A Hidden Gem : Breathtaking Pretty Place
Looking for a peaceful getaway with breathtaking mountain views? Discover why Pretty Place Chapel in South Carolina is a must-visit for anyone craving beauty, reflection, and inspiration?
Today as I was checking for new places to visit for vacation this summer with my best friend, Mary Jo, I stumbled across this hidden gem. I thought why should I keep it to myself? Let me share it with my readers.
I love sharing special places—those quiet, awe-inspiring corners of the world that feel like they’re just waiting for you to discover them. And if you’ve never been to Pretty Place (also known as Symmes Chapel), let me tell you—you are in for something truly unforgettable.
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Nestled atop a mountain near Greenville, South Carolina, this open-air chapel is perched with a panoramic 180-degree view that will quite literally stop you in your tracks. It’s the kind of view that makes you pause, breathe a little deeper, and take it all in.
Whether you’re there for a sunrise service, a quiet moment of reflection, or just to marvel at the beauty of nature, Pretty Place is exactly what its name promises—pretty beyond words.
What Makes Pretty Place So Special
Unlike many scenic overlooks scattered across the Blue Ridge and Appalachian regions, Pretty Place offers something more than just a view. The chapel itself adds a sense of sacred stillness, standing open to the elements, with a simple wooden cross and rustic benches that invite visitors to sit and reflect.
The space was generously gifted by Fred W. Symmes to the YMCA Camp Greenville, and it’s been lovingly maintained ever since. From weddings and memorials to solitary moments of peace, this space has been a witness to countless meaningful memories.
Despite its growing popularity, there’s still something deeply personal and grounding about visiting. It doesn’t feel touristy or overly curated—it just feels… right.
What to Know Before You Go
The Drive:
The road up to Pretty Place is a bit winding and narrow in spots, so take your time and enjoy the ride. It’s part of the charm!
Open to the Public:
The chapel is typically open during daylight hours but may be closed for private events. Be sure to check the YMCA Camp Greenville Website
Respect the Space:
This is a sacred and spiritual place. Visitors are welcome to take photos, but quiet reflection is encouraged.
Best Time to Visit:
Early morning for sunrise or late afternoon when the mountains are glowing with golden light—both are spectacular.
Why It’s Worth the Trip
You don’t have to be religious to appreciate Pretty Place. There’s something about standing on that mountaintop, surrounded by stillness and sweeping views, that just fills your soul up. Whether you’re a local or just passing through the Carolinas, it’s a stop that’s well worth adding to your list.
Places like Pretty Place are reminders of how beautiful the world can be—how something so simple can bring so much peace. I wish I could take everyone I know up there, just to see their faces light up at that first glimpse of the view.
My BFF and travel partner, Mary Jo, and I have traveled through South Carolina before, but we didn’t even know Pretty Place existed at the time. Now that we’ve discovered it, we can’t wait to experience it together—the quiet, the view, and that feeling of standing somewhere truly sacred. I just know it’s going to be one of those unforgettable places that stays with you long after you leave
If you ever find yourself nearby, take the drive. Bring a journal, a camera, or just your heart. And let Pretty Place do what it does best: remind you to slow down, breathe in the mountain air, and soak in the beauty around you.
Question?
Have you been to Pretty Place? I’d love to hear about your experience or what special place you go to when you need to reset. 💬 Leave me a comment below—or share this post with someone who needs a peaceful getaway.
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