No need for couples to head off to Paris or Venice, the United States offers many noteworthy romantic getaways full of true ‘Americana’ experiences and Insta-worthy scenery. An easy drive from Charlotte, North Carolina, Statesville might just be the South’s best kept secret. Sparkling with Southern charm, the town of Statesville offers a quiet, comfortable luxury that allows couples to relax and reconnect with nature and each other. 

Those traveling to the midland mountain region may not associate the area with luxurious, romantic experiences; however, couples traveling to area can enjoy unique wineries and distilleries, take scenic hot air balloon rides, glamp or rent cabins on beautiful Lake Norman, hike pristine forests and chase waterfalls by horseback, and of course, grab bourbon and Carolina barbecue at one of their many boutique restaurants. 

Building the perfect itinerary for romance is easy whether you and your significant other are hoping for a nature filled adventure, or a history driven bourbon tasting with charming views of farm hills. For a truly Statesville experience, add these couples friendly experiences to your travel itinerary.

Stay and play at Lake Norman State Park

Offering parking for RV or trailers, cabins, and campsites, Lake Norman provides the perfect amount of seclusion, while still being a short drive from Statesville’s many amenities. Disconnect from city life with a campfire, bottle of wine and stargazing; symphonies of frogs and wildlife lulling you to bed. For those wanting more privacy, and a little less nature, fantastic rental properties and private glamping yurts can also be found throughout the region. 

Dance in the sunset with Big Oh! Balloons

A common bucket list item for many couples, hot air balloons have been gracing North Carolina skies since 1969. The region has become famous for hosting the Carolina BalloonFest, rivaling well known events in other regions like Albuquerque and Reno. Couples will experience a highly personalized adventure with a private balloon ride over the brushy mountainscape designed especially for the couple. For those looking to take their relationship to the next level, the team at Big Oh! Balloons will help you plan that perfect engagement moment, or even marry you amongst the clouds. 

Dive into American history, and an award-winning glass of bourbon at Southern Distilling Company

Infamously referred to as the “liquor capital of the world” before American prohibition, Statesville’s own Southern Distilling Company is proud to continue the region’s artisan whiskey tradition and regenerative agricultural partnerships.

Couples can book private tours of the distillation facility, followed by private tastings in their elegant tasting barn packed with local antiques, classic cars and utilitarian luxury design features.

For those who prefer wine over spirits, or those who simply enjoy a “spirited” vacation itinerary, couples can also plan to stop by Davesté Vineyards for private wine tastings or just a bottle of Rkatsiteli and picturesque views of the working vineyard. 

Take a guided trail ride with your love at the town of Love Valley

Tucked away in the foothills, Love Valley is a whimsically preserved, authentic western settlement with charming shops and access to over 2,000 acres of privately owned forested property perfect for an adventurous day-date. Whether you and your love are seasoned riders who prefer a rustic trail ride, or you are that eco-curious city couple looking for a guided buggy ride, Love Valley provides 24 hour a day, 7 day a week opportunities. 

Experience true Southern hospitality at one of the region’s many restaurants

You may want to leave the sport coat at home in exchange for a pack of wet wipes so you and your love can try one of the many well known barbeque stops in the town of Statesville. Casual lunches and dinners can be ordered at favorites like Port-A-Pit BBQ and Randy’s BBQ. Try regional specialities like the light and spicy BBQ pork shoulder slathered in traditional eastern style vinegar and pepper BBQ sauce. For couples looking to have a relaxing date night, Downtown Statesville offers numerous locally owned restaurants like the Twisted Oak American Bar & Grill. 

Luxury traveling is not simply about opulence, but also exploration, imagination and comfort. Satesville, North Carolina fits the bill with its casual luxury, allowing you and your love to stay a while, enjoy a world-class bourbon or sweet tea, and be showered by kindness from locals eager to make you feel right at home.