The Alps are famous across the world for their peaks, outdoor activities and great skiing, but they are also the perfect place for a romantic break.
Valentine’s Day is a special opportunity for couples to get together and enjoy each other’s company. So what better time for a trip to the mountains? Discovering somewhere new, sampling some of the best fine-dining restaurants and enjoying wonderful scenery will all be on the agenda.
In this article, we give you all the help you need to plan a romantic break in the Alps.
Where should you go for your romantic mountain break?
The first thing to do is to choose your destination. And with more than 150 resorts in the French Alps, it can be a challenge to find the right one for you.
In this post, we’ll give you some ideas for different locations, but you can also check out this article on the Alps’ most romantic resorts.
Annecy
Firstly, there’s the beautiful lakeside town of Annecy in Haute-Savoie.
For many, it is undoubtedly the most romantic city in the Alps. After all, it is nicknamed the “Venice of the Alps”!
Picture yourselves strolling through the narrow cobbled streets in the heart of the historic city centre, which is crisscrossed by canals, exploring the beautiful gardens or admiring the view from the appropriately named “Pont des Amours”.
Whatever you’re looking for, Annecy offers a mix of romance and authenticity that can be combined with some memorable moments by the lake or in the mountains.
Discover our partner properties in Annecy
Courchevel
If you’re looking for somewhere in the true heart of the mountains, then Courchevel could be the place for you.
Couples can choose to stay at 1850m, where can soak in the elegant and sophisticated thermal baths, or perhaps at 1650m, where you’ll enjoy a traditional mountain atmosphere with restaurants, cobbled streets and wine cellars.
Discover chalets in Courchevel
Choose a cosy chalet for a romantic weekend
The second step is to choose your accommodation. And just like choosing your resort, this is an important part of planning an unforgettable romantic holiday.
OVO Network partner properties are all designed and furnished to provide the perfect holiday in the Alps. However, this time it’s all about finding the ideal romantic chalet that will turn a simple weekend into the perfect Valentine’s getaway.
So here are a few to inspire you…
With a view of the snowy mountain tops, the cosy ambience of the bright, open-plan living room, a roaring fire and rugs on the floor, Chalet Chocolat in Manigod has all the ingredients you need for a Valentine’s Day break in the mountains.
If for you, Valentine’s day means romance and relaxation, we have just what you need! Enjoy a bottle of Champagne in the hot tub on the terrace, with a view of the mountains at Chalet Morclan in Manigod or Chalet Hollygotty in La Clusaz!
More romantic chalets in the Alps…
Romantic activities in the Alps
Next, decide what kind of activities you’d like to try on your romantic weekend in the Alps. Whether it’s a new sport, an outdoor excursion, fine dining or a relaxing day out, the mountains provide many special experiences.
A winter holiday in the mountains wouldn’t be complete without the traditional activities such as skiing, snowshoeing or walking in the countryside. And luckily, many resorts offer weekend or three-day ski passes, plus you can get some good offers for Valentine’s Day.
However, there are so many more ways to enjoy the mountains and other activities you can enjoy as a couple. The idea is to have experiences and create memories together.
Here are some of our suggestions…
Embrace the great outdoors
Many people head to the mountains in search of fresh air and nature – which is never too hard to find.
So, why not try a romantic dog sled experience or a carriage ride, for a truly magical day out? Many resorts, such as Megève, offer these activities, however prices and availability can vary, so don’t forget to book in advance.
Or, why not try ice skating? It’s a fun activity to enjoy with your partner and if you visit at certain times of the year, you may be lucky enough to enjoy it with a romantic Alpine backdrop!
For year-round skating, we recommend outdoor ice rinks in mountain resorts such as Annecy and Chamonix.
A panoramic view of the snowy peaks at sunset is the perfect experience for two., so if you’re feeling adventurous, we’d highly recommend a hot air balloon trip or a helicopter flight for the best Alpine views.
Sporty pairs might be tempted by heliskiing – an activity you’ll be sure to write home about!
Explore the town
There’s a rich history waiting to be discovered in Alpine towns. Sometimes, it’s as simple as strolling hand in hand through the old villages and resorts such as Courchevel and Megève.
The shores of Lake Annecy are also rich in museums, castles and heritage sites – a great idea for an excursion on a rainy day.
Sample the local wine
Some ski resorts are also a paradise for wine lovers! For example, in Megève and La Clusaz you can arrange a visit to a wine cellar along with a tasting.
It’s a fantastic way to discover more about the region and develop your palate. Then to finish the evening, enjoy some live music or a show, followed by a romantic dinner in a local restaurant.
Relax and unwind
Valentine’s Day is also a time for pampering. You could book a chalet with spa facilities such as a hot tub, sauna or steam room.
Alternatively, why not organise a day of pampering at a spa or health resort and enjoy a couples massage whilst you’re there?
Enjoy a candle-lit dinner in an exclusive setting
A candle-lit dinner in a magical setting – it’s a Valentine’s Day must. The Alps are home to countless restaurants which offer that “something special”, with many Michelin-starred restaurants offering magnificent views and fine dining.
Here are a few suggestions:
- Le Chabichou – a Michelin two-star restaurant in Courchevel that combines tradition and modern dining.
- Le Mont Blanc – a starred restaurant in Megeve, which prides itself on local ingredients.
- L’Auberge du Père Bise à Annecy – run by Chef Jean Sulpice (two Michelin stars), offering simple ingredients from Lake Annecy to delight your tastebuds.
Alpine gifts for your partner on Valentine’s Day
Gifts are not obligatory on Valentine’s Day, but they are often a lovely gesture that makes people happy. So, in addition to flowers and local chocolates, here are some unusual ideas from the mountains…
Organise an outdoor photo session – hire a professional photographer and find a beautiful setting to capture your holiday memories.
Book a wellness treatment – choose from a couple’s massage, spa day or session in a float room. It’s a great way to pamper yourself and your partner!
Choose a piece of handmade jewellery – support local artisans by treating yourselves to a mountain-inspired piece!
If Valentine’s Day is a time for relaxation, sharing and love, it is above all a time to get together and reconnect as a couple. And what could be more romantic than a short stay in the magical peaks of the Alps?
If you would like to combine your romantic trip with a week skiing in the Alps, we recommend the following guides:
