As the crisp fall air begins to whisper through the trees, there’s no better place to celebrate love than in Somerset Hills, New Jersey. Nestled just an hour outside of both Philadelphia and New York City, this luxurious retreat makes you feel miles away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Picture strolling hand in hand through vibrant foliage, indulging in world-class dining, and unwinding in opulent suites that capture the beauty of the season. Whether you’re horseback riding through scenic trails, enjoying a couple’s massage, or exploring the enchanting Cross Estate Gardens, each moment is designed to deepen your connection and let the magic of the season sweep you away.
Select Your Elegant, Luxurious Accommodations
Bernards Inn: A Historic Gem
For couples who appreciate history, exceptional service, and the finest amenities, the Bernards Inn offers a boutique experience like no other. With 117 years of rich history, this elegant hotel features twenty exquisitely appointed guest rooms and suites, each blending the style and sophistication of a small European luxury hotel with the charm of a historic American country inn. Whether you’re indulging in the award-winning restaurant or relaxing in your luxurious room, every detail is thoughtfully curated to make your stay unforgettable.
Pendry Natirar: Modern Elegance in a Timeless Setting
Opening this fall, Pendry Natirar is a newly unveiled hotel and spa where contemporary luxury meets the grandeur of a renovated Tudor-style mansion. This elegant retreat features 66 guest rooms, including 21 suites, each thoughtfully designed with warm, timeless interiors that blend traditional and contemporary country influences. Set on 400 rolling acres in Somerset County, Natirar offers a stately escape, reimagining its historic grounds into an idyllic haven of luxury, comfort, and endless allure. Whether you’re indulging in a treatment at the in-house Spa Pendry or exploring the four distinct dining destinations, this hotel provides a sanctuary of romance and relaxation, creating an experience that’s as inspiring as it is serene.
Savor Exquisite Meals in Elegant Settings
Red Horse by David Burke
Located in the historic Bernards Inn, Red Horse by David Burke is where culinary innovation meets timeless flavors. Steak lovers will appreciate Chef Burke’s renowned expertise, especially his patented salt dry-aging process that perfects each prime beef selection. The menu also features exceptional dishes like fresh seafood, salt-brick crispy skin chicken, smoked duck, and eggplant parmesan. The restaurant’s ambiance, while honoring the building’s storied past, offers an upscale setting for a romantic meal. To top it off, indulge in artistically crafted, house-made desserts that delight both the palate and the eyes.
Read more: There’s a new chef’s table experience at the Red Horse by David Burke in Bernardsville
Ninety Acres
Nestled within the scenic grounds of Natirar, Ninety Acres offers a farm-to-table dining experience that is as luxurious as it is fresh. The restaurant is celebrated for its commitment to sustainability and use of locally sourced ingredients, ensuring that each dish is both flavorful and environmentally conscious. With a menu that changes seasonally, fall diners can savor dishes that highlight the rich, earthy flavors of the region’s harvest, blending classic comforts with innovative twists.
Water & Wine
Overlooking a tranquil lake, Water & Wine specializes in Italian-inspired cuisine with a modern spin. Fresh seafood, handmade pastas, and expertly crafted dishes are paired with an impressive wine list that features selections from around the world. Whether dining on the terrace with a view or inside by the fireplace, this restaurant offers an intimate atmosphere ideal for a romantic evening.
Ristorante MV
Ristorante MV in Bernardsville offers old-world charm in a modern setting. Located in a historic building, this new Italian restaurant features authentic, homemade family recipes crafted by a father-and-son team. With dishes like fresh pasta, ravioli with homemade mozzarella, seafood, and classic chicken specialties, it delivers a true taste of Italy.
Plan Your Getaway Around the Far Hills Race Meeting
The 102nd Far Hills Race Meeting, held at Moorland Farms in Far Hills on Saturday, October 21, is one of the country’s premier steeplechase events and a highlight of Central Jersey’s fall calendar. This historic race combines the excitement of equestrian competition with a festive atmosphere, making it a must-attend event for couples looking to add a unique experience to their getaway.
This year, The Hunt Club offers a new 21+ section with front-row views of the races, along with an array of food and beverages for purchase, including specialty cocktails, music by DJ PURARI, lawn games, and lounging areas. For a more exclusive experience, the Chairman’s Tent provides premium trackside seating, a buffet, and an open bar, plus close-up access to the trophy ceremonies.
With around 70 horses competing, including in the prestigious Grand National with its $250,000 prize, the energy is electric. Beyond the races, explore luxury pop-up shops, or join the legendary tailgating scene, featuring high-end spreads including caviar bars and lobster tails paired with champagne.
Share Outdoor Autumn Adventures Together
Take Couples Photos at Cross Estate Gardens
Enjoy a leisurely stroll through Cross Estate Gardens, a hidden gem that offers endless opportunities for stunning photographs. Wander through beautifully landscaped gardens and historic features, where the autumn colors provide a breathtaking setting for couples’ photos. Consider booking a professional photographer to capture these moments, or simply snap a few selfies or ask a nearby visitor to take your picture as you walk hand in hand.
Walk or Bike Through a Thousand Acres of Fall Foliage at Duke Farms
Duke Farms offers over 1,000 acres of breathtaking landscapes to explore on foot or by bike. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or renting bikes to pedal through the red and orange hues, Duke Farms is a picturesque location for experiencing the season’s beauty together.
Savor the Season with a Fall Picnic at Leonard J. Buck Garden
Pack a cozy picnic and head to Leonard J. Buck Garden, where the tranquil setting and changing leaves create an idyllic atmosphere. Enjoy a leisurely meal of fresh apples, crisp bread, aged cheeses, and warm cider amidst the gardens’ diverse collections. Meander over charming bridges and soak in the peaceful surroundings, savoring the simple pleasures of the fall with your loved one.
Enjoy the Festivities at Snyder’s Farm’s Fall Festival
For a classic fall experience, sip on warm apple cider, indulge in fresh cider donuts, and explore the variety of food trucks offering seasonal goodies at Snyder’s Farm. Wander through the corn maze together, enjoy a hayride, and soak in the festive atmosphere. The lively activities, delicious smells, and autumnal treats make for a fun time in the crisp fall air together.
Pamper Yourselves and Enjoy Intimate Experiences
Relax and Unwind with a Couples Massage
Begin your day with a luxurious couples massage at one of the area’s top spas, such as Pendry Spa. The soothing ambiance and skilled therapists will help relax your muscles and enhance your connection, setting the tone for a day of blissful experiences together.
Schedule a Cider Tasting at Burnt Mills Cider
For a romantic outing, schedule a cider tasting at Burnt Mills Cider, where rustic charm meets handcrafted flavor. Step into the cozy tasting room, surrounded by oak-paneled walls and handcrafted furniture, as you sip on their core lineup of ciders and small-batch creations. Outdoors, the intimate setting by the fire pit invites couples to roast s’mores, play a lighthearted game of cornhole, and relax under the stars or amidst the daytime fall foliage.
Book a Romantic Cooking Class at Natirar
At Natirar’s mansion hotel, you can join a cooking class to learn how to prepare fall-inspired meals like tapas, steak, or pasta. Choose from a schedule of classes that suit your taste, and enjoy connecting with other couples in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Sip Cocktails at The Bradford Rooftop Bar
The Bradford is a chic rooftop lounge that pairs craft cocktails and small plates with an unrivaled view. Make sure to capture the moment together in the cozy seating area, surrounded by a canopy of roses—a fitting photo-op for a romantic weekend getaway.
Attend a Lively Event at The Bernie Speakeasy
For a night that blends cocktails and appetizers with lively entertainment, The Bernie at the historic Bernards Inn offers a unique setting. Check their event calendar to plan your visit around one of their many charming events, including blindfolded dinners in the dark, comedy shows, murder mystery dinners, live music, bingo, and more. For dessert, consider sharing a cake pop tree for two, served with bubble gum whipped cream.
From laughing beneath golden canopies to gourmet dinners and autumnal views that take your breath away, Somerset Hills is where romance and adventure intertwine. Just a short drive from the city, yet a world away, this enchanting haven offers an idyllic weekend escape for two. As the fall season paints the landscape in rich hues, let Somerset Hills be the canvas for your most treasured memories together.
