Nestled in the burgeoning city of Greenville, South Carolina, at the foothills of the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains, a new landmark has emerged, beckoning travelers to experience Southern hospitality elevated to an art form. The Grand Bohemian Lodge Greenville, a recent addition to The Kessler Collection, offers not just a place to stay, but an immersive experience steeped in luxury, art, and breathtaking natural beauty. This seven-story boutique hotel, opened in August, commands a prime location overlooking the captivating Falls Park on the Reedy, making it a destination in itself.
Greenville: A City Reborn
Greenville, once a textile hub, has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent decades. It’s now a vibrant city brimming with cultural attractions, a thriving culinary scene, and a palpable sense of community. The city’s revitalized downtown, with its pedestrian-friendly streets and eclectic mix of shops and restaurants, serves as a testament to Greenville’s forward-thinking spirit. Falls Park on the Reedy, the jewel in Greenville’s crown, embodies this spirit perfectly. What was once an overlooked and underutilized area has been transformed into a stunning urban oasis, drawing locals and visitors alike. This park, with its cascading waterfalls, meticulously landscaped gardens, and iconic Liberty Bridge, provides a dramatic backdrop for the Grand Bohemian Lodge Greenville, solidifying its position as a premier destination.
Architectural Harmony with Nature
The Grand Bohemian Lodge Greenville doesn’t just overlook Falls Park; it embraces it. The hotel’s design is deeply inspired by the park’s natural elements, creating a seamless connection between the built environment and the surrounding landscape. The exterior of the lodge features a blend of natural stone and wood, echoing the textures and colors found in the park. Large windows throughout the hotel frame picturesque views of the waterfalls, the Reedy River, and the lush greenery, blurring the lines between indoors and outdoors.
The interior design further enhances this connection to nature. Emerald green and light gray tones dominate the color palette, reminiscent of the park’s foliage and the river’s cool waters. Natural materials, such as wood and stone, are incorporated throughout the lobby, guest rooms, and public spaces, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The overall effect is one of understated elegance, a sophisticated retreat that celebrates the beauty of the natural world.
Luxurious Accommodations
The Grand Bohemian Lodge Greenville boasts 187 luxurious suites and guest rooms, each meticulously designed to provide the utmost comfort and relaxation. The rooms are generously sized and feature plush furnishings, including pillow-top mattresses and down feather pillows, ensuring a restful night’s sleep. Modern amenities, such as JBL Bluetooth stereo systems, cater to the needs of discerning travelers.
Beyond the standard amenities, the rooms are thoughtfully appointed with details that reflect the hotel’s commitment to art and design. Custom artwork adorns the walls, adding a touch of sophistication and personality to each space. The bathrooms are equally luxurious, featuring marble countertops, rainfall showerheads, and premium bath products. Many rooms offer stunning views of Falls Park, allowing guests to wake up to the soothing sounds of the waterfalls and the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding landscape.
Culinary Delights: Between the Trees
A highlight of the Grand Bohemian Lodge Greenville is its signature restaurant, Between the Trees. This culinary destination offers a unique dining experience that celebrates the bounty of the surrounding region. The restaurant’s name is fitting, as it offers unparalleled views of the waterfalls that define Falls Park. The ambiance is sophisticated yet inviting, with an open kitchen that allows guests to witness the culinary artistry firsthand.
At the helm of Between the Trees is Nicolas Abello, a talented chef who honed his skills at the Michelin-starred L’Appart in New York City. Abello’s menu focuses on seasonal dishes that showcase the best of local meat, fish, and produce. Guests can savor exquisitely prepared dishes such as roasted pheasant breast with celery root remoulade and chestnut, or lightly seared rainbow trout sourced from the nearby Chattooga River. The restaurant also offers a curated selection of regionally-sourced cheeses, perfect for pairing with a glass of wine.
No meal at Between the Trees is complete without indulging in the delectable desserts created by the in-house pastry chef. From classic Southern favorites to innovative creations, the dessert menu offers something to satisfy every sweet tooth. The restaurant also boasts a 1,000-bottle wine room, offering guests the opportunity to enjoy a private dining experience surrounded by an impressive collection of wines from around the world.
Spirit & Bower: A Haven for Relaxation
For those seeking a more casual setting, Spirit & Bower offers a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere where guests can unwind and enjoy handcrafted cocktails and small bites. The bar’s location, facing the iconic Liberty Bridge and the cascading falls, is simply breathtaking. Two fireplaces and a stone firepit create a cozy ambiance, while the outdoor verandah and terrace provide the perfect setting for enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
The cocktail menu at Spirit & Bower is a testament to the mixologists’ creativity and skill. Guests can sample handcrafted cocktails such as the Southern-style Bootlegger, a refreshing concoction of jalapeño and pineapple-infused moonshine, blood orange, and citrus. The bar also offers a curated selection of bourbon and whiskey, catering to the tastes of connoisseurs. To complement the drinks, Spirit & Bower offers a selection of small bites, including pimento cheese and Wagyu beef sliders, perfect for sharing or enjoying as a light meal.
Art and Wellness: Enriching the Experience
The Grand Bohemian Lodge Greenville goes beyond providing luxurious accommodations and exceptional dining experiences. It also offers guests opportunities to engage with art and prioritize their well-being. The hotel boasts a $2 million art collection, curated by Richard C. Kessler, chairman and CEO of The Kessler Collection. A selection of these works is on display in the Grand Bohemian Art Gallery, showcasing a diverse range of local and international artists. The collection also includes a substantial number of Native American and Western pieces from Kessler’s private collection. The rotating exhibitions ensure that there is always something new to discover, adding another layer of cultural enrichment to the guest experience.
For those seeking rest and relaxation, the Poseidon Spa offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The spa menu includes a variety of custom massages, hydrafacials, aromatherapy treatments, and chemical peels, all designed to rejuvenate the body and mind. The skilled therapists use premium products and techniques to provide a personalized and transformative experience.
A Vision Realized
The Grand Bohemian Lodge Greenville is more than just a hotel; it’s a vision realized. Richard C. Kessler’s dedication to creating a destination that celebrates natural beauty, art, and luxury is evident in every detail. As Kessler himself stated, "After years of planning, we’re proud to see our vision of natural beauty and tranquil ambiance come to life in downtown Greenville." The Grand Bohemian Lodge Greenville offers a luxurious experience.
With its prime location overlooking Falls Park, its sophisticated design, its exceptional dining options, and its commitment to art and wellness, the Grand Bohemian Lodge Greenville offers a truly unforgettable experience. It’s a destination that appeals to discerning travelers seeking a unique and enriching escape in the heart of South Carolina. With rooms starting at $342 a night, it’s an investment in an experience that will leave you feeling refreshed, inspired, and connected to the beauty of the natural world.
