If your idea of a romantic getaway involves nature, charming water views, and plenty of privacy, consider taking a trip to Lenoir, North Carolina. There, you’ll find Brown Mountain Beach Resort, a cozy escape tucked away on Wilson’s Creek, an hour and a half northwest of Charlotte.
The resort is known as a destination wedding location — just look at its Instagram profile for romantic snaps of newlyweds who chose to say “I do” at the venue — and even if you’re not walking down the aisle, the amorous vibes can be created for Valentine’s Day vacationers too. Start by booking your room at the retreat. Brown Mountain Beach Resort is home to multiple wooden cottages that look as if they were plucked straight from a storybook. Depending on the property, amenities can include an outdoor hot tub, a full kitchen, river views, and entertainment (such as a pool table or projector to watch romantic movies together).
While the cottages are charming enough, the resort’s most unique accommodations are found in the yurts. These aren’t small, humble tents — Brown Mountain Beach Resort’s yurts are spacious, luxurious, and fully equipped. Each yurt offers stunning views of the water, along with its own private hot tub. There are also kitchenettes and gas grills included in each rental, in case you want to wow your sweetheart with a home-cooked Valentine’s Day dinner.
What to do at the resort
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Brown Mountain Beach Resort is the kind of place you slip into for a couple of days and never want to leave, with its serene views of the flowing creek, cozy rooms perfect for cuddling with your partner, and comforting distance from everyday life (you won’t have cell phone service while at the resort grounds, and internet is only available at the Rock Pavilion and main deck areas). But if you hope to inject some fun and adventure into your Valentine’s Day trip, you’ll find plenty to do in the area surrounding the resort.
First, know that while February may be too cold for water sports on Wilson’s Creek, you and your significant other can still explore the soothing North Carolina nature together. Brown Mountain Beach Resort is conveniently located right next to Pisgah National Forest, and you and your partner can rent a UTV vehicle from the resort to take into the woods. Alternatively, bike or walk into the forest, following the hiking trails to Pisgah’s numerous waterfalls and heavenly mountaintop scenery.
Brown Mountain Beach Resort has its own restaurant and cafe (with made-to-order pizzas that are delivered to your yurt or cottage), but for more food and entertainment options, drive 20 minutes away to Downtown Lenoir. Order a craft beer at Liquid Roots Brewing, or grab some fresh bread and dessert at Joan’s Sourdough Bread. For a fine dining experience, drive south to Vintage House Restaurant, located in Hickory.
Preparing for your trip
A getaway to Brown Mountain Beach Resort will make for a unique and memorable Valentine’s Day, but remember that the grounds are often reserved for wedding parties and other events. Therefore, you’ll want to book your property early and be flexible when choosing dates. Entire weekends are occasionally unavailable, but the good news is that weekday travelers can sometimes nab a special weekday discount, along with a “Winter Getaway” discount (check the resort’s website for up-to-date rates and availability).
If children or pets will be joining you during your relaxing Valentine’s Day vacation, you’re in luck. Brown Mountain Beach Resort is kid-friendly and even provides babysitting services for when you and your significant other need a little alone time. Animal friends are also allowed in the cottages and yurts, as long as you pay a fee for each pet.
Keep in mind that the resort is situated away from the main town areas, so you may want to stock up on food in advance if you plan to cook during your stay. Large grocery stores and supermarkets can be found in central Lenoir and Morganton.
