Ahhh Valentine's Day, love it or loathe it you can't help but appreciate a big romantic gesture. And what says 'I love you' more than an incredible shared experience? Dodge the romantic clichés and go one step further with a gift that can't be wrapped but will be cherished for a lifetime. Here's our list of what not to do on Valentine's Day... and which romantic European experiences to gift instead!
1. Don't Go To Dinner
Go to Croatia and enjoy a romantic winery dining experience. Croatia is a destination with romance stamped all over it, and nestled amongst the hills of the Istrian countryside lies a hidden gem that's just begging to be uncovered. Meneghetti Wine Hotel & Winery is a symbol of luxury carved out of century-old stone. An oasis of peace surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, gaze into your loved one’s eyes over a romantic long lunch at the outstanding restaurant serving up award-winning wines and olive oils. If you dare to indulge even further, stick around for a night or two and treat yourself to a vinotherapy session at the villa's spa - yes this does mean your skin will be covered in red wine and grape oil!
2. Don't Buy Chocolates
Buy tickets to Switzerland and express your love in the sweetest way. Widely regarded as one of the world's leading producers of high-quality chocolate, this captivating country also boasts breathtaking alpine peaks, stunning lakes, glistening glaciers, flower-filled meadows and quaint villages, so it is no surprise that it's high on the list of romantic European destinations. The alpine regions are home to creamy, rich milk, which is key to the transformation of cocoa beans into silky smooth chocolate, making buying chocolate once you're in Switzerland an absolute must!
3. Don't Gift Wine
Give the gift of a visit to the wine capital of the world! The vineyards of Bordeaux are the largest fine wine vineyards in the world and the diversity of the varietals produced means that all tastes are catered for - with reds, dry and sweet whites, rosés, light reds and sparkling whites all on offer. The vineyards include 6,000 chateaux, historic villages, medieval cities, archaeological sites and ancient Roman churches. The winegrowers open their vineyards for wine tastings, wine courses and numerous cultural and gourmet discoveries so - as you can imagine - the potential for romance in this region is endless. Turn up the romance dial a couple more notches when you travel by train, truly the most romantic way to travel!
4. Don't Go Dancing
Go to a Spanish flamenco show! Flamenco is an art form comprising of songs, dancing and instrumental music associated with southern Spain. Sensual Spanish guitar riffs, passionate dancers and echoing castanets emulate an exotic atmosphere, transporting audiences on a journey of the senses. So if you're after an intimate experience unlike any other, a flamenco show is certainly worth treating your special someone to. Add to your itinerary a luxury river cruise through Portugal and you have the perfect recipe for romance and to make memories that will last a lifetime.
Inspired to treat yourself or your special someone to one of these romantic European getaways? Get in touch with your local
Travellers Choice agent today!
