With average temperatures at 50 degrees, it’s difficult to actually call it winter here in the Lowcountry, so it's always a great time to experience Summerville and Dorchester County both indoors and outdoors!

Retreat to nature at the Inn at Middleton Place, located high on a bluff above the Ashley River. Each room has fabulous views of the area woodlands and the river, and the rooms have real working fireplaces!

On December 13, adjacent Middleton Place plantation celebrates Christmas Yuletide. A Festive holiday celebration for the whole family with storytelling around a warm fire, Christmas caroling, ornament and wreathmaking, candle dipping and a live nativity scene of the Plantation's animals and craftspeople working by candlelight. www.middletonplace.org

Or stay in one of the many cozy bed and breakfasts located in the heart of Summerville’s historic district. Go golfing or spend your days shopping for the holidays in the downtown shops and you’ll find the perfect gifts for everyone on your list. To keep that festive mood after dinner, stroll around town square during the month of December to enjoy thousands of lights adorning the trees. It's magical!