By Teresa Greco
In Charleston, South Carolina, where winding streets lined with gracious, historic homes give way to hidden gardens and a gentle coastal breeze, my spouse and I discovered 86 Cannon Charleston—a place that feels like a secret doorway to both Southern history and modern-day elegance. While Charleston may be compact, its character is vibrant and expansive, with a magnetic blend of art, rich culture, and unmistakable beauty. New Air Canada direct flights from Toronto made our journey here for a short getaway effortless, and soon we found ourselves immersed in the magic of the South.
Nestled in the lively Cannonborough Elliotborough neighbourhood, 86 Cannon offered us a refined yet warmly welcoming retreat. Crafted with care by owners Lori and Marion Hawkins, this adults-only boutique hotel has just ten rooms, each tucked within four beautifully restored residences dating back to the 1860s. Here, past and present harmoniously blend to create a truly intimate experience. For us, 86 Cannon quickly became more than a hotel; it felt like a charming home base from which to explore Charleston, inviting us to slow down and take in every detail.
A Place with Stories to Tell
It didn’t take long to fall in love with the historic charm of 86 Cannon. The buildings, including the iconic Poinsette House and the cozy Ethel Brown’s Cottage, hold a sense of quiet grace, each preserving Charleston’s unique architectural legacy. We stayed in Ethel Brown’s Cottage, a quaint 1888 structure that’s been thoughtfully restored to offer two Garden Suites. Surrounded by Italian Frette linens, BYREDO bath products, and the most comfortable Boca Terry robes, we felt completely indulged yet still at home.
Every space is a testament to Charleston’s timeless elegance, seamlessly blending traditional touches with a fresh, modern twist. Our suite overlooked the garden, offering the perfect spot to enjoy quiet mornings with a fresh coffee in hand, listening to the trickle of the water fountain and hum of Charleston just beyond the lush greenery.
Welcomed Like Old Friends
From the moment we arrived, 86 Cannon welcomed us with genuine Southern hospitality. Champagne awaited us at check-in, setting the perfect tone for an experience that felt both relaxed and perfectly curated. Each morning, we started with a European-style continental breakfast that highlighted Charleston’s local flavours—an ideal start to the day before venturing out to explore. In the afternoon, the hotel’s wine and cheese hour was a daily highlight for us. Sitting together on the piazza with a glass in hand, we savoured the flavours of the South and shared stories with other guests, which made us feel part of the 86 Cannon community.
Our evenings ended on a sweet note, with chocolates awaiting in our room. The common spaces—the cozy library, bright salon, and serene courtyard garden—offered us countless places to relax, talk, and reflect on the day. We enjoyed the new zero-edge saltwater pool and chaise lounge chairs that were the perfect spot for an afternoon retreat, capturing the breezy elegance that is uniquely Charleston.
Charleston’s Culinary Gems: A Foodie’s Paradise
Charleston’s food scene is legendary, and we were thrilled to find some of the city’s best restaurants within walking distance of 86 Cannon. A few favourites quickly rose to the top of our list:
Chubby Fish: This local gem, founded by Chef James London, is a seafood lover’s dream. The menu changes daily to feature the freshest local ingredients, and each dish was an inventive take on Lowcountry cuisine. Chef London’s recent James Beard Award nomination is well deserved; every bite was a reminder of Charleston’s rich food culture.
The Ordinary: Located in a historic bank, The Ordinary felt both grand and welcoming. With a menu curated by renowned Chef Mike Lata, the restaurant celebrates the flavours of the Carolina coast in every dish. We shared a seafood tower that was as beautiful as it was delicious, the perfect expression of Charleston’s coastal bounty.
Halls Chophouse: For a classic Southern steak dinner, Halls Chophouse was unbeatable. Run by the Hall family, this Charleston institution delivers unforgettable hospitality and perfectly cooked steaks. The Sunday Gospel Brunch here is a must, offering food and music that capture the essence of Charleston’s soul.
Exploring Charleston’s History and Beauty
86 Cannon’s concierge team ensured that every day was packed with just the right balance of adventure and relaxation. Charleston is full of history and scenic views, and we were thrilled to explore it through some memorable experiences:
Historic Charleston Carriage Tour & Harbor Cruise: We started with a horse-drawn carriage tour, winding through streets rich with stories of Charleston’s past. Our guide brought the city’s history to life with anecdotes about the buildings and landmarks we passed. Later, we set out on a harbour cruise, where we took in breathtaking views of the city skyline and Fort Sumter.
The Charleston Museum: Delving into the history of the Lowcountry, we explored fascinating exhibits showcasing everything from Native American artifacts to Civil War relics. It was a journey through Charleston’s past that left us with a deeper appreciation for its cultural legacy.
Aiken-Rhett House: Stepping inside this well-preserved mansion felt like travelling back in time. Each room told the story of the Aiken family and the enslaved individuals who worked there, and the experience was both enlightening and moving. It was a powerful reminder of the city’s complex history and resilience.
A Timeless Legacy of Luxury
86 Cannon Charleston is more than a place to stay—it’s an invitation to experience Charleston as it’s meant to be: vibrant, gracious, and deeply connected to its roots. Lori and Marion Hawkins’ passion for hospitality was apparent in every thoughtful detail, from the curated amenities to the genuine warmth of the staff. For us, staying at 86 Cannon felt like living as true Charlestonians, savouring the city’s history, flavours, and ambiance as the locals might.
Each day we spent here revealed new layers of Charleston’s charm. 86 Cannon offered us more than a luxurious stay; it gave us memories we’ll cherish and a sense of belonging in this timeless city.
For more information, check out:
86 Cannon at www.86cannon.com
Explore Charleston www.explorecharleston.com
IG @86cannonst