February 10th
The most romantic day of the year is almost here.
It’s the perfect excuse to plan a weekend full of activities with your special someone — and, between us, Leiria is the perfect setting to celebrate love!
There’s something for everyone here. Discover our suggestions.
The date calls for romance, and the day of the week makes it the perfect opportunity for a lovely weekend away together.
Casa da Nora is a great place to stay, just a few minutes from the centre of Leiria, in the beautiful village of Cortes.
This cosy retreat occupies the site of a former working mill. The water wheel that gives it its name still stands by the River Lis, adding to the charm of the landscape alongside lush gardens and tennis courts.
When it’s time to enjoy some of the region’s flavours, the hotel’s highly regarded restaurant serves meat, fish and vegetarian dishes.
To complete your getaway, we challenge you to visit the source of the River Lis, just nearby in Fontes — a place blessed by nature, surrounded by greenery and accompanied by the sound of fresh, flowing water.
And because spending time together beneath a starry sky is one of the most romantic things you can do, head to the Chapel of Senhora do Monte. Here, you’ll find swings, nature all around, a valley stretching towards the sea and an endless sky!
Address: Largo José Marques da Cruz, no. 8, CortesBookings: +351 244 891 189Find out more: Facebook
Life’s best moments deserve to be captured, and Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity for a photo shoot with your soulmate.
With sweeping views over the city’s rooftops, the fairytale-like arches of the former Royal Palace, and stairways and passages that feel almost secret, Leiria Castle is the perfect setting for romantic photos that celebrate your love.
Start by taking one of the lifts up to the castle. The ride is free, and you’ll be there in just 90 seconds, ready to start capturing special moments.
Then lose yourselves among the castle walls and discover its many hidden corners. All you need is a little imagination, your special someone and the help of a professional photographer to get the perfect shots.
Is there anything more romantic than watching the sunset on the beach?
We don’t think so.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly date, watch the sunset with your special someone at Pedrógão Beach, wrapped up together in a warm blanket while listening to the sound of the waves.
If the sea air works up your appetite, head to Esplanada AMA for dinner. Located right on the beach, this carefully decorated rustic restaurant is known for its fresh fish.
Perfect for the occasion, the terrace features a wooden heart overlooking the sea — an Instagram-worthy spot where a photo is a must.
As this is one of the busiest days of the year, make sure you book early.
Address: Rua Coronel Sampaio Rio, no. 52, Praia do PedrógãoBookings: +351 244 011 143Find out more: Instagram
If you and your soulmate prefer something more relaxing, a couples massage and spa circuit at Monte Real – Hotel, Termas & Spa is the perfect way to spend Valentine’s Day.
The spa menu offers a wide variety of massages and body treatments.
Designed especially for two, the “A Dois” ritual begins with a body scrub, followed by a hydromassage bath with essential oils. The experience ends with a Hawaiian Lomi-Lomi massage using long, flowing movements.
The spa circuit lasts up to two hours and includes access to:
After these relaxing moments, the charming village of Monte Real is waiting to be explored.
Address: Rua de Leiria, 2425-039 Monte RealBookings: +351 244 618 900 or spa@termasdemontereal.ptFind out more: Website
If you and your special someone love nature, Mata da Amazónia will feel like paradise.
Located in the parish of Maceira, it owes its name to the small wooded areas growing along a stream, reminiscent of South America’s magnificent tropical rainforest.
Several trails cross the woodland, with routes of varying lengths. Near the Parish Church of Maceira, you’ll discover one of the trail’s best surprises: a 16-metre waterfall flowing into a small lagoon.
Nearby, picnic tables invite you to stop, recharge and enjoy a meal with your soulmate, with the sound of flowing water in the background.
Location: Rua de Leiria, Maceira
Do you and your special someone enjoy a little exercise?
Then climbing up to the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Encarnação might be a challenge worthy of your relationship.
The 162 steps lead to a small sanctuary surrounded by trees and offer panoramic views over the city. Once you reach the top, you can rest on the steps and catch your breath with a passionate kiss.
It’s the perfect setting for hours of conversation, followed by a romantic dinner at one of the city’s restaurants — just make sure you book ahead. After all, Leiria is full of couples in love!
With all these suggestions, you have no excuse to spend this romantic day on the sofa!
