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Photo: Your bed awaits at Shades of Jade Inn & Spa. Source: Robyn Hanson.

February’s upon us, and you know what that means. Yes, Valentine’s Day. If you need an excuse to get away with your sweetheart, we’ve found five destinations in the Vancouver, Coast & Mountains region that we think fit the bill!

5. Harrison Beach Hotel – Harrison Hot Springs

Harrison Hot Spring is a favourite getaway destination because it’s a lakeside resort atmosphere and it’s only a two hour drive of Vancouver, yet it feels like you’re much further away. Is it romantic? You betcha. You’ve got a gorgeous drive through the Fraser Valley to get there, especially if you take the slower and pastoral Hwy 7. You’ve got the charming village of Harrison Hot Springs along the south shore of Harrison Lake with its beaches and promenades, and there are hot springs to enjoy, provincial parks to explore, and mountainous scenery galore. Sound good? Consider booking one of the two Romance Packages at the Harrison Beach Hotel which include a two night stay, a bottle of wine upon arrival, complimentary parking, dinner or breakfast for two, and a late checkout. Or if you’re not into packages, book one of their deluxe suites and indulge yourself at their Lake Haven Spa for some real R&R.

Activities to consider:

• Go for a dip in the Harrison Hot Springs Public Pool.
• Explore the farms along the Agassiz-Harrison Mills Circle Farm Tour.
• Go skiing or snowshoeing at nearby Hemlock Valley Resort.

4. Shangri-La Hotel – Vancouver

If your idea of a romantic holidate is to dine at foodie-approved restaurants, barhop until last call, shop in high end boutiques or even catch a show or two, then do it up right and do a staycation right downtown at the Shangri-La Hotel, plain and simple. Of course, there’s nothing plain about the Shangri-La. This 61-storey glass tower is an oasis of pure luxury in the heart of downtown Vancouver and it’s perfect for a Valentine’s splurge. Pamper yourself with a couple’s romance package at CHI, The Spa and indulge your culinary senses at MARKET by Jean-Georges and the Xi-Shi Lounge. And as a matter of fact, the Shangri-La is currently promoting a package called Date Night in MARKET by Jean-Georges where you and your date get dinner for two off their special Date Menu (including wine pairings), accommodation for two, and nightly valet for your car. And who knows, you may rub elbows with an A-list celebrity while you’re there. It’s that kind of place.

Activities to consider:

• Have a cocktail in MARKET Bar made by head bartender and 2012 Canadian Bartender of the Year, Jay Jones.
• View the latest exhibits at the Bill Reid Gallery or the Vancouver Art Gallery.
• Explore Stanley Park, stopping for a glass of wine at the Fish House or the Teahouse.

3. Nita Lake Lodge – Whistler

There’s something inherently romantic about wintery snowscapes. Since the Sea to Sky region’s having incredible snow this season, it’s the perfect time for a Whistler getaway. If you’re seeking the ultimate place to recharge, look no further than the Nita Lake Lodge. Situated in Whistler Creekside overlooking Nita Lake, this luxury boutique hotel is currently ranked as the number one hotel in Whistler on TripAdvisor. And you don’t even have to ski to enjoy it! Cozy up by the fireplace, dine on organic, sustainable cuisine at Aura Restaurant, or bliss out in the rainforest steam room at the spa. They even have a yoga studio and their own library for those seeking solace. If you’re wanting something really grand, check out their palatial Glade Suite which sprawls over two floors connected with a grand staircase, two bedrooms with king-sized beds, a stone fireplace, ensuites with two-person soaker tubs, and obligatory floor to ceiling views of Whistler Mountain… and that’s just the beginning!

Activities to consider:

• A snowmobile tour on Blackcomb with Canadian Snowmobile Adventures.
• Enjoy a craft cocktail and charcuterie plate at the hotel’s own Cure Lounge.
• Treat yourself to fine dining in Whistler at Araxi or the Bearfoot Bistro.

2. Pinnacle Hotel at the Pier – North Vancouver

Maybe you’re looking to get away somewhere, and you want close proximity to both the urban allures as well as outdoor activities. If so, the Pinnacle Hotel at the Pier can’t be beat. Situated near Lonsdale Quay on Vancouver’s North Shore, this is ultimate getaway for those looking for a change of scenery without straying far from town. Recently listed on the Top 25 Hotels in Canada in TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards, they’ve got a fabulous “Love Month” package throughout February that includes sparking wine and chocolate-covered strawberries upon arrival, complimentary parking, a meal at their Lobby Restaurant, and the, ahem,”romantic in room amenity”. Do we even need to mention the lake check-out?

Activities to consider:

• Go for a short nature walk through the temperate rainforest at Lynn Canyon.
• Take the shuttle to Mount Seymour for a moonlight snowshoe trek.
• Enjoy comfort food in a warm, cozy and rustic setting at nearby Burgoo Bistro.

1. Shades of Jade Inn & Spa – Roberts Creek

Nestled in the rainforest in Roberts Creek is Shades of Jade Inn & Spa – perhaps the most jaw-dropping gorgeous B&B style accommodation I’ve ever stayed at. Like a scene out of a west coast zen architecture magazine, this place is simply beautiful and the perfect retreat for a couple looking to getaway from the stresses of everyday life. Indulge yourself with treatment at their Jade Day Spa or go for a soak in the hot tub. Chances are, you won’t even want to leave your suite. Furnished with contemporary pieces of modern design and enhanced with Japanese zen-inspired decor, you’ll want to cozy up next to the fireplace and read a book while gentle music plays through the rooms. Enjoy a late night steam bath (built for two) or go for a soak in your own private jacuzzi; the ensuite has heated tile floors… what’s not to love? And better still, your breakfast gets delivered right to your own private kitchen the next morning. You won’t ever want to leave!

Activities to consider:

• Have a romantic dinner in Gibsons at the Bonniebrook Lodge’s Chasters Restaurant.
• Grab a gelato at Pier 17 and go for a stroll along Davis Bay.
• Enjoy live music at the Gumboot Cafe in Roberts Creek.