Love is in the air this February—have you made plans to celebrate? Throughout Kawarthas Northumberland, businesses and organizations are looking forward to Valentine’s Day and planning special events to mark the occasion. Whether you’re looking for a traditional romantic dinner for two, a Galentine’s get-together with good friends, or a bracing outdoor experience with a loved one, you’ll find something in the region to make the holiday your own.
Peteborough & the Kawarthas
Dine or Book a Stay at Elmhirst’s Resort (1045 Settlers Line)
Elmhirst’s hearthside dining room has the sumptuous atmosphere and soul-stirring food that makes for a perfect Valentine’s Day. Gaze out panoramic windows at the wintery calm of Rice Lake while enjoying the warmth of a roaring fire and savour the Valentine’s Day prix fixe menu. Elmhirst’s sources as much food as possible locally, such as their delicious smoked duck breast. Come for the three-course dinner only, or make it an overnight with breakfast included.
Surprise Your Sweetheart with Chocolates
Nothing says Valentine’s like quality chocolate, and chocolatiers throughout Peterborough & the Kawarthas have got you covered. Lakefield’s The Chocolate Rabbit offers beautiful romantically themed chocolates and a classic heart-shaped truffle box; Millbrook Valley Chocolate appeals to exotic tastes with unique flavours like saffron chilli bars, as well as gorgeous cakes. Peterborough’s NaKeD Chocolate delivers works of edible art such as their “Peachy Keen” chocolate with Madagascar vanilla and fresh Georgia peaches.
Take an Outdoor Adventure
Valentine’s Day falls on a Tuesday in 2023, but that doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate with an outdoor experience. If the green flag is up, the Peterborough Lift Lock canal is safe for skating (see the city’s website for details). The canal offers a generous stretch of ice, and using the historic Lift Lock as a backdrop guarantees memorable photos.
If you’re lucky enough to have the day off or decide to move your celebrations to the weekend, Kawartha Nordic is a reliable option for cross-country skiing. You don’t even need to bring your own gear thanks to the on-site rental shop—this Valentine’s Day could go down as the one you and your partner discovered a new favourite hobby.
Northumberland County
Treat Someone Special to a Spa Trip
Just glance at a few images of Northumberland County spas, and you’ll see why this might be the perfect choice for Valentine’s. Ste. Anne’s Spa’s hydrotherapy pools and European-inspired architecture can’t fail to set a romantic mood—browse their Couples and Romance packages here. Another excellent option is The Spa at Fieldstone, which boasts massages, outdoor cedar saunas, and more.
Savour a Meal Together
Northumberland County is bursting with fine dining options for the romantic foodie. One top choice is Villa Conti Oak Heights Estate Winery, which pairs postcard perfect rural vistas with authentic Italian cuisine. Or you might try Cucina Urbana for its superb menu, and follow it up with a stroll through downtown Cobourg or along the shores of Lake Ontario. For complete restaurant listings see here.
Take a Date for a Walk, Ski, or Skate
The Rotary Harbourfront Outdoor Skating Rink at 35 Albert St. exudes charm, especially with the twinkling Christmas lights that decorate the area until Family Day. You could also make the journey up to Lookout Mountain in the ever-popular Northumberland County Forest, or spend some quality time on skis exploring the free Beagle Club Trails.
Kawartha Lakes
Galentine’s Girls Nite at Kawartha Settlers Village (85 Dunn St)
Valentine’s might be a time to focus on a romantic partner, but Galentine’s Day is a chance for women to show some love to their best girlfriends. In Bobcaygeon, you can do just that at Kawartha Settler’s Village on February 9 with a Galentine’s Girls’ Nite. Games, improv comedy, and more promise a fun-filled evening.
Valentine’s Day Paint Night with Kawartha Food Source (164 Needham St)
Take your big-hearted date out and support a good cause with Kawartha Lakes Food Source’s Valentine’s Day Paint Night. Enjoy a painting lesson with a professional artist and sample the included food and drink, knowing the proceeds of your purchase go to help the less fortunate.
Explore the Great Outdoors
If you find yourself in Kawartha Lakes over Valentine’s, know that the region is crisscrossed with picturesque trails. From the Fleetwood Creek lookout to the vista at Windy Ridge Conservation Area, there are tons of inspiring locations. Time spent in the fresh air and away from urban noise might be all you need for the perfect date.
