Castle Hill Inn
Photo Courtesy of Castle Hill Inn
From Cape Cod to Maine, there is no lack of ideal romantic and luxurious getaways for you and your special Valentine in New England. Whether you prefer a retreat set among the bustling streets of Boston or the serenity of an ocean setting in winter, these upscale hotels and inns have you covered with champagne at check-in and chocolate-covered strawberries at bedtime.
Castle Hill Inn, Newport, Rhode Island
Newport is known for historic properties that once served as summer residences for the rich and famous, and this Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star charmer just happens to be one of the more spectacular. Set on 40 acres on its own private peninsula, the gorgeous 19th-century mansion provides unparalleled views of Narragansett Bay. The main building houses nine of the inn’s 35 guest rooms and four dining rooms. (Other units are spread out in beach houses and cottages about the property.) Get a taste of it all with the Wine & Dine package. The promotion proves perfect for flirty foodies because it’s stuffed with a two-night stay, dinner at 22 Bowen’s, an upscale steakhouse located 15 minutes away on Bowen’s Wharf, and a four-course meal back at The Dining Room at Castle Hill the next night. Couples also get two tickets to the Newport Art Museum. Add on a romantic walk to nearby Castle Hill Lighthouse or guest-only afternoon tea back at the hotel to complete your weekend of bliss.
The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Boston, Photo Courtesy of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group
Mandarin Oriental, Boston
No one said a romantic getaway has to be remote and secluded. Couples who want to be in the heart of the city but insist on having a lavish oasis to return to after a day out, too, will love the Romantic Escape package at this Five-Star hotel. Enjoy champagne upon checking in, and then use your $100 spa credit toward a treatment at the 16,000-square-foot Five-Star spa. Because of its stone sauna, daybeds and overall sense of privacy, we’re a bit partial to massages in the Mandarin Couples Suite. The next day, nosh on breakfast in bed or enjoy the morning meal at Bar Boulud (also included). And lovebirds, you’re not limited to the month of February: this package is available through the end of March.
Kennebunkport, Maine
The charming town of Kennebunkport makes a claim that it’s “New England’s Most Romantic Town” and who are we to argue? Throughout the month, downtown businesses get all decked out in red twinkly lights while restaurants, hotels, galleries and shops offer everything from dining specials to themed hotel packages. Forbes Travel Guide Recommended The Captain Lord Mansion is doing its part in the mood setting with its Five Shades of Red, a passionate promo that comes with discounted room rates, sparkling wine, sweets and dining vouchers. The cozy Kennebunkport Inn is getting in on the fun, too, with a two-night special that includes a “Lazy Man’s” lobster dinner for two, a bottle of red wine, chocolate-covered strawberries, a red velvet whoopie pie, a red rose turndown and breakfast at nearby David’s KPT. We recommend staying in one of the deluxe Mansion rooms, which all have working fireplaces.
Chatham Bars Inn Resort and Spa, Photo Courtesy of Chatham Bars Inn Resort and Spa
Chatham Bars Inn Resort and Spa, Chatham, MA
This Four-Star seaside treasure offers a serene setting for some serious Cape Cod canoodling. Right now, two special packages ensure it. The Valentine’s Day special includes a two-night stay and a five-course dinner at STARS dining room, a Four-Star stunner with panoramic views of the ocean. Also included are in-room breakfast one morning — considering how plush amenities such as Bose Wave radios and L’Occitane bath products are readily accessible in units, you may want to stay put long after you’ve eaten your eggs — and Sunday brunch the other. For couples who love to indulge in a bit of pampering, there’s another option — the Spa Sweetheart deal comes with a two-night stay, daily breakfast and a couples massage at the hotel’s Four-Star sanctuary.
Hanover Inn, Hanover, New Hampshire
The Hanover Inn, located on the campus of Dartmouth College, is an unexpected treat for many first-time guests. The historic boutique hotel overlooks the scenic campus lawn, sparking all sorts of ideas for an impromptu couples photo shoot. Things only get better once you step inside the 108-room darling. After you’re greeted with freshly baked cookies, you know you’ll be spoiled during your stay. The Valentine’s Getaway, available February 14-20, includes a night’s stay, a bottle of bubbly, hand-dipped, chocolate-covered strawberries and $100 toward dinner at Pine, which is run by renowned Boston chef Michael Schlow. And since Cupid’s arrow can strike at any moment, the inn offers another romance bundle (which includes wine and strawberries) all yearlong.
