This South Carolina city's charm and grace abound year-round, but spring and fall may be the best times to visit. That's when many of her most gorgeous homes and gardens invite you to share in the splendor.

That will be the case September 19 through October 26, when The Preservation Society of Charleston presents its 26th Annual Fall Candlelight Tours of Homes and Gardens. The society presents a six-weekend banquet of rich offerings that leaves you fully satisfied.

Each evening's tour highlights about 10 homes, gardens, churches, or other properties clustered in the same neighborhood, so it's easily walkable. Going at your own pace, you're welcomed at each site by candlelight and colorful hosts. Most of the properties are privately owned, so it's really a rare privilege to visit them. Which locations are our favorites? Without being too noncommittal, they all are--and for different reasons.