25+ of the Most Romantic Getaways in North Carolina

Published by Christina Riley. Last Updated on October 20, 2023.

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If you’re looking for romantic getaways in North Carolina and need some ideas, this guide has got your back! We feature romantic getaways from the mountains to the sea, with some special ones in between.

Regardless of where you’re looking, we think you’ll find the perfect place for you and your partner.

Whether you want to snuggle up in front of a fire in the mountains, fall in love with our cities and small towns, or spend quality time on the coast, our guide has the perfect romantic destinations that might just be your next.

Whether you’re a new resident, a frequent visitor, or a local, we’re leaving no detail behind. If you live in North Carolina and are wondering, “What are the best romantic getaways near me?” we think this NC travel guide will help you out!

Romantic Getaways in North Carolina (Western)

We start our guide to romantic getaways in North Carolina with a look at Western NC.

Bear Lake Reserve (Tuckasegee)

Bear lake reserve, which is one of the most Romantic Getaways in North Carolina

Tuckasegee is a small Jackson County town that is home to Bear Lake Reserve, one of our first choices for special occasions and romantic getaways. It’s a massive 2,100-acre gated community with private residences and rentals that surround the beautiful 500-acre Bear Creek Lake.

You can do just about everything here, but in case you need to venture out, a few of our favorite waterfalls run through Jackson County, too.

A few of them include the serene Soco Falls, the epic Upper Whitewater Falls, and its beautiful neighbor Silver Run Falls.

Biltmore Estate (Asheville)

the fantastic Biltmore Estate near Asheville, North Carolina.

We couldn’t write a guide to romantic getaways without including Biltmore Estate in Asheville. Accommodation options here include the Village Hotel, The Inn, and Cottage on Biltmore Estate.

Either will give you easy access to a tour of the immaculate 250-room mansion. Spend time strolling the beautiful gardens that surround the house, too.

A tasting at Biltmore’s historic winery pairs nicely with this getaway and beyond, as you’ll likely take at least a bottle or two home.

Chetola Resort (Blowing Rock)

Bob Timberlake Inn at Chetola Resort is a romantic getaway near Blowing Rock — Bob Timberlake Inn at Chetola Resort.

Chetola Resort is one of the most romantic getaways in North Carolina’s High Country. “Chetola” lives up to its meaning in Cherokee, which is “haven of rest.”

You’ll find natural beauty and world-class accommodations here, and that’s just the start.

Enjoy delicious food from the on-site Timberlake’s, fun indoor and outdoor amenities, and much more at Chetola Resort in Blowing Rock!

Elkin Creek Vineyards (Elkin)

picnic tables in a field outside of Elkin Creek Vineyards

Is there truly anything more romantic than creekside cabins within steps of a vineyard? We love exploring North Carolina’s wineries, especially those found in the Yadkin Valley.

One of the best is Elkin Creek Vineyards in Elkin. The vineyard produces excellent wines and tasty food, all within walking distance of their romantic cabins.

Engadine Inn and Cabins near Asheville (Candler)

colorful Adirondack chairs overlooking the mountains

Engadine Inn and Cabins is a wonderful bed and breakfast with a wonderful history as a former wine-producing estate. Today, the home and its surrounding cabins sit on a 12-acre property, which is surrounded by mountains and beautiful scenery.

It’s the perfect place to stay, but also to hold a wedding or event. Around dusk, you can also enjoy beautiful sunsets from Engadine’s property.

Choose from cabins outside the house or comfy rooms inside. Engadine’s amazing two-course breakfast will keep you coming back for more romantic getaways in the mountains.

Read More: The Best Hikes near Asheville

The Everett Hotel (Bryson City)

The Everett Hotel is a wonderful place to stay in the heart of Bryson City. You’ll have easy access to the shops and restaurants of downtown and also, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Stay in one of the Everett’s 10 luxury suites and enjoy dinner (or a drink) on the rooftop terrace.

The Omni Grove Park Inn (Asheville)

a romantic evening at Omni Grove Park inn with a couple overlooking the city of Asheville

The historic and scenic Omni Grove Park Inn offers a luxurious experience and one of the most romantic getaways. Southern hospitality awaits with excellent service and comfortable rooms with a view for you and your sweetie.

Treat yourself to the subterranean Spa, with dry and steam saunas, multiple indoor pools, a hot outdoor pool, and multiple treatment options. This is easily one of the best things to do in Asheville.

Meals at the Sunset Terrace restaurant and Edison offer epic views to complement luxurious and locally-sourced meals.

Hot Springs Resort (Hot Springs)

The entrance sign for Hot Springs Resort and Spa

About 45 minutes north of Asheville in Western North Carolina, Hot Springs is a town in Madison County that leaves visitors relaxed and rejuvenated. Its namesake 100-acre resort and spa is a 100-acre resort and spa with hot tubs right along a beautiful river.

Across the street from the tubs is a campground with primitive cabins and tent sites, perfect for roasting marshmallows and enjoying starlit nights.

Lakeview at Fontana (Bryson City)

a bathtub with a view from the room at Lakeview at Fontana.

Deep in the Smoky Mountains, Bryson City is both a family destination and one of our favorite romantic getaways in North Carolina!

Lakeview at Fontana‘s private tubs and soak up the mountain vibes together.

Hop on the acclaimed Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, enjoy an easy hike to three waterfalls in Deep Creek, or join a tour from the Nantahala Outdoor Center.

Old Edwards Inn (Highlands)

The dam with a waterfall near Highlands North Carolina

Stay at the Old Edwards Inn & Spa in the middle of downtown Highlands and unwind in their outdoor mineral pools after a spa treatment. This is one of the best romantic getaways North Carolina has to offer!

Explore the Highlands, and you’ll fall in love with this mountain town.

It’s largely known for some of our favorite waterfalls in North Carolina! In addition to the wonderful outdoor recreation, the town of Highlands is quaint and perfect for strolling hand-in-hand.

Pines Country Inn near Brevard (Pisgah Forest)

a gushing waterfall near the cabins of Pines country Inn

There are plenty of remote cabins that provide beautiful morning views for your romantic getaway. We really enjoyed our time at Pines Country Inn in Pisgah Forest near Brevard.

These are also some of the most inexpensive romantic getaways in NC.

Speaking of Brevard, the Transylvania County town is surrounded by some of the most beautiful waterfalls. Favorites include Looking Glass Falls (pictured above), Moore Cove Falls, and the ever-popular Sliding Rock.

There simply isn’t anything more romantic than packing a picnic and enjoying it with water rushing down all around you!

Read More: Day Trips from Asheville

Switzerland Inn (Little Switzerland)

a glass of wine in Little Switzerland between Blowing Rock and Asheville

Switzerland Inn is an amazing romantic getaway that sits right off the Blue Ridge Parkway in Little Switzerland, between Blowing Rock and Asheville. This is one of our places to stay in western North Carolina if not the whole state.

At the Switzerland Inn, you’ll find a variety of delectable views, food, and activities. There’s a spa, two dining options, luxurious rooms with views, the Diamondback Lodge, and cute shops to peruse.

Read More: Day Trips from Boone

The Yellow House (Waynesville)

The Yellow House in Waynesville has been recommended by our readers and members of our Facebook Group, and we can see why. This hilltop getaway overlooks the Blue Ridge Mountains and offers a quiet stay in Western NC.

Any of their 10 luxurious rooms and suites will take you and your partner away from it all. A delicious gourmet breakfast will start the day, which will be filled with a warm fireplace, a private deck, and a relaxing jetted hot tub.

Romantic Getaways in North Carolina (Central)

Some of the most romantic getaways in North Carolina can be found in the center between our mountains and sea.

The Cardinal Hotel (Winston-Salem)

Inside the Cardinal Hotel near Winston-Salem North Carolina

Winston-Salem is an incredible destination for everyone, including those seeking romantic getaways. The Cardinal Hotel and enjoy libations and exquisite French cuisine at the attached restaurant, The Katharine.

Situated inside the iconic and historic Reynolds Building, the Cardinal Hotel has transformed the former tobacco headquarters into a uniquely designed hotel.

The hotel is also in a great spot, right in the heart of downtown Winston-Salem. If you’re looking for the best weekend getaways in NC for couples, you can’t go wrong staying at this beautiful place.

Duke Mansion (Charlotte)

The 100-year-old Duke Mansion is one of the most romantic getaways in Charlotte NC is an excellent option. Enjoy a bottle of wine while looking at the four-and-a-half acres of beautiful gardens for one of the most romantic getaways.

Step into one of their 60 lovely rooms (or the Penthouse!) and remind yourself that before and after your days out in Charlotte, you’ll need a place like this.

Read More: The Best Day Trips from Charlotte

The Dunhill (Charlotte)

A double room at The Dunhill Hotel in uptown charlotte

Stay in the historic Dunhill Hotel in uptown Charlotte, and enjoy lovely views of the city.

Charlotte’s only historic boutique hotel is a charming place to stay in the heart of Uptown. Its historic exterior and vintage vibe mix with modern amenities in one of the South’s most forward-thinking cities.

The Durham Hotel (Durham)

A fancy lobby at the Durham Hotel, creating a romantic atmosphere in North Carolina.

The Durham Hotel is one of our favorite romantic getaways in our home city. With a huge focus on “local” throughout the hotel, we know a night (or more) at The Durham is our best bet for a staycation.

We’ve dined and sipped cocktails on the rooftop many times, attended events, and enjoyed many nights at the Durham. With a cozy interior and spacious rooms, we also attest to this place being one of the most relaxing spots in North Carolina.

Read More: Things to Do in Durham

Graylyn Estate (Winston-Salem)

The exterior of the castle-esque, Graylyn Estate, in Winston Salem.

Graylyn Estate is arguably one of Winston-Salem’s most luxurious places to stay. The former home of one-time RJ Reynolds chairman and his wife features 85 unique guestrooms on a vast and beautiful 55-acre estate.

Each room is uniquely decorated, so one’s experience differs upon each visit.

If you’re seeking truly romantic getaways, book a night or more in the French cottage-inspired Mews. This is where you’ll find one of Graylyn’s five premium suites situated throughout the estate.

Read More: Things to Do in Winston-Salem

Pinehurst Resort (Pinehurst)

a whitewashed estate at Pinehurst Resort in North Carolina.

You can visit Pinehurst Resort without playing any golf, but you might want to do that, considering its prestige and immaculate greens.

Beyond golf, the Pinehurst Resort sits on 2,000 acres of beautiful land. Enjoy spa treatments, views from wide verandas, and luxurious rooms marked with Southern Charm when staying here.

Proximity Hotel (Greensboro)

The lobby of Proximity Hotel in Greensboro

Proximity Hotel is focused on sustainability but also on serving romantic getaways. At this hotel in Greensboro, we’ve enjoyed homey rooms, wonderful service from all the staff, and delicious creations courtesy of the on-site Print Works Bistro.

The food is so good there that we included Print Works in our guides to the best restaurants in Greensboro and our favorite breakfast restaurants in North Carolina. Because of all these reasons, we never have to leave Proximity while staying there.

Read More: Day Trips from Raleigh

The Siena Hotel (Chapel Hill)

A double room at the Siena Hotel just outside of downtown Chapel Hill.

Chapel Hill is more than a college town, with upscale hotels and great restaurants surrounding the historic campus of UNC. Check into The Siena Hotel just outside of downtown and enjoy a hot cup of coffee ala Italiana and dinner from Il Palio.

Beautiful decorations will surround you at the Siena, from Juliet balconies to Italian mosaics and beyond.

Two great pairings for romantic getaways are the galleries at the Ackland Art Museum and the Morehead Planetarium.

Read More: The Best Day Trips from Raleigh

The Umstead Hotel and Spa (Cary)

The ultimate relaxation experience awaits at The Umstead Hotel and Spa in Cary. Romantic getaways at The Umstead include meals at the on-site Five-Star restaurant, lakefront accommodations, and a spa menu.

No matter what you anticipate in luxury and romance, we think this place will blow away your expectations.

Read More: The Mayton in Cary

Washington Duke Inn (Durham)

The Washington Dune Inn & Golf Club near Durham, NC

The Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club is a tranquil retreat on the campus of Duke University and the edge of Duke Forest. Spacious lodging and award-winning food await your stay.

You don’t have to play but if you want to add a round to your romantic getaway, you can do so at the Washington Duke’s world-class golf course.

Romantic Getaways in North Carolina (Eastern)

The coast is home to some of the most romantic getaways in North Carolina. Here are some of our top picks!

Atlantis Lodge (Atlantic Beach)

A view from Atlantis Lodge, one of the best romantic getaways on the ocean

One of the corner rooms at Atlantis Lodge has long been one of our personal favorite romantic getaways, especially around our anniversary. It’s a big part of why we consider Atlantic Beach among the best beaches in North Carolina (even over the Outer Banks).

If you’re lucky enough to get in (book in advance), you’ll be treated to rooms with views of the water and the beach. Speaking of the beach, you’ll be able to enjoy it with complimentary chairs and an umbrella.

The Beaufort Hotel (Beaufort)

The resort-style Beaufort Hotel sits along the banks of Taylor’s Creek and offers beautiful views of the water. Any of their 133-room hotels will be the perfect place for your romantic getaway.

For a bonus side trip, hire a boat that’ll take you to the Rachel Carson Reserve across Taylor’s Creek. Here, you’ll see some of North Carolina’s wild horses up close, though from a safe-for-them distance.

Hotel Ballast (Wilmington)

the view out the window of Cape Fear River near Wilmington North Carolina.

A stay at Hotel Ballast ranks high among the best things to do in Wilmington, especially when it comes to romantic getaways. This hotel sits on the Cape Fear River, across from the Battleship North Carolina.

Its surroundings in Wilmington are impressive, but the inside will blow you away with amazing decor, more-than-comfortable rooms with a view, and top-notch amenities.

The on-site bar is ready for just about anything you want to drink, even kicking it up a notch if you’d like.

Hotel Balast’s rooms are cozy and quiet, even during busy times. We once stayed there when the UNC men’s basketball team was in town and also, during a massive military ball that was happening downstairs.

Either time, we barely noticed, except for all the tall and nicely dressed people we saw in the elevator and throughout the spacious lobby.

Read More: Amazing Beaches near Wilmington

Inner Banks Inn (Edenton)

Inner Banks Inn in historic Edenton city.

The Historic Inner Banks Inn is just a short stroll from Edenton‘s waterfront and its charming downtown. This wonderful getaway offers luxurious rooms and suites, all in a historic mansion.

It is also pet-friendly, which means you can bring your partner and your best friend along! The incredible restaurant and wonderful staff make the Inner Banks Inn one of our favorite hotels on the coast!

Jarvis at 220 (New Bern)

A white house on the streets of New Bern North Carolina.

The last of our romantic getaways in North Carolina sits in Historic New Bern. The Jarvis at 220 is the perfect place to stay in a truly wonderful small town.

From the Jarvis, you’ll have easy access to restaurants, beautiful churches, historic homes, and more things to do. It’s a huge part of why we consider New Bern among the best places to visit in Eastern North Carolina.

Which of These Romantic Getaways is Best?

From the beaches to romantic getaways in NC mountains, there are so many romantic getaways in North Carolina. So grab your sweetie, book a room, and start rekindling your passion.

We think these places are perfect all year long and hope you get to enjoy them all, eventually!

Above all, we hope this guide inspires you to slow down and reconnect with your partner!

Have you ever spent time in any of the romantic getaways in North Carolina that we shared? Is there one missing from our list?

Either way, let us know and tell us more!