Valentine’s Day is one of those special dates in the calendar when gifts and surprises are exchanged between lovers. Trying to find the perfect present can cause unnecessary headaches but perhaps the best gift would be a trip away to some idyllic spot with your other half.
Imagine the most romantic break ever. Maybe it involves lying on a beach listening to the sound of the waves or enjoying a meal in an incredible restaurant with breath-taking mountainous views. Perhaps you envision taking a ride in a horse and carriage or exploring little-known territories. In case such a plan has you reaching for your suitcase, take a look at our top five places for a romantic escape in the US.
© IstockCharleston, South Carolina
This southern city set near groves of moss-covered oaks, has a popular area to eat and drink near the sea called Mount Pleasant, Shem Creek. Fancy a walk through a movie scene? Some of the plantations in Charleston county were used as the setting for Noah’s fixer upper country house and also the abode of the Hamiltons, the family of Allie from the Notebook. Have a stroll around the historic pastel-colored Georgian row houses along Rainbow Row or exclusive English-style gardens and neighbourhood of South Broad. And to finish off the evening, why not take a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride along the sea front?
© GettyImagesFairbanks, Alaska
Seeing the aurora borealis and waking up in wild woodland must be on the wish list of most people – and who better to see it with than that special someone? So if you have time to travel some 200 miles from Fairbanks, the second largest city in Alaska, to the Arctic Circle, you could witness this natural spectacle. While there you could also ski, take a husky dog sledge ride or try out a snow bike, then finish off the day in the thermal waters of the Chena Hot Springs Resort, an hour’s drive from Fairbanks. Remember to pack plenty of thermal layers for this once-in-a-lifetime trip!
© GettyImagesIslamorada, Florida
Sun, sea and sand. If that’s what springs to mind when it comes to celebrating Valentine’s Day, then pack your bags and head to Islamorada in Monroe county. Here you’ll find the perfect mix of relaxation and fun. If you’re an intrepid diver, you could go and explore the remains of the 20th century freighter The Eagle wreck or enjoy the dreamy sunsets over one of its stunning beaches – such as Founder’s Park, which is half-moon shaped.
© GettyImagesBeaufort, North Carolina
Admiring the beauty of wild horses and Victorian arquitecture in this city will leave you with some ever-lasting memories. Beaufort is one of the oldest cities in North Carolina, where you can enjoy cocktails and creative dining from restaurants with romantic views over the waters of Crystal Coast. From B&Bs and historic houses on the shoreline to the cute cabins and luxury hotels, there’s something to suit everyone – and every budget.
© GettyImagesKennebunkport, Maine
Kennebunkport is another coastal town, situated to the south of Maine, and the perfect place to snuggle up with your loved one. While it tends to be crowded with beach lovers in the summer, it takes on a whole different, idyllic vibe in winter. In fact, it has to be one of the most romantic towns around. In February, the town is awash with deals for lovers – from hotel rooms to art galleries and shops, they are all filled ready to fulfill your loving hearts. And to top off a perfect escapade, why not take a sledge ride along the beach of Kennebunk and Gooch?
