Two north Georgia towns are among most romantic in the U.S., new ranking says

The north Georgia mountains are home to two of the country's most romantic getaways, a recently released ranking says.

Helen and Blue Ridge made New York Travel Guides' list of 140 Most Romantic Small Towns in America.

According to New York Travel Guides website, the ranking used analysis of 600 small towns in America, using the following categories: romantic places to stay, romantic activities, historic architecture and scenery and "cozy coffee shops" and restaurants. Each category was weighted differently with romantic activities being the most important.

Spas, mini-golf and wineries earned Helen its No. 40 spot. The report noted that Helen's Bavarian-style buildings, located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, heats up the romance: "With its colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and romantic local eateries, it’s a town with romance around every corner."

More: From apple picking to Oktoberfest, here's a look at Georgia's best spots for fall fun

Blue Ridge, which ranked No. 101, ranked high in romantic activities, such as a ride on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway and a walk along Main Street. The Fannin County Chamber of Commerce's website notes that "first time visitors are amazed at the number and quality of shops and restaurants in downtown Blue Ridge."

Both Helen and Blue Ridge are located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, which provides year-round scenery.

Carmel-by-the-Sea in California claimed the No. 1 overall most romantic small town in the ranking. California was the state with the most towns on the list.

To see the full ranking, go to https://newyorktravelguides.com/most-romantic-small-towns-in-america/

This article originally appeared on Athens Banner-Herald: Helen, Blue Ridge named 2 of the most romantic small towns in the U.S.