‘Tis the season for romance. Valentine’s Day is approaching and what better way to “couple” several loves than a romantic winter getaway at a ski resort?
Loveland Ski Resort in the Rockies high above Denver understands. The area has been conducting their annual “Marry Me & Ski for Free Valentine’s Day Mountaintop Matrimony Ceremony and Reception” for 31 years on Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14.
New couples are joined in matrimony and married couples renew their vows. The mass wedding takes place at noon sharp in Forest Meadow in a small valley between Catwalk Trees and the Chairlift Six terrain. The snow in the Forest Meadow area generally light and fluffy.
Pre-registered couples receive a goodie bag and reception treats. The Honeymooner’s Apres Party for all participants and their guests follows the ceremony at 1:30 p.m. at the Loveland Basin featuring music, wedding cupcakes and sparkling apple cider. All this for a “love-ly” price of $25 per couple.
» Check out romantic lodging options at Loveland Ski Resort.
Loving it in Canada
Heading north, the Canadian Rockies offer several romantic options. Banff’s Lake Louise Ski Resort is hosting a Valentine’s Day Torchlight and Ski day allowing you to stay on the hill for dinner, drinks, and a late-night escorted run down a freshly groomed slope. Or, book an overnight stay at the Sunshine Mountain Lodge for their “Stay, Ski, Strawberries and Prosecco” package.
Didn’t bring along a special someone? Try Mount Norquay’s “Lifts of Love,” a unique speed dating event on Valentine’s night. Buy a ticket and head for the ‘seeking him’ or ‘seeking her’ lift and get in the corresponding line.
The idea is you meet someone new on each chair ride and you already have a love for skiing or snowboarding in common. If you can’t make a connection during the ride up the Cascade Chair, an Après Ski Mixer in The Lone Pine with a few mixer party games and a live DJ gives you a second chance to find someone intriguing or hit the dance floor with your new single pals.
A bit of Midwest cuddling
Midwest lovers should check out Crystal Mountain, Michigan’s Valentine’s Day Packages. Prices vary from $600 for your very own after-hours, private spa retreat at Crystal Spa. The evening includes a 50-minute massage for two-plus private access to Crystal Spa amenities and a bottle of wine.
Other more budget-priced packages include dinner at the Thistle Pub and Grille, Feb. 12 – 14 for $59 per couple, a private 45-minute hot tub session for up to 15 people for $75 (available from 9:15 – 10 p.m. only). Or, hit the slopes together for a two-hour lesson perfect for the twosome looking for an outdoor hobby this winter. Participants must be on the same equipment (either skis or snowboards) and of similar ability. The cost is $100 per couple.
» Check out romantic lodging options at Crystal Mountain.
Love to-go at Lake Tahoe
Palisades Tahoe in California is offering a Valentine’s Day To-Go Dinner including appetizer, salad, entrée, veggies, and ending with raspberry mousse cake and chocolate-covered strawberries. Wine or champagne can be added to your order. Each dinner is hot, ready to enjoy, and packaged for mess-free transportation. Place your order by Wed., Feb. 10; pick up at the Olympic House at Squaw Valley, Feb. 14. The cost is $145 for two. Since you’re already in the area, order a Valentine’s Day Cookie from Olympic Valley’s Wildflour Bakery. The Wildflour team will handwrite your poem onto a giant heart-shaped chocolate chip cookie for $15 on Feb. 13 and 14.
Maybe some “Southern Hospitality” is what you’re looking for. Start looking at West Virginia’s Snowshoe Resort where you can get a complete mid-winter wedding package in the beautiful St. Bernard Chapel or on snow. They also offer a special “Elopement Package.” Now, that’s a memorable getaway.
There’ a pricey dinner in Mendon, Vt. (near Killington) at Flannels Bar and Grill including five courses. Only 10 couples can participate and the dinner for two is at $250 and that’s before champagne and good stuff like chocolates are added to the bill. But, hey, Valentine’s Day only comes once a year.
January 25, 2024
