And even though everyone loves a classic, we think you can aim higher than roses and chocolate this year.

Need some help coming up with ideas? With Cupid busy at work, the team at Gary Peer has stepped in to share our most romantic recommendations.

 

For the film buff couples

If you’re looking to elevate your date nights from Netflix and takeaway, this one’s for you. And where better to do it than Elsternwick – Australia’s answer to Hollywood?

Kick things off by bringing your Downton Abbey dreams to life with a tour of Rippon Lea Estate. Strolling through a romantic Victorian mansion set in 14 acres of garden, take your partner by the hand and lead them through 150 years of history.

Once you’ve mingled with the ghosts of the past, it’ll be time to channel a different Ghost – Patrick Swayze style. So head to Céramiques's Elsternwick Studio and get your hands dirty in a pottery class!

After all that, it’ll be time to sit back and relax with a glass of wine and the latest blockbuster. Fortunately, Elsternwick’s Classic Rooftop has both in spades.

Snuggling under the stars with your favourite person, you couldn’t script a more perfect ending – to a perfect date.

 

 

For the adventurous couples

Does your partner make your heart skip a beat? Pick that heart rate right back up with a death-defying date – in St Kilda.

Start the day by diving straight in – and out of a plane 15,000 feet in the air. With Skydive Australia, your relationship will reach new heights as you and your partner experience a view of St Kilda that most could only dream of.

After such an intense experience, it’s best to check in on your partner. So once you’re no longer airborne, ask them “Sup?” with some Stand Up Paddle Boarding. Considering the skydive land-zone is right on St Kilda beach, you’ll be in the perfect spot for a paddle.

As you come down from your adrenaline highs, head to Cicciolina for some traditional Italian food and wine. And keep the day’s adventurous streak going by ordering for each other – not yourselves!

 

 

For the hopeless-romantic couples

You know who you are. The childhood sweethearts, written-in-the-stars, love-at-first-sight type couples.

We love your love. And can think of no better place to celebrate it than the suburb of love – Melbourne’s Southbank!

Life imitates art. So why not head to the NGV to add a brush of paint, passion and playfulness into your relationship this Valentine’s Day? Packed with the works of established and emerging artists, this place is sure to inspire connection.

The next portion of the date will have you taking to the seas (or river) – on Ponyfish Island! One of Melbourne’s most unique dining experiences, you and your partner can enjoy a meal with a view at this floating bar and restaurant.

And for the night’s third act, check out what’s happening at the Arts Centre Melbourne – because sometimes you just can’t beat dinner and a show. It’s a date that’s sure to get an encore!

 

 

For the gallivanting couples

The only thing that could make road-tripping (windows down, music up) even better? Doing it with your partner.

So this Valentine’s Day, buckle your hiking boots, pack your bags and hit the highway.

Your destination? Marysville!

Whoever said “Don’t go chasing waterfalls” has clearly never seen Steavenson Falls. So go drink in the panoramic views at the top of one of Victoria’s highest waterfalls, and get your destination date started – with a splash.

Then, it’ll be into the woods (or rainforest) to check out Bruno’s Art and Sculpture Garden. The sculpture garden was carefully rebuilt after the 2009 bushfires – a demonstration that love can, indeed, overcome all.

And to toast a day well spent, head to Little River Wines. Surrounded by forested mountains and streams, sip sustainable sauvignon blanc – and enjoy the fruits of this organic winery’s labour.

 

 

For the ‘it’s complicated’ couples

We know this time of year can be awkward for all the ‘situationships’ out there. But who said Valentine’s Day was only for established couples? So grab your partner-who’s-not-your-partner and have some fun – in Oakleigh!

Break the ice – and some plates – at Smash Splash to kick things off. A fun, safe way to let loose and shatter any nerves, this smash room experience is a great way to do something different with your date.

After all that, we’re sure you’ll have worked up an appetite. So why not pop over to Mykonos for a quick bite to eat? Mykonos Restaurant Bar, that is.

Channelling its namesake’s passion, creativity and romantic spirit – but, conveniently, located right here in Oakleigh – Mykonos is as welcoming as it is yummy.

If the weight of a ‘Valentine’s Day date’ is getting to you, head over to escapeXperience to break free from expectations. And try your hand at breaking free from some of the city’s most immersive and exciting escape rooms, too!

 

 

For the Pal-entines

Just because you’re single right now, it doesn’t mean you’re alone! So this Valentine’s Day, get a bunch of your closest mates together to celebrate one of the most important loves of all – friendship! And where do friends go for fun? The South Yarra area, of course!

Get the good times rolling at Botanicah – Southside’s Biggest Plant Warehouse. Jump in a plant-care workshop to relax, de-stress and get hands-on while you tend to your friends – and garden!

Then, it’ll be time to let your hair down. And the best way to do that? With karaoke, games – and Japanese food (obviously)! So bring the fun to Boso – Melbourne’s premier party and events space!

After all that, we’re sure you and your friends will be feeling the love. So there’ll be only one place left to wind down the night – Leonard’s House of Love! This American-style, retro house-turned-ski chalet-turned-bar is sure to treat you and your friends right.

 

 

On the hunt for more southeast Melbourne hotspots this Valentine’s Day? Check out our Suburb Spy article for some of St Kilda’s finest.