Your custom-made Valentine’s Day
The season of love is upon us, and when it comes to thinking about a romantic escapade, we often come to the same old classics. This year, defy conventions … or not! The trick is to find what suits you best. Let us inspire you in planning the perfect date for yourself or to share with a loved one.
romance to the fullest
If you’re looking for a unique way to celebrate your love in the open air, Patinage en forêt could be the answer. Meet at Lac-des-Loups, a natural skating rink that spans across three kilometres of icy trails and is less than 45 minutes from Gatineau—Ottawa. Imagine yourselves hand in hand, gliding gracefully along the enchantingly beautiful surface, surrounded by the splendour of snow-capped trees. You can also visit the other skating rinks in the area. Who knows, maybe you’ve already visited a trail that is now meaningful to you both?
A ROMANTIC DINNER: A CLASSIC IS STILL A CLASSIC
Sharing a romantic meal remains a timeless Valentine’s Day classic. Going out to a restaurant is always a nice way to spend time as a couple. (Bonus: no washing up!) Take the opportunity to surprise your partner and introduce them to a new gourmet destination.
A hearty meal in winter brings people together! And all the better when you get the opportunity to celebrate your love, which is exactly what Restaurant Meule et Caquelon is offering. Be your own chef, create new recipes and surprise your partner with your culinary talents with Swiss-inspired specialities, including Chinese fondue, raclette and cheese fondue.
Many restaurants offer special menus or box lunches, including Maison Oddo, L’Huile d’Olive, Le Cellier, Le Rituel, Resto Bistro Rumeur and many more! Here’s also a list of must-try downtown restaurants.
ACTIVATE RELAXATION MODE FOR A ROMANTIC GETAWAY
For those who want to offer a unique experience, consider a spa getaway! Offer a massage, a gourmet experience, a thermal escape or even a Kōena Spa package. Explore their Himalayan salt room, the hot and cold baths, the dry and steam saunas, and the relaxation areas. Complement this gift with a culinary experience at the Kōena bistro, the Resto Lounge Onō or the KaTO restaurant, whose terrace is accessible even during winter.
When it comes to relaxing and revitalizing, the Outaouais has a multitude of calming options. Explore other havens of peace in the region’s spas, offering the perfect retreat to soothe your mind body. Perfect for Valentine’s Day!
SNUG LITTLE LOVE NESTS
Escape the ordinary and opt for unusual overnight stays that will transform your romantic getaway into a memorable experience. Make the most of the great outdoors with one of the HOM mini chalets, accommodation built in the treetops. Thirsty for adventure? You’ll be blown away by the Hébergements insolites du Parc Oméga that give you the opportunity to sleep in huts surrounded by wolves, not forgetting the big new feature: the nature suite, where you can experience full immersion with deer thanks to the panoramic windows and a huge terrace overlooking these incredible creatures’ habitat. Alternatively, the Omegabon Restaurant has a special Valentine’s Day menu on offer!
For couples looking for originality and winter delights, Borefüge enables you to switch off in a cozy environment around a campfire and practise various activities like hiking, dog sledding, snowshoeing and much more. Looking for absolute comfort? Surprise your loved one by booking a retreat at the Wakefield Mill Hotel and Spa. Each room has a unique charm to it; brick or stone walls and original flooring adds a wonderfully historical touch. There are so many possibilities!
VALENTINE’S DAY IN SOLO
No need to be in a couple to celebrate love! Treat yourself to a cuddle with the alpacas from Eco des champs Farm and leave with a favourite from the farm’s store. Relax in a bubble bath with bath bombs from Apothecary La Fée des Bois and light a candle from Lavandine et cie. It is also a great way to spend the evening with friends. Head to La Petite Soif for a wine tasting or grab a comforting meal at Roberto Pizza Romana. The suggestions are endess!
Whatever you decide to do for Valentine’s Day, remember that it’s the thought that counts! Whether you choose to celebrate it as a couple or in solo, the most important thing is to enjoy the moment and surround yourself with happiness. After all, loving yourself is just as important as sharing a beautiful moment with others. Love yourself!
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For other ideas to prolong your romantic getaway into the heart of winter, check out our blog What’s on in the Outaouais in February.
