In our busy modern lives, neglecting our most important relationships is easy. Work, kids, and other obligations often take priority over spending meaningful time with our significant other. Going on a romantic getaway provides the perfect opportunity to devote our full attention to each other. Stepping away from the distractions and stresses of everyday life allows us to focus completely on having fun. It also allows us to try new experiences and appreciate our partners.
A survey done in 2018 reported that 83% of couples feel happier and more satisfied in their relationship after a romantic trip together. The change of scenery, the novelty of new activities, and extended one-on-one time away from home help bring couples closer in a way that their usual routine does not. One such ideal destination is Gatlinburg. With its beautiful mountain setting and abundant attractions and amenities catering to couples, this charming small town offers a perfect ambiance for couples reconnecting on a romantic getaway.
Here are seven activities in Gatlinburg that will allow you to make lasting memories with your special someone.
1. Stay in a Cozy Cabin with a Hot Tub
Book a stay in a secluded log cabin outside town for the ultimate romantic getaway. Many amenities like hot tubs, fireplaces, and jetted tubs are perfect for couples. Relax on the porch swing, snuggled up with your partner soaking up the fresh mountain air and scenic views. Prepare intimate dinners together in the fully-equipped kitchen. Then cozy by the fireplace with a glass of wine before sinking into the luxurious king bed.
Waking up in a beautiful cabin surrounded by nature creates the perfect atmosphere to focus exclusively on each other. The privacy and homey amenities allow you to reconnect without distractions from the outside world. Treat yourselves to a dreamy escape by staying in one of the charming Gatlinburg cabins with a hot tub and all the other romantic trimmings.
2. Taste Local Wine and Moonshine
The Gatlinburg area has a surprising number of wineries and distilleries waiting to be explored by couples. Visit wineries like Sugarland Cellars and Mountain Valley Winery for educational wine tastings in a relaxing, romantic setting. Stroll through the vineyards and sample delicious wines like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Muscadine. Or sample uniquely flavored moonshine like salted caramel, apple pie, and peach at Ole Smoky Moonshine’s tasting room downtown.
Trying wines and moonshine together allows you to experience regional flavors and support local Gatlinburg businesses. The intimate tasting rooms also provide the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind, and enjoy each other’s company. Many wineries and distilleries have outdoor patio seating with mountain views ideal for sipping and conversing. So taste the fruits of Gatlinburg’s vineyards and distilleries on a one-of-a-kind couple’s outing.
3. Soak in a Couples Massage
Pamper yourselves with a rejuvenating couples massage at one of Gatlinburg’s premier spas. Choose from Swedish, hot stone, deep tissue, and other massage styles, then unwind side-by-side as your stresses and worries melt away. Couples massages allow you to relax in the same room, making for a bonding experience as you both emerge feeling refreshed and reconnected.
The tranquil mountain setting of Gatlinburg’s spas and the gentle sounds of nature enhance the experience. Many spas offer additional amenities like saunas, hot tubs, and mineral baths, perfect for couples to enjoy together before or after their massage. Treat yourselves to an hour or more of luxurious relaxation as your expert massage therapists soothe muscle tension and imbue a sense of peaceful well-being.
4. Stroll Through the Arts and Crafts Community
With over 100 shops and galleries, the 8-mile loop of Gatlinburg’s Arts and Crafts Community is perfect for couples to explore together. Browse crafts like woodcarvings, pottery, quilts, and more while admiring the mountain views. Watch artists demonstrate and explain the process behind glassblowing, painting, or sculpture-making that’s for sale.
The arts and crafts loop allows you to support local Smoky Mountain artists and take home a meaningful souvenir. Pop into the many quaint galleries displaying beautiful paintings and photographs of mountain vistas that will remind you of your special time in Gatlinburg. Trying your hand at crafts together is also a fun couple’s activity. So stroll hand-in-hand as you shop for arts, skills, and souvenirs you’ll treasure for years.
5. Take a Romantic Hot Air Balloon Ride
A hot air balloon ride offers a once-in-a-lifetime way to enjoy the Smokies’ beauty as you float gently over the treetops. You can also get a sunrise and sunset tour where you can cuddle up with your sweetie in the basket and witness a spectacular colorful sky. Gently drift over the mountain slopes and valleys, taking in views of the forests and Pigeon River that you can’t see anywhere else.
After an exhilarating yet serene hour floating in the clouds, toast with champagne while you reminisce about your special shared experience. The pilot will also present you with a flight certificate making it a memorable keepsake. A hot air balloon ride is a quintessential romantic activity allowing you to see the Smokies from a new perspective. This unique, intimate adventure will bring you and your loved one closer together.
6. Explore the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community
With over 100 shops and galleries, the 8-mile loop of Gatlinburg’s Arts and Crafts Community is perfect for couples to explore together. Browse crafts like woodcarvings, pottery, quilts, and more while admiring the mountain views. Watch artists demonstrate and explain the process behind glassblowing, painting, or sculpture-making that’s for sale.
The arts and crafts loop allows you to support local Smoky Mountain artists and take home a meaningful souvenir. Pop into the many quaint galleries displaying beautiful paintings and photographs of mountain vistas that will remind you of your special time in Gatlinburg. Trying your hand at crafts together is also a fun couple’s activity. So stroll hand-in-hand as you shop for arts, skills, and souvenirs you’ll treasure for years.
7. Visit the Observation Tower at Ober Gatlinburg
Take breathtaking 360-degree views of Smoky Mountain ridges and valleys from the 100-foot Observation Tower at Ober Gatlinburg. Get your heart racing together as you walk onto the glass floor for an unobstructed view. Gaze over the colorful fall foliage blanketing the slopes or the ski trails winding down the mountain. End your visit with a romantic stroll through the mountainside gardens to see rhododendrons, azaleas, and wildflowers.
The Observation Tower provides a unique vantage point to appreciate the sheer scale and beauty of the Smoky Mountains that you can’t get anywhere else. As you stand atop the tower taking in the panoramic views, you’ll feel a sense of awe and admiration for the natural world.
Conclusion
With its beautiful scenery, charming mountain town ambiance, and abundant attractions and activities catering to couples, Gatlinburg is the perfect place for reconnecting on a romantic getaway. The many options for sightseeing, hiking, enjoying the arts, relaxing at a spa, and staying in a cozy cabin ensure you’ll make lasting memories and reignite your romance. So take a break from the daily grind and plan an unforgettable couples vacation in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.