Tucked away in the beautiful, richly historic state of Georgia are some of the nation’s most romantic and peaceful retreats for couples. Whether you prefer a cabin in the mountains, a B&B; on the Chattahoochee River, or an antebellum mansion full of mystery, Georgia has the right weekend vacation spot for any taste. Imagine the perfumed scent of full blooming magnolia trees, the taste of sweet tea and soul food, and abounding southern hospitality, and you will begin to have a sense of what a weekend in Georgia is like.
In the west central portion of the state, approximately one hour south of Atlanta, you will find the Gates House Bed and Breakfast in Columbus, Georgia. Built in 1873, the Gates House is decorated in Victorian fashion, with crystal chandeliers, silk bedspreads, and antique furniture. When guests arrive on Broad Street, located within walking distance of the famous Chattahoochee Riverwalk along the Chattahoochee River, they are greeted as family. Names are remembered upon second visits, as well as special personal preferences. Each room is equipped with all of the modern conveniences, including a mini refrigerator, a TV, alarm clock, broadband cable modems, and a Jacuzzi whirlpool tub. Guests are offered free refreshments in the dining area at all times, and breakfast consists of homemade breads, fresh fruit, bacon, sausage, eggs, and just about anything you can dream up that could satisfy your deepest cravings. The tiny but lavish inn is located within walking distance of the Springer Opera House (the state theatre of Georgia renowned for its famous visitors and haunted corridors), the RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, as well as several historical homes. For more information, you can visit their website at www.gateshouse.com.
Located just north of Columbus is Harris County, a hideaway featuring the famous Callaway Gardens and Pine Mountain. If you can envision a peaceful retreat nestled among rolling mountains surrounded by Georgia wildlife and amazing rustic scenery, you may be able to get a feel for Harris County all on your own. Dotted throughout the county are quaint antique shops, ice cream parlors, historical sites, and nature trails. Come and visit at Christmas time and you can enjoy Fantasy in Lights at Callaway Gardens, which features the main attraction of a night time ride through a forest that is drenched with Christmas lights. In the spring and summer, you can visit the small beach also located within Callaway. All year round, you can enhance your experience with a stay in one of the cabins located within the county, many of which have Jacuzzi tubs and are decorated with charming antiques and country furnishings. Also nearby are F.D.R. State Park, The Little White House, and Lake Harding. For more information, you can visit www.callwaygardens.com, or www.pinemountain.org.
In Macon, Georgia, in the central part of the state, you can step back in time and stay in an antebellum mansion that is beautifully landscaped and decorated in a pre-Civil War Southern fashion. The 1842 Inn is a white, columned mansion that was originally built for a former mayor of the town. Special features include designer bedrooms and the option of having your complimentary breakfast in your room, in the parlor, or even in the gardens. In true old Southern style, the inn features four public parlors (one that contains a grand piano), a library, a wraparound veranda, a hospitality hour each evening (with hor d’ oeuvres and a cash bar), and even an overnight shoeshine upon request. Romance abounds with elegant features like the tall, fragrant magnolias, the wrought iron garden furniture, silver candelabras, warm fireplaces, and magnificent gardens. For more information, visit www.1842inn.com.
Off the sunny coast of Georgia lies the tiny but famous St. Simons Island. Covered with boutiques and unique shopping opportunities and by being the home of golden sandy beaches, this island can quickly become a romantic haven. With views of stately lighthouses, long piers, and the sparkling Atlantic, almost any bed and breakfast or inn on the island is sure to please. Visitors can play golf, fish, swim, shop till they drop, or just relax in their rooms. The ocean breezes flow year round through the island’s famous moss covered oaks, in part contributing to why St. Simons has been the inspirational retreat for many authors and artists. During your visit, you can take part in free art classes, experience exhilarating nature walks, join weekly dance classes as a couple, or visit the breathtaking Avenue of Oaks. For more information, you can visit www.explorestsimonsisland.com.
Whether you’re an adventurous couple who love mountain climbing and exciting night life, or if you both enjoy solitude and gorgeous scenery, Georgia has a destination for you. The weather allows for enjoyment during all twelve months, so don’t wait until summer every year to make plans for an amazing getaway. Any time is the right time to visit Georgia.
