If the name “Dahlonega” brings to mind a dreamy, tucked-away retreat where time slows down and romance takes center stage, you’re on the right track. This charming North Georgia town is a storybook setting, with cozy cafés, intimate wine bars, and locally owned boutiques lining the picturesque downtown square. Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Dahlonega is also a gateway to breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures, from leisurely hikes to serene fishing spots. Whether you're toasting at a vineyard, strolling hand in hand through downtown, or unwinding in a secluded cabin, Dahlonega is the perfect destination for a romantic escape. Here are a few of our favorite spots that make reconnecting a sweet escape:
Places to Eat in Dahlonega
Bourbon Street Grille offers Southern food with a Cajun flair served on a broad balcony overlooking the town’s historic square. Enjoy favorites such as jambalaya and gumbo, plus delicious seafood, juicy sirloins, and burgers. You’ll also find a weekend brunch, served Saturday and Sunday until 2 p.m., featuring everything from NOLA-style French toast to a crab cake Benedict. Sip a mimosa, savor some seriously tasty brunch classics, and start the romantic weekend off just right.
Wolf Mountain Vineyards serves exquisite lunches Thursday through Sunday with breathtaking vineyard views. Select from an à la carte menu featuring new creations by Executive Chef Robert Rudolph, perfectly paired with award-winning wines. On Sundays, indulge in the special themed brunch of the month—after all, brunch vibes have a certain romantic magic that sets the stage for a weekend away.
Montaluce Winery offers two restaurant options on one property for both fine and casual dining, each with its own impressive menu. And if food and local wine aren’t enough, plan ahead for a guided hike on the property followed by a wine tasting, schedule dinner at the chef’s table, or even go fly fishing on-site. Whatever your brand of romance may be, you’ll find something that suits you perfectly at Montaluce.
Places to Drink in Dahlonega
Big Creek Distilling Co. is a family-owned distillery nestled in the picturesque North Georgia Mountains, crafting small-batch spirits that capture the essence of the region. Their offerings include bourbon whiskey, gin infused with local botanicals, and even moonshine made from bourbon mash. The cozy tasting room invites couples to share a toast to their love.
Etowah Meadery & The Dahlonega Brewery is a veteran-owned establishment that combines a meadery and brewery under one roof. Here, you can sample a variety of meads made from local honey, as well as craft beers. The inviting atmosphere and diverse beverage selection make it an ideal spot for couples to explore new flavors together.
Cavender Creek Vineyards & Winery is set on a family farm complete with an 1800s hand-hewn cabin, offering a rustic yet elegant setting. The tasting room, styled after a barn, provides a cozy space to enjoy handcrafted wines. With live music on weekends and stunning views, it's a delightful spot for a romantic rendezvous.
Naturally Georgia Wine Bar has been creating memorable experiences for nearly two decades, showcasing the finest wines from across Georgia. This wine bar offers couples a curated selection of local wines in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Places to Relax in Dahlonega
STEAP is a luxury treat for your feet, an oasis of tranquility where you can escape the stress of your day and soak your troubles away. Luxurious foot soaks and experienced technicians ensure a sole-soothing experience. Each soak is hand-crafted with all-natural botanicals, healing clays, and essential oils to promote well-being. After all your couple-centric adventuring, a foot massage is ideal (and you may just pick up a few tips to take home so you can treat each other from the comforts of your own couch!).
The Wine Making Studio is the perfect place to dive into your own wine-making experience. The studio offers all the supplies you need to create your own personalized wine, plus the opportunity to craft a batch on-site. Instructional classes start new winemakers with fruit wines that are delicious “young drinkers,” so you only have to wait 8-12 weeks to enjoy the fruit of your labor.
Helio Healing offers the opportunity to relax your mind, body, and soul. Discover the ultimate in holistic wellness with exceptional treatments, including hydromassage, infrared and red light therapy, frequency healing, among many other services. After all, sometimes rejuvenating is the best way to reconnect.
Crisson Gold Mine lets you experience the thrill of the original gold rush. Pan for gold and gems, take a self-guided walkthrough tour of historic equipment, or join one of the knowledgeable instructors for even more information. Put a little sparkle in your getaway—after all, you’ve already struck gold by finding your person.
Places to Stay in Dahlonega
Forrest Hills Resort is precisely the retreat you imagine when you hear “mountain luxury.” Set on 140 acres of forest land, the resort offers 32 private cabins, each with a hot tub and fireplace, plus 12 luxury bi-level suites with steam saunas and other amenities. The property also features four dining rooms, including the Secret Garden just for couples, along with horse-drawn carriage rides, spa treatments, horseback riding, a swimming pool, tennis courts, and a gift shop. Three golf courses are also within a short drive.
Love Adventures is a couple-focused romantic escape designed to create beautiful spaces to rest, recharge, and reconnect in nature. Set on 60 acres under a forest canopy, Love Adventures offers exclusive walking trails, wood-burning hot tubs, and refined spaces created with romance in mind.
27 on Park is a unique boutique hotel offering modern mountain luxury for an unforgettable getaway. The 14 well-appointed suites provide a crisp, contemporary alternative to traditional mountain accommodations, right in the heart of historic downtown Dahlonega.
Of course, one long weekend isn’t nearly enough to experience all there is to see and do in Dahlonega and surrounding North Georgia. It’s a wonderful destination for a romantic getaway, but chances are, you’ll be booking your next trip as soon as you get home—maybe for a girls' weekend or even some quality time with family.
Dahlonega: A Dreamy Destination for Romance
Of course, one long weekend isn’t nearly enough to experience all there is to see and do in Dahlonega and surrounding North Georgia. It’s truly a delightful destination for a romantic getaway, but chances are, you’ll be booking your next trip as soon as you get home—maybe for a girls' weekend or even some quality time with family.
