It was probably a once-in-a-lifetime experience and certainly one that…
10 Romantic Getaways in Canada for Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day is the perfect time for romantic getaways in Canada, even though it’s winter. Or perhaps, because of it.
What could be more romantic than a horse-drawn sleigh ride for two, sipping wine by the fire or simply snuggling under the duvet?
And you’ll find the most romantic places in Canada, from charming cobblestone streets to starry mountain tops.
Whether you’re looking for a great couple’s resort or romantic things to do for Valentine’s Day, we’ve got you covered.
Here are the best romantic getaways in Canada for Valentine’s Day.
Romantic getaways in Canada by province:
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Banff, Alberta
- Quebec City, Quebec
- Montreal, Quebec
- Mont Tremblant, Quebec
- Wakefield, Quebec
- Ottawa, Ontario
- Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario
- Tofino, British Columbia
- Whistler, British Columbia
Romantic getaways in Alberta
Banff, Alberta
The Banff area in the Rocky Mountains of Alberta is a beautiful winter wonderland for a romantic weekend getaway. Truthfully, Banff in winter really can’t be beat and it’s one of the best places to go on Valentine’s Day. Or anytime. Plus, Lake Louise is considered to be one of the top honeymoon destinations in the world.
Don’t miss the the Alpenglow Festival, one of the many romantic things to do in Banff. It runs at the Banff Gondola summit on Fridays and Saturdays to early April. As the sun sets, you can watch the rosy Alpenglow light over the mountaintops as it gives way to starry skies. Then cozy up by the fire to enjoy festival cocktails and smores.
Do:
♥Book the Banff Gondola in advance here to see the summit at Sulphur Mountain and enjoy the Alpenglow festival.
♥Go skating at Lake Louise. You can rent skates on site.
♥Enjoy a romantic sleigh ride for two.
♥Heat things up in the hot springs at the Banff Upper Hot Springs or the Willow Spa at the Banff Springs Hotel.
Eat: For local Canadian specialties for dinner, Juniper Bistro and the Three Ravens Restaurant & Wine Bar are among the best places to eat in Banff.
Stay: The most romantic place to stay in Banff is the fairy tale castle of the Rockies, the Banff Springs Hotel. Check prices and availability for the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel here.
Romantic Getaways in Quebec
Quebec City, Quebec
One of the most romantic places in Canada, Quebec City is known for its charming, four centuries-old cobblestone streets and fabulous French cuisine. Every year in mid-February, Quebec City holds its Winter Carnival celebrating all things winter. You can marvel at the ice sculptures or even stay in an ice hotel.
Do:
♥Take a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride around the old city. Called as a calèche, you’ll almost always find the carriages in front of the Château Frontenac.
♥Get a thrill on the traditional toboggan slide beside the Château Frontenac. Toboggan speeds can reach 70 kilometres per hour!
♥Don’t miss the chance to take a tour of Quebec’s Ice Hotel (Hôtel de Glace). The tour includes a cocktail in a glass made of ice.
Eat: Enjoy local cheeses with wine by the fire at 1608 – Wine and Cheese Bar, or a cozy meal (followed by maple syrup cake) at Bistro Sous le Fort
Stay: For romance, you can’t beat a castle – – stay at the historic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac (see my review here). As well, the luxury boutique hotel, Auberge Saint-Antoine, in Lower Town (See my review here) is one of my favourites.
For pricing and availability, see Auberge Saint-Antoine or the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac. If you want to stay at the famous Ice Hotel, check prices and availability here. Or you can review a complete list of Quebec City hotel recommendations by neighbourhood here.
Montreal, Quebec
There are plenty of romantic things to do in Montreal with someone special for Valentine’s Day. From cobblestone streets to shiny glass skyscrapers, Montreal has a fascinating mix of old and new along with a vibrant food and art scene.
Do:
♥Take an Old Montreal winter walking tour through the historic squares and buildings of the city.
♥Go an a traditional snowshoe excursion in Mount Royal Park, just minutes from downtown Montreal. Enjoy beautiful views of the city skyline and cap off the event with a steaming cup of hot chocolate.
♥Relax together at the unique “floating spa”, Bota Bota, in hot tubs with great view of the city. There are champagne Valentine’s specials available.
Eat: For the most romantic restaurants in Montreal, enjoy the haute cuisine at Maison Boulud or Toqué. Of course, you shouldn’t miss the classic Montreal smoked meat sandwich at Schwartz’s Deli.
Stay: Old Montreal is the place for a romantic stay in Montreal. The elegant Hotel Le St. James Montreal is housed in a restored 1870 bank building and offers suites with fluffy bathrobes and down comforters. Or try the Hôtel Place d’Armes, a heritage hotel with a relaxing ambiance.
Mont Tremblant, Quebec
If you’re looking for a romantic spot to cocoon with your loved one, head to Mont Tremblant in the Laurentian Mountains northwest of Montreal. It’s a ski resort, but you can also have a lot of fun staying inside the romantic accommodations or strolling in the pedestrian village.
Do:
♥Play in the snow by hitting the slopes or snowshoeing.
♥Visit nearby Parc Omega, to see Canada’s native species at this drive-through safari park in Montebello.
♥Enjoy a couples massage and a traditional Scandinavian bath experience at the Scandinave Spa.
Eat: For a romantic restaurant in Mont Tremblant, try La Quintessence or the Forge Bar and Grill.
Stay: You may never want to leave this 130-year old private cabin, with a fireplace, four-poster bed and claw-foot tub at the boutique Hotel Quintessence. See my review here.
Wakefield, Quebec
Wakefield Village is a charming escape in the heart of Quebec’s Gatineau Park and just a 20-minute drive from Ottawa. Get active in the snow or snuggle up with a forest view.
Do:
♥Hit the trails in Gatineau Park on snowshoes or cross-country skis. You can rent gear at Expéditions Wakefield, if needed.
♥Stroll through the craft shops on the main street and steal a kiss under the famous Wakefield covered bridge.
♥For a sweet escape, grab the best bakery treats at La Toque (macarons) and maple fudge at La Confiserie Wakefield.
Eat: Dine in the Muse Restaurant the Wakefield Mill Hotel, with its romantic stone walls, fireplace and waterfall view or enjoy upscale comfort food at the Village House.
Stay: The Wakefield Mill Hotel and Spa is the perfect retreat. Indulge with the romance package, which includes dinner, brunch, a spa credit along with sparkling wine and chocolates.
Romantic getaways in Ontario
Ottawa, Ontario
Ottawa, Canada’s capital city, has numerous romantic attractions for couples. It’s home to Canada’s national museums and the longest skating rink in the world, the Rideau Canal. The city celebrates winter with the Winterlude Festival in the first two weeks of February.
Do:
♥Skate hand-in-hand on the Rideau Canal and be sure to stop at one of the ice huts for a Beaver Tail, a fried pastry sprinkled with sugar and cinnamon.
♥Wander through Confederation Park to see the magnificent ice sculptures.
♥Stay close during a Ottawa Haunted Night Walking Tour.
Eat: Warm up with a chocolate fondue at Cacao 70 in the Byward Market. Share small plates at the intimate Beckta Fine Dining & Wine or indulge at the upscale Restaurant 18, both in the Byward Market.
Stay: The most romantic place to stay in Ottawa is the Fairmont Château Laurier, an elegant castle hotel in the heart of the city.
Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario
If you enjoy vintage-style romance, Niagara-on-the-Lake is a lovely romantic getaway near Toronto (two hours away by car). This Victorian 19th-century village is perfect for strolling the main street, going to the theatre or visiting the many nearby wineries.
Do:
♥Savour delicious wines and local food on this tour to four wineries in the region.
♥Visit Niagara Falls, the honeymoon capital of the world. Fulfill your bucket list with a scenic helicopter tour over the falls.
♥Browse the traditional shops lining the Victorian streets.
Eat: Enjoy fresh farm to table food at the Treadwell Restaurant or at the Peller Estates’ Winery Restaurant.
Stay: Get the royal treatment at the Prince of Wales Hotel or enjoy the Harbour House overlooking Lake Ontario for its soft cotton sheets, fireplaces and whirlpool tubs.
Romantic getaways in British Columbia
Tofino, British Columbia
For a secluded romantic getaway in British Columbia, head to the Wickaninnish Inn on the coast of Vancouver Island. In February, visitors delight in winter storm watching as gale force winds and waves pound the coast. Watch the waves from a spa or your candlelit tub.
Do:
♥Suit up in rain gear provided by the Inn and take a romantic walk on the beach.
♠Pamper yourselves with a hot stone massage at the Inn’s Ancient Cedars Spa.
♥Venture out onto the hiking trails amid massive ancient trees.
Eat: Dine on local and sustainably sourced food at the Wickaninnish Inn or take in the ocean views at the award-winning Wolf in the Fog.
Stay: Check pricing and availability at the Wickaninnish Inn in Tofino.
Whistler, British Columbia
B.C.’s Whistler area is ideal for a Valentine’s Day getaway filled with adventure and romance. It’s one of Canada’s premiere ski and snowboarding resorts, but it’s also a perfect place to get cozy.
Do:
♥The Whistler Zipline Experience over the Valley between Whistler and Blackcomb mountains is sure to bring you closer.
♥Enjoy the Fire and Ice Show on Sundays, a fun evening of fire spinners and fireworks.
♥Relax at the peaceful Whistler Scandinave Spa.
Eat: The Bearfoot Bistro, with its upscale cuisine and bubbly bar, is a can’t miss experience.
Stay: First Tracks Lodge is a romantic hideaway with hot tubs and fireplaces, at the base of Whistler Mountain.
More Information:
Tourism Information: Destination Canada
Suggested Reading: Lonely Planet Canada (Travel Guide), Canada by Mike Myers
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These are amazing vacation ideas.
Thank you! I hope it helps in the planning.