VALENTINES WEEKENDS ON THE ISLE OF WIGHT

For those looking for love in 2010, the Isle of Wight is offering two fantastic Valentines singles weekends (12-14 February) from just £75!
Throughout history, the Isle of Wight has been the perfect backdrop for the romantically inclined, from the Pre-Raphaelite artists of the 19th century who were drawn to the romantic poetry of Alfred Lord Tennyson at his Island hideaway in the stunning West Wight, to the passionate love affair of a Queen and her prince played out at their palace by the sea – Osborne House at East Cowes.
Still popular with today’s generation looking for a romantic getaway, Twilight actor Robert Pattinson and his co-star Kristen Stewart, who he is rumoured to be dating, spent New Year on the Island getting to know each other better. The famous couple, who are said to have fallen in love with the Island (as well as each other), are now reported to be buying a property in Ventnor to help them lead a normal life away from the media and the Hollywood glitz.
But for those of you who want to bag a boyfriend or just fancy a weekend of fun, the Isle of Wight has the answer….
Described as a crash-course in self-awareness and a guide to coming out of your shell and selling your assets, Flirtshop will help you develop your flirting skills through a series of games, exercises, role-play and discussion in a relaxed and friendly environment.
Flirtshop, which is being held at The Grange by the Sea in the picturesque setting of Shanklin Old Village, begins on Friday (12 February) with arrivals from 4pm. Following dinner (if requested), there will be an introduction of the course and a get-together with fellow guests. Sessions begin on Saturday morning from 10.30-12.30am, continuing Saturday afternoon from 5-7pm with a final session on Sunday morning from 10.30-12.30am. The course fee is £75 with meals and accommodation available, if required, at extra cost. To book this course, telephone 01983 867644/ www.thegrangebythesea.com. Or find alternative accommodation on-line at www.islandbreaks.co.uk, or call 01983 813813.
With activities entitled Perfect Entertaining, Learn to Salsa and Love Communication, where you will be given a few hints and ideas on how to ‘set a partner’s toes tingling’, plus the chance to meet your perfect partner, the Valentines singles weekend (12-14 February) at The Trouville Hotel, Sandown, is sure to get your heart racing.
The Valentines singles weekend costs £199 per person for 2-nights dinner, bed and breakfast and includes a special Valentines dinner and dance on Saturday (13 February), and the opportunity to get better acquainted with fellow singletons at a chilled-out version of speed-dating on Valentines Day itself. Ferries are available at a discounted rate. To book now or find our more, visit www.romanticisle.co.uk/valentines, or email love@romanticisle.co.uk
For those with a partner who haven’t organised a special Valentine’s celebration, there’s still availability for an intimate short break at a hotel that’s tucked away:
The adults-only Hermitage Country House Hotel is the perfect place to unwind and relax with your loved one. Hidden away within 12 acres of garden and woods, the Hermitage is offering a special Valentines Weekend (12-14 February) full of little hidden extras. This 2-night B&B package, which includes Champagne, flowers and luxury chocolates, plus car ferry travel from Southampton with Red Funnel ferries costs £230 per person (add £20 extra for travel from Portsmouth or Lymington). Tel. 01983 730010, www.hermitage-iow.co.uk (special offers section).
Located in the quaint, seaside resort of Ventnor with romantic sea views, the Hambrough at Ventnor is offering ‘The ultimate Valentines getaway on the Isle of Wight’, 12-14 February. This indulgent package begins with champagne on arrival in your room, a hand crafted sugar rose and a six course tasting menu with all those romantic ingredients! If that wasn't enough, wake up to a champagne breakfast served in your room. All this from just £230 per person (based on 2 people sharing) per night, including complimentary ferry travel from Portsmouth or Lymington with Wightlink. Flowers, chocolates, plus beauty treatments can all be added to the package. Tel. 01983 856333, e-mail info@thehambrough.com, www.thehambrough.com
For details on how to get to the Isle of Wight, where to stay and what to see and do, visit www.islandbreaks.co.uk or telephone 01983 813813.