<p>Archive » November 25, 2009
GOLF & TRAVEL
By Ray Navis, Contributing Writer</p>
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While exploring the Blue Ridge Mountains in their leaf season, I came upon an unexpected treasure in the form of Greenville, SC. Sitting at the foot of the mountains, this regional business hub has transformed its downtown area into one of the most upscale locales in the entire South. Historic hotels, trendy restaurants and a waterfall all combine to make this a rewarding visit.</p>
<p>The town</p>
<p>Greenville sits in the northwest corner of South Carolina known as Upcountry. The Blue Ridge Mountains are in clear view and not more than a half an hours drive away. Furman University is located here, and I must say, its well worth a visit. The campus is absolutely stunning. Traditional southern architecture spreads out through huge magnolia trees and pristine lakes.</p>
<p>West Coast visitors will be very surprised by this elite private university, which does not get a lot of attention out our way. The redevelopment of Greenville has taken more than 20 years and is now complete. Historic brick buildings have been restored, and new structures fit in well due to a tightly controlled architectural code. </p>
<p>The town is buzzing with business activity, which has supported many new restaurants and shops along Main Street. The scenic Falls Park cuts right thru the middle of downtown. The Reedy River flows under a bridge and gradually makes it way down to a waterfall that spills down to the park area. Walking paths on both sides allow for access to this soothing urban vista. The scene was reminiscent of my recent visit to Spokane, but the surroundings here were decidedly more upscale due to the corporate support.</p>
<p>The hotel</p>
<p>The Westin Poinsett is just a couple of blocks from the falls and is recognized as a historic landmark. Its named in honor of Joel Roberts Poinsett, who had an amazing career including serving as U.S. Secretary of War and in the House of Representatives. A physician and botanist, he also served as the first U.S. minister to Mexico. </p>
<p>During this period, he discovered a plant, which he sent home. That plant is known as the Poinsettia, the familiar winter-blooming plant ubiquitous in homes each holiday season. The Poinsett is a very comfortable hotel for business and leisure travel. Originally constructed in 1925, it has been continually updated to fit the needs of todays high-end traveler.</p>
<p>Each room and suite features Westins trademark Heavenly Bed setup ensuring a rest when needed. Suites offer views of Main Street as well as comfortable sitting areas. The Spoonbread Restaurant and Piano Bar offer guests an elegant dining and gathering option.</p>
<p>For more information visit StarwoodHotels.com/Westin. Another great option for lodging is the contemporary Hyatt Regency Greenville. This property has the atrium-style interior similar to its famous San Francisco cousin. We stayed in a Panorama suite, which is formed at the corner of the building. These unusual units offer 180-degree views of the downtown area and are quite unique. The Hyatt is the host hotel for visitors to the nearby BMW Performance Center. Visit Greenville.Hyatt.com for more info.</p>
<p>The dining</p>
<p>Located in Falls Park with views of the Reedy River, the High Cotton Maverick Bar & Grill is an excellent choice for fine dining. The restaurant has a unique, multi-level design to take full advantage of its riverside location. Large glass windows ensure all guests can take in the views with the culinary delights. We started with pumpkin soup before entrees of crusted yellow fin tuna and steelhead trout.</p>
<p>All was expertly prepared in the exhibition kitchen opposite the river view windows. The various floor levels at High Cotton provide different atmospheres ranging from the bar area to fine dining and including private rooms. For more information visit mavericksouthernkitchens.com. Sobys is another popular downtown restaurant located just across the street from the Westin Poinsett. This venue is a great example of what has been happening in downtown Greenville.</p>
<p>Originally a cotton exchange, it was purchased by partners Carl Sobocinski and David Williams in 1997. The two completely renovated the building including revealing and restoring the original brick and the hardwood flooring. The end result is yet another example of classic southern charm that can be found throughout downtown Greenville. </p>
<p>We started with a fried green tomato stack and followed with potato-crusted grouper and New Orleans barbecue shrimp.I can still remember the taste of these wonderful dishes today. Sobys is popular with locals in the Greenville area and has very comfortable seating including numerous booths. It also has a to-go operation called Sobys On The Side, which could come in handy for a picnic at nearby Falls Park.</p>
<p>For more information visit Sobys.com.</p>