THE BEST PLACE TO STAY WHEN VISITING CHARLESTON
What happens if I were to tell you that the best place to stay in Charleston wasn’t even technically located in Charleston…? It’s true!! It turns out, there’s a smaller town located about 30 minutes outside of Charleston… called Summerville. Doesn’t the name instantly just bring a smile to your face?! Summerville, nicknamed “the flower town in the pines”, is such a quaint town full of southern charm. Now, you may be wondering… what makes Summerville so special? Well, there are a number of things that make this town such a lovely place to visit… but one of the best gems Summerville has to offer… a place called Flowertown Charm.
Flowertown Charm is a place like none other… a place of pure bliss and whimsical magic. What exactly is Flowertown Charm though? In my mind, it’s more than just a place of lodging… it’s a way of life and happiness. All of this happiness is put together through a multitude of avenues… all of which are so unique and amazing! I truly cannot wait to share them all with you!
BED AND BREAKFAST
First and foremost, there is the bed and breakfast portion of Flowertown Charm. This bed and breakfast was envisioned and created by the husband and wife duo, Jenna and Chris. Jenna and Chris were both born and raised on the Big Island of Hawaii… and then made their way over to Summerville! They brought a little bit of aloha to the south, and put together the perfect oasis.
They bought an 1870’s colonial farmhouse, that was built by a well-known southern family… or “Ohana” as you say in Hawaii! After the farmhouse left the family, and sat empty for a while… Chris and Jenna took it upon themselves to renovate it! They brought it back to life, piece by piece, until it was the majestic beauty it is today!
So, what is it like to stay here?! Let me share all about it with you!
As mentioned before, Flowertown Charm is located in the town of Summerville. The farmhouse is situated on a few acres of land, and is very close to downtown Summerville… under 3 miles away. This is such an ideal location, as you still can experience the peace of an urban farm, all while being close to a charming downtown. It’s such a quick drive to downtown (like 5 minutes!), or you can even walk along beautiful trails, when the weather is warmer. Interested in seeing more of the beauty around this farmhouse?? Here are some other amazing features of the surrounding area… Summerville truly is in the heart of it all!
Charleston: About 25 miles away
Folly Beach: About 35 miles away
Plantations: About 10 miles away
Edisto River: About 20 miles away
Isle of Palms: About 35 miles away
Beidler Forest: About 20 miles away
Lake Moultrie: About 35 miles away
Mepkin Abbey: About 30 miles away
Now, let’s talk about the house itself… what a glorious historic home!! Flowertown Charm resembles a bed and breakfast type establishment, where you will be the only guests lodging there! There are 2 guest bedrooms, and a sunroom… which are all adjoining. Right next store to the adjoining rooms, there is a private bathroom, and a small mini-fridge and coffee area. All of this is located on the second floor. Chris and Jenna’s bedroom is also on the second floor. They will be in the house with you during your stay, as this is their home. We loved socializing with them both, as they are so kind and sweet! Honestly, having them around for our time there made our stay so much more enjoyable!
To talk a little more about the space you will be staying in (when you book, you will get access to all of this space)…
Bedroom 1: This bedroom is the larger of the 2 bedrooms. It has a king size bed… that I must argue, is the best bed on this planet!! It is so plush and comfy… you just sink right in! The pillows are beyond glorious, and wait for it… the bed is HEATED! Does it get any better?! In this bedroom, there is also a large closet and make-up vanity. This bedroom has its own door, but there is also an adjoining door to the second bedroom. 2 adults are able to sleep in this bedroom. It also comes with a sound machine.
Bedroom 2: This bedroom is situated between the other bedroom and the sunroom. There is a queen size bed in this room, and the window behind the bed overlooks all the adorable farm animals. 2 adults are able to sleep in this bedroom. It also comes with a sound machine.
Sunroom: The sunroom is the perfect place to relax. There is a very comfy and cozy sectional couch located in here, where you can lounge to either watch some television, or watch the farm animals roam around in the backyard. The television does not have cable, but it does have access to Hulu, Netflix, and Amazon. 1 adult may sleep on this couch, with pillows and blankets provided.
Bathroom: The bathroom guests will use is located right next door to the bedrooms. This newly restored bathroom has an absolutely gorgeous antique clawfoot tub, with shower. Towels are included with your stay, along with shampoo and conditioner. And a bonus? You can even use some of the farm’s very own goat milk soap! This bathroom is not shared, and is only for guests. However, there is an additional shared half-bathroom downstairs.
Right outside the bathroom, located in the hallway, there is a mini-fridge area. Here… you can store your own food, make coffee and tea, and have access to a few basic utensils.
And speaking of food… you will be served a delicious farm to table breakfast every morning!! What kind of food will you be getting?! Eggs from the farm chickens, local humane pasture-raised bacon or sausage, organic and local fruits, freshly baked goods, and honey from our own beehives (when available)! My favorite? The biscuits and gravy!! Flowertown Charm takes great pride in supporting local businesses and humanely-raised animals in all their breakfast foods! If you would not like breakfast with your stay, please message Flowertown Charm before booking. You can receive a $15 per night discount.
Now, for the remainder of the house!! The rest of the house has various “shared spaces”…
Living room with a chaise lounge and fireplace
Front porch with rocking chairs and a porch swing
Parlor with pool table
Formal dining room
Backyard and stock tank pool (weather dependent and upon request)
Moving on to my favorite part of staying here!! But in all honesty… it was all my favorite! Hehehe! However, a special round of applause goes out to all the farm animals!! Flowertown Charm has a magical diversity of farm animals located behind the farmhouse. Ready to hear about them all?!
4 dogs named Snowball, Blizzard, Winter, and Cowgirl… Winter is a Great Pyrenees, and you will see her the most
1 Giant Tortoise named Tank
2 Mini Scottish Highland Cows named Moonshine (Moo) and Martini (Tini)
6 Nigerian Dwarf Goats named Magnolia, Wisteria, Camellia, Jasmine, Zinnia, and Lily
2 Kune Kune Pigs named Bacon and Pork Chop (hahahaha!)
Many barn cats, and 1 kitten named Cashmere
Many chickens, that are so unique in their appearance
2 beehives
So, what can you do with the animals?! First off, you can interact with them as much or as little as you want. For me, I interacted with them as much as I could! Hehehe! I mean… they’re all so cute and friendly! What I loved doing the most… just going out in the backyard to walk around with the animals and petting them all. Please make sure Jenna or Chris are out there with you when you’re with the animals, or ask their permission before going out to visit the animals.
Second, you can interact with the animals via goat yoga! I’m going to share more on this later… but it’s such a fun and happy way to interact with the goats, and all the farm animals!
So… what do you all think about this place so far?! Amazing, right?! Because IT IS. I honestly miss it so much already, and want to go back! I 110% recommend staying here for a lovely getaway! Whether you’re specifically visiting Summerville (which I recommend), or focusing your time more on Charleston… Flowertown Charm is the perfect place for you! Nightly rates start at just $108. And guess what?! You can save $65 off your first trip if you’re completely new to Airbnb! Please utilize my own special Airbnb referral code!!
GOAT YOGA
Remember how I quickly mentioned goat yoga earlier? Well, let’s talk about that some more!! Goat yoga is a casual and gentle yoga class… with goats!!! The goats roam around, cuddle, and play… all while you practice your yoga poses! Flowertown Charm offers these goat yoga classes as a way to help make you smile, and calm your soul. Classes run an hour long, and are followed by a goat happy hour! During goat happy hour, you can simply hang out, relax, snap some photos, and BYOB! Flowertown Charm offers goat yoga classes on most Saturdays… except in July, August, January, and February. Each goat yoga class costs $24.50 to partake in.
Wondering more about these goat yoga classes?? Here are some common questions with answers!
-What is goat yoga?
Goat yoga is a gentle class combining the benefits of yoga with the fun-loving connection with goats. Goats are silly creatures that will bring you joy and laughter, all while calming your soul and de-stressing your body and mind.
-Are private classes offered?
ABSOLUTELY! Flowertown Charm has held many private classes here for bachelorette parties, birthdays, team building, and family reunions. Pricing is $30 per person for groups of 10 people or more, and $35 per person for groups of under 10 people.
-What makes your goat yoga class different from others?
Most of what makes Flowertown Charm different is being in a beautiful environment, so people can de-stress and enjoy it. A lot of hard work was put into the setup, so it is pretty and peaceful… the complete opposite of a muddy smelly farm most goat yoga classes are held on! The desire is for people to take in the whole experience and feel at peace. Smiling on the inside and out! So… although Flowertown Charm is on a small-scale farm, it is the hope that people will get more out of the class than most others.
-Do I need to bring my own mat?
Yes, bring your own OLD mat or a towel. The yoga class will be held on a grassy lawn. There are a couple of extra mats available if someone doesn’t have one. The goats sometimes like to chew on mats! So, please don’t bring a nice one!
-Do I have to participate in the yoga class or can I just play with the goats?
This is a very casual class, meant to de-stress and provide a fun and playful yoga practice. The hope is to try some poses, however, people can just sit on their mats and snuggle goats too…
-Do your goats bite or headbutt?
Our goats do headbutt each other when playing and showing off. They like to nibble on clothes, hair, and fingers. So… although it is cute, just pull away if you do not want a haircut! Also, their back teeth are very sharp… please do not allow them to nibble too deep on your fingers! OUCH!
-Will there be poop?
YES! Hehehe! But goats poop very small “berry” like pellets that don’t smoosh, are odorless, and can be simply shaken away.
-Will there be hand sanitizer?
Of course!
-Will there be alcohol?
Flowertown Charm cannot provide alcohol, at this time. However, people can bring their own to enjoy after class, during goat happy hour! Something light is best… beer, wine, or champagne. Cups are provided. Please note… containers must be unopened when arriving and leaving the property on the little walk to and from vehicles.
-What if it is a rainy or stormy day?
The class will most likely be rescheduled, as goats HATE the rain!
-Are there refunds?
No, refunds are not issued unless the class is canceled due to the weather.
FARM TOURS
Are you looking to simply play with all the animals, and become their new best buddies?! Then you should check out Flowertown Charm’s farm tours! Farm tours consist of snuggling, petting, feeding, and learning about all the various animals on property! Each farm tour lasts for a single hour, and costs $30 per person.
ETSY SHOP
Can’t make it down to the Charleston area? No need to worry!! You can still participate in all the whimsy magic that Flowertown Charm has to offer! How? Through their wonderful Etsy shop! What can you exactly find in their Etsy shop? A whole plethora of farmhouse goodies! From goat’s milk soap to mason jar candles… you’re sure to find something you love! Flowertown Charm’s signature item? Their wooden lazy susan turntables! Here’s a little more information about these stunning pieces…
The lazy susans are spinning trays, made out of wood, and accented with adorning handles. They are perfect for your kitchen counter, pantry… or to serve as a centerpiece for your table! Each lazy susan is hand painted in the color of your choice. Each piece can either be wood stained, painted solid, or painted in a distressed paint.
BLOG
What’s one of the great things about Flowertown Charm? They’re always growing and working on some sort of project… which is showcased on their blog! Their most current project? They are actively designing and constructing their very own treehouse in North Carolina… about 20 minutes outside of Asheville. It’s going to be the best glamping experience ever!! And it will even feature an outdoor bathtub!! Weeeee! I can’t wait to visit one day! If you’re looking to see all sorts of updates on various projects (including the treehouse), make sure to follow Flowertown Charm on their Instagram page!
And there you have it, folks!! One of the most beautiful places in the Charleston area! Trust me when I say this… you will not be disappointed with anything Flowertown Charm has to offer! I said it before, and I’ll say it again… I sincerely and truthfully enjoyed my entire time at this southern bed and breakfast. It was the perfect holiday getaway… filled with happiness and warmth around every corner. It is my hope that you get to experience Flowertown Charm one day… and you feel all the love for this piece of beauty in South Carolina.
Looking to plan a trip to Flowertown Charm soon? Make sure you check out these local Summerville gems while you’re in town!
If you’re looking for a cute and cozy place to grab a nightcap… this is it! Nestled right in the heart of downtown, you’ll be very pleased with the drinks AND the dessert at this restaurant. And please… let me place my emphasis on the dessert. Hehehe! This place served up one of the best sweet treats I have ever had!! It’s called the “Sweetwater Delight”. It is composed of a pecan cookie crust, cheesecake, and chocolate… and it is beyond delicious! It was so enjoyable eating this delectable treat, while sipping on a cocktail, under some pretty twinkle lights!
One of the most unique DIY experiences I’ve ever had the pleasure of partaking in… Nailed It DIY is such a gem of Summerville! This is a studio where you can create your own wooden masterpiece! Choose from a multitude of designs, colors, and quotes… you can truly fashion up whatever your heart desires! I genuinely love this place because you get to have an entire experience, and create your own keepsake to take home!
Voted best lunch in Charleston… Five Loaves Cafe is an absolute must! Seriously… do your taste buds a favor, and head here for a meal! Besides serving up mouth watering food, Five Loaves is incredibly ethical in all that they do. They work closely with local community partners, honor animals in all that they do, and focus on sustainability throughout their practice. What are my favorite dishes? ALL THEIR SOUPS. Hahaha! Can’t decide which soup to try? Try their “soup flight”, which is composed of 3 different soups. I also loved their CAESAR SALAD!!! It was topped with cheese tortellini… and it was absolutely awesome!
UNDER THE STARS MASSAGE THERAPY
Looking for one of the most fabulous date nights ever? Then you best head to this spa!! Under The Stars offers an unforgettable evening for you and your loved one. What does a date night look like with this spa? You’ll start off with some wine and a charcuterie board from a local shop called, Accent On Wine. The best part? You’ll enjoy these lovely treats amongst candlelight and soft music. After this, you will indulge in a relaxing massage for an hour. And to end everything on an exceptional note, you will finish the night with some chocolate fondue.
Some of the best treats you’ll ever try are found here! Located in the heart of downtown Summerville, this sweets shop is “anything but ordinary”!! The shop works so diligently to create dessert masterpieces that look amazing AND taste amazing! Trust me, you won’t be disappointed with stopping here… and your taste buds will thank you too!
One of the coolest coffee houses around!! Coastal Coffee Roasters has a vision of "transforming the world’s highest quality, sustainably grown beans into the best freshly roasted coffee available.” They utilize a unique roasting process to create such great coffee! Not a coffee fan? No worries!! Coastal Coffee Roasters also offers up delicious food, specialty beer, baked goods, and other yummy drinks.
That’s the end, y’all!! Don’t waste anymore time… start planning your trip to Summerville now! If you have any questions… please don’t hesitate to reach out! I hope you get to travel to Summerville soon!
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