Whether you’re looking for a secluded cabin in the Blue Ridge Mountains, a cozy waterfront rental on Wrightsville Beach, or a sophisticated loft in the heart of Charlotte, North Carolina offers something exciting for everyone. Incredible North Carolina vacation rentals are abundant throughout the state, so you’ll easily find the perfect romantic hideaway for you and your sweetie to enjoy. Here are the eight most scenic weekend getaway destinations in North Carolina.
1. Asheville
Quaint mountain cabins are abundant throughout the stunning mountainous town of Asheville, and many feature in-room fireplaces and large jacuzzi tubs. After a romantic evening at your vacation rental, spend the day enjoying a scenic drive along Blue Ridge Parkway, and make frequent stops to get a close-up look of the waterfalls or walk hand-in-hand along one of the many scenic hiking trails. A trip to Asheville isn’t complete without a visit to Biltmore Estate, a real-life castle where you can enjoy a romantic carriage ride, go horseback riding, join a Segway tour, or spend the day relaxing at a spa. Attend a complimentary wine-tasting event, or enjoy a romantic candlelight meal at Antler Hill Village and Winery, located on-site. After dinner, head to French Broad Chocolate Lounge, which offers amazing chocolate truffles and a bevy of additional sweet treats to enjoy back at your romantic hideaway.
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2. Outer Banks
Secure a weekend getaway spot in the Outer Banks, so you and your sweetheart can begin your mornings watching the sun rise on the beach before heading to a quaint beachfront breakfast spot for an intimate morning meal for two. For homemade breads, salads, muffins, soups, and pastries, head to Cafe Lachine. Stop by Front Porch Cafe for a traditional American breakfast and a wide assortment of fresh-baked goods. After a great meal, head back to the shore to enjoy a romantic stroll.
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3. Raleigh
Raleigh is a thriving mid-sized city, but it’s also filled with nature and a great location for rekindling some romance with your partner. Head to the beautiful Durant Nature Preserve for a bit of sightseeing, then enjoy a relaxing canoe ride on the lake while gazing at the amazing scenery. For a bit more action, go downtown to the North Carolina Museum of Art, and walk hand-in-hand through the massive museum to view the numerous paintings, sculptures, and art installations. Before leaving downtown, enjoy a scrumptious sweet treat with your sweetheart at Escazu Artisan Chocolates. You can also head to Hinnant Family Vineyards and Winery or Chatham Hill Winery to taste some award-winning wines, and don’t forget to grab a bottle to enjoy back at your vacation rental.
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4. Charlotte
Charlotte is a thriving city with plenty of things for couples to do, making it the perfect spot for a quick weekend getaway. Contact Southern Breezes Carriages to schedule a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride for two through Charlotte’s historic Fourth Ward district. Be sure to schedule an evening ride if you want to enjoy the city’s beautiful lights. Head to the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center to enjoy a Broadway play, musical, opera, or ballet performance, or spend time exploring mid-20th-century pieces at the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art. Reedy Creek Nature Center and Preserve is the perfect spot for a romantic picnic, and it also features more than 10 miles of scenic walking trails. Before heading back to your romantic hideaway, enjoy dinner at Fig Tree Restaurant, a French/Italian restaurant where you can dine near a fireplace or directly beneath the stars.
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5. Wilmington
Wilmington is a great destination for beach-lovers. This town offers quick access to Topsail Beach and Masonboro Island Reserve, so you can spend an entire day enjoying the surf, playing in the sand, or cuddling on a blanket near the shore. You can also enjoy a romantic sunset tour on the Cape Fear River by signing up for a ride on the Captain JN Maffitt. The river’s calming waters and gorgeous scenery are sure to put you and your sweetie in a romantic mood. Wilmington’s Riverwalk is a popular destination for couples. As you walk hand-in-hand along the Riverwalk, stop to listen to one of the live bands. When you get hungry, go to Osteria Cicchetti or The George on the Riverwalk for a delicious meal.
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6. Wrightsville Beach
Beachfront rentals are abundant in Wrightsville and put you right in the heart of the action. Spend your mornings enjoying the beautiful sunrise while walking on the beach, or enjoy it from the balcony of your romantic hideaway. After breakfast, walk over to Wrightsville Beach Jet Ski Rentals to rent a jet ski for two. Dining options are plentiful, and Wrightsville Beach offers everything from beachfront cafes to high-end restaurants. To enjoy spectacular views of the water as you dine, head to Oceanic, South Beach Grill, or Bluewater Waterfront Grill.
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7. Lake Norman
If you’re looking to spend a relaxing romantic weekend in a lakefront cabin tucked away in the woods, Lake Norman is the perfect destination. Contact Lake Norman’s Queens Landing to schedule a private sightseeing ride of the lake or dinner cruise for you and your sweetheart. If you want a bit of excitement with your meal, head to Charlotte Murder Mystery Company to enjoy a murder mystery dinner and dancing. For a fun afternoon of wine tasting or to create your own wine blend to enjoy over a romantic dinner, head to Shelton Vineyards. Sign up for a romantic horseback ride for two with Latta Plantation, or take a trip to the spa. Ahlara International Day Spa and Boutique and Stonehaven Massage and Spa offer couple’s massages and a host of additional spa treatments guaranteed to help you and your partner unwind.
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8. Greensboro
Greensboro is a beautiful mid-sized city that’s filled with nature, making it the perfect spot for couples who enjoy the outdoors. Take a romantic stroll through Country Park or Guilford Courthouse National Military Park, both of which feature tall, lush trees that change into a rainbow of different colors during the fall months. Then, enjoy an afternoon couple’s massage at Hand and Stone Massage and Facial Spa, and head over to Boston’s House of Jazz in downtown Greensboro for a night of live entertainment and dancing. For a romantic meal for two, check out LaRue or Print Works Bistro for a French-inspired meal. Be sure to grab a sweet, decadent dessert to take back to your vacation rental.
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