February

Love in the air

By The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette

Posted: October 6, 2009 at 11:39 a.m.

• Print item
• E-mail
• Share
• Tweet

Arkansas' "Little Switzerland" beckons couples with its Victorian charm and artistic vibe.

Eureka Springs offers the perfect weekend getaway for the celebration of romance. From cozy cabins to luxurious hotel suites, the city provides a winter retreat with eclectic venues for dining, shopping and exploring.

With your beloved, escape from the office Friday afternoon with bags packed and hit the road for a memorable experience. Don't forget the wine and cheese, and be prepared. Arkansas winters can range from light sweaters in the morning to arctic parkas by the afternoon.

Tucked within a dense patch of downtown forest, Treehouse Cottages offers a treetop view of the canopy. Cabins, rising more than 20 feet from the forest floor, include a spacious spa, fully furnished kitchens, wood-burning fireplaces and wrap-around decks.

After check-in, make your way to Rouge's Manor for drinks in the bar with a view of the natural rock wall and waterfall, then move to the dining room for a romantic dinner. The best tables are nestled under the windows facing the street, providing a view of the city and passers-by.

Bundle up and take a stroll downtown and note the shops along the way to visit tomorrow. Your ear will guide you to several live music venues if you are so inclined.

Day two, start with breakfast in the Crystal Dining Room at the Crescent Hotel, followed by pedicures and pampering at the hotel's New Moon Spa. Relaxed and ready for shopping, don't miss Quicksilver for a retreat memento of handmade jewelry.

Nelson's Leather shop is a great place to sample leather goods, from wallets and belts to handbags and boots.

The downtown art galleries provide a range of decorative glass works, sculpture, wildlife paintings and pottery.

For a quick bite and libations, slip up to the Basin Park Hotel Balcony Bar. The balcony is open even on cold days, with protective awnings and outdoor heaters.

Late afternoon, take a carriage ride around the historic loop. Slowly clomping along provides ample time to appreciate the city's Victorian architecture.

Make your way back to the Treehouse Cottages and ask the staff for dinner recommendations. They will point you to the local favorites.

Speaking of local favorites, don't miss the Sunday brunch at Local Flavor before making your way home.

Insider Tips

1. Wear comfortable shoes or boots. The limestone sidewalks downtown become slippery when wet.
2. February weather can be funky in Northwest Arkansas. Dress in warm layers for outdoor activities.
3. If your accommodations offer a kitchen, pack drinks and snacks for your stay. If you've been saving a bottle of wine for a special occasion, take it along.
4. Ride the trolleys for both convenience and to get a glimpse of the city's steep, twisting streets.
5. If you plan on parking downtown, there are several municipal lots. Some parking meters only accept quarters.
6. Walking tours of the city also are available. Check with your innkeeper for dates, times and places.
7. Make lodging reservations for Valentine's Day well in advance, along with spa packages.

Comments

To report abuse or misuse of this area please hit the "Suggest Removal" link in the comment to alert our online managers. Please read our comment policy.

Use the comment form below to begin a discussion about this content.