Nestled on the river bluffs, wanderers lose count of the shades of green and

lovers lose themselves in secret gardens.

Zowie, the house cat, greets visitors upon arrival. Dolphins leap in the Ashley River. Swans sashay on the water. The sun turns the river into a multi-hued canvas. Bamboo and cypress leaves whisk with each passing breeze. An oak-hickory forest, wrapped around a onetime 18th-century rice field plantation, inspires a lover’s passion. These natural forces along with the countless amenities at the Inn at Middleton encourage guests to submerge themselves into every moment. Time does not flee…or shouldn’t…among this nirvana just outside Charleston, South Carolina.

Nestled on the river bluffs, wanderers lose count of the shades of green and lovers lose themselves in secret gardens. Innkeeper Abigail Martin says the inn “provides an experience, not just a stay. There’s just so much natural beauty.” She continues, explaining that the “little things that pop up like the bluebirds outside the windows in the morning” further enhance the visit.

Birds, butterflies and the wildlife have spurred environmentalists to protect the area under the National Wildlife Federation. Once visitors enter the spic-and-span façade of the modern, contemporary-styled inn with 53 guestrooms, floor-to-ceiling windows reassure that the sub-tropical setting is not shut out; that an absolute pause accompanies day into night.

Abigail describes the award-winning architecture as the kind that “sits in the woods” and remains “one with nature.” The four generations of the Middleton family who made Middleton Place their home for two centuries would have been proud. The family’s history began in the Carolina colony in 1741 when Henry Middleton started a plantation driven by African-American slave labor. The head of the Low Country planter family was the President of the First Continental Congress. His son, Arthur, would be a signer of the Declaration of Independence. The inn’s guests and the public can learn about these men as well as the subsequent family members who would play prominent roles that shaped American history at the House Museum. Henry Middleton built the house in 1755 as a gentleman’s guest quarters. Today, it is the sole survivor out of a three-building residential complex that once overlooked the Ashley River. The museum’s collection includes the Middleton family furniture, paintings, books and documents dating from the 1740s through the 1880s.

Explorers can also roam the Middleton Place Plantation Stableyards, now home to water buffalo, horses, cows, sheep, goats, pigs and a host of farm animals. Interpretive guides re-create plantation life along with craft demonstrators, such as a weaver, potter, blacksmith, cooper and carpenter.

Between the yoga classes and wellness workshops, embark on a tour with one of the naturalists to discover Middleton Place, designated a National Historic Landmark. For example, participants can meet some of the cold-blooded neighbors during the one-hour Alligator Walk, or get a 30-minute overview of America’s oldest landscaped garden. The self-guided route can be by foot, bike, kayak or horseback. Grab a trail map as to not miss one awe-inspiring moment composed of such interesting features as a beech forest, organic garden and labyrinth, which stirs greater introspection and reflection.

With 65 acres and four secret gardens, imagine the possibilities for lovers’ play! “We’ve worked with couples where we’ve helped them propose by leaving their rings in the topiary of the garden. We actually had a couple that we set up a beautiful carriage ride for. They had a wonderful lunch. As they were leaving, a gentleman dressed in full-period clothing came riding up on a horse and set down on his knee and handed the gentleman his ring,” Abigail explains.

Lovers’ frolic constitutes serious business inside the inn where four separate, geometric structures unveil the accommodations. In addition to the resident cat, sojourners are greeted by a welcome gift basket, natural soaps, toiletries and full-modern amenities. During the cooler months, a wood-burning fireplace enhances cozy interludes. A 150-gallon garden tub and seasonal outdoor pool further entice guests. River views or woodland views, the scenery is as scrumptious as the quarters defined with handcrafted furniture, hardwood floors with braided rugs and cypress paneling. Although the décor is most impressive, Abigail states that there’s “nothing foo foo about it.”

Hospitality is the pivotal point at the evening manager’s reception and during the bountiful breakfast with its signature shrimp and grits dish. Fresh vegetable quiches are another breakfast favorite. Southern-style lunch entrees at the Middleton Place restaurant include Hoppin' John and ham biscuits and okra gumbo. Served by candlelight, pan-fried quail and scallops are a few dinner features.

Weddings at The Inn at Middleton Place are as memorable as everything else. “We actually had a couple who were engaged and married while taking a kayak on the Ashley River. It was during sunset, and it couldn’t have been a more beautiful picture,” the innkeeper says, recalling one of the more unusual weddings held at Middleton.

“I’ve been here now six years and I can never get enough of this place,” the innkeeper explains. Abigail, Zowie and the staff roll out the welcome mat. Just ask one of the many repeat guests who drive off Highway 61, happy to set aside their timepieces.

The Inn at Middleton Place
4290 Ashley River Rd., Charleston, SC 29414.
Phone: 843-556-0500. 800-543-4774.
Web Site: www.middletonplace.org/inn
Email: abigail@theinnatmiddletonplace.com