Wednesday 11 February 2015

The Perfect Valentine’s Day Weekend

As Valentine's Day approaches, many couples will be longing to get away from it all and enjoy some romantic time together. If you are looking for ideas for short Suffolk breaks with your loved one, then Windmill Lodges are the answer, sited in one of the most beautiful and unspoilt areas of East Anglia.

This year February 14 falls on Saturday, offering the opportunity for a long weekend in a country location. Our idyllic rural accommodation near Woodbridge and Framlingham is the ideal location to unwind and spend time alone with your loved one, escaping all the strains and stresses of everyday life. 5 star log cabin holidays make the perfect romantic break, since each lodge has its own private hot tub, as well as a four-poster bed. Chaffinch Lodge even has an en-suite double-ended bath.

Our weekend breaks run from Friday to Monday, offering plenty of time to relax, and you'll be greeted with a welcome bottle including wine, for the perfect finishing touch. There's also a coal-effect log fire, so you can snuggle up together in your own little oasis of peace and warmth.

Short Suffolk Breaks – See our luxuriously-appointed holiday cabins.

Sweep Your Valentine off Their Feet
Although it is a tradition dating back to ancient times, St Valentine's Day has become more popular than ever in recent years. Couples of all ages exchange gifts and share a special meal, go out on a date, or enjoy a romantic short break. The focus on this celebration of love and romance is partly a reaction against the hectic pace of modern life, which can all too easily come between couples. Valentine's Day is a reminder for us all to spend quality time with our nearest and dearest and nurture our relationships.

St Valentine was a Roman saint in the 3rd century, and his special day is traditionally linked to Italy – but there is no need to travel abroad for your celebration, because you can find a special place to celebrate the occasion much nearer home.

Take a Romantic Stroll or a Boat Trip
The Suffolk countryside is full of wonderful landscapes to discover at any time of year. But in some ways this area is even more special during the winter months, when you can explore away from the crowds. One of the most romantic spots to visit is Framlingham Castle, which is open at weekends during February. Hold hands with your loved one as you discover the wall walk, with its magnificent views of the countryside around the ancient ruins. Then go on to take a tour of the picturesque market town of Framlingham, or take a trip to nearby Woodbridge, known for its fine range of independent shops, ranging from boutiques and bookshops to delicatessens.

The seaside town of Aldeburgh is another great nearby location, with shops, art galleries and historic buildings including its Moot Hall. Don't miss seeing artist Maggi Hambling's famous Scallop statue on the beach. The town is also famed for its fish and chips – but be prepared to queue! Nearby Snape is home of the famous Maltings Concert Hall, which is best-known for its annual summer festival but also stages concerts and musical events all through the year. The complex boasts a collection of unique shops where you could find a specially-crafted Valentine's gift as a memento of your visit.

What's more, Venice isn't the only romantic location offering trips by water. If you'd like to see Suffolk from aboard a boat, why not book a trip on the restaurant ship the Lady Florence? The vessel sails from Orford all the year round and has a cosy fire aboard during winter.

Enjoy a Valentine's Meal and a Glass of Wine 
Sharing a special meal is all part of what makes Valentine's Day so special. Coastal Suffolk has many quality restaurants and idyllic country pubs for a lunch or dinner with your loved one during your Valentine's weekend. Some eateries are even putting on special menus for the occasion, for instance, the the Kings Head Inn in Orford and the Plough and Sail in Snape, where guests will be greeted with a glass of pink bubbly, and Leading restaurants such as the Galley in Woodbridge and the Lighthouse in Aldeburgh would also be the perfect place to enjoy an intimate dinner.  

However, when you are enjoying short Suffolk breaks at Windmill Lodges, you don't necessarily need to go out for your Valentine's meal, because it is also possible to dine in style at your luxury log cabin accommodation. The well-equipped kitchens make it easy to prepare a special dinner, perhaps featuring fresh Suffolk fish or meat, vegetables and fruit, with some romantic music and a glass of the wine from your welcome basket. What could be a better way to unwind and enjoy some precious time together as a couple?

Luxury Log Cabin Accommodation  Take a look at our top-quality holiday lodges.