Forget chocolates, jewellery or flowers, and instead, treat your loved one to the gift of an adventure. Flowers will eventually wilt, chocolates will be gobbled up, and jewellery can go out of style, but memories last forever — or at least the photos of your adventure will! Exploring a new place with your partner is the perfect way to celebrate your love and experience new things together.
There is no better Valentine’s Day holiday than a motorhome trip, where you can cuddle up in your own little home on wheels. Getting to enjoy the great outdoors can be a rare occurrence during winter, so challenge yourselves to hiking, biking, or simply exploring charming villages. The choice is yours, and a motorhome gives you the flexibility to create your own adventure.
1. Anglesey, Wales
This is going to be the year for Anglesey; we just know it. For too long, this gorgeous little island has been underappreciated, but no more. It’s easy to reach Anglesey if you follow the A55, and once there, you’ll feel like you’re half a world away from the rest of the UK.
This is one of the simpler Valentine’s Day road trip ideas, as you can easily drive the circular route around the island, stopping as you go. You could head to Anglesey for a short weekend away, or extend it using some precious holiday time.
On a clear day in Anglesey, you’ll be able to see all the way over to Ireland, although you might only have eyes for your partner.
Things to do:
-For a romantic stroll, we recommend visiting Cwyfans Church, which is only accessible during the low tide. There is something magical about this remote place, which will leave you feeling like the only people in the world. Just make sure you leave before the tide rises once more. Combine this with an afternoon at Aberffraw Bay to enjoy the gently rolling waves and salty air.
-One of the most famous landmarks of Anglesey is the South Stack Lighthouse. Perched on the summit of a small island, this lighthouse was built in 1809 to warn sailors of the rocky waters below. Climb the 400 steps to the top for an unbelievable view.
-If you can hike up a mountain with your loved one, you can truly tackle anything together. There are two prime options for this in Anglesey: the famous Holyhead Mountain or the lesser-known Parys Mountain. The latter features rock formations that span four eras and 12 geological periods, which cover over 1,800 million years. You can also see the ancient burial mound of Bryn Celli Ddu, which is believed to be over 5,000 years old.
For more ideas, check out our complete Anglesey road trip itinerary.
2. Isle of Skye, Scotland
Renowned for its rich history, picturesque landscapes, majestic ruins, and endless beaches, the Isle of Skye is the perfect place to celebrate your love. There’s something magical about this island, and for your time here, you can enjoy that magic in your relationship as well.
Many consider the Isle of Skye to be one of the most romantic destinations in the UK, if not the world, so head here for a Valentine’s Day holiday in your motorhome to decide for yourself.
Things to do:
-Feel like toasting to your love? Consider doing this with some traditional Scottish whisky. Located in Carbost, Talisker Distillery is the island’s oldest working distillery. You can take a tour of the facilities to learn all about how their whisky is made and taste their award-winning Talisker Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
-Learn about the Macdonalds of Sleat, Scotland’s oldest and most powerful clan, at the Armadale Castle Gardens and Museum. After exploring their ancestral home, you can take a romantic stroll through the gardens, which are comprised of 40 acres of trees, flowers, and shrubs. Parts of the garden are just as old as the castle, and you can learn all about it in the audio guide available.
-Walk up to the famous Old Man of Storr, which is one of the most popular routes on the Isle of Skye. Luckily, since it’s outside the tourist season, you’ll likely have the entire route to yourself. This 55-metre-high pinnacle of basalt rock is all that remains of a 2,800-million-year-old volcanic plug. The view at the top will be very rewarding, especially if you bring a picnic to enjoy there.
For more ideas, check out our complete Isle of Skye road trip itinerary.
3. The Cotswolds, England
The annoying thing about fairytales is that they always end with the happily ever after, so you never get to see how that actually looks. But in the Cotswolds, you’ll get to see what a magical happily ever after looks like. You can stroll down cobblestoned streets with your loved one beside you, gazing at idyllic cottages with thatched roofs. Grab a coffee in a cosy cafe, walk through tranquil forests, and celebrate the fairytale nature of love. It’ll come as no surprise that the Cotswolds is one of the most popular Valentine’s Day getaways in the UK.
Things to do:
-Are you or your beloved a fan of Lord of the Rings? Head to St Edward’s Church, which many believe to be the inspiration for the Doors of Durin. While this has never been confirmed, J.R.R. Tolkien frequently visited the Cotswolds, and the resemblance is certainly there. Even if it's not related, this is a sight worth seeing during your trip!
-If the weather permits, take a romantic stroll through the Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens. It is home to over 260 different species of wildlife across 160 acres of landscaped parkland and gardens.
-No pup has to be left behind with motorhome trips, and there are plenty of excellent dog walking routes in the Cotswolds. For example, you can walk up Cleeve Hill, which is the highest point in the Cotswolds, offering incredible views over Cheltenham and the surrounding landscape. We also have a dog-friendly guide to the Cotswolds, for more tips!
For more ideas, check out our complete Cotswold road trip itinerary.
4. Galloway Forest Park, Scotland
Often referred to as the ‘Highlands of the Lowlands,’ you’ll quickly discover how Galloway Forest Park earned this prestigious title. This destination earns its spot on our Valentine’s Day getaways list because of its gorgeous beaches, endless hiking trails, and stunning forests. It’s beloved by active holidaymakers, and you’ll never run out of things to do.
Galloway is one of the best weekend breaks from Edinburgh, as it's only two hours away, and can be perfectly combined with a day in the capital city of Scotland.
But before leaving Galloway, please promise us that you’ll visit one of their iconic beaches at sunset. You won’t regret it, trust us.
Things to do:
-If you and your partner are cycling enthusiasts (or if one of you is, and the other gets dragged along), then you’ll love all the cycling routes in Galloway Forest Park. One of our favourites is the National Cycle Route 7, which is over 540 miles long. Don’t worry, you can focus on a smaller section of it, or tackle one of many other cycle routes in the area.
-Are the little ones joining your romantic weekend away? Then you’ll definitely win brownie points with a trip to The Whithorn Story. This museum and visitor centre brings history to life, as you learn all about the arrival of pilgrims and the Reformation, and even see the remains of Iron Age settlements.
-Galloway Forest Park is the only Dark Sky Park in Scotland, and is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights in Scotland. Set up camp, roast some marshmallows and wait for the stunning aurora borealis.
5. Lake District, England
This may seem like a very unoriginal option for a Valentine’s Day holiday in a motorhome, but hear us out. The Lake District is beloved by all for good reason; it’s simply that beautiful. And visiting it in February will ensure that it is far calmer and less crowded, so you can enjoy it in all its wonder.
The Lake District is home to England’s highest mountain and deepest lakes, carved out of volcanic rock by glaciers, tens of thousands of years ago. The rugged landscapes are contrasted by picturesque villages, with pubs where you can warm up after a long day spent exploring the Lake District.
Things to do:
-Are you itching to bring out your hiking boots? Then race to Orrest Head, one of the most popular hill walking routes in the Lake District. From the summit, you can enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding countryside.
-Spend an afternoon in Grasmere, which William Wordsworth called “the loveliest spot that man hath ever found!” You can visit his former home, which is now a great museum, and see his grave by St Oswald’s Church. Afterwards, for something a little more cheerful, head to the 14th-century gingerbread shop and fill up on treats for everyone back home.
-If you were (or still are) a fan of Beatrix Potter, be sure to visit the charming World of Beatrix Potter attraction, which is a delight for all ages. You can also combine this with a visit to her former home.
For more ideas, check out our complete Lake District road trip itinerary.
6. Pembrokeshire Coast, Wales
Romance is always present in the salty air of the Welsh coastline. You can drive along a backdrop of turquoise waters, sandy beaches, colourful houses, and majestic castles for your Valentine’s Day road trip.
You’ll spend a lot of time on foot as well, exploring the beloved Pembrokeshire Coast Path, so be sure to pack your best walking boots.
We even consider Pembrokeshire to be one of the best places to visit in the UK in winter!
Things to do:
-Spend a day in the lovely seaside town of Tenby, which looks like it was made for a postcard. It’s home to Castle Beach, which was awarded ‘Britain’s Best Beach’ in 2019. While here, take a short boat ride to the monastery on Caldey Island, which is a beautiful sight, especially at sunset.
-This area is filled with majestic castles to explore, making it the ideal getaway for any history buffs. But if we had to pick just one, we’d recommend visiting Pembroke Castle. Built in 1090 AD, this castle is best known as the birthplace of King Henry VII in 1457.
-While it might not be quite the beach weather you’d imagine, there is something beautiful about strolling along a beach in winter — as long as it is followed by a hot chocolate somewhere! Barafundle Bay Beach, Saundersfoot Beach and Broadhaven Beach are all perfect for a frosty walk with your partner, with your mitten tightly wrapped in theirs.
For more ideas, check out our complete Pembrokeshire road trip itinerary.
7. Antrim Coast, Northern Ireland
Our list of Valentine’s Day road trip ideas wouldn’t be complete without a stop across the water to Northern Ireland. While there are so many incredible romantic destinations in Northern Ireland, we’re going to recommend the Antrim Coast. It was designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1988, and it looks almost too beautiful to be real.
You’ll spot some familiar sights from TV shows such as Game of Thrones, and plenty of gorgeous hiking trails to try.
Things to do:
-Try the challenging Gobbins Coastal Walk, which clings to the cliffs of the scenic Islandmagee peninsula. This exhilarating path was first enjoyed in the early 1900s and offers unparalleled access to the rugged Antrim Coast. You won’t get bored on this path, as it contains suspension bridges, caves, steps, and tunnels.
-Spend a day in Ballycastle to discover why this cosy town was named the ‘Best Place to Live in Northern Ireland’ in 2016 by the Sunday Times. You can head to Ballycastle Beach for a lovely stroll followed by a hot chocolate, or visit one of the lovely cafes in town.
-No trip to the Antrim Coast is complete without a stop at the Giant’s Causeway. One of the most unique sights in the entirety of the UK, Giant’s Causeway contains an area of about 40,000 interlocking basalt columns. It is the result of an ancient volcanic fissure eruption, although others will claim witch — or giant? — craft was involved. It is completely free to visit!
Which of these seven Valentine’s Day destinations will you visit this year? You can save the others for another romantic getaway in spring or summer.
As for your home on wheels, hire a motorhome with Goboony for your trip. You’ll get to book directly with a private owner and pick the vehicle of your dreams. Let your romantic adventure start here!
