Romantic Hideaways Far From the Madding Crowd in Northeast US
When it’s time for an escape, for a true romantic hideaway, check out these lodgings within a drive of home.
Ducking into an inn in the midst of a forest, in a teeny-tiny town, or at the tail end of a long rural peninsula, on a remote island, or smack in the middle of farmland – especially on a dark stormy night – is an outrageously satisfying and restorative experience. It’s one that floods you with a relief so palpable, you didn’t realize how stressed out you were until you walked through the door.
The following small town, woodlands, or country romantic hideaways in the Northeast US from Maine to Virginia have much in common. They are all in the proverbial “boonies,” are luxurious, and offer the essential elements of a truly sweet and sensual sanctuary.
Romantic Hideaways in Maine
Monhegan House, Monhegan Island ME
Rather than a dreamy weekend with a romantic partner, sometimes the ideal getaway is in a romantic setting with yourself. If you’re traveling solo, for my money, there is no better room than one of the top floor (4th, walkup) shared-bath single-twin ocean view rooms at Monhegan House – with arguably the best harbor view on the island. Making it even more romantic (in the classic art sense), only way to get here is by mail boat. Ten miles off Mid-Coast Maine in the Atlantic Ocean, Monhegan Island is known for its artists and lobstermen, who live, symbiotically, on this tiny crust of land just under a square mile in size.
Migis Lodge, Sebago Lake ME
By day’s end, the Sebago Lake chorus reaches its crescendo. Repetitive loon calls, frogs that trill like never-ending car alarms, murmurs of mothers and fathers putting their kids to sleep in nearby cottages all meld into one great Migis Lodge reverie. It’s a symphony that singles, couples, and families have been privy to at this upscale but down to earth Maine resort for over 100 years. Sure, parents bring their kids here. But individual cottages ensure that you can celebrate your relationship in privacy.
Pentagoet Inn, Castine ME
Under new ownership, the Pentagoet Inn is the queen on the hill: a lovely Queen Anne style mansion overlooking Penobscot Bay. Yankee Magazine once declared the Pentagoet, “Best Classic Maine Inn.” It’s easy to see why. Although Castine is known primarily as home to the Maine Maritime Academy, the whole small town reads like New England of the imagination; with whitewashed church and town buildings surrounding a small green, and boats bobbing at docks in the harbor.
Inn of Acadia, Madawaska
3 1/2 hours from Bangor ME
If you call French the language of love, you’ll love the US/Canadian border town of Madawaska where radio hosts typically speak in that romantic tongue. Aroostook County’s only “Boutique Hotel,” the Inn of Acadia – housed in a former convent nursing home – is ultra-friendly, adorable, with great on-site restaurant. Bedding is delightful, ceilings and windows soar, and bathroom showers are enlivened by glass mosaic tile work. There’s a tiny lobby, a smile at reception, and relief that you’ve made it to such a gracious place at the north-northeastern most point in the US.
Romantic Hideaways in New Hampshire
The Glen House, Gorham NH
2 hours from Portland ME, 2 3/4 hours from Portsmouth NH
At the entrance to the Mount Washington Auto Road, and surrounded by exceptional beauty, the Glen House Hotel – now in its 5th iteration (as the previous 4 were located across the street and have burned down) has been drawing vacationers since 1858.
According to Architectural Digest, the Glen House Hotel has the Most Beautifully Designed Bar in New Hampshire. The bar/lounge takes up most of the hotel lobby and is the first thing – boom! – that strikes you as you enter the place. That’s because its floor to ceiling wall of windows provides an immediate introduction to the mountains that loom behind the hotel. This is why you came here.
Romantic Hideaways in Massachusetts
Deerfield Inn, Historic Deerfield
An hour + from Hartford CT, 40 minutes from Springfield MA
Though it looks older, the heartwarming Deerfield Inn was built in the late 1800’s to accommodate visitors to Deerfield Academy (made famous in the novel, Death Be Not Proud). Set within a complex of museum homes – all part of Historic Deerfield – duos interested in Early American History and Design will swoon over this adorable inn. On cool days and nights, the soothing odor of wood smoke wafts through the air. A blazing fire, and New England charm.. a romantic combo if there ever was one.
Groton Inn, Groton MA
1+ hours from Boston
If you had to be holed up somewhere, you’d be lucky to find yourself at the charming, laid-back Groton Inn in the small pastoral boarding school burg of Groton MA. A Colonial-style roadside lodging 1 1/2 hours from Boston, this relatively new iteration stands on the footprint of what had been one of the oldest inns in America with the same name. The original Groton Inn first opened in 1678 and was destroyed by fire in 2011 – a tragedy that devastated this tiny community. The lot sat empty until 2017, when the Migis Group built this new 60-room Groton Inn. Not only are the rooms (and general ambiance) lovely – the on site restaurant, Forge and Vine, is one of the best restaurants in the region. In other words, you need not leave your love nest, once here.
Romantic Hideaways in Connecticut
The Homestead Madison CT
One hour from Hartford, 1 1/2 hours from Providence RI
Although not directly on the waterfront, The Homestead, less than a mile from the Madison CT waterfront (and the Madison Beach Hotel), draws couples looking for a quiet, quirky-luxe stay. Bedding is dreamy, shower water is infused with vitamins, and if you’re into vinyl records, you’re in luck. Each guest room features an old fashioned turntable – with records drawn from your own preferences.
Inn at Ocean Ave – New London CT
2 ¼ hours from NYC
Tucked into a residential neighborhood, this stately brick mansion sits on four sprawling acres that encompass a pool and undulating lawn. Each room is a study in 20’s glamour. That’s 1920’s, by the way – with mirrored furniture and subtle shades of white and off-white. Beds are so soft and snuggly, you might sleep an unheard of uninterrupted 8 or 9-hours. So, an overnight here might be just the ticket for new parents. A solid night’s sleep is the new hot and heavy – don’tcha know. More about New London CT and Inn at Ocean Ave here.
Falls Village Inn, Falls Village
1 1/2 hours from both Springfield MA and Hartford CT
Find your groove at Falls Village Inn, a flop house turned cozy-comfy chic inn in a tiny Connecticut hamlet. The restaurant is a draw in itself. But rooms are lovingly and beautifully redone with wainscoting, colorful art, fine antiques, soothing pastel colored walls and soft luxe bedding.
It’s Ralph Lauren Country with a lighter, more feminine hand. Each room is a perfect retreat after a meal downstairs – and an excellent base for those heading to Lime Rock Park.
Romantic Hideaways in New York
Troutbeck – Amenia NY
2 Hours from NYC
Since 1765, luminaries, including Thoreau, Twain, Teddy Roosevelt, and Supreme Court Judge, Thurgood Marshall, have convened at Troutbeck – a retreat in the Hudson Valley NY woods. Now a luxury resort, with a world-class restaurant, this romantic hideaway makes for a comforting and comfortable getaway just 1 ½ hours from Manhattan.
Saranac Waterfront Lodge – Saranac Lake NY
5 hours from NYC and Boston: 2 ½ hours from Albany NY
While Saranac Lake NY is larger than most towns on this list, the Waterfront Lodge stands at a remove from the more populated downtown. In late afternoon, the setting sun illuminates the lake, making it the perfect time to sit out by the fire pit in winter, or after grabbing a glass of wine at The Boathouse Restaurant and reclining on a waterside Adirondack chair on warmer days. For more info check out this Saranac Lake and Tupper Lake NY post.
Gardner Farm Inn – Troy NY
3 Hours from NYC
A few miles from downtown Troy, this former farmhouse reveals unexpectedly luxurious celebrity-themed rooms, each one curated to reflect its namesake. From the cloud nine Jean Harlow suite, to the weird and witty Oscar Wilde and John Waters rooms, there’s something – tender to kinky – for every couple. To complete your getaway, learning more in this Troy NY post.
Romantic Hideaways in New Jersey
Woolverton Inn, Stockton NJ
1 hour from Philly, 2 hours from NYC
Calling all starry eyed duos. Book one of 8 rooms or suites in the 1792 stone Manor House or choose one of six luxury cottages at the Woolverton Inn Bed and Breakfast – each of those with a private entrance, outdoor garden, whirlpool tub for two, fireplace, and king bed.
How romantic is this place? So romantic, Julia and Paul Child got married here in 1946. In the rural (and Delaware River Towns) Hunterdon County NJ – the center of “Goat Tourism” – the Woolverton Inn is the most chill of country escapes, and one of the most romantic getaways on this list.
Intimate Far-From-Crowds Inns in Pennsylvania
The Inn on Market, New Wilmington
30 minutes from Youngstown OH, one hour from Pittsburgh
If you’re expecting dolls and doilies in this small town B&B, you’ll be pleasantly surprised at The Inn on Market. Instead, find handsome, boldly colored guest rooms, fresh brewed coffee right outside your door prior to a great breakfast, and an upscale, relaxing, and romantic experience. New Wilmington PA in Lawrence County PA on the Ohio border, known as home to Westminster College and a large community of New Order Amish, makes for the perfect, culinarily sophisticated getaway.
Bookhouse Hotel, Kennett Square PA
30 Minutes from Wilmington DE, one hour from Philly
If your fantasy is staying inside a bookstore overnight – with luxury appointments, and a bathroom seemingly ripped from the pages of a romance novel – then, you’re in luck. The four-bedroom Bookhouse Hotel, in Kennett Square PA, delivers. Far from commonplace, the Bookhouse has won accolades for its stylish and witty décor.
Glasbern, A Historic Hotel of America, Fogelsville (Lehigh Valley)
2 hours from NYC
Deemed one of the most romantic escapes by Philadelphia Magazine, Glasbern has been thrilling couples in love for nearly 40 years, and keeps finding room for improvement. Yes, it’s a popular wedding venue, far from any town. But it’s also the perfect getaway for anyone in love.
Golden Pheasant Inn, Erwinna PA
1 1/2 hours from NYC and Philly
En suite bathrooms at the 4-suite Golden Pheasant Inn, 12 miles upriver from New Hope PA in Upper Bucks County are standouts. Especially the one in the “Delaware Suite.” Marble basket-weave floor, iridescent tile glass shower, upscale amenities, one rough-hewn stonewall juxtaposed with the cool smooth marble: it’s a true oasis and utterly romantic.
Lodge at Glendorn – Bradford PA
6 hours from NYC and Philadelphia
Situated in the former hunting estate of an oil tycoon, the Relais & Chateaux Lodge At Glendorn sweeps you off your feet the moment you are allowed through the Gatehouse. This secluded 1,500-acre compound in Northwest Pennsylvania offers an extraordinary experience, with luxury rooms in the main house, private cottages, exemplary dining before a roaring fire, fly fishing, bird hunting, spellbinding trails, and more. Find everything you need to know in this Lodge at Glendorn post.
Inn at Leola Village, Leola PA
3 Hours from NYC
You’ll find this 4-Diamond inn against a backdrop of Amish farms, with the requisite horse and buggy trotting by every so often. Deluxe rooms, restaurants, shops, and spa are set within cottages, a carriage house, and renovated barns: fusing formal with whimsy and oh so much romance. Should you not wish to be disturbed, just hang the “Go Away” mini-pillow on your doorknob. For more about the inn and surrounding area, check out this Lancaster PA Amish post.
Ledges Hotel – Hawley PA
2 hours from NYC
Imagine a hotel wedged within a boulder-strewn waterfall. This is Ledges – formerly a glass-etching factory turned into modern luxury lodging. Dreamed up by the same firm that designed many Apple Stores, Ledges seems out of place in this old mill town. But all who first arrive are captivated by the view. Rooms are upscale and elemental: but what more do you need when falling water cascades within a few yards of your window? Want more information about Hawley and this hotel? Check out our Hawley PA post.
Hotel Fauchere – Milford PA
Just a spec on the Pennsylvania map, Milford, in the Northern Pocono’s, is “The North Gate” of the 70,000-acre Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area and was summer home to the founder of the US Forest Service, Gifford Pinchot. It’s a fine setting for Hotel Fauchere, a Relais & Chateaux property that has been in operation since the mid-1800’s, when Louis Fauchere, Master Chef at New York’s celebrated Delmonico’s Restaurant, opened it as a retreat for weary-of-the-city New Yorkers. Rooms hush in understated elegance, and on-site restaurants are excellent. More about Hotel Faucher in this post.
Rusty Rail Suites – Mifflinburg PA
3 ½ hours from NYC, 3 hours from Philly
Mifflinburg, surrounded by verdant farmland, was known for its buggy factories over a hundred years ago. Now it’s getting known for its breweries in town and nearby – and for one very high-end “Suite” lodging – the Rusty Rail Suites – that sit above the Rusty Rail Brewery. Each chamber is equipped with a full kitchen, large new bathrooms, and sitting areas: built with romance in mind. Just walk downstairs to get a great meal and freshly brewed beer. What more do you need? More about Rusty Rails in this Mifflinburg-Lewisburg PA post.
Romantic Hideaways in Delaware
Fenwick Shores Tapestry by Hilton, Fenwick Island
Fenwick Shores, Tapestry By Hilton is very, very nice – and very beachy, very nautical, and quite impressive for a sandy shores locale: more like a boutique hotel than a corporate brand. Removed from the bustling resort towns of Rehoboth and Bethany Beach Delaware and Ocean City Maryland, Fenwick Island itself is an oasis of romantic tranquility on the DE/MD border.
Romantic Hideaways in Maryland
Antrim 1844 – Taneytown MD
1 hour from Baltimore, 2 ½ hours from Philly
It’s so surprising to find such splendor in rural community. Discovering this place is akin to hiking forever in a remote forest, and, in a clearing, coming upon a Civil War era mansion with butler service, finery, champagne, and five star dining. You can find out more about it in this Antrim 1844 post.
Pier450, Ridge MD
2 hours from Washington DC
If ever I need to escape “real life” – to feel a bay breeze on my face, and sip wine with my toes squiggling in the sand of a makeshift beach while watching a glorious sunset – I’ll wend my way down to Pier450 in teeny Ridge MD – population somewhere around 600. And, if you’re romantically inclined and want to share something special with your special someone – you should, too.
Swanendele Inn – Ridge MD
2 hours from Baltimore and Washington DC
The Swanendele Inn is the proverbial pot of gold at the end of the rainbow – if said pot was a remarkably romantic inn, and the rainbow ended at the tip of a rural waterfront peninsula in St. Mary’s County. On a residential road that dead-ends at St. Jerome Creek, its set back on a dirt driveway on property nearly surrounded by water. Rooms are first class – most with views of the creek where it meets Chesapeake Bay. Discover much more about this unbelievable place in this Swanendele Inn post.
Inn Boonsboro – Boonsboro MD
1 ½ hours from DC and Baltimore, 3 hours from Philadelphia
Part of the popularity of Inn Boonsboro, in the teeny-crossroads burg of Boonsboro MD, issues from the fact that famous author, Nora Roberts, owns it. Though Roberts doesn’t run this fantastically romantic inn day to day, she makes an appearance at the bookshop across the street a few times a year. Roberts actually wrote a fictionalized trilogy about restoring the old 1700’s Eagle Hotel, now with eight rooms named after literary couples from the Classics: Elizabeth & Darcy, Jane & Rochester, Nick and Nora, and the like. For more, dive into this post about Boonsboro, Hagerstown, Antietam, and nearby attractions.
Romantic Hideaways in Virginia
Cottages at Mill at Fine Creek – Powhatan VA
30 Minutes from Richmond VA
The Mill at Fine Creek, 30 miles west of Richmond VA, is composed of a wedding venue, a fantastic brewery – Fine Creek Brewing – and a series of small boutique guest cottages, just perfect for a romantic getaway.
Richmonders are lucky to have this relatively isolated place so nearby. But even New Yorkers have discovered Cottages at Fine Creek, happy to drive six hours to get here. Hiding out in one of these tiny abodes is a perfectly pleasing way to escape the bedlam of the city.
Check out our Mill at Fine Creek hotel review for all the details.
Airlie Resort – Warrenton VA
1 hour from Washington DC
Take a deep breath as you pull into the long drive of Airlie Resort. Rolling hills, stonewalls, and undulating backcountry roads meld into a kind of fairyland idyll.
Formerly a conference center, now leisure travelers are welcome to stay in rooms set inside cottages and buildings clustered around the property. Airlie Resort is particularly excellent for non-platonic couples who can learn the art of archery on-site: and then “walk through Cupid’s Grove together.” (John Adams, 1776 Musical lyrics).
Check out our Airlie Resort hotel review for all the details.
Red Fox Inn and Tavern – Middleburg VA
1 Hour from Washington DC
If you’ve heard about the tiny burg of Middleburg VA, it’s probably because of the venerable and highly luxurious Salamander Resort, just out of town. But for those looking for a unique in-town stay, the lesser-known Red Fox Inn and Tavern, established in 1728, is one of the oldest and finest inns in the country.
Bold Faced Names, like Elizabeth Taylor and Jackie Kennedy, stayed here during horseback riding fox-hunting seasons of yore. But, even if you’re not Bennifer 2.0 or some other celebrity couple, the friendly staff makes you feel like one.
Heritage Hill B&B, Waynesboro VA
1 1/2 hours from Richmond
Not only is the antique-filled Heritage Hill B&B imbued with romance, the setting itself, with its undulating lawn overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains, is stunning enough to attract a growing number of wedding parties.
