It has been said Charlotte has as much use for high rises as a hog has for a morning coat. Still, that hasn’t stopped the southern city from blossoming into a financial mecca in its own right. With two trillion in assets, Charlotte, North Carolina is America’s number two financial center, second only to New York City.
Along with its growing commerce, Charlotte has added plenty of attractions for tourists. In the past decade, Charlotte has added countless world-class museums and restaurants. The Mint Museum doubled its size in 2010 adding many galleries to its downtown skyscraper while The NASCAR Hall of Fame is a mecca for racing fans. Bechtler Museum of Modern Art boasts masterpieces from art icons ranging from Pablo Picasso to Joan Miro. It’s a city worth exploring, provided you have the right base to start from.
HERE’S A LOOK AT TWO OF OUR FAVOURITE HOTELS:
THE DUNHILL HOTEL
Nestled in uptown Charlotte (or what we outsiders might call downtown) is the historic Dunhill Hotel, originally named the Mayfair Manor. Designed by Charlotte architect Louis Asbury Sr. in 1929 to accommodate both transient guests and permanent residents, the building has changed ownership several times over its 85 years.
“It’s kept the charm and sophistication that has always enchanted its guests,” says John Beatty, General Manager of the Dunhill. Indeed it has. The moment I entered its grand historic lobby, I was greeted with Southern hospitality from the staff. It was almost as if time stood still for this Grande Dame of Charlotte. “The most notable structural change is that the rooms have gotten bigger,” says Beatty. “What was originally a 100-room hotel is now 60 rooms.”
Building a reputation as one of Charlotte’s most luxurious uptown hotels, the Dunhill has held a unique place in the city as one of its longest standing structures. It has received guests including Sir Paul McCartney, Jackson Browne and Bonnie Raitt. “Our location is prime, sitting at the heart of both the business and cultural centers,” notes Beatty. Not only is the Dunhill famous with the famous; but its restaurant The Asbury, has won critical acclaim over the years.
“We use traditional southern ingredients and present them in new ways,” says Beatty of Chef Coleman’s signature dishes. For instance, the 62 Degree Egg & Crab is presented on Anson mills rice grits. Chicken & Dumplings is a light, colourful dish – not the heavy stew that typically comes to mind. Locally sourced foods within a 200-mile radius are regularly used in the menu items.
“We strive to provide a memorable experience through legendary guest service, comfortable accommodations and unforgettable modern southern cuisine. Whether our guests come primarily for business, great dining or just a rejuvenating pause from everyday life, we hope they have a memorable experience that entices them to return soon,” says Beatty.
THE BALLANTYNE HOTEL
For a different taste of world class Southern charm try The Ballantyne Hotel and Lodge. Built in 2001 and located within 30 minutes of Charlotte’s major attractions, The Ballantyne offers a variety of amenities including a par 71, 18-hole championship golf course and beautiful health club and spa.
Committed to demonstrating sustainable practices, the 214 guest rooms are energy efficient and employ an environmentally friendly program for guests to conserve on water efficiency. On-site composting, locally sourced produce and food served in the restaurants, and certified organic skin care products are among the many green practices at hotel. In 1998, a 2.5-acre wetlands was built on the golf course to promote aquatic and wildlife habitat on the property. Audubon International also certified the golf club for its dedication to promoting sustainable practices.
With its locally sourced, progressively Southern approach to cuisine, the award-winning Gallery Restaurant changes its menu seasonally to showcase the freshest, most flavourful ingredients of the season. “Guests can always expect fresh seafood entrees served with seasonal accompaniments and the Butcher Block — our daily selection of hand cut steaks,” says Executive Chef Tim Toohey.
Incorporating Charlotte’s diversity and many varied attractions into an enjoyable stay is something The Ballantyne takes seriously. “We offer the best of both worlds,” says Peter Grills, General Manager. “In addition to being an all-encompassing destination, the hotel’s close proximity to Charlotte’s premier attractions gives guests an array of leisure options.” On-site amenities include a spa, salon, indoor pools, seasonal outdoor pool, tennis, fitness, fine dining and a championship PGA golf course with golf lessons by Dana Rader Golf School.
With all this luxury hotel had to offer, I found myself not wanting to venture into Charlotte, but rather to soak up the relaxation and rejuvenation surrounding me. Which brings me to The Spa at Ballantyne that combines wellness of the mind and body while nourishing both. “We recognize that the key to overall health is balancing the mind and body,” says Spa Director Alicia Howell. “Through the use of ritualistic methods and healthy products, our providers offer a combination of beauty and balance in a calming environment. Our services help soothe the senses and enhance wellness, playing an integral role in improving overall health.” The Four Elements Massage is a multi-sensory experience massage that uses aroma, audio and colour therapy based on the guest’s birthday element of earth, air, fire or water. “Our Sea Water Pearl Facial combines liquid calcium seawater pearls and boluses filled with red seaweed exfoliate to cleanse the skin. A Shea butter mask with red seaweed hydrates and soothes.”
From dining and shopping to sports and entertainment, Charlotte is captivating and colourful, dripping with Southern charm and hospitality.
