Ladies, it is time to dust off those suitcases and call up your dearest friends! If you’ve been dreaming of a place where the tea is sweet, the history is rich and the scenery is simply divine, look no further than Santee Cooper Country. Whether you’re looking to reconnect with your sisters, your college roommates or your Sunday School circle, this lovely Lowcountry destination offers the perfect backdrop for a relaxing and meaningful retreat.
A Walk Through Movie Magic and Botanical Beauty
Our first stop is a place that feels like it was plucked straight from a storybook—Cypress Gardens. Did you know that some of the most romantic scenes from the movie The Notebook were filmed right here? You can almost see Allie and Noah rowing through the water!
Walking through these gardens is like stepping into a dream. You and your girlfriends can wander along the paths shaded by cypress trees or take a peaceful boat tour through the blackwater swamp. It’s the perfect spot for a group photo to remember your trip by. While you are there, don’t miss the Butterfly House, where you can sit among hundreds of colorful wings in a stunning floral setting.
Spiritual Serenity at Mepkin Abbey
For a truly unique and soulful experience, you must visit Mepkin Abbey in Moncks Corner. Located on the site of a historic plantation along the Cooper River, this Trappist monastery is a sanctuary of silence and prayer. The monks here live a life of devotion, following the Rule of St. Benedict, and they graciously share their sacred landscape with visitors.
Stroll through the beautifully manicured grounds or visit the Meditation Garden for a few moments of peace and quiet. You can also browse the Abbey’s gift shop, which features their famous Mepkin Abbey mushrooms and specialty fruitcakes—the perfect souvenir!
Southern Comfort and Local Flavors
All that exploring is sure to work up an appetite. In Santee Cooper Country, the dining is just as warm and welcoming as the people. You’ll find everything from fresh seafood at Captain’s Quarters Seafood and Steak to the cozy atmosphere of Baker’s Sweets Bistro. For a truly local experience, try a plate from Clarke’s Restaurant, where elevated Southern staples taste just like home. Whether you are craving baby back ribs or a nice plate of shrimp and grits, sharing a meal and a laugh with your best friends is the heart of any getaway and Santee Cooper Country has it all.
A Home Away From Home
When it comes time to rest your head, there are wonderful options for every preference. For a touch of history and Southern charm, consider staying at the Quixote Lofts or Historic Clark’s Inn, a local favorite since 1946 known for its hospitality. If your group prefers a more modern stay, there are several nationally recognized hotels like the Holiday Inn or Hilton Garden Inn. For the gals who love the water, places like Angel’s Landing Campground & Marina or Palmetto Shores RV Resort offer beautiful lakeside views that can’t be beat.
More Memories to Make on the Trails
If you find yourselves with a little extra time, the fun certainly doesn’t stop! Santee Cooper Country is home to breathtaking parks and trails. You can explore the Old Santee Canal Park, which houses the Berkeley County Museum and the historic Fort Fair Lawn.
For a peaceful walk in nature, visit Santee State Park, or head over to the 110,000-acre beauty that is our very own Lake Marion. It is the perfect way to soak up the fresh air and enjoy a long walk with the ladies you love the most.
Ready to Plan Your Getaway?
There is simply no better time than right now to gather your girls and set off for a place that feels just like home. From the beautiful scenery to the incredible historic sites, Santee Cooper Country has a way of capturing your heart. So, don’t let another season slip by—call up your best gals, pack your bags and come see us. Book your trip to Santee Cooper Country today!
