Hidden on 11 acres of the North Santee Delta in Myrtle Beach’s own back yard is Wicklow Hall, an historic estate that husband and wife team David and Judith Rinella have restored as a charming bed and breakfast.
The two-story inn, a grand house built between 1831 and 1840, welcomes guests with an intricate mural portraying the Lowcountry marsh and the wildlife and waterfowl that live within its landscape. Other details of note include the original heart of pine floors throughout, 10 gas fireplaces, a handcrafted wooden bar with a lounge that offers ample seating and a screened-in porch that’s ideal for enjoying a cup of coffee or glass of wine while reading a good book.
Additional buildings on the property include what was once a kitchen house, the original home and the stables, all of which the Rinellas have renovated into cozy and rustic — yet luxurious — cottages. Each has its own private outdoor space where guests can grill out, relax in a hot tub or simply appreciate the serenity.
When planning a getaway to Wicklow Hall, make sure to book a weekend during which Judith will be hosting one of her infamous quarterly “Supper Socials.” The next one, which is coming up on Saturday, March 21, begins promptly at 6:00 PM. The dress code for the azalea-themed soiree is “swanky.” Come thirsty and hungry — Dragoon punch will be served in a crystal punch bowl with a silver ladle and there will be wine pourings at the bar. For appetizers, guests will be treated to Judith’s exquisite charcuterie. Dripping with cherry tomatoes and grapes and topped with a $300 chunk of parmesan, the arrangement is what she calls, “an edible renaissance painting.”
From 7-9:00 that evening, guests are invited to enjoy a Gullah feast catered by Buckshots from nearby McLellanville. The buffet includes a roast beef carving station, fried fish and chicken, cooked cabbage, collard greens, dirty rice, cold slaw, an “addictive” potato salad, peach cobbler and banana pudding…