5 ROMANTIC REASONS TO SPEND VALENTINES DAY ON THE COAST

The Great Ocean Road region is one of the most romantic destinations in Australia.

Beaches, waterfalls, rainforests and hinterland...there are so many beautiful locations where you can spend quality time together in nature.

So, with Valentine’s Day falling on a Friday in Australia this year, it makes perfect sense to visit the region for a long weekend.

We’ve done a round up of deals and special events around Valentine’s Day, so you can plan ahead and surprise your loved one!

1. Holiday Great Ocean Road

These guys manage stunning properties along the Surf Coast and Great Otway National Park, including romantic accommodation for couples (you can even take your dog to some of them). If you book Friday and Saturday night, they’ll give you Sunday night free. Or, if you simply must rush back to the city on Sunday, they’re happy for you just to take your time and have a sleep in. This offer also applies to the Johanna Seaside Cottages.

2. Apollo Bay Seafood Festival (February 14-16, 2020)

We think Saturday's festivities at the Apollo Bay harbour would make the perfect date!

You can share different dishes made from fresh seafood caught from local waters, and taste locally made beverages. When your tummy is full, relax on a picnic rug and enjoy the live music whilst appreciating the beautiful harbour views and hills in the background. More...

Book a room and make a weekend of it. 

3. Anchors, Port Campbell

There are three contemporary, luxury cottages on this private elevated property, which has sweeping views of the ocean and valleys surrounding Port Campbell (just 10 minutes from the 12 Apostles). If you book for arrival on Valentines Day, host Tanya will present you with a lovely bottle of Basalt wine and GORGE chocolates on arrival.

- Anchors Port Campbell

- Anchors Beach House 

4. Deep Blue Hotel and Hot Springs, Warrnambool

One of the newest attractions in the region is the geothermal hot spring sanctuary on Warrnambool’s foreshore. With 15 different outdoor bathing experiences, this is a romantic and relaxing experience like no other.

For Valentine's Day, they’re offering lovers a night in the Ocean View King suite with private balcony, a day at the sanctuary and a fruit and cheese platter and smoothie in the Nourish Dome from $347. Or, you can book a day at the sanctuary and be served a dessert platter and iced tea from $156.

5. The Cally, Warrnambool

If you're on a budget, but want a romantic weekend away, book a room at The Cally - a modern pub in Warrnambool's CBD. It's a great base to explore Warrnambool's foreshore and ocean lookouts, and is only a few minutes' drive to Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve, the site of an extinct volcano.

And, if you book dinner for Valentine's Day, manager Luke will give you a complimentary Chocolate Fondue. Yum!

GIFT SUGGESTIONS

• Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie + Icecreamery, Bellbrae has elegant truffles in gift boxes, champagne flutes filled with chocolate hearts, and candied organgettes. 
•  Platypi Chocolate can custom make you a Belgian milk chocolate photo frame with an edible photo on white chocolate of you and your lover. 

MORE REGIONAL ROMANCE

• The Romantic Escape – Torquay to Port Fairy
• Where to find romance in Port Fairy
• Apollo Bay to Port Fairy: Our anniversary on the Great Ocean Road

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