Valentine’s Day is named after the martyred St Valentine, but few realise that the roots of this universally acknowledged day of love come from an ancient fertility festival, known in Rome as the Eve of Lupercalia. Despite Pope Galesius banning the love lotteries in the 5^th century, the spirit of this festival has been kept alive and well. Today, numerous modern societies commemorate the one day of the year dedicated to celebrating the act of courtship. For those in Durban this Valentine’s Day, consider the following romantic ideas and places when planning your Valentine’s date:

1. Lavish Luxury  – a decadent dinner followed by a luxury hotel stay

Those after a traditional romantic night can make theirs unforgettable by not only enjoying a delightful dinner in a gorgeous setting, but by including a surprise stay at a classy hotel. One of the consistently popular romantic spots combining the above is The Oyster Box Hotel. Here, you can choose to enjoy indoor or al fresco dining with panoramic views of the ocean and the on-site lighthouse, as well as sample a variety of outstanding cuisines in the restaurant. If you choose, you can end this special night off by staying in one of the opulent, but tastefully decorated, rooms.

2. Quaint Cruising – a leisurely river cruise

If you want something that’s been tried and trusted for centuries, then opt for a quaint but quality cruise. The fresh air and food, coupled with beautiful, changing scenery is always a winner – provided no one gets motion sickness. The Allen Gardiner Harbour Cruise Restaurant offers a variety of cruising times and styles. Choose their Candlelit Dinner cruise where you can enjoy a short excursion into the surrounding area, which often includes a trip into the mangrove swamp. Alternatively, you could book their Champagne Sunset Cruise, and spend a few dreamy hours afloat while you hold hands and bask in the fading golden glow.

3. Sensory Celebration –an afternoon massage followed by an indulgent picnic

Want to add a few memorable touches to your gift this Valentine’s Day? Ensure you pre-book an aromatherapy massage for your partner, and yourself! There are a variety of masseuses and spas in and around Durban, so shop around for pricing, availability, and specials. Follow this relaxing massage with a picnic, packed full of only the crème de la crème of picnic foods. If you’re short on time to create your own picture perfect offering, pre-order a picnic basket from Dial-A-Picnic. You get to pick the time and location, such as at a beach, reserve, or botanical garden, and they’ll deliver and set-up your tailor-made picnic hamper. Advanced bookings for this service are essential.

4. Aerial Adventure –take to the skies in a hot air balloon

I’m certain that there are numerous couples who’d enjoy a bit of excitement tied into their romantic plans for Valentine’s Day – and if you fall in this group you’ll likely jump for joy at the chance to view life from in mid-air. If you book a hot air balloon ride through SkyAdventures, you’ll get a hot beverage and snacks before the launch, a flight for up to an hour, and then a champagne breakfast and certificate once you’ve landed. There are also several other tempting thrills available through this company, for the more adventurous.

5. Thoughtful – overnight at a homely B&B

If your budget won’t allow for a pricey hotel stay, then turn your eyes to the cosy B&B’s on offer in your area. Despite not being far from home, you’ll still get to have the holiday experience. At most B&B’s, you’ll receive a warm welcome, a room for the night, and breakfast the following day – allowing your partner to have a mini-reprieve from daily life. In Umhlanga Rocks, not too far from the beach, is the popular Honeypot B&B. Here, you can request that some extras be provided (for which you will pay an additional fee), such as a picnic basket you can enjoy on their lush lawn or take with you to the nearby beach. Bring your own rose petals to strew about on the bed, along with champagne and chocolates to complete your romantic night.

Let us know what your Valentine’s Day plans entail.

Main image courtesy of fvanrenterghem (Flickr)