Sponsored Editorial

Valentine’s Day beckons, with Wednesday 14th February standing as a poignant reminder to celebrate love in all its splendour!

As the countdown begins, thoughts turn to the classic tokens of affection – flowers, chocolates and jewellery. But why stop there? This year, elevate romance to new heights by whisking your beloved away on a spontaneous holiday!

The crisp air and the subtle promise of spring in February and March create the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway, with an array of enchanting destinations just a short journey across the Channel, including France, Belgium and the Netherlands.

Forget sensing love in the air – it’s on the ferry! For your 2024 romantic escape, you can travel from Dover to Calais in pure luxury with P&O Ferries. Whilst onboard, take advantage of a range of fantastic facilities – from the all-inclusive Club Lounge and dedicated Pet Lounge to the World Duty Free store, where you can seize incredible deals and save up to 50% on high street prices.

To coincide with the romantic occasion, P&O is offering several enticing deals. With its Short Break Offer, relish a 3-day break starting from £99 (when booked by 24th March) or a 5-day break at £129 (when booked by 22nd March).

For those considering planning a trip later in the year, P&O’s Early Booking Offer provides a 20% discount on long breaks (over 5 days) for bookings made by 29th February, valid for travel until 15th December 2024.

But wait, there's more! If a Day Trip is what you have in mind, P&O is offering 6 free bottles of wine (choose from Bare-Barbera Di Piave Red, Coastal Reserve Pinot Grigio Rose or Lindeman Tollana Chardonnay) – to be collected at Calais Wine Superstore. Simply book and travel by March 28th!

Looking for the perfect romantic escape in Europe? Here are P&O’s top three recommendations…

France

France, with its timeless allure, offers the quintessential backdrop for a dreamy couples’ escape. From strolling hand in hand along the cobbled streets of Paris to savouring fine wines in the vineyards of Bordeaux, it exudes romance at every turn.

Paris, a mere 3 hours 30 minutes from Calais, epitomises romance as one of the world's most renowned cities for lovers. Picture yourselves cruising down the river Seine at sunset, sipping champagne at the top of the Eiffel Tower, sharing a kiss on the Pont des Arts and meandering through the Jardin du Luxembourg.

In just over a 3-hour journey lies Deauville, another French haven for romance, famed for its charming wooden boardwalk, elegant promenades and beautiful sandy beach. During your time in the coastal town, sample gourmet cuisine, peruse quaint boutiques and experience the allure of the glamorous casino or Deauville-La Touques racecourse.

Consider also Giverny, a 3-hour 20-minute drive from Calais, hailed as a "living canvas" that has inspired countless artists, or immerse yourselves in the legend of Mont Saint Michel, perched on a rocky island with its breathtaking abbey and idyllic village.

Belgium

The next destination on P&O Ferries’ list is Belgium, home to the enchanting cities of Bruges and Durbuy. Bruges is 1 hour 30 minutes from Calais, making it an excellent choice for a short break. During your stay, stroll the picturesque streets, starting from the Grote Markt, or opt for a relaxing, romantic canal cruise while indulging in local delights such as waffles, frites and Belgian beer. What’s more, Minnewater Park, affectionately known as the "Lake of Love", is a must-visit for couples looking to immerse themselves in romance.

A little further afield, just under 4 hours from Calais, is Durbuy. Dubbed the “smallest city in the world”, it promises fairy-tale book scenery and romantic vistas at every turn. Whether you seek relaxation amidst the whimsical Topiary Park, wish to embark on a spiritual journey with a yoga retreat at Radhadesh, or plan to delve into culinary arts with a course in the Chateau de Petite Somme, Durbuy promises an unforgettable experience steeped in charm and tranquillity.

The Netherlands

This year, let the Netherlands be your canvas for a romantic adventure! A variety of captivating destinations and activities await – from the vibrant cultural scene of Amsterdam to the serene beauty of the Dutch countryside, adorned with tulip fields, windmills and charming villages.

Visit Rotterdam, located just 3 hours and 50 minutes from Calais, and ascend to the top of Rotterdam's tallest building, the Euromast Tower, to revel in panoramic vistas. Indulge in a culinary adventure at the Markthal Rotterdam, boasting over 100 food and drink vendors, take a leisurely stroll along the canals and explore the Delfshaven district.

Amsterdam, a 4.5-hour journey away, is a popular choice for a romantic escapade brimming with excitement. It offers a rich cultural tapestry and boundless opportunities for exploration! Glide along the iconic waterways, wander through the historic cobbled streets of the Nine Streets or embark on a whimsical tandem bicycle ride with your beloved. For a breathtaking perspective, ascend to the summit of the 22-story A'dam Tower, which offers romantic views over the city, etching cherished memories against the backdrop of the enchanting Dutch landscape.

Discover more about travelling with P&O Ferries and secure your crossing by visiting www.poferries.com.

Terms and conditions

Early Booking Offer - 20% off on long breaks (+5 days)

Offer applies to Dover to Calais service only. Book by 29th February 2024 for travel by 15th December 2024. Valid for travel with a car, high car and up to 9 passengers, and motorcycle with up to 2 passengers. Valid for long stay duration and standard single only. Bookings subject to restricted spaces, sailings and dates. Excludes day trips, 2-day trip short break, foot passengers, bicycles, vans, minibus, motorhomes, caravans and vehicles designed for commercial use. This offer cannot be combined with any other offer & bookings made at port. P&O Ferries reserves the right to amend or withdraw all elements of the promotion without prior notice.

Short Break Offer

This offer is available on all Dover to Calais short break bookings travelled up to 27th March 2024. 3-day breaks from £99 and 5-day breaks from £129 when booked by 24th March 2024 for 3-day, and 22nd March 2024 for 5-day. Excludes long breaks, 2- and 4-day returns, day trips, foot passengers, bicycles, vehicles designed for commercial use, minibuses, motorhomes, caravans or vehicles towing a caravan or trailer.P&O Ferries reserves the right to amend or withdraw all elements of the promotion without prior notice. Subject to Promotional Conditions and P&O Ferries' Terms of Business, both available online at poferries.com.

Free Wine with a Day Trip