Written by Michelle Lawee on 07.02.15

Oh February. It’s still winter and if our friend the groundhog is to be believed, it’s not ending anytime soon. As with every other February past, Valentine’s Day is creeping up. So what should you do to celebrate this year? Here are some ideas.

Flowers

Sending flowers can seem a little humdrum. So when you do buy an assortment this year, make it exciting like the ones from Aura Design. They’ve even got V-Day specials like bouquets of Valentine’s day colours all picked out and ready for you to buy (along with delicious sweets) in a Valentine’s Day section on their website. Call them at (514) 334-8989 or order online to get an arrangement delivered to that special someone.

Sweet Treats

Make sure your love lasts by showing that you care. In the form of delicious treats (that aren’t supermarket chocolates). Impress and go the extra mile with an assortment of cupcakes from Cho’Cola (everything they make is nut free) or a box of mini pies or Valentine’s Day inspired basket of goodies from Rustique.

Brunch

Nothing says I like you a lot like a spectacular brunch. For something a little swanky, try the weekend brunch at Maison Boulud. They offer a 2 or 3 course fixed priced menu ($39 – $49) with dishes that will satisfy and impress. If you’re after something more low-key yet still romantic, head over to Régine Café for a taste of local comforts and brunch classics done right.

Get Physical

You know it’s love when you sweat together. Try doing an exciting activity together, like taking on the climbing walls at Allez Up. Get a day pass there for $14.75 and try out all their different walls. If it’s a thrill you want, try the Zero Gravity Simulator at SkyVenture. You’ll need to book your time. Packages for 2 flights are $62.

Spa Day

Treat yourselves. You deserve it. Go for the whole day spa experience (massages and all the works) or the Ice Breaker package for Valentine’s Day which includes access to the water circuit, a 3 course meal with wine, and live music for 2 for $225 at Bota Bota. Or, pretend like you’ve escaped the city and soak in the beautiful baths at Scandinave Spa in Old Montreal. Or better yet, relax in the mountains in the middle of the forest at La Source Spa Nordiques. The tension will be spilling off you in waves at any of these options.

Dinner

V-Day dinner doesn’t need to be the ultimate cheese. Romance is a combination of great food, wine, atmosphere, and service. Cozy up at the corner of the bar at Nora Gray for incredible Italian food or grab a romantic table for two at Barroco for the vintage flair and cozy atmosphere. Because after all, quality is king.

Drinks

A bar on Valentine’s Day needs to serve up equal parts vibes and GREAT cocktails. Get a feel for the 1920’s with a dash of Havana and Ottoman Empire inspired décor with the Plateau speakeasy The Emerald (or Bar Sans Nom). You can also head to another speakeasy, Big in Japan Bar (not to be mistaken for the restaurant) for delicious drinks in a location only Montrealers with the secrets of the city will find (don’t worry: we’ll help).

Skating

Brave the winter weather and skate under the stars at the skating rink at Bassin Bonsecours in Old Montreal. The music starts at 6:00 pm, and you can now get individual passes for only $15.50. Or forget you’re in Montreal and skate on Beaver Lake on top of Mount Royal for a truly magical setting. If you want to take a drive north, go to the John H. Molson skating rink in St Sauveur where you can skate through the forest (rather than around and around in circles). And with the chilly weather, the ice conditions are ideal.

Theatre

Why not have a different night out with some music, comedy, and feel good fun at the theatre? Check out Forever Plaid, a funny and smart look back at boy band life in the 50’s, playing at the Segal Centre this V-Day. Tickets are $50.

Staying In

There’s always something about staying in. Instead of ordering something in, why not make something together. Pop in to Appetite for Books on Victoria, find the cookbook that speaks to you, and get cooking together. We’ll let you decide who takes the reins in the kitchen.

Bed and Breakfast

Nothing screams “romantic” more than a classic bed and breakfast. And we’ve found the closest thing possible to your favorite romance novels: Le Petit Clocher in Saint-Sauveur. Le Petit Clocher is a converted picturesque steeple, which overlooks both the St-Sauveur Village and the ski hills. Expect an actual breakfast in bed, lovely furniture, heavenly mattresses, and a spectacular view. Le Petit Clocher is surrounded by nature and is the perfect place for a romantic getaway. Tip for extra brownie points: they offer the option to lay a bouquet of flowers with chocolates and champagne on your bed upon your arrival.

So that’s that, Montreal lovers. Interesting ideas (but you best get on them STAT) for this year’s V-Day. And if you’re single on the hallmark holiday of love, don’t you worry. Just grab a friend and pick one of these activities to do together. Happy Valentine’s Day!

Featured cover photo credit: Instagram user @parrismartin

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