Best Romantic NC Mountain Getaways
Love is in the air, and there’s no better way to celebrate with your loved one than with a romantic weekend getaway in the High Country. With its lush landscapes, vibrant nature, and crisp North Carolinian mountain air, a High Country escape could be just what you need to make a romantic weekend special. We’ve put together some of our favorite activities that’ll be sure to be dreamy and adventurous!
Grandfather Vineyard Winery
Right at the base of Grandfather Mountain sits Grandfather Vineyard, Watauga County’s first producing winery. Not only does Grandfather Vineyard boast award-winning wines and an elegant tasting room, you’ll also be greeted by a beautiful view of Watauga River. If you’re lucky, you might catch a wedding reception or even a proposal – the vineyard is no stranger to romance. Settling on one of the cozy armchairs might be one of our favorite spots to watch the sunset next to Grandfather Mountain.
For those true wine lovers out there, be sure to check out the Boone Area Wine Trail, a loop that will connect you to the High Country’s three wineries – Grandfather Vineyard, Banner Elk Winery & Inn, and the 1861 Farmhouse Restaurant & Winery. As the first stop, Grandfather Vineyard is the perfect starting point for a one-of-a-kind journey with a glass in hand through the Watauga River Valley.
Riverside Log Cabins
History buffs will be sure to love a getaway to Riverside Log Cabins, located on the historic Mystery Hill. As the only known natural gravitational anomaly in North Carolina – objects on the property take more force to move in one direction than another, meaning they can literally defy gravity – Mystery Hill is a popular attraction for families and couples alike looking to get some insight into the High Country’s Appalachian and Native American roots.
If history isn’t your thing, don’t worry! The Riverside cabins, while located on Mystery Hill, are just a few minutes’ drive away from some of the High Country’s other attractions, from downtown Boone and Blowing Rock, Grandfather Mountain, Linville Caverns, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and more. Or, if you’d rather lounge around the cabins, you’ll be treated to comfortable private suites with hot tubs and even basketball, horseshoes, and fishing on the property.
High Hampton Inn & Country Club
In the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains lies High Hampton Inn, which provides 1,400 acres of paradise for North Carolina residents and visitors alike. Located in southern Jackson County, the inn is a few hours’ drive from the High Country, but trust us – with scenic walking trails, a European spa, and golf and tennis courts, all surrounded by the beautiful mountainscape and Hampton Lake, you’ll have your hands full of exciting activities. You can even choose to stay in a detached cottage instead of the inn for a truly romantic and luxurious experience!
Dating all the way back to 1922, this historic resort will help you pull out all of the stops on your weekend getaway without having to lift a finger. Meals, afternoon tea, and nightly entertainment are all provided, so all you have to do is sit back and enjoy your stay.
The Mast Farm Inn
Last but certainly not least, there’s the Mast Farm Inn, the perfect option if you’re looking to spoil your significant other. Right on the edge of Pisgah National Forest, set in a renovated nineteenth century farmhouse, Mast Farm Inn is where country meets luxury. Each cottage, cabin, and farmhouse room is uniquely decorated, a complimentary two-course breakfast is provided, and the inn even boasts two farm-to-table restaurants. The inn is within close proximity to nearly all High Country attractions, for example, the Blue Ridge Heritage Trail, various ski resorts, and favorite landmarks like Grandfather Mountain.
Tucked high in the Appalachian Mountains, the Mast Farm Inn is truly an immersive High Country experience like no other. Its history – the inn is in the National Register of Historic Places, as well as the Historic Hotels of America list – as well as its unique High Country charm are sure to turn your getaway into a rustic, romantic, and unforgettable experience.
There’s nothing more romantic than the High Country, no matter what time of year it is. Go all in and treat your significant other (and yourself!) to a romantic country getaway you won’t soon forget.