Planning a romantic getaway should be an exciting experience. Whether you’re celebrating a honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply taking time to reconnect, the Smoky Mountains offer the perfect setting. With breathtaking views, cozy cabins, and plenty of activities, it’s easy to create lasting memories with your partner.
From relaxing evenings in a secluded cabin to exploring scenic trails together, the Smokies provide a mix of romance and adventure. A well-planned trip ensures that you both get the most out of your time together. Here’s a step-by-step guide to planning the perfect romantic getaway in the Smoky Mountains.
Choosing the Perfect Place to Stay
The right accommodations can make a big difference in your romantic getaway. For a truly intimate and peaceful experience, cabins are the best option. If you’re looking to book a romantic stay, Accommodations by Great Cabins in the Smokies provides stunning mountain views, cozy interiors, and luxury amenities designed for couples.
Many cabins in the Smokies feature hot tubs, fireplaces, and private decks, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. If you’re looking for a quiet and secluded stay, Wears Valley is a great location. It provides a peaceful escape while still being close to popular attractions. On the other hand, if you want to be near restaurants, entertainment, and shops, a cabin in Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg might be a better fit.
Booking in advance is important, especially during peak seasons. The Smoky Mountains are a popular destination, and romantic cabins can fill up quickly. If you’re looking for a more private experience, consider visiting in early spring or late fall when there are fewer crowds.
Planning Romantic Activities
A romantic getaway should include experiences that bring you closer together. The Smoky Mountains offer a wide range of activities, from scenic drives to outdoor adventures.
- Take a Scenic Drive – One of the easiest ways to enjoy the beauty of the Smokies is by taking a drive. Newfound Gap Road offers breathtaking mountain views, while Cades Cove Loop Road is a great place to spot wildlife. If you prefer a more secluded drive, Foothills Parkway provides stunning panoramic views.
- Go on a Sunset Hike – Watching the sunset from a mountaintop is a truly romantic experience. Kuwohi, the highest point in the Smokies, is a popular destination for couples. Andrews Bald is another great option, offering a relatively easy hike with stunning scenery.
- Book a Horseback Riding Tour – A guided horseback ride through the Smoky Mountains is a great way to explore nature together. Several local stables offer scenic rides through wooded trails and open fields.
- Enjoy a Wine or Moonshine Tasting – The Smoky Mountains are home to several wineries and distilleries. Tennessee Homemade Wines and Ole Smoky Distillery offer tastings where you can sample local flavors. It’s a great way to enjoy a relaxed afternoon together.
Finding the Best Romantic Dining Spots
A special trip calls for special meals. The Smoky Mountains offer a variety of romantic dining options, from elegant steakhouses to cozy local eateries.
- The Greenbrier Restaurant – Known for its warm atmosphere and fine dining, this restaurant is perfect for a romantic dinner. They specialize in steak, seafood, and craft cocktails.
- Chesapeake’s Seafood and Raw Bar – If you and your partner enjoy seafood, Chesapeake’s is a great choice. They offer fresh oysters, crab cakes, and a variety of seafood dishes in an intimate setting.
- The Appalachian – Located in Sevierville, The Appalachian focuses on locally inspired dishes. The menu features wood-fired meats and Southern-style cuisine, making it a great place for a cozy meal.
- Picnic in the Smokies – If you want a more intimate dining experience, consider packing a picnic. Metcalf Bottoms and Mynatt Park are both great spots to enjoy a quiet meal in nature. You can pick up fresh goods from The Apple Barn & Cider Mill for a classic Smoky Mountain picnic.
Relaxing and Unwinding Together
A romantic getaway should also include moments of relaxation. The Smoky Mountains provide plenty of ways to slow down and enjoy each other’s company.
- Book a Couples’ Spa Treatment – A spa day is a great way to unwind together. Several spas in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge offer couples’ massages, facials, and hot stone therapy.
- Spend a Cozy Evening in Your Cabin – Sometimes, the best moments happen when you’re simply enjoying each other’s company. Light a fire, pour a glass of wine, and watch a movie together in your cabin.
- Take a Romantic Carriage Ride – A horse-drawn carriage ride through the mountains is a peaceful and intimate experience. Some companies offer private rides, making it even more special.
- Soak in a Private Hot Tub – Many cabins come with outdoor hot tubs. Sitting together under the stars while soaking in warm water is the perfect way to end the day.
Capturing the Memories
A romantic getaway is something you’ll want to remember forever. Take the time to capture your special moments in meaningful ways.
- Book a Professional Photoshoot – The Smoky Mountains offer stunning backdrops for couples’ photos. Many photographers in the area specialize in capturing romantic moments in nature.
- Visit Morton Overlook – This scenic overlook is one of the best places to take sunset photos. It offers breathtaking views that make for beautiful pictures.
- Keep a Travel Journal – Writing down your favorite moments and experiences is a great way to preserve your memories.
- Buy a Special Souvenir – Whether it’s a handmade craft from the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community or a custom piece of jewelry, taking home a keepsake will remind you of your trip.
A romantic getaway to the Smoky Mountains is about more than just where you go—it’s about the memories you create together. Whether you’re exploring scenic trails, enjoying a candlelit dinner, or relaxing in a cozy cabin, the Smokies provide the perfect backdrop for love and connection.
Planning ahead will ensure that you make the most of your trip. Choose activities that reflect your personalities, take time to unwind together, and most importantly, enjoy every moment. The Smoky Mountains are a place where romance feels effortless, so all that’s left for you to do is experience it together.
