Are you looking for a quick weekend getaway that gives you a retreat vibe, but not too far away from home? There are some great weekend spots right here in Alabama.

The World Atlas has compiled a list of 10 Alabama towns that fit the description of a weekend retreat, offering charm and relaxation.

Beyond simply getting away, there are also mental health benefits to booking that weekend trip, according to U.S. News, which notes that “weekend trips can be better for your mood than long vacations.”

Vacayou said that weekend trips have a multitude of benefits. Like, “stress reduction, improved sleep, bonding time, boosted creativity, get moving, emotional well-being, increased productivity, expand your worldview, personal growth, and connect with nature.”

Some of these weekend adventures are located within an hour away, or at most, a little over 4 hours away.

World Atlas Top 10 Serene Alabama Towns for a Weekend Retreat

Eufaula

Driving Distance: 3 hours and 20 minutes from Tuscaloosa

World Atlas said, “With its tree-lined streets and serene lake, the environment around Eufaula is always quite peaceful and relaxing. The “Bass Capital of the World,” as Lake Eufaula is known, lends the entire area a noticeable touch of rustic charm and allure.”

Fairhope

Driving Distance: 4 hours from Tuscaloosa

“With its flower-lined sidewalks, Fairhope looks every bit soft and serene,” said World Atlas. “The story of Fairhope is a story of dreamers and idealists. If you want to enjoy interesting bits of the town’s history, especially its utopian roots, spend some time at the Fairhope Museum of History.”

Fort Payne

Driving Distance: 2 hours and 20 minutes from Tuscaloosa

“Tucked away in the serene environs of the Appalachians, in a backdrop that features sparkling waterfalls, heart-stirring canyon views, and lush greenery, Fort Payne is the perfect place to kick back and get in tune with nature's restful rhythm,” said World Atlas.

Guntersville

Driving Distance: 2 hours and 20 minutes from Tuscaloosa

World Atlas said that “Guntersville, a small Alabama stunner surrounded by the shimmering waters of Lake Guntersville, has a soft, soothing appeal that you will hardly get enough of. Lake Guntersville State Park, which many consider to be the town’s star attraction, is big, beautiful, and breathtaking.”

Magnolia Springs

Driving Distance: 4 hours and 20 minutes from Tuscaloosa

“The Magnolia River, the scenic waterway on which the town sits, remains the only river route for mail delivery in the nation,” said World Atlas. “If you want to sip in some calm and clarity, the Graham Creek Nature Preserve spans almost 500 acres and boasts plenty of trails and boardwalks to wander through.”

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Mentone

Driving Distance: 2 hours and 30 minutes from Tuscaloosa

“Mentone is peacefully set atop Lookout Mountain and is known for its showy, ostentatious character, especially in fall. Although fall is the best time to make the trip, Mentone has several year-round attractions to check out,” said World Atlas.

Montevallo

Driving Distance: 1 hour and 5 minutes from Tuscaloosa

World Atlas said that “Montevallo is a small and neatly laid-out college town with a quiet, laid-back feel. It hosts the University of Montevallo, a quiet, beautiful campus with eye-catching red-brick buildings and lovely greenery.”

Mooresville

Driving Distance: 1 hour from Tuscaloosa

“The entire town, about 6 streets of it, is included on the National Register of Historic Places. The nostalgic feel is palpable and sips to the deepest chambers of the soul,” said World Atlas. “Mooresville is known as the 'Williamsburg of Alabama' and has the oldest post office in continuous use in the state.”

Tuscumbia

Driving Distance: 2 hours and 28 minutes from Tuscaloosa

“With its Ivy-covered brick buildings, Tuscambia is beautiful, yet in a timid, bashful way. One of the town's defining attractions is Ivy Green, the birthplace and childhood home of Helen Keller. Another is Tuscumbia Spring Park, a lovely space with a beautiful man-made waterfall, petrified trees, and a pond with a fountain,” said World Atlas.

Wedowee

Driving Distance: 2 hours and 17 minutes from Tuscaloosa

World Atlas said that “Wedowee is a nice, compact town with a big lake, a few restaurants, and a peaceful, countryside atmosphere. You will love exploring Lake Wedowee’s tree-lined shores, catching glowing sunsets that reflect iridescent colors on the water, and just enjoying the calm and quiet that prevails at every corner and nook.”

So go ahead and get your bags packed for a weekend getaway in Alabama.