a noise policy. But ask any guest, and they’ll tell you how grateful they are for a quiet reprieve so well-tailored to the breathtakingly landscaped grounds that comprise Half-Mile Farm. oldedwardshospitality.com

Grand Bohemian Asheville

Situated just outside the gates of the Biltmore Estate is the unmistakable facade of The Grand Bohemian Hotel, the Asheville chapter of the Kessler Collection’s signature fusion of art, eclectic decor, and luxury accommodations. Every Grand Bohemian has a distinct character, and the Asheville property embraces a European mountain lodge aesthetic with playful fervor. Hunting imagery and relics associated with the outdoors coexist with velvety ultraluxe interiors. The Grand Bohemian is also just outside of downtown Asheville. grandbohemianashevilleautographcollection.com

Hotel Domestique

The Swag

This private mountaintop resort, located just outside Waynesville, North Carolina, features remarkable Smoky Mountain views, award-winning eats, and charming rustic accommodations. A stay in one of The Swag’s exclusive 14 individually decorated rooms makes for the perfect mountain getaway retreat. Relax on the lawn and take in the view, dine on-site, and enjoy the easy access to beautiful hiking trails. theswag.com

Inspired by the travels, tastes, and lifestyle of legendary cyclist George Hincapie, Hotel Domestique exists at the intersection of two hospitality ideals. Part countryside auberge, part modern boutique hotel, Domestique is the definition of a retreat—it’s even located in a town called Traveler’s Rest. The destination is tucked at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the foothills of upstate South Carolina, allowing for some of the most stunning views in all of Carolina. Enchanting guests in search of peace from across the nation, the hotel’s unique blend of Old World style and contemporary design creates an atmosphere entirely cut off from daily routine (and daily stress). hoteldomestique.com

The Inn on Biltmore Estate

The Inn has a gorgeous, châteauesque-style based on the French Renaissance architecture of the estate itself, making it a relaxing way to enjoy the grounds and surrounding Asheville area. The sense of opulence never leaves you as you enjoy any of the fifteen restaurants within a mile of the inn. The Inn on Biltmore Estate also boasts proximity to the Biltmore Estate Wine Company, which opened in 1985 and produces high-quality local wine. The company has relatively young wine with sweet, Riesling-like whites, and spicy, chocolate-y reds. You can taste them yourself at one of the many sampling programs the Biltmore provides. biltmore.com

Old Edwards Inn and Spa

Known for its combination of luxury and relaxation, this western escape will leave you happily immersed in the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge mountains. The Inn also provides guests with art, music and pristine outdoor adventures for an unforgettable experience. There’s several spectacular waterfalls in the Highlands area, so we recommend you venture outside the hotel room for a day trip. oldedwardshospitality.com

The Inn at Crestwood

Built in 1949, The Inn at Crestwood is a quaint mountain-side accommodation located in Boone, NC. The inn offers guests a relaxing and luxurious stay in the lush mountainous area. You can dine onsite at their New American-style restaurant or spend a day decompressing at their upscale spa before venturing into the bustling downtown of Boone. crestwoodnc.com

Mckinley Edwards Inn

The McKinley Edwards Inn is an upscale boutique hotel overlooking the Great Smoky Mountains in Bryson City, NC. Conveniently located near a plethora of restaurants, shops, and unique local attractions, the inn is the perfect spot for a family-friendly vacation. The Mckinley Edwards Inn offers pet friendly lodging, spacious accommodations, and stellar views of the rolling hills. mckinleyedwardsinn.com

The Omni Grove Park Inn

For over a century, The Omni Grove Park Inn has been the perfect destination for travelers to rejuvenate, relax, and breathe clean mountain air. This resort sits atop Sunset Mountain, providing guests with breathtaking views, and is equipped with its own award-winning spa and several restaurants and bars on property to choose from. For a classic mountain experience, visit Grove Park. Downtown Asheville is just a short drive down the road, so once you’ve explored the grounds of Grove Park, you can explore all the city has to offer. omnihotels.com

The Lodge at River Run

The Lodge at River Run is an upscale bed and breakfast locat- ed in Banner Elk, NC, overlooking the picturesque Elk River. This hidden gem emphasizes serenity. Guests are pampered with comfortable king-size beds, fine linen, private paths, and an outside hot tub. Each night the lodge offers a complimentary wine and cheese reception. On special evenings, the hotel showcases live entertainment featuring local artists. thelodgeatriverrun.com

The Foundry

The Foundry is a unique retreat located in the heart of Asheville. The historic building was originally used as a steel factory, and though the hotel has since been renovated and refined, it maintains many important elements of its industrial origins. The hotel’s interior presents an artistic approach to modernity; extremely fitting for the vibrant city of Asheville. Each room is expertly curated to impress guests with each individual design. Indulge in The Foundry’s artisanal food and craft cocktails, with their restaurant Benne on Eagle, and enjoy the neighboring River Arts District. thefoundryasheville.com

Chetola

Chetola is an exquisite 87-acre resort in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Beloved for its tantalizing views and the unique attractions the property offers, Chetola is the perfect destination for every season. The Resort has also managed to fully embrace the stunning natural setting around it, and offers many ways to have fun at the Highlands Sports and Recreation Center, outside at Chetola Lake, and on the adjacent hiking trails. chetola.com

Mast Farm Inn

Known for its impeccable weddings and historic lodging, the award-winning Mast Farm Inn is a great destination to enjoy mesmerizing views and a scenic atmosphere. With a wide variety of amenities ranging from outdoor activities to fine dining and shopping, the Inn gives guests a great home away from home. While you’re there, pop over to the original Mast General Store—it’s one of the primary reasons to visit Valle Crucis in the first place. Grab a spicy Blenheim Ginger Ale and linger on the century-old porch, which is always full of oldtimers and banjo-picking.

themastfarminn.com

…AND EVERYWHERE ELSE

Herons, The Umstead’s signature restaurant, headed by executive chef Steven Greene. theumstead.com

Kimpton Cardinal Hotel

In the RJ Reynolds building of Winston-Salem is the Kimpton Cardinal Hotel, a pinnacle of Southern charm and luxury. Associated with the Kimpton is their restaurant The Katharine, a Southern cafe that has a Brasserie twist, also offering seating on their patio seasonally. The Kimpton Cardinal includes countless amenities for its corporate guests, including private dining for up to 10 guests, and packages for corporate retreats.

thecardinalhotel.com

The

Fearrington

The Fearrington Inn, which is located in a village of the same name just south of Chapel Hill offers many charms to its visitors. Not only is it located on generational farmland, lovingly maintained by the owners, but this farmland in turn supplies the restaurants with some of the food the Fearrington House Restaurant, the Belted Goat, and the Roost Beer Garden use every day. An on-site spa, individual room designs, and more await you when you stay at the Fearrington. fearrington.com

The Umstead

Located in Cary, North Carolina is the only Five-Star hotel in North Carolina, The Umstead. With over 150 guest rooms and suites in addition to an esteemed art gallery, this gem of the triangle cannot be overlooked. Be sure not to miss out on

O’Henry

Located in the ‘Friendly Homes’ neighborhood of Greensboro, O’Henry brings Old World charm with modern amenities. Your stay includes a hot southern breakfast and afternoon tea served in the lobby as well as airport transportation. O’Henry takes the safety and health of their guests seriously, so they have appointed a sanitation manager and increased cleaning efforts. All of these amenities, in addition to the locally sourced furnishings and custom-made art make for a truly bespoke experience.

ohenryhotel.com

Planters Inn

In the heart of historic Charleston stands The Planters Inn, a monument of luxurious vacationing in the Carolinas. Whether you desire a private terrace entrance or a top-floor suite, the variety in designs offer something to every guest. Adjacent to the Planters Inn is the Peninsula Grill, as known for its classics—the famous 12-layer coconut cake—as its innovative cuisine and extensive wine list. plantersinn.com

Sanderling Resort

Located on the northern end of the Outer Banks of North Carolina, Sanderling Resort offers a variety of vacation options to the discerning traveler. If privacy is your chief concern, Sanderling has a number of rental homes that include concierge services, housekeeping, and resort beach access as some of their many amenities. If you want a gorgeous view of the Currituck Sound while you eat, head to Kimball’s Kitchen. The Sandbar Restaurant is also available for more casual dining options during the day. sanderling-resort.com

Montage Palmetto Bluff

A pristine campus that oozes relaxation, Montage Palmetto Bluff is a classic southern escape. Located in the heart of Coastal Carolina, Montage Palmetto Bluff is set in a vibrant 20,000 acre community between Hilton Head and Savannah. The resort features two villages, eight southern-inspired dining options, and a Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course. montagehotels.com/palmettobluff

Beach at Charleston Harbor

Waterfront luxury never looked so appealing. Located in Charleston Harbor, the Beach Club is the quintessential southern resort. Whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, The Beach Club at Charleston harbor offers a respite for ev- eryone. From the palmetto tree-lined entrance to the beautiful tropical landscape, The Beach Club offers a truly unique escape. charlestonharborresort.com

The Spectator thespectatorhotel.com

An elite way to experience one of the most inviting cities in the world, The Spectator is the pinnacle of southern class and culture. Located in the heart of Charleston’s bustling historic district the hotel offers the best in dining and jazz entertainment you can find in the lowland. From the delicious and unique upscale pub to a personal butler service, there is relaxation at every turn.

Hotel Emeline hotelemeline.com

Catering to both the soulful sojourner and the inquisitive local, Hotel Emeline offers everything you need to feel right at home in the heart of Charleston, South Carolina. From catered excursions to a restful evening off their catered menu, Hotel Emeline is an all-encompassing experience for both the Charleston traveler and native.

Hotel Hartness hotelhartness.com

Hotel Hartness seamlessly melds the charming history of Greenville's prominent Hartness family with modern luxury. This elegant sanctuary boasts tastefully-designed suites in the main hotel and four exceptional spa suites. Traversing the property, guests will appreciate the fusion of timeless architecture with contemporary decor.