beat the brochure

The most romantic day of the year is fast approaching, so if you’re planning a romantic getaway, you’d best get your skates on! Think outside the chocolate box and give Paris a miss; consider one of these alternative spots to truly spoil your loved one this Valentine’s Day.

Venice, Italy

Treat your sweetheart this Valentine’s Day and venture to Venice, a classic city of love and a strong rival to Paris. Laced with idyllic canals and eye catching architecture the city is as beautiful as it is romantic. Spend the day together touring some of the iconic sights such as Campanile di San Marco & St Mark’s Basilica and Rialto Bridge. Take a gondola ride together as the sun sets and then treat for your taste buds with a gorgeous candlelit dinner at one of the many Italian eateries.

Reykjavik, Iceland

After a night or two spent in a luxury hotel and having explored the capital, head off to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Found on the west coast of Iceland with the Snaefellsnes Volcano as your backdrop, this peninsula is a rural haven and just one of many places to witness the truly magical Northern Lights. Dubbed as the best year for the next 50 years to see the remarkable Aurora Borealis, you and your loved one will have front row seats for an unforgettable experience together. Snuggle up together and get ready for this amazing display!

La Rioja, Spain

Perhaps not an immediate contender when considering Valentine’s Day destinations, La Rioja is a sly dog. As one of the best wine regions in the world, what better place to be wined and dined by your loved one! Speckled with fairytale-esque castles amidst the sprawling vineyards, La Rioja has a certain charm. The famous winery “Marques de Riscal” in the small village of Elciego offers fantastic wine but also a stunning hotel. Renowned for its striking appearance and of course the gastronomic appeal, this hotel is the perfect base for a wine lovers break. Travel into the mountains and head for Haro, known for its fine red wine, where you can explore the architecturally rich town centre filled with palaces and the historic, artistic old town.

Zurich. Switzerland

With its stunning mountainous backdrop and boundless Lake Zurich lapping at its feet, not to mention the interesting old town, Zurich encompasses everything you could need from a romantic getaway. Take a stroll, hand in hand, along the 3 kilometre length of the Lake Promenade and stop to drink in the views from the meadow about half way along. Niederdorf located in the old town offers charming alleyways filled with wonderful shops and a large array of restaurants for that staple candlelit meal. A fantastic excursion from Zurich is a trip to the largest waterfall in Europe; the Rhine Falls, just 45 minutes from the city.

Verona, Italy

The home of the young lovers Romeo and Juliet, what city could be a better setting your Valentine’s Day escapade? The lead up to Valentine’s Day sees the city truly embrace the celebration of love, with a huge heart display in central piazza Dante amongst other elaborate decorations. Take the elevator to the top of Lamberti Tower which stands at 84m in height, therefore offering breath-taking panoramic views of the city. Visit Juliet’s house before spending the evening sipping some of the best wines in Italy at the vast selection of wine bars.

Wherever you choose to whisk your sweetheart away to this Valentine’s Day, be sure to have a truly unforgettable time!