Cottage country is the perfect place to stir up some romance for Valentine’s Day. Let the city folk splurge on their fancy dinners and posh hotel rooms while you take advantage of the unique, romantic adventures the countryside has to offer.
For low-key lovers
If you’re looking for some low-key relaxation on your holiday, there are tons of inns, chalets, and resorts offering great deals on Valentine’s Day packages and romantic getaways. Luxurious spas, like The Couple’s Resort in the Muskoka region, will provide pampering against a beautiful, snowy backdrop. You can bond with your partner while enjoying a couple’s massage, hot stone treatment, or an invigorating wrap.
For cuddlers, the Irwin Inn in Lakefield is promoting a special “snuggle in” experience. You can book a cottage or suite with a private outdoor hot tub and soak under the stars with your special someone. Or, if you prefer a roaring fire on a cold night, rooms are also equipped with wood-burning fireplaces. It’s the perfect option for couples who are craving an intimate, cozy escape from the big city.
Of course hibernation isn’t the only way to enjoy a lover’s retreat. Couple’s who are willing to venture outdoors have tons of great activities to choose from. Why not mix a little exercise in with your handholding and heartfelt conversation? Many hotels are offering snow shoeing, skating, cross-country skiing, or hiking as part of their Valentine’s Day packages. For a special treat, you can step into a horse-drawn sleigh with your honey at Evergreen Forest Resort B&B in Wiarton and Pine Vista Resort in Lakefield. Horseback riding is also a great way to experience the picturesque beauty of the winter forest and The Couple’s Resort offers guided horseback tours through the trails of Algonquin Park.
For courageous couples
If you and your partner are an adventurous, adrenaline-seeking couple and prefer fun activities to traditional romance, what could be better than getting out of the city? How about spending a day whizzing around on the back of a dogsled? An exhilarating way to connect with nature, it will definitely make your Valentine’s Day memorable. Winterdance, a Siberian husky kennel offers group and private tours from that range in length from half-day trips to multi-day adventures. You can even spend some time cuddling with the affectionate, sled dogs.
Other high-energy fun can be found on guided snowmobile safaris offered by the Bayview Wildwood Resort in Severn Bridge or Sir Sam’s Inn and Water Spa in the Eagle Lake Region. You could flirt with with danger by heading to Collingwood and taking a high altitude moonlight snowshoe stroll across Ontario’s largest suspension bridge, offered by Scenic Caves Nature Adventures. Or how about braving hours of freezing temperatures on an ice-fishing excursion? It may not seem romantic at first, but being holed up in a shack with your sweetheart has its benefits.
Whichever type of couple you are, cottage country sure can shake up your Valentine’s Day celebration! Be sure to check the websites for any hotels and resorts to see when they’re offering their best deals. Some have special rates on February 14th and others are offering packages for the weekend of the 16th.
