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Romantic Winter Havens: Beyond the Usual

  //travel-leisure.news-articles.net/content/2026/01/24/romantic-winter-havens-beyond-the-usual.html
  Published in Travel and Leisure on Saturday, January 24th 2026 at 12:46 GMT by Travel + Leisure
      Locale: AUSTRIA, CANADA, SWITZERLAND, FINLAND, FRANCE, ICELAND, ITALY, NORWAY

Beyond the Usual Suspects: A Curated List of Romantic Winter Havens

The traditional winter getaway often conjures images of snowy slopes and crackling fires. However, romance is subjective. Whether you're adrenaline junkies seeking a thrill on the slopes or prefer a leisurely stroll through historic streets, the perfect winter escape exists. Here's a deeper dive into destinations gaining popularity for couples in 2026, building on the core locations of previous lists.

• Stowe, Vermont & Aspen, Colorado: The Classic Snowscapes: These remain perennial favorites for a reason. Stowe's quintessential New England charm and Aspen's luxurious ambiance continue to draw couples seeking a winter wonderland experience. Luxury ski packages are trending upwards, with many resorts offering private lessons and bespoke itinerary planning. Expect increased prices and competition for bookings.

• New York City: Urban Romance with a Festive Flair: The Big Apple's vibrant energy combined with holiday decorations and ice skating provides a unique and memorable experience. Beyond the usual tourist attractions, niche experiences like private wine tastings in historic cellars and rooftop igloo dining are becoming increasingly popular.

• Charleston & Savannah: Southern Charm and Mild Winters: For those seeking a reprieve from the harsh northern chill, these Southern cities offer a delightful alternative. Charleston's historic architecture and Savannah's picturesque squares create a romantic atmosphere. Food tourism is a major driver here, with farm-to-table dining experiences and cooking classes for couples highly sought after. The growing popularity of these cities necessitates advance booking for accommodations and dining.

• Carmel-by-the-Sea, California & Newport, Rhode Island: Coastal Escapes with Character: The Pacific and Atlantic coasts offer different, but equally compelling, romantic experiences. Carmel's artistic spirit and Newport's grand estates provide a sophisticated escape. The rise in 'slow travel' encourages couples to spend more time in fewer destinations, exploring local art galleries and engaging with the community.

• Bar Harbor & Door County: Adventures in Nature: Acadia National Park in Maine and Door County's unique peninsula provide a more rugged, adventurous romantic getaway. Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and cozy evenings by the lake are all part of the appeal. Sustainable tourism initiatives are shaping the experience, with a focus on eco-friendly accommodations and responsible travel practices.

• Park City & Jackson Hole: High-Altitude Thrills and Wilderness Beauty: These destinations are ideal for couples who enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and exploring the great outdoors. The increasing popularity of 'heli-skiing' experiences caters to adventurous couples seeking pristine, untouched snow.

• Orlando, Florida: Sunshine and Theme Park Fun: While unconventional for a "romantic" getaway, Orlando offers a warm escape from the cold with its theme parks and entertainment options. The rise of 'experience-based travel' is blurring the lines between traditional vacation types, with more couples seeking unique and memorable adventures regardless of the location.

The Future of Romantic Winter Getaways:

In 2026, the landscape of romantic winter travel is evolving. Increased demand is driving up prices and impacting availability. Personalization is key; travelers are seeking curated experiences tailored to their specific interests. Sustainability and responsible tourism are also playing an increasingly important role in destination choices. Ultimately, the most romantic winter getaway is the one that creates lasting memories and strengthens the bond between two people, regardless of the location's popularity or price tag.