Hello Darling!
Back in January, Hunter and I took the most amazing romantic getaway to Charleston SC. Charleston had been on our bucket list for years so it was a dream come to finally visit. Let me tell you, this city did not disappoint. It was just as picturesque and beautiful as we had imagined. So today, I am going to share our itinerary and details of this memorable trip.
Our Romantic Getaway To Charleston SC
This trip was special for many reasons but one of them being that it was our first vacation away since having Isla Grace. It was bittersweet leaving our baby girl but it was such a blessing to get away as a couple to recharge, reconnect and adventure together. Charleston could not have been a more perfect spot for this occasion.
Where we stayed: Zero George Street
There truly are not enough words to express our love for Zero George. Located in the Historic Downtown Charleston area, Zero George is comprised of sixteen lush guest rooms and studios in three beautifully restored historic residences and two brick carriage houses that surround a private garden courtyard. Walking in you are struck with a sense of warmth, beauty and hospitality. Something I now believe the city itself just exudes.
We stayed in a a Veranda Queen room which was just the right amount of space for the two of us. With it being a romantic weekend we opted for the champagne and strawberry welcome. Nothing says romance to me like a bottle of Veuve Clicquot.
A few details we loved about the hotel:
Daily breakfast
European Continental breakfast is delivered to your room each morning where you can enjoy it in the comfort of your room or on the stunning balcony located right out your door.
Daily wine & cheese hour
Sommelier selected white and red wines, Selection of cheeses and house-made crackers. This was such a treat each evening. Head over to the main house to enjoy in a room which I now call the “Bridgerton” room or simply ask to have it delivered to your room or in the courtyard under the trees. Whatever your heart desires.
The location
The location can not be beat! Close to all things historic downtown and a short drive to Mount Pleasant or any of the beaches. We loved grabbing the complimentary bikes and seeing the city on wheels.
THE FOOD
Life changing! Let me not get too ahead of myself though because this deserves it’s own section – even it’s own blog post. Scroll down to read more
Day 1
First Stop: Sullivans Island
After settling into our room, and freshening up we grabbed an Uber an headed to Sullivans Island for lunch. A quick 15 min drive and you are at the beach. Sullivans Island is full of charm, history, and beautiful beach houses. Though we were visiting during the winter we still fell in love with this little Island.
Lunch: Obstinate Daughter
We had heard rave reviews of this Sullivans Island staple and it did not disappoint. From the wine selection, fresh shrimp and oysters it was just what we were craving.
Note: I have heard that they have incredible espresso martinis. Something I will definitely try the next time we visit.
After enjoying our delicious lunch we walked around the Island a bit. Enjoyed the beauty of the beach, walked passed the historic Sullivans Island Lighthouse, and went “house” dreaming through the neighborhoods. After we successfully walked off lunch we only thought it was right to grab a treat at BeardCats located right next door to OD.
Note- grab the espresso ice cream. The simplest and yet most delicious treat with fresh vanilla ice cream and an espresso shot poured on top. YUM!
Wine & Cheese Hour at Zero George
After resting up a bit in our room we headed over to the main house for some wine and cheese. This sweet feature is complimentary to all hotel guest. The room I mentioned before as the “Bridgerton” room quickly became my favorite and where we took our wine and cheese each night.
Dinner
In true parent fashion we got all dressed up and ready to head to dinner only to decide to stay in and enjoy room service and espresso martinis. We fully intended to head out on the town but a quiet night in was just what the doctor ordered for these tired parents.
Day 2
Breakfast
After a beautiful nights rest we enjoyed breakfast in bed. Another complementary feature that comes with your stay at Zero George. Each evening we received a menu on the door handle to pick what food we wanted. From biscuits, yogurt parfait, poached eggs and more everything was divine!
Bike Around The City
With full stomachs, we grabbed two bikes from the courtyard and headed out to explore the city.
Our Stops included:
Second State Coffee
Colonial Lake
Rutledge Ave to South of Broad
Rainbow Row
French Quarter
Kings Street
Shopping on Kings Street
The famous Kings Street was so much fun to shop on. From stores like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, to Hampden Clothing– they have it all!
Lunch: 167 Raw
After all the exploring we were ready for some food. 167 Raw where we originally planned to grab dinner the night before was the perfect spot for lunch. We made sure to arrive early since they do not take reservations but with being perfectly located on Kind Street you can put your name in and shop around while you wait.
We enjoyed an app, split their famous lobster roll and sipped on spritzers. Delicious!
After lunch we headed back to hotel and took a nap before getting ready and heading down for wine & cheese hour.
Happy Hour: Darling Oyster
Because vacation deserves two HH’s right?! 😉 We took an Uber back over to Kings street to enjoy happy hour at Darling Oyster. From 4pm-7pm they have deals like $1 fresh oysters & $5 drinks. A deal we could not pass up.
Note: I recommend making a reservation even for happy hour and ask to sit by the raw bar as it is so cute!
Dinner: Chef Nous
Just a short walk away from Kings Street is a tucked away gem called Chef Nous. This dinner is one we will remember forever. A pint-sized neighborhood restaurant serving food & wine from Southern France, Northern Italy and Northern Spain. This cozy spot was the perfect romantic date night spot.
With a daily changing menu offering 2 apps, 2 entrees and 2 desserts we enjoyed one of each. It was magically to say the least! A must visit for couples in Charleston.
Day 3
This morning I enjoyed sleeping in and eating breakfast in bed while Hunter headed out early for a guided fishing excursion.
Note: We booked this excursion through one of the guides Zero George recommended
Brunch: Poogans Porch
After Hunts fishing excursion he was ready to eat. This morning we opted for a more tourist spot for brunch. Poogans Porch is a great spot for first time visitors. Fun brunch atmosphere for sure!
Afternoon Exploring
After brunch we just started walking and spent hours exploring. One of our favorite things about Charleston is that there is so much to see and do. You can simply just start walking and you will find history and beauty around every corner.
Areas we loved exploring:
White Point Garden
The Battery
College Of Charleston
After exploring we made it back just in time for our last Wine & Cheese Hour. We opted to enjoy wine and cheese this evening in the courtyard next to the fire pit. It was just what our tired feet needed.
Dinner: Zero George Restaurant
Dinner this evening was by far the most special on the trip. Arguably it very well may be the most special meal we have ever had. Zero George is know for the superb restaurant and cooking school. We were unable to attend a cooking class this trip but we were thrilled to be able to experience this incredible dinning experience.
This tucked-away gem serves up some of Charleston’s biggest flavors and most dazzling dishes. With a multi-course chefs tasting menu we were able to taste all the fresh flavors Charleston has to offer. Each dish was more delicious than the other and the wine pairings were out of this world! As all things Zero George this experience was superb and one we will remember forever.
Note: Plan to make reservations well in advance as they go quickly
We then finished up the room in our favorite room and headed to bed with full and happy hearts.
Day 4
Breakfast
We enjoyed our last breakfast on the balcony soaking up every last ounce of our time at Zero George.
We truly feel like we left a piece of our heart at the sweet hotel and can’t wait to return. With our flight later in the afternoon we decided to check out of our room and drop our bags at the front desk so we could enjoy our last little bit of exploring.
Waterfront Park & Historic Charleston Market
After dropping off our bags we headed over to Waterfront Park. This park is famous for it’s Pineapple Fountain and views of Castle Pinckney. Both so cool to see and explore.
We then made our way over to the Historic Charleston Market to shop around and pick up a souvenir for Isla Grace.
Lunch: Leons
Saved the best lunch for last. After exploring we hopped in an Uber and headed over to the famous Leons. This spot is known for its award winning oysters and fried chicken. Let me say, it did not disappoint! This trip truly left our bellies so full and in the best way!
After this we grabbed our bags, said one last farewell to Zero George and headed to the airpot.
This trip truly was one of the most special trips. If you are looking for an incredible place to visit Charleston is the place to go! I hope this list & itinerary helps you plan a special trip of your own.
YOU ARE SO LOVED!
