Visit the South Carolina Lowcountry

Lowcountry Places

The South Carolina Lowcountry encompasses Charleston, North Charleston, West Ashley, Mount Pleasant, Hanahan, Ladson, Folly Beach, Isle of Palms, James Island, Johns Island, Ravenel, Hollywood, Holly Hill, Goose Creek, Ridgeville, Moncks Corner, St. George and the surrounding areas. Filled with wonderful vistas, historical landmarks and numerous wildlife areas, the Lowcountry is the perfect place for vacationers and travelers of all sorts. Whether you're here for business, pleasure or education, don't miss the old homes, beautiful beaches and exciting city life with a southern flair that only the Lowcountry can capture.

Lowcountry History

If American History is your thing, Charleston, SC, is your destination. Established as a city on the banks of the Ashley River in 1670, the city relocated to Oyster Point in 1680. During the American Revolution, British forces attacked Charleston twice, failing the first time in a glorious battle at Fort Moultrie. They later took the city and held it until 1782. The first shots of the American Civil War were fired at Fort Sumter, in Charleston Harbor, and Charleston was the focus of Federal forces throughout the war. Charleston has been the target of some of the New World's most famous pirates, the rallying point of Revolutionary heroes, and has survived earthquakes, hurricanes, riots and wars. Historically important buildings, homes, and cemeteries abound throughout Charleston and her suburbs, and some of the most beautiful vistas await the visitor. Make sure that Charleston is included in your travel plans when you visit the Lowcountry.

Beaufort Waterfront

If you have ever considered going on vacation to a place where you can relax and still sight see, Beaufort, South Carolina is the place to go. While it's the perfect nest for seniors, it always attracts many young couples and families to go and have some "out-of-town" fun. There are quite a few places of interest, such as the Water Front, the "Sands", and even Wal-Mart! At the Water Front, you can walk along the front observing the quiet river, the boats, some big and some small, or you can sit and stare at the sheer beauty of the surrounding nature. If you have any pets with leashes, take them out for a walk! There's even a play area for children to let some of the steam out in case they get too rambunctious. There are coffee shops, restaurants, and even a few bar-and-grills.

Summerville

Summerville was first inhabited in the late 1700's as wealthy inhabitants of the Lowcountry sought respite from the summer heat, mosquitoes and disease. From May to September plantation families along the nearby Ashley River headed for higher elevation to live temporarily in the tiny forested colony dubbed Summerville. In the early 1800's the railroad came to town and led the village to incorporation. Trees were being cut in large numbers for laying rails and the clearing of lots to relocate the commercial center near the tracks. The village incorporated as a town in 1847 to protect Summerville's biggest asset, the ubiquitous pine trees. The first law passed by the new township prohibited the cutting of certain-sized trees without permission of the town council. That ordinance, one of the oldest of its kind in the United States, is still on the books.

Late in the 1800's, the International Congress of Physicians declared Summerville as one of two places in the world best suited for the treatment of lung disorders. The pine tree's turpentine scent was purported to be a restorative and cure for numerous lung problems which led to the building of inns and hotels to handle the influx of visitors, who came for their health stayed for the beauty of the area. Nicknamed "The Flower Town in the Pines," Summerville is now best known for the annual Flowertown festival which draws tourists from around the world.