Sorry Valentine's Day haters -- Cupid's favorite holiday falls on a Saturday this year, so a romantic getaway might be in your future. We've got some great ideas for celebrating, with not one overdone box of chocolates in sight. And we're not talking bustling and trendy hot spots either. In 2015, we're in the mood for a little breather, just some private time with the one you love -- plus a few holiday extras.
Wine country and romance go hand in hand, and the Silverado Resort & Spa has done all the planning for you. The classic resort (rooms are little bungalows for the ultimate in privacy), is offering a Suite and Sparkling Valentine's Weekend package that's $3,400 per couple, which includes the limo ride to and from San Francisco or Sacramento, your stay in a one-bedroom premium suite -- plus loads of fun activities. Friday night kicks off with a sparkling wine tasting at Artesa and Domaine Carneros, followed by an in-room candlelight dinner and turndown service with rose pedals, chocolates, strawberries and more bubbles. Then enjoy Saturday morning breakfast in bed, a couples spa treatment, lunch at Bouchon, and a wine tasting at Vin Roc. Dinner that evening will be at Chef Thomas Keller's brand-new pop-up restaurant AdLib. Sunday boasts more private time, via a sunrise hot-air balloon ride and a champagne brunch.
In nearby San Francisco, Mandarin Oriental (pictured above) is offering the most luxurious spa and private dining experience around. A lucky three couples will be served Dinner in the Sky on February 14, one per 46th, 47th and 48th floor with stunning panoramic views of the city. Feast on a four-course meal with wine by Executive Chef Adam Mali -- heaven on a plate from the blini caviar and Gougere chevre mousse, to your choice of scrumptious entree and a Ghirardelli chocolate ganache tart with cinnamon crème Anglaise and candied hazelnuts. Don't check out before indulging in the hotel's signature California Dreaming spa journey in your own private treatment room. Fill out a quick questionnaire about your health and wellbeing, to allow your therapist to create a tailored two hours of bliss. After a traditional washing of your feet, enjoy an invigorating sea salt scrub with your own bespoke scent, then melt into a long, deep massage using heated basalt stones.
East coasters wanting a quiet retreat should consider the European ambiance of Hotel Domestique (above) in Traveler's Rest, SC. Their Valentine's Package ($975 per couple) includes a two-night stay at the intimate 13-room boutique hotel, most meals, champagne, a dozen roses, and house-made truffles upon arrival. Your Valentine's Day dinner date will be a special three-course prix fixe menu at Restaurant 17, and a European continental breakfast for two is served in-room each morning. Couples massages can also be booked, and the hotel boasts bike rentals and a bike valet for couples who want to explore the beautiful area.
Farther south, the brand-new Hotel Zamora (at right)beckons happy couples to lovely St. Petersbrug Beach, FL. The tongue-and-cheek Sand, Sun & Love Package, available until March 2, includes a Cupid's welcome amenity, "naughty & nice" romance kit, and late check-out. For even warmer weather, head to Cancun, where Marriott has two stellar deals. At both JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa and CasaMagna Marriott Cancun Resort, lovebirds can book a romantic dinner under the stars in a brand-new, private cabana on the beach, complete with your own beach butler, wine, music, and rose petals.
Sportier couples might want to keep their eye on Mammoth Lakes, CA, where dinner is served at 9,600 feet. The Parallax Snowcat Dinner kicks off with champagne before diners ride the famous Snowcat tram up to the peak for a meal to remember. After resting up in a romantic cabin at Tamarack Lodge, hit the slopes for skiing, snowboarding, dog sledding, or snowmobiling.
And for those couples that are going all out (think "I do" redo), Hotel del Coronado in San Diego is here for you. The famous historical wedding destination is celebrating this weekend Valentine's Day with a fun communal vow renewal in its famous Crown Room. No planning required -- the hotel will provide the flowers, a photo, dinner, dancing and cake. So no excuses!
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