It's no wonder that The Red Horse Inn receives so many accolades for its pastoral mountain views. Looking across the massive expanse of mountains, one can see Tryon Peak on the eastern skyline and Table Rock State Park to the west. The view covers miles of mountain terrain and is a spectacular spot for viewing nature's awesome display.
Today’s journey will take you down Scenic Highway 11 to a mountain peak where you can savor the splendor of the fresh air and a picnic lunch packed especially for your outing (additional charge). Then it’s off to explore mountain waterfalls and end your day sampling wines crafted from the mountain valley below.
By far the oldest and most majestic bridge on the tour, Poinsett’s Bridge will awe and inspire you. It’s the oldest bridge in South Carolina and is one of three bridges on a road that once ran from Charleston, SC, to Asheville, NC. The bridge was named after Joel R. Poinsett, a former US Congressman, and it has a notable gothic feel. Listen closely for the ghosts of Soldiers, horses, and wagons traveling by. Learn the history of Poinsett's Bridge here: Issuu.com
Located 3,266 feet above sea level, Caesar’s Head provides one of the most panoramic and spectacular views in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The beauty of the Jocassee Gorge stretches out for miles as you search the sky and mountain valley below. Take note that you are higher than the hawks, ravens or vultures flying below. At the base of the mountain, Table Rock, a prominent granite outcropping, is in stark contrast to the verdant green forests surrounding it.
The profile of Caesar’s Head can best be seen along the short walk leading from the bottom of nearby Devil’s Kitchen. This cool narrow passageway is a geological phenomenon formed thousands of years ago from intense pressure and heat. It’s a fun, short trail to investigate.
Learn more here: South Carolina Parks
Symmes Chapel is also known as Pretty Place, aptly named for its inspirational appearance. Fred W Symmes built the Chapel in 1941 for the boys and girls who attended the YMCA Camp Greenville to serve as a place for their spiritual enlightenment.
It is located on the private grounds of Camp Greenville, which is why you are asked to stop into the Camp Office. The campgrounds are over 1600 acres.
Take time to read the engraved plaques given by others to loved ones. Each will draw you to another time and place.
Sit quietly and listen to the mountain valley. It will sing in the wind, lull you in its quietness, or stir you with the Spiritual intent of its creator.
Be still in the moment of this blessed place and simply contemplate... or giggle that you’re not at work today.
Check the schedule before visiting: Camp Greenville
Take a right on Cascade Lake Road and continue for three miles until you reach Staton Road. The entrance to High Falls will be on your right. The entrance to Triple and Hooker Falls is further down on the left hand side of the road. You should have time to visit all three falls in one afternoon.
Park at the second parking lot and start at Hooker Falls and work your way up past Triple Falls to High Falls. There are portable toilets for your comfort in the parking area and a map of the 10,000 acres of forest, trails and waterfalls.
Magnificent ancient rocks line the riverbed that leads to each waterfall.
Walk along the park paths slowly, taking the time to admire the native Mountain Laurel and Rhododendron that overhang the trail. There are a few spots to get close enough to rest on the large boulders get close to the mountain water. Be sure not to endanger yourself by climbing out to the large expanse of rocks that overhang the falls.
Hooker Falls is the smallest of the three falls, creating lovely splashing pools and eddies of swirling water in motion.
Triple Falls is a three-tiered formation of granite and cascading water, surrounded by an old growth forest and is one of most magnificent and photographed waterfalls in the area.
High Falls is the tallest of the Little River Falls, cascading 150’ down an inclined plane of granite. The falls can be viewed from a picnic shelter built on the site of the old Buck Forest Hunt Club Lodge, or from a trail at the bottom of the falls. Take the left-hand fork when you see the sign in the path for High Falls. Since most people go to the right, where the sign points, this might be your private time for your picnic! Learn more here: Dupont Forrest
This is your last stop of the day!
Nestled at the foot of Table Rock and bordering the Blue Ridge Mountains, the vineyard rolls across 47 acres. It is located at one of the highest elevations in South Carolina, a location chosen carefully for its unique soil to produce Vinifera Wines.
The vineyard is styled after a French chateau and features a winery where the wine is perfected, as well as an exquisite gift shop offering Victoria Valley wines and wine-related gifts.
The outdoor terrace has the ambiance of a European bistro. This makes it a wonderful spot to relax, have lunch, sip some wine, and drift away from life’s hustle and bustle.