Submitted by guest blogger/photographer: Elizabeth Abrams

It seems to me, Valentine’s Day has evolved over the last couple of years. When we were younger, it was a time to give friends candy or little gifts in pink decorated shoeboxes. Now, it seems to be about the person courting the girl, bringing roses or chocolates, and spending money on a romantic meal. I wonder what it means to people in today’s society?

Now that I am married to my Valentine, we celebrate every day we have together. From the beginning, we have always believed, as a couple, to give experiences instead of gifts! Birthdays, Christmas, anniversaries, and yes, even Valentine’s Day, we always plan an experience to share together. Whether it is going to the movies, buying tickets for a favorite concert, or a night in a hotel across town, experiences are what make it truly special.

In the mountains is where we love to spend time with each other. We love to plan trips near and far, and it makes every occasion a true adventure! Among the tall pines of the Adirondacks, you do not want to miss the opportunity for connecting with your sweetie.

Have you ever thought about leaving the stress of your daily life behind, and enjoying a cabin in the woods, with trees full of snow, and a roaring fire at your feet? If this sounds like something you would enjoy, I think it’s time you head to the Adirondacks! Saranac Lake offers many opportunities to get away from it all. Your sweetie deserves a vacation to relax and enjoy time spent with you.  There is no better way to say, “I love you,” than to snuggle up while the snow falls outside.

This Valentine’s Day, make it one to remember and plan a vacation for you and your sweetheart! Saranac Lake offers many great options for couples looking for a romantic getaway, or families looking for fun activities for all. Lodging, restaurants, outdoor activities, and nightlife… Saranac Lake has it all for you. Winter in the Adirondacks will not disappoint, especially in our cool corner of the mountains! 

Cozy up at White Pine Camp

When staying in Saranac Lake, there are many options for lodging, but a winner, by far, would be White Pine Camp! White Pine Camp is a restored Adirondack Great Camp that is open all four seasons to enjoy. Here you will find peace and tranquility, a perfect combination for you and your Valentine. Enjoy a roaring fire while the snow falls outside, snuggle up to read a book, and share some hot cocoa under a warm blanket. It is important to spend time with the one you love, without the stress of your everyday lives. White Pine Camp is the ultimate destination for a pair of lovebirds.

If you are looking to get outside and enjoy the beautiful Adirondacks, we have that for you, too! White Pine Camp has a smorgasbord of natural adventures. This camp is surrounded by the St. Regis Wilderness.

A few short miles down the road, you will find the Paul Smith’s College and the Visitor Interpretation Center. The Visitor Interpretation Center, also known as the VIC, is the ultimate source for snowshoe, cross-country skiing, bird watching, and back-country hiking. With the fresh snow we have gotten this year, you'll be sure to have plenty of outdoor adventure options.

Whether you are looking to stay inside and enjoy tranquility with your lover, or if you are the more adventurous type of couple who loves to be outdoors, there are so many cool things to do this Valentine’s Day! 

Good Eats

While each cabin at White Pine Camp does come with a usable kitchen for meals, Saranac Lake is a short drive and offers a variety of restaurants! Some of my favorites include Blue Moon Café, Bitters and Bones, Casa del Sol, and Nonna Fina’s.

These restaurants offer quality dinners for you and your Valentine to enjoy! Blue Moon Café is a rustic, family-style restaurant while Bitters and Bones offers an updated menu with a locally sourced food.

Casa del Sol is a great Mexican restaurant that offers margaritas with amazing homemade chips. If you’re in town on Thursdays, make sure you come early for Trivia night, starting at 7pm!

If you are looking for romance this Valentine’s Day, try out Nonna Fina’s. Nonna Fina offers a lake view, roaring fireplace, a variety of wines, and great steaks or pasta! Share a bowl of spaghetti or Alfredo, and you may find yourself on the other end of your sweetie’s spaghetti noodle.

If  you're looking for that romantic getaway, we've got you covered all year in Saranac Lake! Spend some time with your sweetheart in the Adirondacks' coolest place!