There is a wealth of romantic escapes available in North Carolina, but these resorts offer the chance for an especially unforgettable honeymoon.
Old Edwards Inn and Spa, Highlands
Old Edwards Inn and Spa sits in the scenic town of Highlands in the southern Appalachian mountains. Consistently voted as a top destination for romance and relaxation, it offers a fairy-tale feel that might trick you into thinking you’ve been transported into a magnificent 18th-century European mansion. Opulent throughout, welcome champagne is offered upon arrival, while the lavish rooms feature canopy beds and impressive European decor. Book a suite and you’ll have a working fireplace as well as a private balcony for soaking in views of the charming Main Street. Bathrooms are luxurious too, with heated floors, an inviting Jacuzzi tub and plush towels hung on warmers. The hotel also boasts an award-winning spa, that includes a beauty salon, Jacuzzi, sauna and boutique along with a menu of treatments, including a couples’ massage.
The Sanderling Resort, Kitty Hawk
The Sanderling Resort in North Carolina’s Outer Banks is an ideal destination for honeymooners who want to enjoy the natural beauty of the beach along with a variety of activities and a beautiful spa. It sits on 13 acres that are almost totally encircled by the Atlantic and the Currituck Sound and offers the chance to enjoy a round or two of golf, surf, kayak or paddleboard. The Spa features a menu with a variety of treatments, massage, yoga, acupuncture and an adults-only tranquility pool. Choose a room in the North Inn, the South Building and Beach House, or stay in one of custom vacation homes that allow you to access all resort amenities on site. The resort also hosts a restaurant onsite, Kimball’s Kitchen, which serves steak, seafood and offers a raw bar, as well as dramatic views of the sound.
Blockade Runner Beach Resort, Wrightsville Beach
Don’t let Blockade Runner Beach Resort’s simple exterior fool you. It has a fantastic oceanfront location that means falling asleep to the peaceful sounds of the waves, and ocean views from nearly every angle as well as convenient access to all types of water-related sports. If relaxation is what you’re after, take advantage of the umbrellas and sun loungers for a stress-free day at the beach and then come back and soak in the fabulous spa tub. Guests can also unwind with a drink at one of the property’s several bars, a beach bar, poolside bar and a bar/lounge. The breakfast buffet is also a highlight for many, though you’ll find multiple eateries and shops just a short walk away.
Westglow Resort and Spa, Blowing Rock
The Westglow Resort & Spa is a historic upscale property set across 42 acres, surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains. Housed within a restored Greek Revival Mansion, you’ll have your choice of a variety of accommodations, including lodges, guest rooms and suites. The highlight is Rowland’s, its popular fine-dining restaurant with an extensive wine list that includes rare North Carolina selections. The spa also offers a long list of services, including body treatments, facials, salon services and acupuncture treatment as well as a heated indoor pool, dry sauna and whirlpool. The fitness and wellness center offers yoga classes and morning walks.
The Carolina at Pinehurst Resort, Pinehurst
The Carolina at Pinehurst Resort opened its doors on the first day of the 20th century and brings guests to a bygone era of opulence. Part of Pinehurst Resort, it’s known for its sweeping verandas, copper cupola, and impeccably landscaped gardens that come together to create an elegant, old-world charm. All rooms and suites boast marble bathrooms and beds with feather-top bedding, as well as modern amenities like Wi-Fi and LCD TVs. Guests also have access to all of the sprawling resort’s amenities, which include The Spa at Pinehurst and multiple restaurants, along with recreational activities like kayaking, fishing, walking tours and tennis.
The Omni Grove Park Inn, Asheville
One of the top luxury hotels in Asheville, Omni Grove Park Inn attracts guests with its lush surroundings and romantic feel. Constructed in 1913 with granite stones mined from its Sunset Mountain, it also offers awe-inspiring views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and downtown Asheville and is especially stunning in the fall, with a kaleidoscopic of autumn colors blanketing the landscape. The 43,000-square-foot spa offers a wide range of decadent treatments, and there are also a number of restaurants and bars right on the property for convenient dining and imbibing.
Castle on Silver Lake, Ocracoke Island
This unique venue for an unforgettable honeymoon is set within a grand historic Colonial American Mansion. The expansive, gabled rooms are ideal for lingering on a long, lazy morning. Book the Lighthouse Suite, which includes a private fourth-floor cupola, and you’ll get a wet bar as well as panoramic water views. The property also includes an outdoor pool and a pool house with a sauna and steam shower.
Sea Ranch Resort, Kill Devil Hills
Sea Ranch Resort is ideal for those who want to enjoy a host of onsite activities, including deck parties, fishing, live music and beach yoga. The indoor heated pool is open spring through fall, while the Beachside Bistro offers ocean views and outdoor dining during the warmer months of the year. Book a condo and you’ll have your own full-size kitchen for those days you don’t want to dine out.
