Roses, chocolates and a romantic meal are Valentine’s Day staples so maybe this is the year to liven them up by choosing a romantic setting to complete the picture.
A couple’s retreat in the West Country gives time for walking, talking, taking in the views and getting away from it all and there are still some magical locations to choose from for Valentine’s week.
The Music Room in Aveton Gifford, South Hams, is a former chapel and venue for music events, as the name suggests. Light a fire in the wood burner and bathe in the glow from the stained glass window before taking a stroll around the romantic grounds. There is even a special offer for Valentine’s week – hurry to the website and watch the video tour.
The Bathing House (pictured above) in Ashprington in Devon is like a scene from a film: pretty white house with a balcony overlooking the River Dart. Situated on the 550 acre, Capability Brown-designed Sharpham Estate, you can take walks here or join in a wine tasting session. You can chose whether that comes before or after a good few hours watching the river go by with your loved one.
If your other half would melt at the idea of a beach chalet, try Seagulls Nest on Whitsand Bay. Uninterrupted views of the bay in South Cornwall make cosy dinners by the window spectacular, whatever is on the menu. A great location for Coastal Path fans.
The Linhay in the tiny hamlet of East Ash near Throwleigh on Dartmoor is perfect for lovers of walking, sitting close to the Mariners’ Way walk, while this small detached cottage at St Agnes, near Newquay in Cornwall, shouts cosy couple’s getaway.
The Bothy at Parracombe, Exmoor, is a private, single-storey cottage with French windows overlooking its little wild garden with stream. The four poster bed adds an air of traditional romance.
Whichever of our cottages you choose, you’ll be spoilt for choice with local produce to indulge your partner’s tastes. Sparkling English wine from Camel Valley vineyard, handmade chocolates and meals out at the restaurants of Jamie Oliver’s in Newquay and Rick Stein’s in Padstow: Valentine’s Day 2014 will be one to remember.
For more information on West Country cottages to sleep two during Valentine’s week, go to the Helpful Holidays website or call 01647 433593.
