By: Amy Johansson

Have you and your lover ever fantasized about stepping back into history and living your love out in the past? You might have thought about wooing each other in the dark corners of a medieval castle, running together through lush gardens in Victorian England, or even playing out the roles of wounded soldier and Army nurse in a turbulent World War II. But have you ever thought about putting history into your getaway vacation?

Virginia, USA, has long been labeled the state for lovers, simply because Virginia contains so many places where a romantic vacation can be had. Autumn is the best place to go to Virginia if you are after greenery and nature, as the trees are at their richest best during this time. If you are in the mood for swimming on the peaceful Virginia Beach, then run over to the state during the summer. Winter is quite harsh and cold in Virginia, and many of its major attractions have to close, so you might have a harder time looking for accommodations during this time. In any case, always consult with your travel agent about travel packages that are available for your needs and budget.

For some romantic recreation, take your lover to Virginia Beach. This famous seaside location contains miles of peaceful beachfront, as well as a boardwalk where you and your lover can take a stroll. The boardwalk is quite busy and crowded during the summer, however, so if you want to escape the crowds, you can head for the waters and have a bit of fun with water sports. Rent out a boat and go on a dolphin or whale watching cruise on the open waters. There’s nothing like a sun-blessed kiss as you and your lover commune with nature.

Ready to put some history into your vacation? Then head for the Old Cape Henry Lighthouse, located at Fort Story, Virginia. When you’re done, head for a fine dining restaurant on Virginia Beach, or have a whiff of the day’s catch at nearby Atlantic Avenue. No matter what restaurant you pick, you can have some candlelight, fine wine, and a good deal of great conversation that can last well into your romantic night.

Book a room at any one of the hotels available on the Virginia Beach beachfront, or on the boardwalk. These resorts make for a great romantic getaway, where you can watch the sunrise together, get cozy in your own personal Jacuzzi in your room, and simple sleep and dream your night away.

Couple your historical romantic getaway by taking a day trip to Shenandoah Valley. Located in the northern part of Virginia, Shenandoah Valley is a great place to go hiking hand in hand with your loved one, as you soak in nature, revel in the scenery, and breathe the fresh air of this natural wonder. In the autumn, the leaves change color in Shenandoah Valley, so be sure to catch the rich beauty of this national park with your lover, where you can go horseback riding, drive through this picturesque part of Virginia, or simply sit back and enjoy the view of the historic Blue Ridge Mountains.

Hoping to stay awhile where life is older than the trees, younger than the mountains, and growing like a breeze? Then take to the country road and spend some time in a bed and breakfast or inn in the Shenandoah Valley. There are many romantic inns in Shenandoah Valley, as well as in nearby Lexington. You can book a few nights at a secluded log cabin, where you can enjoy modern amenities such as your own hot tub or Jacuzzi, a real fireplace, and some satellite TV for late night enjoyment.

There are still dozens of ways for you to get romantic in Virginia. In the third weekend of August, join the Virginia Wine Festival, where you can sit in a real historical farm and enjoy music, good food, and all the fine wine you can drink. You can also drive through the historic covered bridges, where you can enjoy great picnics with your lover. Or go aboard a historic nineteenth century schooner and take a romantic cruise in Norfolk, where you can enjoy a romantic sunset, or have some fun dancing till the wee hours of dawn.

Whether you want a romantic carriage ride, a secluded log cabin, or a cottage in the mountains, you can have a bit of history and fun in your romantic getaway. So what are you waiting for? Book that room, reserve those few days at the bed and breakfast, or drive through Virginia’s lush roads for a great day with your loved one – and one that you will not easily forget.