The Columns Bed and Breakfast Inn

We spent a night on our way to Florida. The inn is beautiful. Our room was spacious and very comfortable. Our bathroom was bright and sparkling. They asked about food allergies and made us a delicious breakfast. We will be back next year.

We thoroughly enjoyed our one night stay at The Columns which is beautiful inside and out and very conveniently located. Michael was a gracious and informative host who is rightly proud of his inn. Our room was attractive and the bed very comfortable. The only minor inconvenience was the lack of a separate air conditioning control in our particular room. The breakfast table was very attractively set and the food perfectly presented and delicious. We won't hesitate to recommend The Columns to our friends, and have already done so.

Thank you to Michael for making our getaway so wonderful. And sharing with me some decorating secrets. The Beauty and comfort of the Inn reflects care and attention to detail equals Michael's warm hospitality.

We stopped in Dillon on our way back north and had a wonderful time! Everything was really perfect - beautiful, perfectly kept up and decr\orated home, absolutely delicious full breakfast, extensive amenities in our room, and a wonderful host!! We would highly recommend this B&B and hope to return on our next trip south!

What a special place. Michael and Mark where the perfect hosts and the accommodations were spectacular and very comfortable, lots of very nice antiques but not overly frilly. Breakfast, Eggs Benedict, was the best I ever had. Michael is an incredible individual with lots of interesting conversation.

The Columns Bed and Breakfast Inn sets the gold standard for all other B&Bs. Michael is the consummate host. We were warmly welcomed; our room was tastefully comfortable; and the breakfast was splendid and delicious. This was our first visit to The Columns and Michael and Mark made us feel like old cherished friends. We will definitely return.

We found The Columns online, but would definitely recommend it to anyone. Host Michael Real was very warm and welcoming, a great host. His love of history and delight in over-the-top decoration is infectious. Books everywhere invite a cozy evening's read, and in the morning, breakfast with lots of fresh fruit was delicious.

What a great experience, beautifuly decorated and hosted. Could not believe I was in Dillion SC. If you in the area, don't miss lovely B & B Linda and Charlie O

Our second stay at The Columns was predictably wonderful. There are not enough superlatives to do justice to Michael Relal's hospitality, fine furnishings, great breakfast and friendship. Don't miss it,

We booked The Columns so we could attend a wedding in Dillon. The big surprise was we were pampered and attended to by Michael Real, the innkeeper at The Columns, with joy and passion. Michael loves what he does and he does it with panache. The exterior of this early 20th century home is well maintained and makes a magnificent presence in the town of Dillon. The interior is filled with treasures that Michael has collected over the years--all look absolutely perfect in this gorgeous home. Breakfast was healthy and beautifully prepared. We just may make Dillon a stop on our way south from now on.

Drove by & stopped -- Michael took us in & put us in a beautiful room. Clean, well-kept & relaxing atmosphere.

This is truly an exceptional place to stay with an incredible host, Michael. My husband had wanted the stay to be very special and asked Michael if he would help. He arranged to have a dozen beautiful roses, champagne and even a sweet card waiting in our beautiful room when we arrived, much to my surprise! We felt very pampered throughout our stay at this beautiful old home. Our Dogwood suite was lovely and the bed most comfortable. Breakfast was delicious and a true delight. We felt very pampered throughout our stay and thoroughly enjoyed the hospitality of a delightful host. We will certainly be returning to this fabulous place!

Our host, Michael Real, is a unique innkeeper. His experience as an interior designer in Washington, DC, and elsewhere, have resulted in creating an outstanding B & B. The extensive collection of period furnishings are complemented by the lastest amenities. His friendliness and attention to detail, and conversational talent provided us with a most enjoyable visit. We look forward to our next road trip, which will definitely include a stop in Dillon, SC. even if it means travelling off the beaten track.

I stayed here for a night to attend a funeral and wow, what a eye catcher and great B&B. This is a remarkable bed and breakfast. Michael was a great host and ensured I was taken care of. The room (Dogwood) was great. Comfortable bed and great bath room. I definitely would come back again. I intend to with my Fiance!

I stayed at this lovely inn for my high school reunion and I will be returning. I felt very pampered in this elegant, comfortable setting. Breakfast was divine and the hospitality delightful.

The columns was an unexpected highlight of our vacation down south. The home is impeccable decorated. large, comfortable rooms and a gracious innkeeper, Michael all made our stay a perfect experience.

This review has been too long in the making and I hope Michael and Mark can forgive me. We have stayed at The Columns B&B on three different occasions and have only wonderful reviews. The owners do everything to make you feel comfortable and welcome, and when you arrive, you truly feel as if you are coming home. From the welcoming seating on the full wrap around porch, to the sitting rooms (and the Napoleon room) to the books and hidden TV in the upstairs sitting/reading area, (to my favorite oasis, the upstairs balcony) you are surrounded by warmth and comfort. The owners do their best to take care of you, no matter where you are from or where you are going. The Columns is a true Treasure of the finest Victorian showplace, and even though it is filled with museum quality furniture and art, it is still a warm and welcoming home. Because it is a working Bed and Breakfast, there are certain things that make The Columns outstanding. The bedrooms are not just rooms, but lovingly prepared suites personally decorated with gracious themes, down to the smallest accent pieces. The beds themselves are welcoming clouds enveloping you for a wonderful and restful sleep. The other part of the B&B experience is the Breakfast. There are many B&B's that have good rooms and good breakfasts. That is not the case here. From the starter of Cinnamon flavored coffee (or if you prefer, tea) to the wonderfully prepared dishes (with dietary considerations taken into account) Breakfast is a meal to be savored including (if you are lucky enough) conversation with the wonderful owners, Michael and Mark. The Columns is not a "stopover" place, but a restful and peaceful destination. Our stays at The Columns have been the best part of our trips and we look forward to returning "home" in the future. Thank you, Michael and Mark.

Gorgeous home! Beautiful antiques. Breakfast was so delicious and elegant. Coffee was served outside our room before breakfast. Loads of great magazines. Our host was a delight! We shared a love of Napoleons (I &III) and had quite lively discussions! Definitely recommend the Columns for a wonderful stay.

Of all the B&Bs we've stayed in, Michael Real's The Columns B&B Inn in Dillon, SC is the absolute best! Best in architecture, decoration, hospitality, comfort, food, attention to detail and on and on. Michael is one of those wonderful people who truly has the GIFT of hospitality. Never have I been made to feel so welcome and comfortable as we were here. Absolutely every effort was made to insure we were pampered and well-cared-for, and throughout it all, we were amazed at Michael's charm and wonderful sense of humor. I am happy to recommend The Columns to anyone and everyone traveling up or down I-95. If you don't have a trip planned to take you in that direction, then I suggest you plan one to Dillon itself and let Michael guide you with his thorough knowledge of the town and area. I guarantee it will be one of the most pleasurable stays you will ever have. John and Ann

Dillon, SC may not be your endpoint vacation destination, but perhaps it should be! We extended our vacation by an extra night because we enjoyed The Columns too much to leave after just one night. What characteristics that distinguish The Columns from other lovely Southern Greek Revival B&Bs? The hosts make you a welcome guest in their home from the moment you cross the threshold. They create a relaxing homelike atmosphere in what is essentially a very formal, painstakingly restored Greek Revival mansion--no mean trick. The fine interior design and furnishings are worth a trip in themselves. Sipping cool wine on the porch was the perfect antidote to a longish hot drive. Taking a late leisurely bath after choosing from a selection of bath salts was a special indulgence. And breakfast, served at a reasonable time (!), was superb. Talk about indulgence! Also, for the caffeine addicted among us, there's coffee waiting in the lounge just outside your room. I could go on, but you get the picture. Give yourself a treat. Visit The Columns and during your stay take at least a few minutes to chat with the lovely innkeepers who run it.

The Columns B&B Inn in Dillon SC is a destination that you should not miss. Michael Real is a warm and charming host; I felt like I was visiting a close friend. The Inn is as beautiful as the pictures portray; a wonderful inviting wrap-around porch, well maintained gardens and plants, exceptional furnishings and decor, and my favorite - the upper sitting deck. Rooms are very comfortable and clean. Michael serves wine in the afternoon/evening, breakfast beverages at your door and a full breakfast in the dining room. I am already looking forward to my next trip back.

The Columns B&B Inn is a jewel of the South. The experience was wonderful. No detail was missed.

This was our first B & B stay so we didn't quite know what to expect. Upon arrival we were greeted and right away felt as if we had known each other for some time. Every detail was exquisite and immaculate. The Dogwood room was beautifully decorated along with the bathroom. Michael suggested a recital at the corner of the street at the Methodist Church which we attended that evening. What a beautiful young lady with a powerful voice. We thoroughly enjoyed our night there and the breakfast was unbelievable. Don't know how we ate it all but we did. If we go back to the Carolinas we will definately be making another stop here. Thanks for a wonderful getaway. Cheryl

This is a wonderful alternative to the motels that crowd the exits from I-95. Just a mile or two beyond the cheek-by-jowl Holiday Inns and Best Westerns, this is a gorgeous building, lovingly presided over by Michael, an unfailingly gracious host and a fount of information on the area.

I want to thank you for a truly wonderful stay at The Columns this past March. Coming back to Dillon for my aunt's funeral was a time of mixed emotions to be sure. You offered our family a lovely place to lay our heads for a few days and your gracious manner made us feel we were indeed coming home. The Columns is steeped in welcoming charm. It is evident how much you care about the 'old ways' of the South. Your knowledge of the community and its people, your attention to detail in the restoration of the home, gave us the feeling we had stepped back in time. We have not had such a nostalgic experience in many years. Thank you for that priceless gift. Our family sends you warmest regards and best wishes for every success.

Traveling from GA to MD, we wanted something nicer than the standard chains; we found a wonderful alternative at The Columns. We were greeted by Michael who showed us around and brought us wine on the balcony. Rooms are lovingly decorated and immaculately kept. We received morning coffee brought to our room and had a wonderful breakfast the next day. Parking was easy, rates were very reasonably, and it was only minutes back to US95. It was a great choice.

This beautiful inn looks exactly as pictured, both exterior and interiors. The place was spotless and the innkeeper could not have been kinder or more engaging. It is clear that he wants his guests to feel special when at his establishment as he strives to anticipate and meet their every need. We can't say enough good things about our stay and will definitely visit again when traveling south.

You can rest assured The Columns will live up to or exceed any reviews you read on this site or others. Michael Real knows what he is doing. The Inn is beautiful inside and out, service exquisite, and the breakfast outstanding. This may be the best B&B we have ever visitied. Our visit was somewhat serendipitous as we were just looking for a way to break up a trip between NC and Fla. My only regret on our recent stay is that we could not stay longer.

My husband has never wanted to stay in a B&B, but at this one, we had a wonderful time--and my husband even bought dinner for the owners!! I'd return yesterday!

Michael greeted us warmly, told us how to find the meal of our preference, and upon our return treated us to the great history of this home and his career in the B & B industry. Retiring to our chamber was perfect to every degree: accommodations which afforded excellent sleep, grooming, chatting, and browsing (interesting sewing cabinet upon which our room's TV sat and publications found in the upstairs hallway). Breakfast service was delightful- most accommodating to our schedule, excellent quality and diversity of food. The creme de la creme was how conversational Michael was while serving our breakfast courses and thereafter before we departed. It was not easy to say good-bye. We were happy to take many promotional items to urge our family, to which we were pushing on for Christmas celebration, to visit our rare find. And how special it was upon our return to California to find a Christmas card from Michael! I know of all the B & Bs we've stayed at, this is the first proprietor who has extended himself to this degree. (Oh yeah, ladies, there were 2 bath products I was happy to take home with me!! Maybe all Southern ladies expect make-up removing product nightly, but it was a treat for me. And the Thai soap with rice and jasmine was an international touch I relished. Of course, there are other tributes to ladies in the finishing decor touches. Go to The Columns to find them and tickle your fancy.)

In a word...impeccable. The service and the accommodations are beyond anything I've seen in a bed and breakfast. If you are looking for perfection, you can find it at the Columns. Michael is the consummate host and pampers his guests like they are honored friends. The house is decorated beautifully but the real treat is the rooms. The little details are everywhere from the exquisite linens (ironed sheets!) to the super comfortable bed to the elegantly appointed bathroom. I soaked for what seemed like hours in the huge claw foot tub using all the bath salts and gels that they provided. I wished I could have taken more baths so I could have tried them all! Whether it's for a couple or a group, the Columns offers the finest in bed and breakfast that you could wish for. I was there with my husband and we felt like we had complete privacy but in the morning when all the guests came down for breakfast, it felt like we were a group of old friends on vacation together. Michael serves a delicious and elegant breakfast and it was clear at breakfast that it wasn't just us that felt like we were in the home of our dear friends. Everybody else did as well.

We stayed at the Columns B&B last year on our trip home to NH. We loved it so much that we came back again this year. If you travel the I-95 corridor up or down the East Coast, you will not find a better place to stay than this B&B. Michael Real, the Innkeeper is a terrific host and his home is gorgeous and comfortable. My wife and I have stayed in many B&B's throughout this country and in Europe. I have never felt so at home than at the Columns B&B. This is one of the best places that we have ever stayed at. We will be back again in the near future!

No B&B we know of has the splendor and attention to the guest this one has. It has been rebuilt with great attention to detail, decorated professionally, and furnished for comfort. Innkeeper, Michael Real has a lot of experience at doing what he does best - serving and pleasing his guests. His breakfasts - food and service - are something to experience. The Laws

Our stay at The Columns, Dillon, South Carolina was a truly unforgettable and phenomenal experience. From the moment we entered this fine establishment through to the time we left, our hosts treated us like royalty. The interior of this palatial residence was atmospheric and a vision to behold. Each room was decorated with taste, passion, imagination and flair. Our en suite bedroom was the epitome of comfort and luxury. The bathroom that was decorated in a clean and impressive manner that took one back to the times of yesteryear! Upon waking our guests provided us with a delicious breakfast that looked in itself like a work of art. They also kindly provided us with printed directions to the airport as we were unfamiliar with road systems in the USA. In summary, these guys are professionals! The sheer individuality and character of this house make it must for anyone to stay! My family and I are in no doubt that we will return to ‘The Columns’ sometime in the near future. Trevor (UK)

My husband and I have been to many B&Bs over the past 15 years. The Columns(perfectly named) happens to be one of our favorite. The home is gorgeous and comfortable. The innkeeper is very friendly and accomidating -to the max. I felt like I knew him forever! His breakfast was wonderfully presented, exceptionally delicious and looked too good to eat, but we managed. I wish we could have stayed longer! If you are in the area, treat yourself to unique southern hospitality at The Columns.

I have been traveling I95 from Jacksonville to DC for 13 years and just found a slice of heaven 2 miles off of 195 in Dillion SC. Michael is a fabulous host and his cinnamon,raisin,apple,french toast is a sugar addicts dream. It was my parents & 13 year old niece's first time to a B&B and The Columns was perfection, a great way to wrap up my neice's summer break in Jax, FL. Thank You Michael, See you next trip!

I discovered The Columns on the internet and called to make reservations. I spoke with Michael who was very pleasant and after talking with him for about 30 minutes on the area and directions he answered every question I had. Our stay with Michael and Mark can only be described as peaceful and amazing. Michael and Mark went above and beyond what we have ever experienced at a bed and breakfast. When we asked where would be a good place to eat they had just the place. The breakfast each morning was a five star quality meal and attention to detail was second to none. The room we stayed in was huge and had the most amazing furnishings with a very at home feeling. My husband and I are looking forward to visiting with them again in the fall. If you are traveling north or south on interstate 95 pass by all the hotels and make your stay at The Columns……

One can travel the entire east coast I-95 corridor and not find a finer place to stay. My wife and I came across The Columns unexpectantly early one evening after wanting to avoid a dissappointing overnight experience on the interstate. Besides columns, this beautifully restored Greek Revival antebellum has it all -- wrap-around porch, beautifully furnished downstairs rooms and upstairs guest suites, king size beds, fine linens, wainscoting, oriental carpets, fireplaces, ceiling fans, and bristol clean bathrooms. Just as memorable was the elegantly served breakfast and the attention provided us by the warm-hearted innkeeper, Michael. We enjoyed learning about this three-year restoration project. Considering the total experience we had, other well-known B&Bs that costed us three times as much did not compare in terms of surroundings and service provided. This was truly a place to savor and relax, and not a place to be in a hurry to leave.

WE arrived late after a long drive. Michael waited for us, helped us to our room which was truly beautiful. I took a long bath in luxury bath products and tucked into the a king size bed with my husband on a fabulousl bed with the finest linens. This is so so wonderful compared to grabbing a room in the mediocre hotels that line the highway. Do yourself a favor, stay here and not only have a wonderful sleep but a fantastic gourmet breakfast. Thank you Michael!

What a pleasure and fond memory. Michael is a wonderful host and obviously has a passion for the restoration of history. If you are traveling on I95, stop here and enjoy this bit of paradise, you will not be disappointed. The room (the dogwood) was beautiful and huge. Michael provided complimentary wine and the best breakfast I have ever enjoyed in a B&B. I hope to return.

The Columns B&B on E. Main ST in Dillon, SC, was the right choice for my daughter’s wedding and breakfast reception. Having the warmth needed for a winter event of this importance, being both eloquent and stately to hold a solemn ceremony and dynamically flexible to meet individual needs: from rearranging furnishings to best serve the guests to morning coffee for my wife exactly to her specifications, allowed us great freedom to relax and enjoy the reason for our visit. My thanks to Mr. Michael Real (Innkeeper) for his diligence; even though our wedding party was small in comparison to traditional weddings his care for our guests and the esthetically pleasant ambiance of “The Columns” made it a large, living, lasting memory for us all. Our stay was one of abundance and luxury. If you desire to experience last century’s true southern hospitality without traditions except for ones in your power to evoke, plan a stay and make reservations at this opulent bed and breakfast. pgt

My wife and I stayed at the Columns B&B Inn on the first night of our three day trip from Naples, FL to Bedford, NH. We arrived at about 5:30 PM after travelling for almost eleven hours but were pleasantly surprised at how beautiful the place really is. Michael and Mark have done a wonderful job of renovating the beautiful 1903 mansion. The rooms are huge, the food is outstanding and the hospitality is second to none. The Inn is located just a couple of miles off I-95 which is ideal for somemone needing easy access to the highway. Would highly recommend this place to all our friends who travel to and from Florida to places North.

Half way between Delaware and Florida we found the Columns Bed and Breakfast in Dillon SC. What a fantastic find! We were fortunate enough to call ahead and reserve the Azelea suite for the night. Talk about unsurpassed luxury. We had the most comfortable King size bed with soft and luxorious linens and pillows, a sitting area which we used for reading, and a wonderful brightly lit and tiled bathroom. We felt as comfortable there as we did in our own home, something lacking in most of the motels along I-95. The antiques were stunning and as for cleanliness, this place is off the chart! After one of the most relaxing nights sleep, we were treated to a goumet breakfast in a spectacular dining room, by the Innkeepers Michael and Mark. These two couldn't do enough to make us comfortable and make our morning meal a delight. Considering some of the less memorable "Full Continental Breakfasts" offered at the motels on I-95, this breakfast was a fantastic way to start off the day without the crowded small eating areas and sometimes less than friendly motel staff. We will make the Columns a regular stop whenever possible. I recommend anyone traveling between NY NJ PA or Delaware to Florida consider staying there at least one time but be warned, it may become habit forming!

Beautiful, quiet place to stay and unwind. Be sure to enjoy a glass of wine on the 2nd floor balcony. The Dogwood Suite was very comfortable and quite spacious. Gourmet breakfast served on china in dining room. Innkeeper, Michael, is a wonderful host. We would highly recommend staying here!

Elegant place, great host, leave your present day troubles behind and head back to 1903 (with modern conviences like AC and heat). Looking forward to another visit.

My boyfriend and I recently stayed at the Columns B&B and it was one of the most pleasant experiences that I have had in a long time. Upon arrival we were greeted in a very courteous manor and were shown to our breathtaking room. We stayed in the Azalea suite which is more beautiful than words can describe. The simple but classically chic decor made me feel at home- immediately. The innkeeper was spectacular. He was more than kind and not to mention the mouthwatering breakfast he prepared for us all! I will definitely stay again and most likely I will plan vacations just so I can visit the Columns again! I can't wait to go back!

I have never felt so at home and taken care of while on the road. I found The Columns by doing a quick search of B&B's close to 95 and on our way down the coast. The pictures on the website made it look like a historic dreamworld, but of course, the pictures ALWAYS make it look better than it really is..... WRONG, the service, the bedroom, the bathroom, the decor, EVERYTHING exceeded our expectations of what a bed and breakfast should be. When we woke up, the beautiful dining room table was done up for ourselves and the two other guests. After a few minutes of talking, Michael (Nicest Innkeeper I have ever met, we sat down and talked to him about anything and everything over wine the night before) brought out THE best eggs benedict to ever grace the likes of my tastebuds, surrounded by a barrage of sliced, in-season, south carolinian fruit. I cannot say enough about how nice Michael was, how nice the house was, or how great the experience was. All I can say is that we absolutely will be coming back to stay and catch up with our new friend Michael again. Best B&B ever.

We stopped here on the way to Florida (coming from NYC). With so many options and places to stay, it was tough to choose. Found it on the internet and decided to give it a shot. Thrilled we picked The Columns. The place was beautiful, spotless and welcoming. You can tell a lot of time and effort was put in to restore the building to this level and detail. Grand rooms filled with all types of cool artifacts and pieces (check out all the different fireplaces). They also have 2 pianos (a big bonus since my girlfriend plays, and yes they let us go to town on both of them). The 2 gentlemen that took care of us were super friendly and made us feel at home. Tried the eggs benny and fruit for breakfast, yummy. If only all b&b's were like this. If we didn't have a schedule we needed to stick to, we would have stayed another night. Definitely recommend this b&b. Flawless and enjoyable from start to finish. Thank you gentlemen!

This elegant home offers luxurious guest rooms, each with lovely bathrooms and antique furnishings. The gracious host serves an absolutely gourmet breakfast in a beautiful dining room - the house is remodeled, redecorated, and furnished with extraordinary antiques from all over the world. Staying in this inn is a wonderful experience - it is the quintessential bed and breakfast home when you are away from home.

The Columns is an amazing B&B run by Michael and Mark. The B&B is impeccably decorated with antiques and unusual pieces specially selected for this unique Inn. Bedrooms were very large and roomy with huge windows, and the entire Inn was spotless! Wrap around porches and rocking chairs really give this home the southern charm. Michael and Mark are passionate about ensuring your stay is an experience to remember, and mine was. One night here, and I felt like I was on vacation for a week. Breakfast was incredible, large portions on fine china. Make sure you try the eggs benedict and fruit plate. Location was ideal, and the home was so charming and pleasant to stay in. I didn't want to leave! This B&B is close to I-95 and is an ideal resting point for travelers. You will love it! Every room is a treat and a great value.