When it comes to offering a wide range of exciting and memorable vacation experiences, South Carolina stands alone. And nowhere is this more evident than in the state's Upcountry region.

This is a land of waterfalls and mountain streams, Indian folklore and Revolutionary War battles. From scenic hiking trails to working gristmills, a covered bridge and the Chattooga National Wild & Scenic River, the South Carolina Upcountry has everything you need to create a vacation experience that you'll never forget.

The Upcountry is home to several of South Carolina's 47 state parks, including parks at Caesars Head, Jones Gap, Paris Mountain and Table Rock. Whether you've got a passion for hiking, camping, fly-fishing, whitewater rafting or just relaxing and enjoying the cool mountain breezes and breathtaking vistas, the parks are a great place to relax and reconnect with nature. Bring along a tent, or reserve space at a cozy cabin. If you're a cyclist, be sure to bring your mountain bike and your road bike. You'll find incredible trails as well as winding country roads that will leave you gasping for breath, reveling in the beauty and begging for more.

If something a little cosmopolitan is more your style, then discover the surprising city of Greenville. This historic little city has experienced a stunning renaissance in the past few years, and has become the destination of choice for vacationers from inside and outside the state. From live performances at The Peace Center to a host of charming and diverse restaurants to street and art festivals, there's something for everyone. In August, Greenville plays host to the USA Cycling Pro Championships, the nation's premier single-day cycling event. The Greenville Drive, the South Atlantic League affiliate of the Boston Red Sox, play all season long at Flour Field - our own "mini-Fenway Park." And be sure to take a stroll across the incredible Liberty Bridge. This unique suspension walkway, overlooking the scenic Reedy River Falls, is the centerpiece of the renewed downtown area and a remarkable feat of engineering.

Visiting the Upcountry is easy. Interstate highways converge right here, making your drive fast and easy. And the Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport welcomes flights from all over the country every day. Be sure to get a window seat, because on your way in you'll likely be able to see some of the more prominent physical features of our region. A string of three lakes - Jocassee, Keowee and Hartwell - make for some of the freshwater fishing and family recreation you'll find anywhere. You may also catch a glimpse of Table Rock and Caesars Head. Come in from the north, and you'll fly right over the headquarters and production facilities of BMW North America. If you have the time, be sure to take a tour of this remarkable facility. But be careful - you may wind up driving home one of their outstanding vehicles!

Perhaps the best thing of all about the Upcountry is how close it is to the rest of South Carolina and all that this wonderful state has to offer. From the fun and frolic of Myrtle Beach to the vacation mecca of Hilton Head to the cobblestone streets of historic Charleston, the wide, welcoming beaches and warm hospitality will make you feel right at home. And if golf is your game, you'll have more than 380 golf courses to choose from - which explains why South Carolina is America's #1 golf destination.

There's an endless array of activities and discoveries waiting for you here in South Carolina. To learn more and start planning your South Carolina vacation visit www.DiscoverSouthCarolina.com.