Southeast vacations

From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Atlantic Coast, Georgia has plenty of options for an idyllic lovers’ getaway. Grab your sweetheart for a relaxing escape filled with long strolls on expansive beaches, luxurious spa treatments and horse-drawn carriage rides. You can also make memories with exciting outdoor activities such as zip lining, horseback riding, waterfall hikes and dolphin tours. After laughing together over a romantic dinner, couples can choose from accommodations that range from log cabins to historic estates. There’s something for everyone on these top romantic getaways in Georgia.

(Note: Some of the following activities, attractions and locations may be affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. New policies may be in place, including capacity restrictions, reservation requirements or mask mandates. Check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Department of State and local tourism boards before traveling.)

The views from Lookout Mountain are unmatched, making it a lovely place to set up a picnic for two. The one-of-a-kind Rock City Gardens atop the mountain charms visitors with its Enchanted Trail, as well as a lookout point called Lover’s Leap where you can supposedly see seven different states. Another way to experience Lookout Mountain is via the Incline Railway, one of the world’s steepest passenger railways, which starts just over the state border in Chattanooga, Tennessee. About 15 miles southwest of the mountain sits Georgia’s Cloudland Canyon State Park, where you can hike to two waterfalls or spend a night glamping together.

For an overnight stay on Lookout Mountain itself, consider the Chanticleer Inn Bed and Breakfast. Most rooms come with a fireplace and private patio; some even have a whirlpool tub. Stroll the 2-acre property’s lush gardens, try your hand at bocce ball, take a dip in the pool or enjoy a leisurely homemade breakfast. Recent lodgers loved this bed-and-breakfast’s peaceful atmosphere and hospitable owners.

Explore charming Clarkesville, where you and your sweetie can go horseback riding at sunset, meet adorable alpacas on a farm tour, see great live music or enjoy wine tasting in beautiful vineyards. The scenic U.S. Route 441, known as Heritage Highway, passes through the city’s downtown, which has plenty of options for date night with its theater, restaurants, museums and quaint shops. You’ll find Clarkesville about 55 miles north of Athens.

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