Chris AshtonLove is in the air, everywhere you look around… and it can mean only one thing – Valentine’s Day is back once again. Did you pick up any of the hints your partner has been dropping over the last few weeks? If not, there’s still time to do something spectacular.
Rather than scramble to find a box of chocolates or flowers down your local supermarket, you could up the ante with a trip through some of the most romantic destinations across Europe. Departing later in the year, you can say it’s all part of your master plan.
According to research by Trafalgar, trips where you enjoy new experiences have become more important than seeing all the sights. With that in mind, they’ve put together a list of five romantic, yet lesser known, destinations worth discovering – and there’s a little something for almost every kind of traveller.
1. Verona, Italy
Cuddle up in the city that inspired Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. In fair Verona, you could ascend Lamberti’s Tower for magnificent views; explore the first-century Roman Arena; see the Ponte Pietra, a gorgeous stone bridge from Roman times; or simply relax with a cappuccino in the expansive Piazza Bra – a fantastic spot for people watching.
2. Rovinj, Croatia
Do you enjoy long walks and holding hands? The labyrinthine streets of Rovinj’s beautiful Old Town are waiting for you. Dive into Croatian culture; indulge in some fine fresh produce at Valdibora market; visit the boutiques and galleries in Grisia, Rovinj’s self-proclaimed Montmartre; and then head to the seaside setting of Opatija for a romantic stroll along the waterfront. You can visit Rovinj on Trafalgar’s new Best of Croatia and Slovenia holiday.
3. Lake Bled, Slovenia
Slovenia is one of the most underrated destinations in Europe – it’s stunning in every way. And Lake Bled is perhaps the jewel in its crown. Admire the alpine waters of the lake against the backdrop of the cliff-side Bled Castle or ascend by cable car to Mt. Vogel for enchanting views. Consider taking a boat trip to Bled Island too. Climb the 99 stone steps to the 17th-century Baroque Church, once the site of a temple dedicated the Žlavic goddess of love.
4. Seville, Spain
Famous for all things flamboyant and Flamenco, the sizzling Spanish city of Seville is set in beautiful Andalusia. Think fiery Andalusian horses, the scent of orange blossoms, and the largest Gothic Cathedral in the world. If it’s good enough for Spanish royalty, it’s certainly good enough your beloved. Trafalgar loves to share its Hidden Gems with guests and one of these is the Naranjas De Sevilla, a quirky corner store where you will find the city’s famous oranges transformed into all manner of produce, from wines, to iced tea, to jams.
5. Geirangerfjord, Norway
Romance doesn’t just have to be fine dining and strolls along the river. Outdoor fans can push the envelope with an exhilarating visit to Norway. Journey to Bergen, the colourful ‘Capital of Fjords’, and to Sognefjord, Norway’s longest and deepest fjord. Take a trip up to Geirangerfjord on Trafalgar’s Best of Norway, Scenic Scandinavia, or Fjords and Nordic Adventure trips. You’ll have an opportunity to stay overnight on the shores of the fjord.
For more information, visit trafalgar.com
