Valentine’s Day is one of the most romantic days of the year, and we’d love to show you where to dine and stay with your love this holiday. We’ve gathered a list of some of the most cozy Bed-and-breakfasts and restaurants in the area to help you and your loved one relax, unwind, and grab a bite to eat all over the Upcountry.
Starting in Salem, SC, at Sunrise Farm Bed & Breakfast, a 385-acre late 1800s property that was once used as a cotton plantation. It now hosts a variety of farm animals, from miniature horses to Bolivian llamas, and goats that the visitors can interact with, along with enjoying the views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Guests are treated to fresh-out-of-the-oven cookies when they arrive and enjoy hot cider by the cozy parlor fireplace in the winter months and wooden rockers and wicker furniture on the large wrap-around porch in the warmer months. Don’t miss out on booking their “Romance Package”. You can add it to any reservation for $50, which includes a bouquet of roses and a choice of hand-dipped chocolate-covered strawberries or chocolate truffles (24-hour notice ahead of your stay is required).
For dinner nearby, check out Beyond the Bull, a short 17-minute drive away in Seneca, SC. This reservation-only restaurant boasts intimate dinners hosted by Chef Angela, who prides herself on creating worldwide menus based on street foods using minimally processed, clean ingredients. The restaurant is open from Friday – Sunday, 5:30 – 8:30 pm, and you can call (864) 508-1254 to book your dinner in advance (no walk-ins are taken).
In nearby Pickens, SC sits Laurel Mountain Inn, a cozy, five-room spot located on seven acres of land, across from Table Rock State Park. People online rave about this little hidden gem with amazing views and how the owner, Sherry, makes people feel at home here. Pick any date in February and call 864-878-8500 for reservations or text 864-420-3925 to request their complimentary Sweet Heart’s Package! Run all February long (with advanced reservations) this comes with champagne or sparkling juice, candy, and special treats (changes nightly).
For a cozy ambiance both upstairs or down, with great food and great prices in downtown Pickens, check out Burning Brick Tavern. They host live music and trivia on weeknights too! Don’t miss their burgers, house-made chips, and wings for some casual shareables. Or try a spread of their Bruschetta, hand-breaded mac & cheese bites, and Philly cheesesteak flatbreads for something a little more elevated.
Pettigru Place Bed & Breakfast is located off of the historic Pettigru Street District in downtown Greenville, SC, and was built in the early 20th century. Each room is decorated with its own “personality,” and you’ll find lots of unique charm and Southern hospitality here. Check out the “Romantic Getaway Package add-on ($75), which includes six chocolate-covered strawberries, a chilled bottle of champagne or sparkling cider, silk rose petals, and a flickering candle tray delivered to your room (can add after picking your dates online).
Make an intimate happy hour or dinner date at Greenville’s Scoundrel Restaurant, a mere four-minute drive or a 14-minute walk away. It made Esquire Magazine’s list of top 50 restaurants in the country in 2023 for its tableside beef tartare, amazing oysters, creative caviar preparations, and approachable take on French cuisine. Don’t forget their rotating cocktail program that features house martinis, French-inspired gin concoctions, and wines from all over the world.
Pontheolla and Paul, a retired radio newscaster and an Episcopal priest run the wildly popular Clevedale Historic Inn and Gardens in Spartanburg, SC. Once a thriving 440-acre farm, it boasts lush English gardens and Southern-inspired breakfast fare. There is no shortage of relaxing views, things to do, or hospitality here. They have various Valentine’s Day add-ons that are perfect for a stay at their BnB, including:
- A chilled bottle of Champagne or Prosecco in the room before arrival ($60).
- A box of specialty chocolates or 12 chocolate-covered strawberries in the room before arrival ($50).
- Special flowers in the room before arrival ($60).
We’ve saved the best for last in terms of treating yourself with dinner plans, as the Clevedale Inn includes many options for dinner that don’t require you to ever leave your luxurious rooms!
- One option is a “Personalized Cheese Tray”, with “Artisanal Cheeses, Crackers, Jam, Pickled Favs, Seasonal Fruit and Nuts”. Once you’ve finished your charcuterie board, you get to take home the branded board to remind you of your stay ($60)!
- Another heartier option is their “Savory Souvenir Charcuterie”, with wraps (i.e., Black Forest Ham, Cajun Turkey, or Mushroom Veggie), with a board that includes Salami Rosettes, Prosciutto Rolls, artisanal cheeses, and seasonal fruit and nuts, along with Naan bread. This add-on is $70.
- Lastly, if you want a truly VIP experience, you may request a “3-course Dinner” for two prepared by one of their local celebrity chefs. The menu would be approved in advance by the guests and the chef. Specialty proteins (i.e., Lamb, Lobster, etc.) will increase the prices (base price is $300).
Whether you want great views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, to be minutes from the lights and food of downtown Greenville, or to pamper your loved one in style this Valentine’s Day, we hope this list has helped show you some new great places to dine and stay with your love this holiday. Check out more great holiday guides from Upcountry SC on our website here.