There are certain cities that are synonymous with love like Paris or Venice or Rome. Obvious destinations and trips that immediately come to mind whenever the words “honeymoon,” “anniversary,” or “Valentine’s Day” are said. Then there are those off-the-beaten path adventures that aren’t as obvious but still prove incredibly romantic. You’ll see all the couples on Facebook snapping photos in front of the Eiffel Tower and then spot that one couple whose romance finds them under the Northern Lights in Iceland. For Valentine’s Day inspiration that is anything but standard, consider these 5 romantic getaways to places you definitely have not considered!
1. An 11-Day Bike Tour Across Romantic Italy
This spectacular 11-day coast-to-coast bicycling tour across the fabled heartland of Italy is the European bicycle excursion of a lifetime; traveling through lush, sweeping countryside and charming medieval villages as you sample all the beauty and bounty of this captivating and unforgettable Italian landscape. The route from Pesaro to the Costa d’Argento passes through Le Marche, Umbria, Lazio and Tuscany-four regions celebrated for rich history-distinctive local cuisines and stunning panoramas. On this bike tour, you’ll explore the awe-inspiring Gola della Rossa Gorge, the Grotte di Frasassi (Italy’s largest cave system) and ancient underground Etruscan settlements.
2. Rocky Mountain Glamping
Morning yoga, trail rides, afternoon swimming, fly fishing, farm-to-table contemporary western meals, storytelling at the fire pit, equestrian adventures, and 5-star hospitality are only a few of the highlights of this luxury glamping holiday. The High Lonesome Ranch sits on the Western Slope of the Colorado Rockies is a mecca for wildlife. The Ranch is located near the small cowboy town of DeBeque, Colorado, a 40-minute drive to Grand Junction’s Walker Field Airport. With a guest capacity of about 60, there are a variety of multi-bedroom cabins, and the Castle Rock safari-style tent experience for up to 10 guests.
3. The Robinson Caruso Island Retreat
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Retreat to the mystical Chilean island where marooned explorer Robinson Crusoe once lived. Hear the legends of pirates and treasure as you hike through deep forested ravines, cascading streams, and along jagged coastlines in this World Heritage Biosphere Reserve. Enjoy active excursions such as snorkeling, hiking, diving, horseback riding, fishing, by day. Return to the comfort of your Robinson Crusoe Island resort by night.
4. Nicaragua Yoga and Wellness Retreat
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Escape to Mukul, a private four mile stretch of the Emerald Coast of Nicaragua’s pristine white sand beaches with access to over 1,600 private acres of lush vegetation. Be refreshed, renewed, and recharged on a six-night yoga and wellness retreat. In addition to yoga, Mukul offers a Kul Kids program, birdwatching, fishing, trail hikes, volcano hikes, watersports, and excursions to nearby beaches and villages, along with helicopter rides to beautiful islands and fascinating volcanoes.
5. Roam the Streets of Romantic St. Petersburg
Forget Paris or Rome. In St. Petersburg, Russia you and your better half can peruse Fabergé eggs, attend world-class ballet or opera performances on one of the most prestigious stages on the planet, stroll the halls of luxurious palaces of the czars, walk the broad streets with gorgeous 18th century buildings and stand hand-in-hand before “The Dance,” a joyous painting by Henri Matisse. St. Petersburg is a rich repository of extravagant palaces, brilliant museums and renowned theaters overflowing with music and dance. Its fashionable boulevards and serene canals glisten in the “White Nights” of summer and dazzle on sunny winter days.
Do you have any Valentine’s Day plans? How about favorite, romantic destinations? Share your thoughts, comments and questions in the comments section below!
