North Carolina mountains are a beautiful area with beautiful towns and a lot of nature offers various kinds of tourism and that is why it is a good place for couples. Think hiking and exploration for the two of you, or think bed and breakfast and comfort or two exploring the cultures and histories of the region, there is something for every couple in the NC mountains. To top it all off, you do not have to dig deep into your wallet, pocket, or purse to plan for a memorable tour. Staying in cabins and hotels, here are 12 great and cheap romantic getaways in NC mountains for couples which will be truly heart-warming and won’t cost lots of money.
Cheap Romantic Getaways in NC Mountains
1. Asheville
Why Visit: This city is home to a vibrant art scene, historical buildings, and beautiful mountains that give breathtaking views. Visit the River Arts District which holds numerous studios operated by local artists located in former warehouses. Do not forget to visit Biltmore Estate; America’s largest house surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens and a vineyard where wine tasting is also offered. There are also scenic drives and hiking trails along the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway for those who love nature.
Cheap Stay: The Cedar Crest Inn will provide you with Victorian-style accommodation near downtown Asheville at affordable prices.
2. Boone
Why Visit: Boone is a quaint town that boasts a wide array of outdoor recreational facilities as well as its rich Appalachian heritage. Drive to Grandfather Mountain located nearby which is known for its mile-high swinging bridge as well as great views from the top of the mountain. Charming Daniel Boone Native Gardens presents native flora and fauna.
Cheap Stay: The Lovill House Inn has small rooms within an old building suitable for lovers looking for a romantic retreat on a tight budget.
3. Bryson City
Why Visit: Bryson City is located adjacent to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and provides a remarkable fusion of outdoor activities and small-town living. You could ride the scenic Great Smoky Mountains Railroad through Nantahala Gorge or visit other waterfalls such as Deep Creek and Juneywhank Falls.
Cheap Stay: With kitchenettes, affordable suites are provided at The Calhoun House Inn & Suites which are ideal for couples on a budget who want to enjoy their stay in Bryson City.
4. Blowing Rock
Why Visit: Blowing Rock is a picturesque village where one can find cool mountain breezes and natural beauty that is breathtaking. Why not visit the eponymous Blowing Rock, an iconic cliff that looks out over the Blue Ridge Mountains? Alternatively, there are charming shops and galleries downtown, or nearby Moses H. Cone Memorial Park has trails to hike.
Cheap Stay: Blowing Rock Inn offers comfortable accommodation at reasonable prices, making it perfect for romantic getaways.
5. Hot Springs
Why Visit: Natural hot mineral springs make Hot Springs famous for relaxation and rejuvenation. Enjoy your time while soaking in therapeutic waters at Hot Springs Resort & Spa or walk part of the Appalachian Trail close by to have spectacular panoramic views of mountains.
Cheap Stay: It has affordable room prices and is near both the hike trail and the town and these make it suitable for couples.
Read More: Weekend Getaways in NC
6. Banner Elk
Why Visit: Talking about Banner Elk, is a place where people are active in recreation all year round; during winter it is enjoyable to go skiing and snowboarding, and during the summer, you can go trekking and deep sea fishing. You could go for a drive to such canopy-establishing areas as the Elk River Falls area where you can get some good shots or shopping and eat in the town of Banner Elk.
Cheap Stay: A cheap but comfortable and conveniently located hotel for tourists, which could be very useful for those nights when one just wants to get some sleep before hiking in the mountains the next day is the Best Western Mountain Lodge.
7. Highlands
Why Visit: Highlands has some of the most attractive waterfalls, costly stores, and gardens in the region. Visit Dry Falls and Bridal Veil Falls which are located a little from the road and to get there one has to hike a little. Take the time to go for a stroll in the business district and patronize small shops that exist in the form of boutiques and art galleries.
Cheap Stay: This hotel is rather inexpensive and situated near all the downtown Highland amenities, thus it will preferably suit shoppers and other travellers who do not need to go far.
8. Cherokee
Why Visit: The Cherokee is a large tribe in the Native American context and there is the Cherokee Indian Museum as well as the Oconaluftee Indian Village where one could see Cherokee people weaving baskets. Cherokee has a neighbouring Great Smoky Mountains National Park where you can hike, wildlife watching and take drives.
Cheap Stay: Restaurant: All of the above hotels have restaurants that provide quality and cheap meals within or just outside Cherokee’s main area.
9. Waynesville
Why Visit: Waynesville is an awesome mountain town and the arts are up and coming and you are only 30 minutes from the Smokies. This area has a historic downtown where one can visit art galleries antique shops and also local restaurants. Take auto sanding in Blue Ridge Parkway or hike in the wonderful area of Cataloochee Valley for wildlife viewing.
Cheap Stay: This bed & breakfast house is in Waynesville; it offers hotel-like characteristic bedrooms at sensation rates for the romantic Love Lane trip.
10. Maggie Valley
Why Visit: Indeed, there is natural scenery particularly mountain scenes, and lovely activities depicted in the movie, especially in the shooting location of Maggie Valley. Either you may go to Wheels Through Time Motorcycle Museum or if you want to ski and snowboard in winter then there is Cataloochee Ski Area.
Cheap Stay: It has cheap accommodation with a creekside view, which every couple that visits Maggie Valley would love to own, in Jonathan Creek Inn & Villas.
11. Franklin
Why Visit: Franklin is a gem mining town!!! Nature enthusiasts can mine in for rubies, sapphires, and any other precious stone for that matter right from the dust. Learn about the mining history at the Ruby City Gem Museum or drive to the falls such as the much-recommended Bridal Veil Falls.
Cheap Stay: They have put up rational charges to their customers and cozy rooms; thus, if you are looking forward to having an enjoyable stay in Franklin or the nearby Interesting attractions, the Carolina Motel is the ideal place to check-in.
Read More: Best Places To Visit in September
12. Lake Lure
Why Visit: The main attraction of Lake Lure is the lake which you can take a boat ride across go fishing in or even sunbathe and swim by the lake in the embrace of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Visit the Chimney Rock State Park for great lakes and Mt view or walk through the Lake Lure Flowering Bridge which is a flowering center redecorated from an old highway bridge.
Cheap Stay: The 1927 Lake Lure Inn & Spa: These are low-cost hotels offering rich history, good for couples willing to spend time in Lake Lure, and the entertaining surroundings.
Tips for a Budget-Friendly Getaway
- Off-Season Travel: Try to go during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) when there are fewer people and the prices are lower.
- Make Reservations Early: Make reservations for hotels, motels, and attractions in advance as it is cheaper.
- Bringing Along a Picnic Basket: Save on dining by packing breakfast, lunch, or dinner for your adventure to be consumed outdoors.
- Discover Free Attractions: A lot of hiking trails, parks, and scenic viewpoints can be found at no cost around NC mountains offering options that are pocket-friendly for couples.
Enjoy your romantic yet affordable trip to the beautiful North Carolina Mountains.
