Planning a quick getaway for you and your loved one? Jo Caruana presents an eclectic selection of romantic retreats across Europe, whatever you are into.
There’s nothing like a romantic getaway to get you in the mood for love. From Paris’ tree-lined avenues to Rome’s dinky trattorias, you’ll be swept off your feet and enveloped in a world of lingering cuddles and kisses – but how about something entirely different?
Those traditional Valentine’s destinations are great if that’s what you fancy, but the beauty of travel these days is that the sky really is the limit when it comes to truly original places to visit. And the good news? They’re all on our European doorstep!
On a budget
Thanks to low-cost airlines and the great package deals on offer, a quick trip abroad doesn’t have to cost the earth. With direct flights to Pisa, for instance, you’re just an hour away from Italy’s fantastic sights, sounds, food and culture.
You could stay at the four-star Bologna Hotel (www.hotelbologna.pisa.it), located in the city’s historic centre and within easy reach of the famous leaning tower. Make the most of the nearby restaurants and attractions, or hire a car and head further into the enchanting Tuscan countryside.
Plan B: Beautiful Prague, in the Czech Republic, also offers travellers great value for money. It is compact enough to be explored on foot and hotel rooms start from just €10 per night. Explore the romantic ruins, or cosy up for a budget dinner in a local candlelit tavern.
Shoppers’ paradise
It’s easy to automatically consider Rome, Paris or London when taking your partner on a shopping trip. But thinking outside the box could actually win you a few brownie points – although we can’t promise it will come cheap.
Zurich’s stunning Bahnhofstrass, for instance, has been named one of Europe’s most expensive shopping streets for a reason. Here retail is an art form, with truly delectable items peering back at you from behind every glass window.
All the best shops are to be found here, with many of the world’s top brands choosing to locate their flagship stores on this very road. It’s certainly heaven for couples keen to burn a hole in their pockets – but don’t say we didn’t warn you! Hotel St Gotthard (www.hotelstgotthard.ch) is the perfect place to position yourselves for all that retail couples’ therapy.
Plan B: If bargain hunting is more your thing, head straight to Istanbul, where you and your loved one can haggle to your hearts’ content. The Grand Bazaar is where it all happens, and you will have a ball seeking out the most attractive rug, lamp or selection of spices.
And when you’re done digging deep into your pockets, rest your heads at the central and historic Hotel Ayasofya (www.ayasofyahotel.com), one of the city’s most romantic escapes.
Adventure seekers
It’s not only long-haul holidays that guarantee adventure and excitement; Europe promises all sorts to thrill seekers in need of an adrenaline rush. Dublin (now just a plane ride away) is ideal if you fancy trying new things.
You and your partner could be off horse-riding, trekking, abseiling and scuba diving – all before breakfast! And once you’ve got that out of your system, relax at the Merion Hotel (www.merrionhotel.com), a Dublin institution known for its charming atmosphere and exquisite style.
Plan B: For something completely different, why not try canoeing and bird watching around the Lake Wigry National Park in the heart of Poland’s lake district? Make your way through the meadows and marsh flowers by day, and stay in cute B-and-Bs by night.
Luxury living
It’s Valentine’s Day – go all out! If luxury and originality is what you covet, then head straight to the aptly named Snow Village (www.snowvillage.fi) in Finnish Lapland.
Be surrounded by breathtaking beauty within this man-made stone structure, complete with snow hotel, ice bar and igloo disco. You’ll cuddle up in thermal sleeping bags, and wake up to hot berry juice in the morning. Play your cards right and you may even get an Eskimo kiss!
Plan B: If you’d rather stay somewhere a little warmer, luxury can be found just across the water in Sicily. Boutique hotel Donna Carmela (www.donnacarmela.com) promises complete relaxation, especially as its set within a gorgeous nursery of typical Mediterranean plants and flowers. Enjoy breakfast by the pool and take a revitalising nap on the manicured lawn.
Culture vultures
Edinburgh may feel like it’s far away, but direct flights to Scotland’s capital get you there in under four hours. Whatever time of year you’re there, Edinburgh is a romantic dream. From beautiful museums and art-house cinemas, to delicious spas with special couple’s packages, you can’t go wrong.
Le Monde (www.lemondehotel.co.uk), on George Street, is a particularly delightful place to stay right in the heart of the city. Alternatively, travel to nearby Peebles for a stint at the imposing and dreamy Barony Castle (www.celticcastles.com/castles/ barony-castle).
Plan B: Tallinn, in Estonia, is one of Europe’s Capitals of Culture for 2011 – and for good reason. The region may only have 400,000 or so residents, but its cultural calendar can rival any of its big city counterparts.
Relish walking hand-in-hand with your other half, enjoying stunning sites that include medieval landmarks, the gothic Town Hall and the newly-refurbished opera house.