It’s nearly that time of year again. Yes, Valentine’s Day is fast approaching, and romance is in the air for many. Fortunately, after battling through the dreaded ‘Dry January,’ we can all now drink enough (responsibly of course) to work up the courage to ask that special someone if they want to take things to the next level. A romantic weekend away! Now, just time to plan the escape, pack a weekend bag and…oh, there’s a train strike. Classic. Short term car insurance to the rescue perhaps?
Whether it’s typical transport chaos or your secluded retreat being a no-go for public transport, fear not. Embrace the sharing economy (great for the environment) and borrow a car from your mum, your mate, or a friendly neighbour. The only thing left to do is get yourself some short term car insurance.
For temporary car insurance, Zixty is your go-to. Get your wheels insured for anything from 1 hour to 28 days (That’s a loooong road road trip. You might be past the honeymoon phase by the end of it).
Done? Good, now buckle up, lovebirds! Here’s our guide to 8 of the UK’s most romantic getaways. They’re so enchantingly dreamy, you’ll have to pinch yourself to make sure you’re not in a rom-com.
1. Llyn y Fan Fach, Brecon Beacons
Nestled in the wild heart of Wales, Llyn y Fan Fach is a beautiful, mystical lake shrouded in legend. Picture this: rugged Welsh mountains standing like silent sentinels around a serene, mirror-like lake, perfect for a romantic stroll. The waters reflect the sky, creating an ethereal ambiance ideal for deep, soul-searching conversations – or perhaps a spontaneous, heart-pounding proposal?!
Highly rated places to stay according to Booking.com
Highly reviewed eateries according to Trip Advisor
2. Fairy Pools, Isle of Skye
Trade your local park for the natural allure of the Fairy Pools on the Isle of Skye. These crystal-clear blue pools on the River Brittle are famed for their ethereal beauty and are encircled by the majestic Cuillin Mountains. The journey to the pools involves a scenic walk that heightens the sense of adventure. Imagine dipping your toes in the icy, fairy-tale waters or simply sitting by the side, enjoying the serene beauty of the cascading waterfalls. It’s a magical spot that’s perfect for couples seeking a romantic retreat amidst one of Scotland’s most picturesque landscapes. And if you visit in February, the wind and horizontal snow will keep the dreaded midges at bay.
Highly rated places to stay according to AirBNB
Highly reviewed eateries according to Trip Advisor
3. Wistman's Wood, Dartmoor
Venture into the mystical Wistman’s Wood in Dartmoor, a surreal fairytale come to life. This ancient woodland, with its gnarled, moss-covered oaks and a floor carpeted with ferns and boulders, creates a near fantastical atmosphere. So much so, you could be forgiven for expecting to see Gandalf and the gang around the next corner. The woodland is not only a visual marvel but also a haven of tranquillity, offering a serene escape where whispered words of love resonate through the ages, perfect for couples who adore a touch of mystery and enchantment in their romance. Who knows, you might even discover a magical ring nestled on a cushion of moss. I feel that proposal coming on again!
Highly rated places to stay according to TripAdvisor
Highly reviewed eateries according to Trip Advisor
4. Portmeirion, Gwynedd
Step into Portmeirion, a vibrant Italianate village that feels like a slice of coastal Italy magically placed in Wales. Okay, so in February the weather doesn’t feel much like Italy so you’ll just have to huddle together and share body warmth. With its pastel-coloured buildings, exotic gardens, and sandy shores, it’s a visual feast for lovebirds. Wander hand-in-hand through this whimsical architectural wonder, savour a gelato, and soak up the romantic ambiance of this fantastical village, where every corner promises a new, delightful surprise.
Top rated places to stay according to Booking.com
Portmeirion Village & Castell Deudraeth
Glamping Huts in Heart of Snowdonia
Highly reviewed eateries according to Trip Advisor
Make sure you use protection
Remember, before you steam up the windows of the passion wagon, you’ll need to consider protection. That’s right, you need to be fully covered. So, before we delve into the next four romantic destinations, let’s recap on why you might want short term car insurance cover.
Short term car insurance, otherwise known as day cover or temporary car insurance covers you for driving a car in the short term. That could be for just one hour or it could be for up to 28 days. It’s fast, it’s flexible and it’s a bit fantastic.
Why would you want temporary car insurance? The short answer is because you need to drive a car (or a van) for a short period. Maybe you just need cover for a weekend road trip? or perhaps you’ve bought a nearly-new fridge on Gumtree and need to get it home, temporary car insurance cover could be the one for you.
Now, onwards, you incurable romantics, let’s review the next four amazing destinations!
5. Minack Theatre, Cornwall
The Minack Theatre is not just another date location, it is a jaw-droppingly incongruous open-air theatre etched into granite cliffs, offering dramatic performances against the backdrop of the roaring Atlantic. Couples can snuggle up under a blanket, watching a play under the stars, with the ocean’s symphony serenading the actors. It’s a place where drama and romance seamlessly intertwine.
Highly rated places to stay according to Booking.com
Penthouse Apartment near Porthcurno Beach and Minack Theatre
Highly reviewed eateries according to Trip Advisor
6. Grasmere, Lake District
Grasmere, a charming village nestled in the Lake District, is where poetry is brought to life. Amble through the lush, green valleys and beside tranquil lakes that inspired Wordsworth’s most romantic poems. Relish the serene beauty of Dove Cottage, or simply unwind by the lakeside, feeding ducks and basking in the peaceful ambiance of this idyllic hamlet. Nice spot for a skinny dip too (except in February, gentlemen).
Highly rated places to stay according to Booking.com
Bridge House Hotel & Silver Howe View Cottage
Rothay Garden Hotel & Riverside Spa
Highly reviewed eateries according to Trip Advisor
7. Castle Combe, Wiltshire
Castle Combe, often referred to as ‘the prettiest village in England’, offers a quintessentially English experience with its picturesque streets, traditional Cotswold stone cottages, and tranquil atmosphere. This idyllic village, nestled in the Cotswolds, provides the perfect backdrop for a romantic escape, with its enchanting scenery and timeless charm.The fantastic city of Bath is just down the road too, so after a day in the ‘chocolate box’ beauty of Castle Combe you can retreat to the beautiful streets of Bath to find a romantic restaurant and a bar or two.
Highly rated places to stay according to Booking.com
Highly reviewed eateries according to Trip Advisor
8. St Nectan's Glen, Cornwall
St Nectan’s Glen offers an enchanting escape into nature. It’s a place of tranquillity and sublime beauty, where a majestic waterfall cascades through a hole in the rocks. Surrounded by lush woodland, it’s a magical setting for a romantic adventure. Follow the meandering paths through this mystical glen, and let the enchantment of nature and the sound of rushing water amplify the romance in the air.
Highly rated places to stay according to Booking.com
Highly reviewed eateries according to Trip Advisor
Temporary car Insurance done? Then you're road trip ready
So, there you have it, eight fantastic destinations to get you in the mood for romance. Be nice to your mate, borrow their car, and make sure to get yourself some short term car insurance to cover yourself legally when you’re on your journey.
Doing your bit for the environment
If you’re concerned about how driving impacts your carbon footprint, you’re certainly thinking along the right lines and we applaud you for it. Where possible we recommend travelling by public transport, or if you really want to experience a place then use a bike or walk. However, when that’s not practical, by borrowing a vehicle rather than having your own, you are at least reducing your carbon footprint in one way. And here’s a little extra bonus for you; we plant a tree for every policy you take out with Zixty. If you sign-up to our Zixty Miles programme in the App we plant enough trees to carbon offset up to 100 miles of your journey each day you’re insured with us. Find out more about our partnership with Eden Reforestation by reading this article all about Eden. Or visit Eden’s own website.
So, pack your bags, set your itinerary, and embark on a romantic voyage of discovery that puts the ‘lust’ back into wanderlust…and don’t forget the ring!
Get a quote for your temporary insurance by going to the quote page of this website, or by downloading the app from the Apple AppStore or Google Play.
