From skiing and winery tastings to tropical oases and dining under the stars in the desert, where to spend the best weekend away for two
Traveling together with your significant other is like nothing else that can stir up emotions and create unforgettable experiences that you share. It could be a couple's weekend trip, a special date, or a holiday like Valentine's Day that you'll want to spend together away from your usual surroundings. Going to a rustic cabin, walking through a winery, basking under the tropical sun on the beach – there are plenty of options for what you can dedicate your trip to. Use these ideas on how to plan the best weekend getaway for couples and choose the perfect destination for your romantic getaway.
Montreal, Canada
This Canadian metropolis is rich in centuries-old architecture and history, and the abundance of bustling French bistros only adds to its similarities to European cities. Since most tourists prefer to open the season of travel to Montreal in spring, in winter time your romantic vacation will be remarkable not only for the atmosphere of the winter wonderland with ice skating in La Fontaine Park, night walks on snowshoes on Mont Royale, and dog sledding in Mont Tremblant, but also for the absence of crowds and quiet atmosphere. After your outdoor activities, continue the best couples' weekend with a hot chocolate by the fireplace in one of Old Montreal's charming hotels.
At any time of year, it's worth adding a stroll through the vibrant city center to your routine. Then treat yourself to a couples massage or luxurious facial at one of the world-class spas, such as St. James at the Ritz-Carlton, and explore the local gastronomy: alternatively, savor delicious tapas and cocktails in the lobby of the W Montreal Hotel, whose relaxed atmosphere will create the necessary romantic vibe.
Watch Hill, Rhode Island
The prestigious neighborhood of Watch Hill on the southern suburbs of Roy Island is a quiet, quaint coastal town filled with gorgeous ocean views, numerous boutiques, chic restaurants, art galleries, and seasonal events, perfect for romantic getaways for couples. If you decide to spend a weekend here, stay at the Ocean House, a stately Victorian-style oceanfront hotel established in 1868. Couples can enjoy the exquisite spa and upscale restaurant, which have been awarded 5 stars by Forbes, stroll along the private white sand beach, and spend cocktail evenings by the grand fireplace.
On-site activities include croquet and golf games, fitness classes, cooking workshops, and art classes year-round. The hotel offers an exclusive romantic getaway package that includes a room with a fireplace and gorgeous ocean views, resort credit for dinner at the restaurant or a couples massage at the spa, daily breakfast, and chocolate-covered strawberries and champagne in the room.
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos
The Turks and Caicos Islands in the Caribbean Sea are recognized by many travelers as one of the best places for a romantic weekend away. It's also a great location, with a two-hour plane ride from Miami and less than four hours from New York, so you can be in a tropical paradise in such a short time. For a stopover, choose one of the chic local resorts, such as the fabulous The Shore Club.
Located on a secluded stretch of coastline on Providenciales Island, this luxurious hideaway on beautiful Long Bay Beach offers secluded relaxation and modern amenities for the best weekend getaway for two. You can start the day with a paddle board ride or a swim in the turquoise waters, then settle into a cabana by one of the resort's four pools before ending it with a fresh seafood dinner at the Japanese-Peruvian restaurant. You can diversify your leisure time with horseback riding along the coast, spa treatments, and exploring the restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and stores of downtown Grace Bay.
Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs, Old Hollywood's favorite vacation spot, is equally popular with couples looking for the best romantic weekend getaway. Stylish resorts and hotels like the luxurious The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage, mesmerizing desert vistas, and top-notch restaurants attract leisure travelers and adventurers, while more than a hundred excellent courses attract golfers from around the world.
The area offers plenty of outdoor activities, such as a jeep ride through the San Andreas Fault Zone or the magnificent Joshua Tree National Park, an hour's drive away. Of course, a visit to Palm Springs can't be imagined without the natural hot springs: you can choose the healing waters of Desert Hot Springs or enjoy a stay at one of the excellent day spas that abound here. And the cuisine is also worth a visit, with many places offering a fine dining experience under the stars.
Walland, Tennessee
Spend the best romantic weekend with your other half on a luxurious mountain vacation with an adventurous atmosphere. The perfect place for such a leisure vacation is nestled among 5,200 acres of mountains in the Great Smoky Mountains, home to the stunning Blackberry Mountain Resort. It blends the tranquil setting of a rustic preserve with wellness opportunities and active leisure activities.
It's a great choice for couples who prefer to spend time in the great outdoors in an exciting way. Your schedule will be filled with walks on beautiful hiking and mountain biking trails, forest meditation, wellness and relaxing spa treatments, candlelight yoga, and other activities that promote relaxation and bonding. Blackberry Farm's three unique culinary program restaurants only enhance the enjoyable experience with local hospitality.
Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston attracts travelers from all over the world for its many attractions: rich history, beautiful architecture with cobblestone streets, excellent culinary scene, and southern charm. No wonder many couples choose it as a destination for their special occasions and enjoyable weekend getaways.
Local gastronomy is at the top of many travelers' list of priorities, as the culinary capital of the South has plenty of places worth visiting. For example, The Ordinary restaurant on King Street will treat you to great oysters. Order the spicy fried chicken at Leon's Oyster Shop or savor the Texas-style brisket at Lewis Barbecue. The list goes on ad infinitum, so perhaps the best option is a food tour.
After dinner, sip a classic cocktail at The Bar & Patio at Husk or appreciate the Camellias Champagne Bar at the Bennett Hotel. For a better sense of the local atmosphere, an overnight stay at a boutique hotel in the heart of the historic district, such as the luxurious French Quarter Inn, will help.
Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
Another delightful Caribbean oasis for the perfect couples' weekend getaway is located on the largest of the three Cayman Islands. There's a vacation here to suit any pace, but if you plan your trip for early spring, but get dry warm weather and far fewer travelers than in the height of winter. This is the perfect time to travel to Grand Cayman and visit its famous seven-mile beach. Epic water sports are the main adventure of these sparkling waters. Rent a kayak to paddle through lush mangroves or explore the north coast by catamaran.
Swap active leisure activities for sun-drenched days on pink sand beaches. The natural surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for passionate evenings. Admire stunning sunsets from your luxurious room at Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa, and for the perfect end to the day, enjoy a gourmet dinner at Avecita, sampling the chef's seasonal specialties unique to the Caribbean.
Paso Robles, California
One of the most famous wine regions in California (along with Napa and Sonoma) sits halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles. The vast hilly terrain along the state's central coast is dotted with olive groves, vineyards, ranches, and farms. The natural beauty and measured atmosphere of Paso Robles is the perfect backdrop for the best weekend trips you can plan with your date. Wine is a major local attraction, so there will be over 200 wineries to choose from where you can visit and taste fine wines. Many tastings create a special experience, offering open, sun-drenched grounds and marvelous views all around.
Lodging in Paso is more affordable than other well-known wine regions in the state. Wine tastings can be diluted by visiting craft breweries and swimming in hot springs, as well as dining at renowned restaurants and shopping at interesting downtown stores. For example, stop by the General Store for original souvenirs of your trip, such as olive oil, honey, soap, and other locally handmade goods.
Park City, Utah
A dreamy weekend by the fireplace in a cozy snow-covered cabin is a wish for many couples looking for a secluded and sensory-filled getaway. Full of charm, the small town of Park City is easily accessible from Salt Lake City International Airport. Here, you can ski the slopes of two premier resorts, Deer Valley and Park City Mountain, and enjoy fine dining at local restaurants and mesmerizing snow-covered scenery during breaks. An exclusive après-ski experience awaits at St. Regis Deer Valley Ski Resort: with fireside dinners, decadent hot chocolate, and stellar cocktails.
In addition to skiing, the historic Utah town has plenty of other activities to offer: sledding and dog sledding, hot air balloon rides, and shopping on Main Street, filled with the facades of historic 1880s buildings. Put a visit to the High West Distillery in Park City for a whiskey tasting and make reservations for a candlelight dinner with live music at Riverhorse on Main into your itinerary for a weekend trip for two.