With Valentine’s Day just around the corner you’re likely looking for some ideas on what to do with your sweetheart. No matter where you are in Canada or how you feel like celebrating on February 14th we have some great ideas to inspire you.
Toronto, Ontario
Toronto is filled with romantic places to visit, things to do and restaurants to dine at. For starters, book a room at a boutique hotel, which can be more romantic than multi-story towers: The Drake Hotel and the Gladstone Hotel are two good options. Spend some time skating at Nathan Philips Square or get a day pass from the Sheraton Centre Hotel and go for a dip in their indoor/outdoor all-season pool. A wander through the historic Distillery District is romantic any time of year and it also happens to be home to several romantic restaurants. Try French bistro Cluny and then cuddle up on the all-season patio at Mill Street Beer Hall, complete with couches and fireplaces.
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Start your romantic weekend in Halifax by dropping your bags at the Halliburton, Halifax’s historic boutique hotel right downtown and one of the city’s most romantic stays. Next, book a relaxing couples massage at popular downtown spa, Spirt Urban Spa. The “Knot Again Massage” can be booked side-by-side for up to 90 minutes and will increase circulation and ease tired muscles. When you’re ready to eat there are a good selection of romantic spots in Halifax. Two that get consistently good reviews include Bicycle Thief and The Press Gang Restaurant and Oyster Bar.
Montreal, Quebec
Montreal is a romantic city, there’s no doubt about it. Just being there is enough to feel a surge of romance, but it’s also nice to do something extra special. Hotel St. Paul in Old Montreal, or Auberge Le Pomerol if you’d rather be downtown, are perfect for a romantic night or two. Whether you’re staying in Old Montreal or not, make a point of wandering the cobblestone streets and browse the shops to feel like you’ve been whisked to Europe. Skate hand in hand atop Mont Royal on Beaver Lake and then book a massage or do the rejuvenating traditional Scandinavian water therapy circuit at Scandinave Les Bains Vieux-Montreal. Cap off your day by filling up on fondue at La Fonderie.
Vancouver, British Columbia
If you’re heading to Vancouver for Valentine’s Day or simply just for a romantic getaway you’ll be pleased with how many things there are to see and do. In terms of where to rest your head, make a beeline for Wedgewood Hotel and Spa where you can sleep and get pampered as a couple. Once you’ve checked in, book a couples massage by candlelight then get active with a skate on Robson Square rink. Before dinner, pay a visit to Vancouver Art Gallery, which has donation-based admission after 5 p.m then enjoy a romantic dinner at The Refinery and Chambar.
Calgary, Alberta
Couples won’t have to worry about finding something romantic to do in Calgary. If you’ll be spending the night, two romantic boutique hotel options include Hotel le Germain Calgary and Hotel Elan. Squeeze in some romantic pampering by booking a couple’s massage at Hotel le Germain’s Santé Spa or have two masseuses come right to your room at Hotel Elan. Next, head for Calgary Tower to take in views of the city from the highest 360°observation deck in the world. If the timing makes sense for a meal, stay at the tower and eat at Sky 360, which sits at 155 metres and completes a full rotation every 45 minutes. The setting is ultra-romantic and the views are fantastic. If you’re feeling energetic, go for a pre or post-dinner skate at the popular outdoor rink, Bowness Park, open until 10 p.m. each night.
Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
Basing yourself in Charlottetown is a good way to get a sense of everything Prince Edward Island has to offer. Begin your stay at The Great George, Charlottetown’s historic boutique hotel that is conveniently located downtown, close to shops, restaurants and attractions. Opt for one of their Romantic Hideaway Suites complete with a king sized bed, fireplace and double Jacuzzi. Take in some art at the Confederation Centre of the Arts, which houses Atlantic Canada’s largest art gallery. Next, go for a romantic cross country ski or snowshoe excursion at Victoria Park. Unwind after your day with a couple’s massage at Pure Spa, then enjoy some of the delicious seafood Charlottetown is known for at Claddagh Oyster House or Merchantman.
Regina, Saskatchewan
Anyone looking for a romance in Regina shouldn’t have much trouble finding it. Historic hotels always seem to have an air of romance about them and the Radisson Plaza Hotel Saskatchewan (built in 1927) is no exception. At some point during your stay, book a couple’s private massage lesson at Essence Organic Day Spa, which includes a half-body massage and some massage how-to tips and guidance. Couples may also enjoy a wander through the MacKenzie Art Gallery, Saskatchewan’s largest public art gallery featuring contemporary and historical art from Saskatchewan, Canada and around the world. End your day with a romantic meal at The Willow, a restaurant that uses local, seasonal ingredients to show off the best of what the area has to offer.
Fredericton, New Brunswick
Couples should aim to situate themselves close to Fredericton’s attractions and they can do so by opting for a romantic Jacuzzi suite (with fireplace) at the Crowne Plaza Lord Beaverbrook. Go for a skate at one of Fredericton’s many outdoor skating rinks, explore the Beaverbrook Art Gallery and try to catch a performance at the Fredericton Playhouse, which hosts performances in music, theatre and dance. End your stay with a romantic dinner for two at The Blue Door Restaurant and Bar or 504 Kitchen and Gastropub.
St. John’s, Newfoundland
St. John’s has a lot to offer couples looking for a romantic escape. Start by booking a room at a charming bed and breakfast like the well-reviewed At Wit’s Inn, or a boutique hotel like the stylish JAG, both are well-located to access the city’s attractions, which include art galleries, museum and parks. When it comes time to eat try Clinched Bistro or, for a cozy pub, head for YellowBelly Brewery and Public House. After dinner head to George Street, a small street lined with pubs and bars, many of which have live music and dancing.
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Romance-seekers in Winnipeg should think about booking a room at the elegant and well-located Fairmont Winnipeg. Take a dip in the 12 metre saltwater pool and unwind in the eucalyptus steam room. Once you’re ready to explore, head to The Forks where you’ll find an array of shops, restaurants, museums and attractions including a farmers market and a skating rink. Get a taste of the tropics at the Assiniboine Park Conservatory where you can walk amongst exotic plants and lush greenery indoors. Cap off your romantic day with dinner at The Mitchell Block or 529 Wellington.
Featured image: maf04 used under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike license
