8 Romantic Outdoor Date Ideas For Couples This Year

As Valentine’s Day rolls around, love fills the mountain air at The Cliffs –– and there is no better way to enjoy this time than by planning a romantic getaway. With the cold winter months slowly coming to an end, why not take your date outside to enjoy the fresh air and scenic views? If you and your partner do not have any plans this year, or are struggling to come up with new ideas, here are eight romantic outdoor date ideas for you and your partner to consider this year.   

1. Go for a Private Hike With a View

Going for a hike through the lush wooded forests can be the special romantic escape you’re looking for. Here in the Blue Ridge Mountains, there are countless hiking trails to choose from, each bringing you a little closer to nature. We recommend choosing a hike with a viewpoint at the end of the hike for magnificent pictures to capture the memory of the special day. For members of The Cliffs, there are many private hiking trails available exclusively for members, so you won’t have to worry about large crowds out on the trails. 

Plan Your Date: Hiking Essentials for Your Next Hike

2. Reserve a Special Dinner for Two

Fine dining is an experience to be enjoyed –– and it’s also a wonderful way to commemorate and celebrate your love for one another. This year, consider booking a special dinner at your favorite restaurant, or branch out and try something new. Luckily, many of the area’s fine dining options have charming patio areas for an outdoor meal with a lovely view.  

At The Cliffs, our dining venues offer scenic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and jewel-toned waters of Lake Keowee, and exceptional menus crafted by our celebrated culinary team. If the weather permits, you could even plan a romantic outdoor picnic. A member favorite is the Overlook Pavilion located at The Cliffs at Glassy. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a charcuterie board and soak in the views.   

3. Visit a Local Farmer’s Market 

Another romantic outdoor date idea is to visit your local farmer’s market. This is also a fantastic way to support your local farmers and allows you to find the freshest fruits and vegetables, flowers, honey, jams, cheeses, and baked goods in the area.

A fun idea is to pick a new recipe you both have wanted to try and go shopping for those ingredients. Once you have gathered the necessary ingredients, open a bottle of wine and start preparing your special dinner. Who knows, it may just become your new favorite recipe! 

Related: Chefs at The Cliffs Discuss Seasonal Produce 

4. Have a Romantic Night By the Fire 

The cool mountain air creates the perfect setting for a campfire underneath the stars. If your home has a fire pit area, create a relaxing area where you can snuggle up and simply enjoy each other’s company. Have plenty of firewood on hand to prevent having to do so at the moment as this makes the experience more enjoyable. Also, be sure to grab some warm blankets and pillows to make the area comfortable and cozy. 

If you have a sweet tooth, you may want to take a trip down memory lane and make delicious s’mores together. With the glow of the fire and your loved one near, you’re sure to have a romantic evening that you won’t soon forget. 

5. Visit a Local Winery 

If you’re a wine enthusiast, this one is for you! Spend the day with your special someone at a local winery! Here you will have the opportunity to learn about the different varieties of wines and taste some of their finest selections. At some wineries, you even have the option to spend the night –– making it a perfect getaway for couples. 

If you’re looking for some of the best wineries to visit in the Blue Ridge Mountains, check out our blog post, 10 Best Wineries in the Blue Ridge Mountains, for a list of some of the area’s most beloved wineries. 

6. Bet on a Round of Golf

A friendly competition with your partner makes for a memorable date –– so head out to your favorite course to play a round of golf. You can make the game even more exciting by placing bets. For example, the winner might get to choose a home-cooked meal or a new wine bottle for their collection. At The Cliffs, we have seven premier golf courses to choose from, so you can even make it a best out of seven tournaments –– extending the game all month long! 

7. Mixed Doubles Double Date 

If you prefer to swing a tennis racquet, grab your partner for a fun mixed doubles match with your friends. Working together on the court can help you build teamwork skills and bond in a new way. Afterward, grab a cocktail at the clubhouse –– losing team buys drinks, naturally!

8. Go horseback riding 

A romantic outdoor date idea for animal lovers is to go horseback riding. Not only does it allow you to connect with nature in a different way, but it’s also a great way to view the picturesque mountain scenery. At The Cliffs, our equestrian center has wonderful opportunities for those looking to hit the trails in a different way. Located at The Cliffs at Keowee Vineyards, there are training and riding rings and stables, with the nearby Jocassee Gorges Wilderness Area offering more than 200 miles of spectacular riding trails.

Celebrate Love, All Year Long! 

With a temperate climate that beautifully showcases all four seasons in all their full splendor, the Blue Ridge Mountains are the perfect backdrop for romantic dates throughout the year. Here at The Cliffs, you have the opportunity to enjoy this magnificent region from the privacy of our community gates. There are also many charming towns and attractions in the vicinity for when you do want to feel the need to venture out and explore.

If you would like to learn how you can make The Cliffs your home, contact us. We would be happy to help you get started and find your place in our community.