Forget Paris and Venice — with a little imagination, you’ll find that Canada boasts plenty of locations to inspire lovers.
Ontario
Many package deals can be found for Valentine’s Day visits to Niagara Falls, but if you’re looking for something a little more private, and a lot more original, take hold of your lover’s hand — and heart — and climb to the top of Ontario’s highest point of land.
Temagami, in northeastern Ontario, is home to Caribou Mountain, a large hill with a steep cliff. It may not be the Rockies, but the region is home to a lake and forest, non-commercialized and indisputably private — a 2006 Statistics Canada report put Temagami’s population at less than 1,000.
While a significant part of the area is home to an First Nations community, there’s a provincial park with nearby cottages welcoming tourists.
Quebec
The ability to speak French is of course very sexy, but you don’t have to be Pepe Le Pew to bring that extra bit of distinction to your Valentine’s Day dinner. In Quebec City, you can treat your partner to a horse-drawn carriage ride down cobblestone streets and past 17th century architecture that’s just dripping with European flair.
British Columbia
Money can’t buy you love but it can sure pay for some fabulously romantic outings. Victoria’s one of Canada’s most expensive cities, but it’s also one of its classiest, most historical and most scenic.
We all know that men love visuals and women love substance, and this city has both. Winter weather in Victoria is relatively mild, so you and your sweetie can attempt to stroll hand and hand along the coastal waters.
Nova Scotia
Dating one of those people who always thinks they’re right? Check out Digby, N.S., which has a population of 2,300 and coastal waters as clear as champagne. Its residents consider it to be the most romantic town in Canada — and they have an excellent case, but you’ll never know for sure unless you go.
Alberta
Set the sights for your relationship high while gazing at the Rockies. Show how deep your love is by diving into one of Banff’s many hot springs. Taking time out to appreciate natural phenomena can remind couples how nice it is to have someone with whom to share the wonder of life.
