Wildernesses of South Carolina host a myriad holiday activities

The American state that became the first to declare its independence from the British Crown is rinsed in history and keen to be a top activity destination for people from the United Kingdom.

South Carolina, which lies between Georgia and the Atlantic Ocean, is one of the southern states; its history is a controversial and often-turbulent tale of independence, secession, integration, and exploitation. But today the state is a bone fide tourist hotspot and is keen to highlight its energetic disposition to the active holidaymaker.

From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Atlantic coast cities, rural villages and wilderness areas feature throughout many different pursuits.

Whether it is hiking or mountain-biking, paddling on ancient water routes, riding an all-terrain vehicle, motorcycling through dense forest, or horseback riding into remote landscapes, South Carolina is dense with possibilities.

For those who would prefer to explore on two wheels rather than four, bike trails are the perfect way to see the Palmetto State's diversity of landscapes.

The Catawba River Run provides a beautiful ride along the banks of the river with plenty of creeks, rocks and mud to add a bit of excitement. Alternatively, Fant's Grove provides lots of interconnecting trails, some of which follow the edge of the lake while others lead to an old rock quarry - perfect for a swimming break.

Two more trails that are worth checking out include the Fort Jackson section of the Palmetto Trail and the Issaqueena Lake Trail, which is located on the property of Clemson University's Experimental Forest.

The state's stirring rivers offer arguably the finest and most varied paddling in the eastern United States. With 11,000 miles of rivers, numerous lakes and coastal waters, paddlers can choose from rushing white-water rivers, tranquil swamplands, or fine river waterways.

Easy-flowing rivers such as the Lynches, Black and Ashley offer relaxing paddling; for the more adventurous, the rapids of the Chatooga, the south's first National Wild and Scenic River, is far more of a challenge.

Hundreds of miles of scenic hiking trails that lead in, around and to places of unique history, wild splendour and the natural beauty of the Palmetto State can be explored.

Trails vary from easy walks such as the East Fork, which is perfect for families, to more strenuous and rugged routes suited to experienced hikers. Wherever you go you are sure to discover spectacular scenery from impressive lakes to picturesque mountain pathways. Venture into forested backcountry on multi-day wilderness treks or hike through the heart of the state on the Palmetto trail which features more than 452 miles of hiking trails.

A couple of centuries after it declared itself separate from the British Empire, South Carolina is firmly back on the British map. Throughout its history the state has determined its own course and set its own pace. It has courted controversy and coveted independence while its natural environment peaceably waited, serene and beautiful, for us to enjoy today.