The Splendor of the South

DAY 1: WELCOME TO THE LOWCOUNTRY!

This evening, meet your Tour Director and friendly travel companions for a welcome dinner in Charleston. D

DAY 2: CHARLESTON, THE HOLY CITY

Known as the city “where history lives,” Charleston offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience its rich heritage and timeless beauty. We’ll embark on a private city tour featuring carefully preserved historic homes, quaint cobblestone streets, and public landmarks. This afternoon, explore King Street, the vibrant City Market, and downtown Charleston on your own. B

DAY 3: SUMMERVILLE SWEET TEA

The town of Summerville is often referred to as the birthplace of sweet tea, a drink that’s become an iconic part of Southern culture. Spend the morning touring its charming streets as we discover the sights, sounds, history and flavors that make Summerville extra sweet. After lunch, we’ll head to Augusta, a city known for its Green Jackets and rich golf history, for our stay at the historic Partridge Inn. B, L

DAY 4: THE BEST OF AUGUSTA

This morning, discover the oldest continuously operating hydropower canal in the United States that brought the Industrial Revolution to the South and saved the city of Augusta. Our private tour will immerse us in the lives of canal workers as we ride a Petersburg Boat and learn the process of turning raw cotton into cloth. Then, it’s on to our exclusive visit to Champions Retreat Golf Club, home to courses designed by the legendary Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, and Gary Player. Enjoy lunch in the clubhouse and hear the great stories from retired caddies who worked with prominent players and in legendary tournaments. B, L

DAY 5: SAVANNAH, THE HOSTESS CITY OF THE SOUTH

As one of America’s oldest and most beautiful cities, Savannah is filled with gorgeous gardens, charming city squares, and historic architecture. This morning, enjoy a guided trolley tour of this romantic city highlighting its Historic, Colonial and Victorian districts.

Option—The National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force Tour a museum that preserves the courage, character and patriotism displayed by the men and women who served in the 8th Air Force during World War II followed by a group lunch. Price: $39 per person L

You’ll then have the remainder of the day to further explore the iconic River Street and City Market. Don’t forget to grab a Savannah favorite treat at Byrd’s Famous Cookies, Savannah Candy Kitchen, or even Leopold’s Ice Cream! B

DAY 6: COSTAL BEAUFORT

Beaufort, South Carolina, is a relaxing coastal town that embodies the beauty and history of the Lowcountry. Start your morning meandering under the moss-covered live oaks on a horse drawn carriage ride through Beaufort’s historic district, the perfect way to experience its picturesque waterfront. After lunch, we’ll visit a 100% veteran-owned, family-operated shrimp business that has been feeding generations for over 75 years. We’ll learn all about the family business, the importance of a fresh catch, and even their connection to the beloved film Forest Gump. Later, we’ll learn about the Gullah culture, a colorful mix of languages, traditions, and foods from West African, Creole, Brazilian, and Jamaican heritage. Enjoy Gullah storytelling, the lost art of basket weaving, and even a traditional Lowcountry Boil for dinner. B, D

DAY 7: MAGNOLIA PLANTATION AND GARDENS/FOND FAREWELL

Spend the morning strolling the grounds of Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, one of the oldest public gardens in America. You’ll enjoy a Nature Train Tour through Magnolia’s diverse landscapes, including gardens, wetlands, forests, and swamps, with opportunities to spot turtles, egrets, alligators, and great blue herons. Step inside the Magnolia House to see how this country cottage has evolved over the past 150 years. As you explore, you’ll hear the story of the Drayton family and experience the home’s historic charm and treasured heirlooms. Later, you’ll head to the airport for your flight home, taking with you fond memories of true Southern charm. B

Quality Accommodations:

Nights 1-2: Francis Marion Hotel, Charleston, SC
Night 3: The Partridge Inn, Augusta, GA
Nights 4-5: River Street Inn, Savannah Historic District, GA
Night 6: Tru by Hilton, Beaufort, SC

Dates:

Mar 7-13, 2027

Price Per Person:

Double: $3,347
Single: $3,995

Pre/Post-Night Hotel:

Call for pricing

Depart/Return:

Charleston, SC

Inclusions:

• Included airport transfer or free hotel parking
• Welcome Dinner and meals as indicated (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner
• Fees and tips for included attractions and meals
• Luggage handling at most hotels
• 24-hour emergency call service
• Free bottled water on coach

Arrival Time

Our Welcome Dinner on Day 1 is at our hotel, The Francis Marrion, starting at 6:30 p.m. We recommend scheduling your flight to arrive by 4:00 p.m.

Departure Time

Schedule your flight home to depart the Charleston International Airport any time after 2:30 p.m. on Day 7.

Airport Transportation / Vehicle Parking

We ask that you use Uber, Lyft or a taxi from Charleston International Airport to The Francis Marrion, on Day 1.
Keep your receipts, and email or mail them to us following your tour, and we will reimburse you for your transfer expenses. We will only reimburse up to $40 per person. You may submit these either at: Reservations@CountryTravelDiscoveries.com, or by mail to our office within 30 days of the tour ending.
If you are driving to the starting location, they also offer complimentary parking for the duration of the tour.
On Day 7, we will make a stop at Charleston International Airport followed by a stop at the DoubleTree by Hilton North Charleston Convention Center for those who have post-nights. Please use the hotels airport shuttle to get to the airport on your day of departure.

Walking Distance

To fully enjoy your vacation, you should be in good physical health and understand there are times when a good deal of walking is involved in our tours. Those who have difficulty walking may not want to take this trip or should discuss their personal situation with their doctor before deciding. You should be able to walk at a steady pace up to a mile at a time for a daily total of three to four miles per day and be able to manage steps to board/de-board the motorcoach several times a day. In addition, please know you may be expected to exit the motorcoach at each stop because local law requires mandatory motorcoach driver breaks.

Due to the lack of proper facilities at some of the farms, ranches, and off-the-beaten-path sites we often visit, we are unable to accommodate walkers and wheelchairs.

Average Temps

March– high of 67°, low of 42°

Time Zone

Eastern

Hotel Amenities

Most accommodations arranged by Country Travel Discoveries are equipped with in-room amenities such as a hair dryer, iron, and coffee maker. In addition, some properties may also have a pool, fitness center, spa, or laundry facilities.

Travel Protection Available?

Yes, see CountryTravelDiscoveries.com/TravelProtectionPlan.