Perched atop the banks of the Reedy River in Greenville’s beautiful Falls Park, The Grand Bohemian Lodge is not just another luxury stay, it is a new natural wonder.
by Eliza Chapman Bailely
Photography by J. Lachenman and Grand Bohemian Lodge
As the weather cools, Lowcountry residents seek destinations to enjoy the colors of the changing season. Greenville’s economically and culturally revitalized downtown hosts a plethora of fall arts, music, and food festivals.
The thriving city’s proximity to the Lowcountry and the Appalachian Mountains makes it the perfect location to enjoy the season without investing a substantial amount of time on the road.
Walking distance to the Peace Center (the epicenter of Greenville’s arts and entertainment) and nestled on Falls Park on the Reedy River is Kessler Collection’s Grand Bohemian Lodge. Opened in August 2021, the lodge is a blend of modern urban luxury with a 20th century rustic feel that fits perfectly into its surroundings.
The hotel’s elegantly refined ambiance and attention to detail steals the show. The 187-room lodge incorporates wood, stone, and metal elements that echo mother nature at her finest. Dazzling geodes stand sentry to welcome guests. The lobby captivates with an impressive floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace while the staff resonates Southern hospitality.
Natural light filters through the windows to showcase a wide verandah overlooking Falls Park on the Reedy River. Falls Park boasts a network of pedestrian paths, outdoor amphitheaters, and connects to the 23-mile multi-use Swamp Rabbit Trail. Perfect for a leisurely stroll or intensive workout, the tree-lined path borders green spaces along the river. The Liberty Bridge offers scenic views of the waterfall, sculpture and access to nearby restaurants, shopping, and events. A 24-hour indoor fitness center affords a view of the park and an enlivened exercise session.
Giving pause to the ordinary, an all-encompassing tile mosaic archways leads to the Poseidon Spa’s serenely fresh treatment rooms. Spa services include water-inspired massages, rejuvenating facials or body wraps that indulge the soul and relax the spirit.
In the restaurant, Between the Trees, recessed lighting, exposed trusses, cedar slab art and bold marble accents emphasize the lodge’s organic appeal. This full-service restaurant serves seasonally influenced modern lodge cuisine featuring local ingredients and desserts.
The Spirit & Bower offers a selection of 130 bourbons and whiskeys, which can be paired with shareable plates served either by the outdoor fire pit with Adirondack chairs overlooking the Liberty Bridge/Falls Park, or in an intimate and cozy setting next to the fireplace.
For lighter fare, The Lobby Bar offers curated champagne, sparkling and effervescent cocktails.
Here, regionally sourced cheese and charcuterie can be sampled on wood tables; the minimalist floral arrangements appeal to the provincial setting without compromising style.
The ballroom, private dining room, meeting galleries and picture-perfect outdoor lawn offer ample accommodation for large gatherings, corporate meetings, weddings, and events. Each venue houses sophisticated technology that invites community and inspires originality.
Visitors can meander through the Lobby Bar, anchored by a Bosendorfer Grand Piano, to the Art Gallery which exhibits and sells carefully selected art and jewelry by local and emerging artisans. The adjacent library houses an extensive vintage book collection and makes for peaceful repose.
Before or after taking in the sights of Greenville, hours will drift while unearthing the myriad of treasures found on site; At the Grand Bohemian an enchanting narrative will be written and cherished for a lifetime. AM
