As the weather cools off and we spend more time inside, romance seems to fill the air. Fall inspires warm, fuzzy feelings with the changing of the leaves and the crisp, cool air. Georgia has a lot to offer if you are in the mood for love. From the coast to the mountains, Georgia is a picturesque state with a diverse array of romantic destinations. Here are four of the most romantic Georgia getaways for you and your sweetheart to consider when planning your next trip out of town.
Barnsley Resort
Just 60 miles north of Atlanta, Barnsley Resort and Gardens is a historical estate and village with a romantic past. The original structure that stood on the site was built in the 1840s by Godford Barnsley for his wife (and the love of his life) Julia. This historic estate was styled as an Italianate villa with inclusions of gothic revival architectural features.
After its construction, the Civil War, tornadoes and time took their toll on the property. But, it was purchased by a German business owner from a royal Bavarian family, Prince Hubertus Fugger, in 1988. He restored the estate and expanded the Historic Gardens to give birth to the modern version of the resort and gardens that visitors enjoy today.
In 2018 the resort was expanded to include the 55-room Inn and Georgian Hall, but there are also many cottages across the property for guests, including multi-bedroom options that are part of the Estate Cottages development located in a pedestrian-friendly village. Renowned for their beauty, the property and gardens feature more than 200 varieties of roses.
Activities available on-premise include horseback riding, fly fishing, canoeing and even seasonal hunting from October through March at the resort’s hunting plantation. There are several dining options, bars, a spa and a museum at the resort – easy ways to get close to your significant other during your visit.
Address: 597 Barnsley Gardens Rd. NW, Adairsville, GA 30103
Château Élan Winery & Resort
If you like to enjoy a nice glass of wine in the evening, or at any time, then Château Élan in Braselton may be the perfect romantic getaway for you. It’s a luxury resort and winery with a panoramic view of the Georgia foothills. It was also Georgia’s first winery to establish in the region after Prohibition.
Château Élan is fashioned after a sixteenth-century château in France’s Loire Valley. As with many romantic destinations, Château Élan has romantic beginnings. It was conceived by Donald and Nancy Panoz, who spent time in Georgia in 1969 while looking for a place to establish their company. After founding their corporation in nearby Gainesville, they enjoyed sampling local muscadine wines and decided to throw their hat in the ring of grape cultivation. The rest is history, and the resort has been thriving since 1981.
It’s an excellent spot for a getaway, with luxurious rooms throughout the grounds and plenty of options for keeping busy, if that’s your desire. Beyond the inn, the estate includes a health spa, eight restaurants and a wine market. There are also four golf courses and a tennis center on-site.
Of course, the main attraction is sampling wines produced on-site in the vineyards which range from European varietals to local specialties like muscadine. You’ll find a wide selection of blush wines, reds and whites, and even port and sherry. Château Élan is a unique and special destination where you are treated with Southern charm while surrounded by European-esque sensibilities. It’s this magic combination that makes it a premier destination for romance in Georgia.
Address: 100 Rue Charlemagne Dr., Braselton, GA 30517
Jekyll Island Club Resort
On an island with roots dating back over 3,000 years, Jekyll Island Club Resort is a historic vacation destination dating back to the early 18th century. Its centuries of history add to the charm and romance of this resort. Originally a very exclusive club in the 1900s, its members included the likes of J.P. Morgan, Joseph Pultizer, William K. Vanderbilt and William Rockefeller – some of the wealthiest Americans of the time. It is now a National Historic Landmark, and the club is open to all in its current form as a luxury resort with a storied past.
The resort features four different settings for accommodations, with 157 guest rooms and luxury suites. There are also four dining options – the Grand Dining Room, The Bar, The Pantry and The Pool House – aptly named for their settings and offerings. Certain dishes available are just as historic as the resort itself, and you should ask for recommendations while visiting.
For romantic outings, there are many delightful options available like horseback riding on the beach or playing croquet on the resort grounds. Additionally, the island itself features miles of bike paths and ample opportunities for ocean activities like charter fishing, swimming and water sports. Once you visit this resort, you’ll be transported to a time of luxury in the Golden Age of America, without sacrificing modern sensibilities. It’s a trip to make any traveler swoon.
Address: 371 Riverview Dr., Jekyll Island, GA 31527
Glamping in North Georgia
For the couple who would like to get away from it all by visiting a new place and reconnecting with nature, glamping in North Georgia is the perfect choice. Soon, the leaves will be turning beautiful shades throughout Georgia. But the state’s northern region in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains is the best place to take in the seasonal sights.
As the leaves fall, expansive views of Georgia’s valleys open up, continuing the trajectory of a cozy season ideal for camping, or glamping – a step-up from traditional camping in terms of amenities and structure. You won’t need a tent for many options in North Georgia, especially near the Tennessee border where many cabins are available to rent for a perfect getaway in the woods.
One option in Flintstone is a secluded forest treehouse located at the junction of the Cumberland Plateau and the southern Appalachian Mountains. The luxury treehouse features a queen-size bed, Wi-Fi and a fire pit, making it the perfect place to get cozy without being completely off-the-grid.
At the base of Lookout Mountain, there are miles of trails available right outside to explore natural springs and foothill rock formations aplenty. Other choices for glamping in the area include eco-cabins in the Chattahoochee Forest, yurt rentals in state parks and even restored Airstream rentals located on beautiful rustic properties. If you and your love are looking for a getaway with a touch of class that’s close to nature, then glamping in North Georgia is the perfect pick.
Address: various locations throughout North Georgia.
Whether you want to get away for pampering at a spa, swim in the ocean, play golf or just spend your days hiking through the forest, there are romantic Georgia getaways for every type of couple. Consider these options when planning your next trip exploring all Georgia has to offer, and don’t forget to bring your partner for a romantic time in the most beautiful places in the state. There is truly something for everyone in Georgia.
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