Valentine's weekend in Belgium: romantic tips for couples

The Ardennes: the classic romantic weekend

The Ardennes are, for good reason, the most popular destination for a romantic weekend in Belgium. Secluded chalets in the forest, fireplaces that make evenings cosy, and a silence you will not find as intensely anywhere else in the country. In February the forests are bare but impressive, and the chance of a dusting of snow in higher-lying areas makes the atmosphere all the more special.

For a Valentine's weekend in the Ardennes, look for a home with a private sauna or jacuzzi, a good bed and an open fire. Durbuy, the Semois valley and the hills around Vielsalm are the most popular spots. Restaurants in the region are quiet in February, which makes reservations easier while keeping the atmosphere intimate.

Plans for the Ardennes on Valentine's Day do not need to be complicated: a lie-in, a walk along the Ourthe or the Semois, lunch at one of the small local restaurants in Bouillon or La Roche, and in the evening simply being at home together in the property. That rhythm is exactly what most couples are looking for.

The Flemish Ardennes: closer to home, just as romantic

Those who do not want to drive for hours will find a fine alternative in the Flemish Ardennes. The hilly landscape around Ronse, Kluisbergen and Brakel is more modest than the Ardennes but has its own charm. The distance from Ghent, Brussels or Antwerp is short, and properties are generally cheaper than in the more popular Ardennes.

The Flemish Ardennes also have something all their own: the rolling meadows, the orchards and the small church towers rising above the landscape. In February the trees are still bare, but the peace and openness more than compensate. A holiday home with a wide terrace and a long view over the hills is ideal here for a Valentine's weekend.

Combine your stay with a visit to one of the local gueuze breweries or taste the regional cheeses of the area. Discovering together what the region has to offer is one of the most enjoyable ways to fill a weekend without needing to plan anything complicated.

The coast: sea and quiet outside the season

The Belgian coast in February is a very different beast from the summer. No crowds, no terraces full of tourists. Just the wind, the broad beach and a sea that is grey and impressive. That is exactly what some couples are looking for: a deserted coastline with the smell of salt and the power of the winter waves.

Knokke has its charm all year round: good restaurants, a casino and a peaceful centre. De Panne and Oostduinkerke are quieter and suit those who really want to unwind. A seaside holiday home in February can be booked surprisingly cheaply: outside the main season the prices are a quarter to half what you would pay in summer.

An apartment or house with sea views, a good bottle of wine and a walk along the beach: Valentine's Day does not have to be expensive. Ostend also has a rich arts scene that is active all year round, with galleries and museums that can be visited quietly in winter.

Practical tips for your Valentine's weekend

Book as early as possible. Good properties for two are popular and are often reserved weeks in advance. Let the host know at the time of booking that it is a Valentine's weekend: many hosts will then put out a bottle of wine or flowers. It is a small effort that makes the start of the weekend immediately special.

Cook one evening yourself. Making a meal together in a well-equipped kitchen is one of the most popular Valentine's activities, and cheaper than a restaurant evening. Bring good ingredients from home or pick them up on the way at a local market.

Also plan one activity outside the property: a walk, a massage at a local wellness centre or a visit to a local market. The rhythm of a lie-in, a walk and then staying cosily indoors is enough for most couples. You do not need to fill every hour of Valentine's Day: it is about the time together, not the schedule.