8 Unique Romantic Experiences in North Carolina

1 Kindred Spirit Mailbox

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What’s more romantic than starting your journey with a long handheld walk on the beach? With Kindred Spirit Mailbox sitting a solid half-hour away from the nearest public access, that’s exactly what you get. But the truly heartwarming part is once you reach the mailbox nestled among the dunes. Look inside for a notebook and pen, and spend some time with the hopes, dreams and thoughts of all the visitors before you. Then pen your own while sitting on one of the benches and watching the waves roll in. This extraordinary spot even inspired Nicholas Sparks’ novel “Every Breath.”

2 Gail's Room at The Swag

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With this luxurious second-floor room at The Swag, guests enjoy a private steam shower, sauna, fireplace and – the kicker – a private copper soaking tub on the balcony overlooking the Great Smoky Mountains. The resort also provides many ways to up your experience, such as wine tastings, lawn games or a packed gourmet picnic. A daily social hour on the front porch with hors d’oeuvres, breakfast buffets and farm-to-table dinners will round out your spectacular stay.

3 Treetop Soaking Cabana at Lakeview at Fontana

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Escape from it all as you lounge in a two-person soaking tub at Lakeview at Fontana, surrounded by views of the Great Smoky Mountains and Fontana Lake. The 90-minute session includes Dead Sea salt, candles and plush robes, but you can take the experience to the next level with the scented bath salts and champagne upgrade called “Cloud 9.” The inn also offers massages, a spa and yoga, so a stay here would certainly complete the heavenly experience.

4 A Stay at Treehouse Vineyards

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What do you get when you pair wine, a treehouse, a horse farm, live music and a charming pond? Romance, of course. The family-owned Treehouse Vineyards has three treehouses, two of which are available for overnight rentals and one, the Date Nite, available for hourly rentals for wine-sipping privacy too. Live music also plays most Friday and Saturday nights, with other events sprinkled throughout the year.

5 Terrace Dining at The Restaurant at Gideon Ridge Inn

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Is there any meal more romantic than dining al fresco? At The Restaurant at Gideon Ridge Inn, if you add in long range views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, a new seasonal menu every day and a commitment to small-batch producers, the answer is a resounding no. Start with options like escargot or beef tartare followed by a fresh salad and North Carolina duck, pork loin or wahoo, and finish with the dessert of the day for the perfect four-course experience.

6 Date Night at Aperture Cinema

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This cool, independent, nonprofit and much-loved art house theater hosts more than 4,000 screenings and events per year, all while serving beer and wine. Check out the theater’s calendar to see what movies pique your (love) interest. Pair this night out with a cozy dinner at Jeffrey Adams on Fourth or Willow’s Bistro and you’ve just planned an amazing date night.

7 Mountain View Rooms at The Esmeralda Inn

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Please note: The Esmeralda is closed for renovations through 2023.

For a romantic stay in this scenic mountain town – an easy task considering Dirty Dancing was filmed here – the Mountain View rooms at The Esmeralda Inn provide a front row seat to the beauty of Chimney Rock, Rocky Broad River and Hickory Nut Gorge. Each room includes access to the stunning outdoor stone Jacuzzi, also with these great views. Bonus points if you plan your trip for September when the annual Lake Lure Dance Festival takes place.

8 Dolphin Cruise in the Crystal Coast

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Get out on the water and take in the views with a dolphin watching tour that gets you up close and personal with these beautiful mammals. Crystal Coast Ecotours, Capt. Ron's Island Tours and Crystal Coast Lady Cruises all offer boat rides with a side of wildlife.