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Romantic Spots ... at least according to their name

By Harlisha Homer February 9, 2016
Although important every month, the subject of love takes center stage in February. So, in the spirit of the Valentine’s Day observance, we found a few destinations that guarantee love or romance – in the towns’ names! 

Valentine, Nebraska. The tagline for this Nebraska destination ensures a small town with big adventure. Other than its obviously amorous name, Valentine is also home to Niobrara National Scenic River. Couples can float the picturesque river by tube, kayak or canoe, or take the short walk to view incredible waterfalls in shady side canyons. Also, just east of Valentine, travelers can absorb stunning Nebraska views via hike or bike from the Cowboy Trail. The trail is a long stretch – 321 miles – but its signature is the long bridges along the trail offering spectacular views of the Nebraska outdoors. The bridge nearest to Valentine is a quarter mile long railroad bridge, which, at 148 feet high, spans the Niobrara River. 

Lover’s Leap, Patrick County, Virginia. Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Lover’s Leap trail in Meadows of Dan, Virginia, offers spectacular views of the area. According to legend, the trail is named for two shunned lovers (a Shawnee and a Cherokee) who, forbidden to marry, jumped into the gorge. True or not, Lover’s Leap affords generations of couples a stellar view of the Virginia landscape. While in Patrick County, couples can enjoy more views from the Blue Ridge Parkway, visit one of the area’s wineries, explore the area’s rich history or even see a charming covered bridge.

Heart Hill Vineyard, Niner Wine Estates, Paso Robles, California. Yes, Niner Wine Estates is a fine winery, complete with tasting room offering a flight of wines from their vineyards. Wineries are great for couples, but a unique feature for this winery is the sweeping view of Heart Hill Vineyard that guests enjoy. Dubbed “Valentine Hill”, Heart Hill features a grove of blue oak trees growing in the shape of a heart. How appropriate!  





Bridal Veil Falls State Scenic Viewpoint, Bridal Veil, Oregon.
From Bridal Veil Falls State Park, guests can witness the majesty and elegance of Bridal Veil Falls waterfall. The creek falls from the top of Larch Mountain and flows in to the Columbia River. Guests at Bridal Veil can also see the famous Pillars of Hercules, the 120-foot natural wonder that was once used to train mountain climbers. 

Loveland Ski Area, Colorado. Located 53 miles west of Denver in Georgetown, CO, Loveland Ski Area features 1,800 miles of terrain, free snowcat skiing along the Continental Divide, lessons, dining options, and more. Typically one of the first ski areas to open and one of the last to close, the Loveland Ski Area also boasts greater affordability and fewer crowds - perfect for couples who love to ski.

Lover’s Leap, Lookout Mountain, Georgia. It’s another Lover’s Leap, with a similar legend of forbidden love. This Lover’s Leap is a rock that extends from the side of Lookout Mountain in Georgia. Couples can see the High Falls waterfall, or conquer the climbing wall at the leap. From atop Lover’s Leap, couples can view seven states from one spot. Lover’s Leap is a part of the larger Rock City. Located just outside of Chattanooga, TN (though Lookout Mountain is in Georgia), Rock City gives visitors the opportunity to see rock formations, caves and more along a scenic trail delivering adventure for couples who love the outdoors. 

Valentine, Texas. With a population of 187 people, Valentine, Texas, is not a tourist town. Valentine makes the list - not for its attractions, but because the public can mail their valentine a valentine postmarked from Valentine. Find out how here. In fact, the U.S. Postal service offers a complete list of Valentine-named towns - Valentine, Texas included - that will mail letters.