Love is in the air

Valentine’s Day is a great reason to book a little February getaway, and there are plenty of wonderful options across the DACH region. The romantic flair can be found in so many fabulous places, from beautiful remote valleys and buzzing cities to snowy mountain tops and historical towns; it’s your choice and there’s a lot to explore. So why not take a look at the best getaways for the season of love?

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE | PHOTO © PIXABAY

February is all about love. But don’t worry, it’s not just reserved for couples. Whether you are planning a romantic getaway for two or a solo trip focusing on self-love and wellbeing, we’ve got you covered.

Neuschwanstein castle.

A royal affair

Fancy feeling like a queen or a king? Germany, with its many glorious castles, is the place to be. The most famous fairy-tale castle is most certainly Neuschwanstein, which was built by King Ludwig II of Bavaria in 1869. It cannot get any more romantic than this. No wonder, then, that it inspired the iconic Disney castle. February is a great month to visit as it’s not as busy as in summer and there won’t be long queues. There is a great range of hotels nearby and the ones that nestle around the various Bavarian lakes are particularly lovely.

If you want to really get into that royal mindset and stay in a castle overnight, have a look at Steinburg Castle. It sits above the city of Würzburg and the Main river, and it’s surrounded by lush vineyards. The most famous variety here is the Würzburg Stein, a wine that was cherished by Goethe. The castle itself may not have the typical fairy-tale look from the outside, but wait until you see the grand interiors. You can book a ‘love dinner’ or simply enjoy the spa facilities and go for a little swim in the pool. A perfect getaway for anyone looking for that royal treatment.

Ploenlein in Rothenburg

Very special city breaks

The city of Bern is not only particularly stunning in winter, but visitors can also enjoy fabulous views of the city and its surroundings from the romantic Minster Tower – the highest of its kind in Switzerland. If you are planning to get down on one knee, this is the perfect place to do it.

But Bern is also great for a solo wellbeing trip. Enjoy moments of bliss straight out of Arabian Nights at the Hammam & Spa Oktogo. It brings Oriental bathing culture alive on four floors and features a spectacular interior design. Theatres, a spaceship-like casino or even a nature stroll with Alpacas: Bern has plenty to offer for everybody.

Another wonderful city to get away to this season is, of course, Vienna. Imagine overlooking the gorgeous city from the famous Giant Ferris Wheel at the Prater, one of the oldest amusement parks in the world. It’s open 24 hours each day and over the past century, many proposals have taken place right here. You can buy standard tickets or even book a private luxury cabin with dinner for two.

Hofburg Palace, located close to the Parliament, is also a must-see in Vienna. Learn about the fascinating life of Empress Elisabeth and marvel at the Royal Apartments. And while you’re on your royal tour, stroll by the Schonbrunn Palace, as well.

Regardless of whether you are interested in history and grand architecture or top locations for candlelit dinners, Vienna won’t disappoint.

Nature, wine and romance

Have you ever heard of the Romantic Road in Bavaria? If not, then it’s about time you do. With a road literally referred to as ‘romantic’, you can be certain it will deliver and keep its promise. The stunning nature along this scenic route of over 250 miles, from the Franconian wine country to the German Alps, is well worth the trip, and particularly in February, when it’s likely covered in glistening snow.

Various little towns and cities are nestled along the route, which goes back to medieval times. One of them is Rothenburg ob der Tauber. It’s one of Germany’s best-preserved medieval towns. Make sure to check out the most famous landmark, the Plönlein. It’s a small square with a fountain, a tilted, crooked timber-frame house in its centre and two towers of the old city wall in the background.

Whether you’re in love or not, it’s never a bad idea to treat yourself and see something new. So, make sure you get out this month and explore the various gems the DACH region has to offer. And if you don’t feel like organising a whole new adventure, you can always book a reliable skiing trip in the Alps… and party until the cows come home!

Neuschwanstein castle.