February 14 is ubiquitous with ardent expressions of love. On this special day, lovers seek traditional and creative ways to show and pledge their affection for one another. The symbolic red rose and fancy chocolates are sweet gestures that warm the heart. A rendezvous away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life is a perfect gift for romantics who are looking for an extra special gift for their Valentine.
This romantic destination is the charming Chanticleer Inn Bed and Breakfast, located atop majestic Lookout Mountain, a few miles from downtown Chattanooga, Tennessee. Established in 1927, the inn boasts stone-faced cottages and a splendid garden, reminiscent of the traditional ambiance of a European villa. This family owned and operated bed and breakfast has garnered top reviews for the whole of Chattanooga and Lookout Mountain areas.
Day 1
Say your “goodbyes” to the city, and wind your way 1800 feet above the clouds, to your romantic escape. For your special occasion, choose the “My Sweetheart Getaway” package offered by the inn. Select one of the many luxurious French Country style guest rooms attached to the main house, or splurge on one of the beautifully decorated deluxe cottages equipped with its own living room, dining room, sunroom, full kitchen and a large outdoor stone terrace with lovely garden views. Most rooms feature a private patio with a fireplace and whirlpool.
Upon arrival, surprise your Valentine with a dozen roses (all part of the package) and pop open the chilled complimentary bottle of Champagne for a toast to you and yours! Hand-in-hand, explore the gardens and main property, before getting dressed for your romantic dinner date. Take a short drive to the award-winning Canyon Grill Restaurant, known for serving high-quality, sustainable seafood and specialties, in a beautiful Lookout Mountain setting.
After dinner, head back to the sweet sanctuary of your room, relax in front of the fire, and indulge in the hand-dipped chocolate-covered strawberries and an after-dinner liqueur. Then, consider a long soak in the jacuzzi, before retiring for a night of blissful sleep.
Day 2
Open your eyes to a brand new day, and follow your nose to the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. The daily breakfast is sure to add a delightful start to your morning in the inn’s bright and cheerful dining room, sun room, or even outside on the lovely mountain stone patio. Whether your palate calls for sweet or savory, you will be spoilt for choice with the spread of fresh fruits, sweet breads, buttermilk pancakes with blueberry sauce, breakfast burritos, Eggs Benedict, poached eggs and ham, and much more.
Since Chanticleer Inn is located on beautiful Lookout Mountain, it’s an ideal spot for hiking and sightseeing. After breakfast, you and your sweetheart may choose to explore a number of wonderful sites - Rock City Gardens, Ruby Falls, the Incline Railway, historic parks, and many points of Civil War interest. Ruby Falls has a wondrous waterfall located over 1,120 feet below the surface. Local favorites are Cloudland Canyon State Park, the Enterprise South Nature Park, and Pointe Park. At RockCity, you’ll witness massive ancient rock formations, lush gardens with over 400 native plant species, and breathtaking panoramic views of seven States.
Being out and about in the refreshing air will no doubt work up an appetite. Make your way down the road to enjoy lunch at the nearby Cafe on the Corner which offers an array of sandwiches and hot entrees. Even indulge in a glass of wine. Stroll back for some quality time in the inn’s living room to play a game, read a book, write in a journal, or just relax, side by side, in front of the fireplace. Fresh fruit, pastries, and hot beverages are readily available for a mid-afternoon snack.
Make your last night an adventure to remember, in downtown Chattanooga. Browse the many unique shops in the area for a keepsake of your special time together. Stir up an appetite, during a romantic walk over the Walnut Street Bridge to Coolidge Park. Spend a pre-dinner hour sampling wine or Chattanooga whiskey at one of the drinking establishments, followed by a romantic dinner at one of Chattanooga’s four-star restaurants.
Day 3
Treat yourself to sleeping in on your last morning. Don’t forget to sign the guest book, capturing some of your memorable moments. After checking out, make your way down to the Chattanooga market to browse the local wares and gather some fresh produce to take back home to cook up with a romantic candlelit meal at home.
Au revoir!
