Hlliard's House of Candies is perfect for yummy Valentine's Day gifts

Article and photo by Eric H.

Please put away the thought of buying a drug store bought chocolate sampler for your significant other. A better idea would be to explore the treasure trove of romantic places to visit during Valentine's Day or any other day in New England.

Whether it's a romantic dinner at an out-of-the-way country restaurant, or an overnight at a quaint New England lodging establishment, you're sure to find romance with a New England flair in the six state region.

Some ideas, in search of romantic New England destinations:

Hilliards House of Candies in Easton, MA, has a lot of heart when it comes to Valentine's Day gifts.

The landmark candy shop, located in a large, charming Victorian home, in quaint North Easton, MA, offers an incredibly attractive and varied display of Valentine's Day gifts. Chocolate teddy bears, milk chocolate made to look like a dozen roses, and gift baskets are just a few of the items that will melt your significant other's heart. Some places just seem to throw out a "vanilla" display as an afterthought; Hilliards, on the other hand, has created what is almost like a museum-like layout of artists displaying their lovingly-crafted Valentine's goodies.

Standing the chocolate test of time since 1924, Hilliards is not just about Valentine's Day. If you believe in a daily dose of chocolate, there's no better place to be than Hilliard's as the made-on-the premises chocolates (and a whole boatload of other candies) will have you feeling good all over. Here's a sample of what Hilliards offers: chocolate chewies, crisp and crunchies, caramel, fresh roasted nuts, pecan patties, fruit slices, penny candy, truffles, fudge, bark, and toffee and brittles, Hiliards also features a seasonal ice cream parlor. The ice cream is made on the premises with flavors like chocolate brownie madness, vanilla chunky chip and cherry cordial with chunks of hand dipped chocolate cherry cordials!

We heartily recommend visiting Hilliard's, but if you don't live in the region you can visit the Hilliards Web Site to place an order or 10.

Hilliards is one sweet place. You'll sure to fall in love with this candy and ice cream destination at first sight -- and taste!

Hilliards House of Candies
316 Main St. (Rte. 138)
North Easton, MA
508-238-6231 ~ 1-800-286-853 

Romantic dining by the sea

Mill Wharf Restaurant, Scituate, MA -- The Mill Wharf Pub and Restaurant offers one of the best harbor views we've experienced at a New England restaurant and seafood that is about as good as its gets in New England The lobster stew is undeniably top-notch, a savory mix of abundant lobster chunks and a splendid cream base. The broiled scallops are perfectly prepared and a recent special, the shrimp risotto with an Asian sauce, validated the chef's ambitious and intuitive nature -- a dish that wanted you coming back for more. Of course, there's lobster, cod, and haddock -- all expertly prepared. The atmosphere at night, with its large dimly lit dining room with great hardwood floors and the lovely Scituate Harbor sunsets, make for one of the most memorable dining experiences in the northeast.

Mill Wharf Restaurant, 150 Front St., Scituate, MA. Tel. (781) 545-3999.

You would have to have marbles in your head not to like this place

Marblehead, MA-- may be located only 20 miles north of Boston but it feels like another universe. With one of the prettiest harbors in New England and streets made for walking, Marblehead transcends your assembly-line quaint town that typically offers phony stores, high prices and lots of attitude. Not that Marblehead doesn't have elements of that with its antique and curio shops, but there's a true working class, sea-captain's feel in a relaxing setting. Because Marblehead is located on a peninsula, it feels like your own discovery. Although we haven't been to the Harborlight Inn, that establishment is generally regarded as one of the more romantic places to stay in New England -- the perfect foundation for this special oceanside town.

Marblehead Chamber of Commerce

62 Pleasant Street

Marblehead, MA 01945

Phone: 781-631-2868

E-mail: info@marbleheadchamber.org

Go to the mountains for New England romance romance

Smuggler's Notch Resort , in Jeffersonville, Vt., has more activities in its all-inclusive community than a summer camp for hyperactive people, but many people just come here to do nothing but to marvel at the majestic mountains and breathe in the fresh Vermont air -- and of course, the great skiing choices right at your doorstep. Built for romantics just as much as for families, the Smuggler's Notch Resort offers great condo-like accomodations and spectacular views within its comfy notch setting. It is no doubt a wonderful place to spend a romantic weekend-- Vermont is inherently romantic -- like one big valentine -- and Smuggler's Notch Resort represents that feeling about as well as any place in Vermont.

Smugglers Notch Resort

4323 VT 108

Jeffersonville, VT

Phone: (802)644-8851

Reservations: 1-800-451-8752

If you don't have acrophobia, the Top of the Hub is the perfect romantic place for dinner

The Top of the Hub is located on the 52nd floor of Boston's Prudential Building. This classy, finely appointed restaurant offers such fine panoramic views that you sometimes forget that you might be looking at Chelsea of Everett. Seriously, the infinite views on a clear night are memorable at this New American establishment that offers excellent food and fine adult beverages. You'll feel like you're on top of the world, literally and figuratively at this special place for your sweetheart.

Top of the Hub

800 Boylston Street

Prudential Tower-52nd Floor

Boston, MA 02199

Tel. (617) 536-1775

Summer at Cape Cod is for tourists. Winter is for lovers.  

Cape Cod is a great place, but sometimes the summers can be truly annoying with the awful traffic leading to the Sagamore and Bourne Bridges, the case-of-beer slovenly weekend warriors or the tense, ruin-it-for-everyone Joe Pocket-Protecter types, the overcrowded beaches and too many precious candle shops with equally precious people. The winter is a different story, as the crowds disappear making Cape Cod seem like you have Cape Cod all to yourself. The winters don't get too cold, so walking the desolate beaches, having dinner in less crowded and more relaxed restaurants, and walking through the salt-air tinged villages without Joe Sixpack and his loud car stereo ruining the mood result in what one would expect from Cape Cod. A great place to start is along the "real Cape Cod" along charming Route 6A. Towns like Yarmouthport, Sandwich and Barnstable offer a true Cape Cod state of mind, with a top pick being the Daniel Webster Inn, of Sandwich, for your lodging and dining pleasure.

Browse the following communities (which include the communities mentioned above) for your romantic Cape Cod lodging destination:

Chatham, Cape Cod, MA

Falmouth, Cape Cod, MA

Hyannis, Cape Cod, MA

Martha's Vineyard, Cape Cod, MA

Nantucket, Cape Cod, MA

For more information, visit the Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce Web Site

Mmmm...The land of chocolate!

We'd like to live in Hebert's Candy Mansion, in Shrewsbury, MA -- there's no better place for incredible chocolates, confections, roasted nuts, delicious fudge and taffy. Since living in the charming mansion isn't a viable option, visiting this landmark to buy the amazing cholocates (always use plural here) would bode well with your significant other, and certainly not just for Valentine's Day. Chocolate is a year-round treat!

Hebert's Candy Mansion

575 Hartford Turnpike (Rt. 20)

Shrewsbury, MA 01545

Tel. (508) 845-8051

From our friends at Rhode Island Tourism, courtesy of Duffy and Shanley in Providence, R.I. -- some great romantic, Valentine's Day ideas:

Whether you’re looking for a great weekend excursion to enjoy the temperate weather, or just a tasty bottle of wine to enjoy by a roaring fire, the five vineyards and wineries in Rhode Island are sure to satisfy wine enthusiasts.
One of Rhode Island's most surprising roles is the one it plays in the quality wine industry emerging from the eastern seaboard. The state’s climate, moderated by its close proximity to the ocean, provides the area with an ideal growing season for several varieties of wine-making grapes.
Cumberland-based Diamond Hill Vineyards, known for its delicious Pinot
Noir grapes, has also been commended for its Pinot Noir Blanc wine.
Located in Portsmouth, Greenvale Vineyards, a nineteenth-century Victorian
farm, produces approximately 4,000 cases of wine annually including a Chardonnay and Cabernet Franc. Nearby Newport Vineyards’ comprehensive wine list includes Cabernet Sauvignon, Riesling and dessert wines.
The award-winning Sakonnet Vineyards, located in little-known Little
Compton, is famous for its Vidal Blanc wine and its spectacular views of the
Sakonnet River.

Rhode Island’s newest winery, Langworthy Farm Winery in Westerly, is
located one-half mile from the Atlantic Ocean and, among others, produces
Weekapaug White, Misquamicut Merlot and Dry Riesling.
Besides wine tastings and tours, most vineyards and wineries accommodate special events including picnics, reunions, weddings and parties as well as incentive and corporate functions.

Specialty Gourmet Cooking, Straight from Italy
Since leaving Abruzzo, Italy, in 1972, Chef Walter Potenza has transformed his zest for producing delicious, authentic Italian cuisine into five successful restaurants and cafés, a cookbook, two local TV shows and, more recently, an organic food market and café.  And, of course, there is Chef Walter’s cooking school located on Providence’s Federal Hill.  Upcoming classes will concentrate on fish stews and soups, rigatone alla bolognose, stuffed chicken breast, risotto with wild mushrooms, pasta ripiena (ravioli), olive oil, Italian tapas and other topics.  All classes are open to groups, individuals or private parties and are followed by dinner. 
More info: http://www.chefwalter.com/WP-Cooking-School.htm <http://www.chefwalter.com/WP-Cooking-School.htm> 

A Tour of Famous Federal Hill
Providence’s Federal Hill boasts more than 50 of the finest Italian restaurants, fresh produce markets, bakeries and wine shops within a 1-mile span.  Foodies near and far often explore this famous Italian neighborhood blindly.  But now they can take the behind-the-scenes tour with resident Chef Cindy Salvato.  Nearly every Saturday, Chef Cindy serves as a personal guide throughout the 3-hour excursion, introducing guests to her fellow chefs, bakers, butchers and even ravioli makers who personally demonstrate how they prepare some of the best Italian dishes in the country.  She describes each vendor, and provides tips about Italian cooking and how various ingredients are used appropriately.  And, of course, guests can sample foods, wine and desserts along the way.  Chef Cindy also provides lessons in her cooking studio.
More info: http://www.rimarkettours.com/tourdetails.htm <http://www.rimarkettours.com/tourdetails.htm> 

Hop on the art trolley for a unique perspective
Providence’s Arts and Entertainment District has bloomed, thanks largely to tax incentives offered to artists who chose to live and/or work in the area. The district, which includes several art galleries and performance spaces, is anchored by AS220, an alternative arts performance, studio and living space with regular performances, readings and gallery exhibits.

Perhaps one of the most popular regular arts events in providence is Gallery Night. Twenty-four local galleries and museums in Providence have banded together to create the monthly event. On the third Thursday of each month (except December), a free bus loops throughout the city and stops at participating galleries, art shops and museums for visitors to experience Providence’s emerging arts scene.

Newport is a premiere area for combining the amenities of an historic area, a spectacular vacation venue, fine dining in world-class restaurants and best of all art exhibits in galleries and studios that bring the finest work to you. Newport hosts evening receptions the second Thursday of the month, from February to December, at member galleries where art, refreshments and occasionally entertainment are offered.

A great diversity of galleries brings the viewer everything from classic works to cutting edge contemporary pieces by artists and artisans. Some locations are working studios where you may meet the artist and see work done. Fine dining at a discount is offered by many area restaurants with coupons found in the galleries on Newport Gallery Nights.

Gallery Night Providence: http://www.gallerynight.info/ <http://www.gallerynight.info/>
Newport Gallery Night: http://www.newportgalleries.org/ <http://www.newportgalleries.org/>
Westerly Arts Night: http://www.westerlyarts.org <http://www.westerlyarts.org> 


Home to spectacular coastal scenery, awe-inspiring architecture, a thriving waterfront downtown, and welcoming hospitality, Newport, Rhode Island is considered by many to be a shining gem in the coastal crown of New England. From weekend getaways spent touring the famed Gilded Age mansions that once were the summer playground for socialite families with names like Astor and Vanderbilt to an afternoon of wine tasting through Newport's three scenic vineyards, the options for interesting activities, distinctive stories, and enticing photo opportunities are countless!

Rhode Island’s spa resorts offer the ultimate in a relaxing vacation experience. Whether you choose a seaside escape in Newport, a city escape in Providence or a secluded getaway to Little Compton or Watch Hill, the lavish treatment is sure to be sensational.

NEWPORT

Romance by the Sea
Snuggle up in front of a roaring fire in your elegantly restored bed and breakfast, or wake to the sound of seagulls after spending the night in a romantic inn at the City-by-the-Sea known as Newport. Pack a perfect picnic and set out for the beautiful views provided by endless beaches or oceanfront cliffs, or hop aboard a historic sailboat and enjoy a sunset cruise for two. And if the mood should strike, you can even stick around and have your wedding here. Newport is home to the historic St. Mary’s church, which hosted the wedding of President John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Bouvier. Of course, if you want to ditch your oversized wedding and elope, but don’t want to sacrifice a classy ceremony, the Chanler at CliffWalk offers couples a “comprehensive, no-pain” elopement package, with only twenty-four hours notice needed. www.thechanler.com

HYATT REGENCY NEWPORT 
Indulge in our private island! The Hyatt Regency Newport Hotel and Spa offers a resort setting on picturesque Goat Island. Spacious, beautifully appointed quest rooms with water views, Windward Restaurant, Pineapple's On the Bay (seasonal), FIVE33 Lobby Bar and the award-winning Stillwater Spa add to this great experience. Enjoy, complimentary all-electric Hyatt Water Shuttle and complimentary shuttle van to downtown Newport.
1 Goat Island
Newport, Rhode Island
401-851-1234
bclarke@hyattnewport.com |  http://www.newport.hyatt.com

NEWPORT MARRIOTT HOTEL
The harbor side hotel and spa features 317 guest rooms and offers a full service spa right onsite for your convenience. The resort’s first-class accommodations feature rooms overlooking the harbor, city and the magnificent seven-story atrium lobby. Special appointments include high speed wireless internet access, 32" HDTVs and MP3 player docks. The hotel features an indoor pool, health club, racquetball courts, a gift shop and the full service restaurant, Fathoms.
25 America's Cup Avenue
Newport, Rhode Island
401-849-1000
ken.lavigne@marriott.com |  http://www.newportmarriott.com

THE HOTEL VIKING

This Historic hotel offers 209 well appointed rooms, the One Belleview restaurant which features elegant dining and a seasonal outdoor experience.  The Spa Terre features Thai and Indonesian therapies and treatments in a relaxing atmosphere. Other hotel amenities include an indoor heated swimming pool and Jacuzzi.
1 Bellevue Avenue
Newport, Rhode Island
401-847-3300
reservations@hotelviking.com <mailto:reservations@hotelviking.com>  |  http://www.hotelviking.com <http://www.hotelviking.com>


PROVIDENCE

PROVIDENCE BILTMORE HOTEL
A 1922 historic hotel in the heart of downtown Providence featuring Red Door Spa by Elizabeth Arden and Salon, McCormick and Schmick's seafood restaurant for your convenience. The hotel offers a Business center and New England's largest Starbuck's. 291 deluxe guest rooms and suites.
11 Dorrance St.
Providence, Rhode Island
401-421-0700
info@providencebiltmore.com |  http://www.providencebiltmore.com

LITTLE COMPTON

STONE HOUSE
Originally constructed in 1854 this seaside estate has been historically restored with modern amenities. Local fieldstone, granite and beach sand timelessly intersect with glass tile, reclaimed wood and Venetian plaster, the beds are graced with the 1854 collection of custom made quilts designed and crafted by textile artist Denyse Schmidt. Engage nature to cultivate the connection between mind, body and spirit to achieve balance and holistic health. In developing their services, activities and products they called upon the special knowledge of a combination of Eastern, Western and American beauty and healing philosophies, as well as modern scientific research.
122 Sakonnet Point Road
Little Compton, Rhode Island
401-635-2222
infor@stonehouse1854.com |  http://www.stonehouse1854.com