Southern Byways

Still looking for some travel ideas for Valentine’s Day. Well, it isn’t too late to make some plans.

Here are some ideas to get you started:

Deals and Specials

• During the month of February the Beach Spa Bed and Breakfast in Virginia Beach, Va., is offering a “three nights of romance” package. This include a dozen red roses and bottle of Moet Chandon Champagne on arrival, gourmet daily breakfast for two in the dining area with fireplace, couple’s massage in the privacy of your room, or an individual massage in the 3rd floor Spa Tower. 

• The Belmont Manor House in Elkridge, Md., is offering a romantic package for either February 15-16 or February 16-17. This includes champagne and chocolate upon arrival in your guest room, five course gourmet wine dinner and a country breakfast. 

• Through February 18, you and your significant other can enjoy the Iron Mountain Inn’s “Mountain High Sweetheart Special.” Located in Butler, Tenn., amenities include dinner by candlelight one night, in-room massages, candles, romantic music, one perfect red rose champagne, and the famous Iron Mountain Inn chocolate chip cookies.

• The TradeWinds Island Resort in St. Pete Beach, Fla., is offering two different packages for this Valentine’s holiday. “Treat Your Sweet” includes dinner for two at Pipers Patio or Bermudas (located at sister-property, Island Grand), two welcome cocktails, two keepsake bathrobes and a surprise chocolate amenity. The one-night “Bubbly, Bed & Breakfast” provides a full breakfast for two and chilled champagne and chocolate-dipped strawberries upon arrival, commemorative glassware and a limited edition nature print.

•  The Chattanoogan in Chattanooga, Tenn., also has two Valentine’s packages. Become spoiled with “The Ultimate Romance” package that includes such amenities as an in-room couple’s massage and other treats. The “Romance” package offers breakfast for two at The Broad Street Grille and a goodie-filled gift basket.

• Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort in Sandestin, Fla., has Valentine’s holiday packages to choose from. The “Village Sweetheart Package” includes chilled sparkling champagne and fresh strawberries, all delivered personally to the room. The “Sandestin Romance Package” offers daily breakfast for two at Another Broken Egg Café; a choice of house wine or a fruit basket delivered to the room; and two therapeutic massages. The Sandestin Spa Package provides two therapeutic massages; one customized facial; one manicure; one paraffin pedicure; and daily breakfast for two at Another Broken Egg Café.

Two More Romantic Destinations

• Escape to the mountains for Valentine’s Day. Relax in Georgia’s Blue Ridge. Spend the day antiquing, sightseeing and more. Before you go, be sure to download one or more self-guided tour maps, such as “Homemade Stops and Shops,” or “Scenic Drive.”

• Become swept away with your own private island when you visit Charlotte Harbor and the Gulf Islands. This area, located between Tampa and Naples, is known for its natural beauty. One of the spots not to miss is Don Pedro Island, a barrier island, is only accessible by boat or ferry. Once you are here with your special someone, you will forget about everything else.

While you are in the area, be sure to attend the 3rd Annual Wine, Food & Jazz Festival on February 16 in Punta Gorda.