February is the heart of cold-weater season in the Lakes Region – a time of year that brings plunging winter temps, much-needed cozy elements, and of course, a generous boost of romance. While this month is all about showing your love and appreciation for others, don’t forget to give yourself some care and affection too.
Caring for your well-being goes beyond your mind and body, and extends into your relationships with yourself and others. So, whether you’re looking to reward yourself with some R&R or escape for the weekend with your loved one, we have a perfect lineup of things to do. These seven wellness experiences will keep both couples and singles entertained, relaxed, and well-fed through the season.
1. Romantic Valentine’s Day Experience Package at SNOW VILLAGE INN
Looking for a perfect winter wonderland escape for two? Celebrate the season with a getaway at Snow Village Inn, where you and your significant other (or BFF!) can sip prosecco and nibble on locally made, 100 percent organic chocolates while taking in the stunning mountain views. Start your mornings with a hearty breakfast and baked goods before heading out to snowshoe around the trails that surround the Inn or tacking on their Romantic Snowshoe package that includes: snowshoe rentals, a snowshoeing 101 lesson, three-course dinner at Max’s, a welcome bottle of prosecco, artisanal cheese board, and a full country breakfast each morning. Pop over to the Soaking Pot in North Conway after your outdoor excursion, where you’ll both be treated to an herbal-infused foot soak. The Inn has even more recommendations for how you can spend your weekend. Check them out here.
2. Float & Infrared Sauna at MEREDITH WHOLE LIVING
The cure for the winter blues is tucked inside Meredith Whole Living Center, a health and wellness spa in the heart of Meredith Village. This sanctuary is known for its rejuvenating amenities including a float tank, infrared sauna, and a menu full of head-to-toe treatments. Treat yourself to one of their packages like the System Reset, a 60-minute infrared sauna session and a 60-minute floatation therapy session, or add on a hydra facial deluxe to your sauna and float sessions as part of their Head to Toe Glow package. You’ll be date-night ready after a day of indulging in self-care.
3. Couples Spa Experience at MANOR ON GOLDEN POND
Block off a day for you and your partner to enjoy the Royal Couple Spa Experience at Manor on Golden Pond, which features a Granite Escape couples massage session, a Seasons Sole Delight foot massage, and a delicious spa lunch served with champagne. Taking yourself on a date? Their 60-minute Afternoon Delight spa package includes all the solo self-care you’re looking for – a signature massage, aromatherapy paraffin hand and foot treatment, and a spa lunch.
4. Valentine’s Day Dinner at WOODSTOCK INN BREWERY
Dial up the romance on Feb. 14 at The Woodstock Inn and Brewery from 5 to 10 p.m. They’re hosting a Valentine’s Day Dinner in the Celement Dining Room with classic white tablecloths, flickering candles, a special cocktail menu, and your choice of appetizers, entrées, and desserts. You’ll get some well-deserved time together to reconnect and nurture your relationship here. Take your time conversing all evening long, distraction (and kid) free.
5. Snowshoe at CASTLE IN THE CLOUDS
Almost 30 miles of wooded trails open daily from dawn to dusk surrounding Castle in the Clouds for visitors to hike, snowshoe, and cross-country ski around. Explore the trails surrounding Castle in the Clouds alone or invite your significant other to tag along – an afternoon spent outdoors will do wonders for your mind and body. Incorporate the concept of “forest bathing” into your adventure by intentionally observing the nature around you, and notice the stress dissipating from your body. Sweet tip: BYO hot chocolate in a thermos to enjoy mid-exploration under the snow-capped trees.
6. Catch a Silent Film at THE FLYING MONKEY
Watching a movie might not be the first thing that comes to mind when it comes to wellness, but unplugging and allowing yourself an evening of entertainment, with your love or on your own terms, might be just the thing you need. Sit back and relax at The Flying Monkey in Plymouth to see a silent film accompanied by a live music performance by Jeff Rapsis on Feb. 15 at 6 p.m.
7. Enjoy a Classic Box of Chocolates
It isn’t Valentine’s Day without something heart-shaped and sweet! And there’s not just one, but two Lakes Region chocolatiers that have you covered. Kellerhaus offers a Valentine’s Date Night Tray filled with chocolate-covered cherries, heart-shaped hot chocolate bombs, chocolate-covered Oreos, mini popcorn bags, chocolate pretzels, foil chocolate hearts, and a candle. Grab one for a date night or a Galentine’s celebration! Or pick up a couple of Chocolate Roses, Raspberry Cream Truffles, or a special edition Valentine’s box of assorted chocolates and truffles at 603 Candy.
