At this time of year, I like to plan a romantic trip for my husband, to give us a long weekend or more to unwind together and relax. We usually travel with our dog, and we love discovering new places, new cultures, or simply finding quirky destinations that offer something a little different. Check out a few of my top picks when choosing where to travel with a loved one.
Aix-les-Bains
A scenic spa town in eastern France, Aix-les-Bains benefits from stunning natural surroundings and a classic spa town feel. Home to a myriad of sports facilities and near to the beaches of Lake Bourget, which is France’s largest freshwater lake. If you visit early on in the year, you can enjoy some skiing on the slopes of the Grand Revard mountains, just southeast of Aix-les-Bains. If you’re not into skiing, simply enjoy a slow cycle around the lake promenade and enjoy the views.
When choosing where to stay, beautiful lake views can be enjoyed at Hôtel Ombremont, a four-star hotel which sits across the lake from Aix-les-Bains and allows pets.
Colmar
Step back in time in Colmar.
In the heart of the Alsace region, in north-eastern France, Colmar is an incredibly pretty commune and a great option if you’re looking for a romantic place to stay for a long weekend. While the town is famous for its Christmas market, it’s a beautiful place to visit all year round. The centre of the Alsace wine region, Colmar boasts several districts to explore, including the historic fishmonger’s district and the tanner’s district. My favourite part of Colmar to enjoy with a loved one is Little Venice, which starts near to the historic Koïfhus building and goes down to Boulevard Saint-Perre.
When the weather permits, taking a small boat down the canal is a lovely way to spend a romantic afternoon. After you’ve spent the day exploring Colmar, drive a little out of town to Ammerschwihr and dine at Restaurant Julien Binz, for a delightful menu in a setting that oozes elegance. Enjoy contemporary French dishes such as roasted langoustines, mussels with lemongrass and lobster medallions with bouillon of Gruyère. The perfect place for a romantic meal.
Château de Villandry
An example of the gardens at the Château de Villandry.
In the Villandry département of Indre-et-Loire, the Château de Villandry is famous for its beautiful knot gardens. The château itself is incredibly interesting, with a history dating back to the Renaissance period when it was built to be the residence for Jean Le Breton, Minister of Finance for François I, who bought the lands in the late 16th century. The château later changed hands several times, at one point being bought by Napoleon for his brother, Jérôme Bonaparte.
Rolled out over three terraces, the château boasts several different gardens, all with varying designs. The kitchen garden features both flowers and vegetables to create a really unique outdoor space, but by far the most romantic is the château’s love garden. With a quaint fountain in the centre, heart-shaped bushes are decorated with red and yellow flowers, while other shapes signify different types of love: tender, passionate, flighty and tragic. Come here on a sunny day to experience the gardens at their best.
Locronan
Get lost in Locronan, Brittany.
Not only is Locronan one of Brittany’s most beautiful towns (recognised as a Plus Beaux Villages de France) but it’s got a fascinating history, which is fun to discover on a romantic break. With Renaissance houses, a labyrinth of cobbled streets and a 15th century church, home to fascinating Gothic art, there’s plenty to discover. Brittany is an easy drive from Calais, but once you’ve arrived in Locronan, walking is the best way to get around, and local parking is just 3 Euros for your entire stay.
One fact that makes Locronan particularly interesting: it’s use as the real-life setting for the 1921 filming of The Three Musketeers! Stroll through the main historic square, and wander past the church, behind which you’ll find a lovely wooded area – ideal for a romantic stroll. There are a few restaurants in town, but I particularly enjoyed a bite to eat at Au Coin du Feu. Serving French cuisine, try to book a table near to the window and enjoy views extending all the way out to sea while you dine.
Start planning your romantic escape today with Eurotunnel Le Shuttle. You can travel from Folkestone to Calais in just 35-minutes, before saying “yes” to a whole host of new experiences!