Love is in the air, and it’s got a 530 area code! El Dorado Hills couples, this is your moment to turn Valentine’s Day from a generic greeting card holiday into a local love fest that’ll make your heart skip a beat.

A Brief History of Love (and Chaos)

Before we get into the good stuff, let’s take a quick detour into the history of Valentine’s Day. Did you know the holiday is named after not one but two Saint Valentines who were executed on February 14? Romantic, right? One legend even claims that one of these Valentines secretly officiated weddings for Roman soldiers. Talk about risking it all for love!

Fast forward a few centuries, and thanks to poets like Geoffrey Chaucer, February 14 became synonymous with romance. Add in some Victorian-era chocolates and Hallmark cards, and voilà—you’ve got Valentine’s Day as we know it.

Wine Not? Sip Your Way Through El Dorado Hills

El Dorado Hills’ wine scene has you covered if you want to impress your Valentine with something more sophisticated than a box of gas station chocolates.

• Annabelle’s Chocolates & Wine Flights: Pair your favorite chocolate with local wines for an experience that’s equal parts sweet and indulgent. It’s like a flavor love story in every bite and sip.
• Solid Ground Brewing: Not a wine fan? No problem. This spot offers lagers, sparkling wines, dry ciders, and a killer food menu. Their outdoor patio is perfect for a laid-back yet memorable date.
• Fenton Herriott: On February 14, enjoy the four-course Valentine’s Day dinner and wine tastings. The event has limited seating, so be sure to reserve early.

Brunch Is Always a Good Idea

Who says Valentine’s Day has to be all about candlelit dinners? Brunch lovers can rejoice because El Dorado Hills has some great spots to start your day off right. Whether it’s pancakes or mimosas (or both), brunch is the ultimate way to say “I love you” without saying anything at all.

For the Adventurous Duo

Not into the traditional dinner-and-a-movie routine? Shake things up with some outdoor fun. Take a scenic hike on one of El Dorado Hills’ beautiful trails, or plan a weekend glamping trip at Coloma Resort. Think cozy campfires under the stars—just don’t forget the marshmallows.

Gifts That Don’t Scream ‘Last-Minute’

Skip the generic flowers this year and opt for something unique. Here are some ideas guaranteed to earn you brownie points:

1. Image3D Custom Photo Viewfinder: Remember those retro viewfinders from your childhood? Now imagine gifting one filled with personalized photos of your favorite memories together. Nostalgia + romance = winning.
2. The Adventure Challenge: Couples Edition: This book has 50 mystery date ideas to keep your relationship fresh and fun. Scratch off an activity whenever you’re feeling spontaneous—it’s like Valentine’s Day all year long.
3. Love Is Art Canvas Kit: Feeling artsy? This kit lets you create an abstract painting together using paint and canvas (and maybe yourselves). The result? A keepsake that’s as unique as your love story.

Dinner With All the Feels

If fine dining is more your style, El Dorado Hills has plenty of options to set the mood:

• Fenton Herriott Vineyards: Treat your Valentine to a four-course dinner in their romantically lit wine cellar on February 14. Just make sure to book early—this one fills up fast.
• Narrow Gate Vineyards’ “Love Is in the Vines” Lunch: Prefer daytime celebrations? Enjoy a three-course lunch with expertly paired wines on February 14 or 15.

DIY Romance at Home

Sometimes, staying in can be just as special as going out—especially when you’ve got the right tools. Set up an at-home spa night with some luxurious bath bombs, or whip up a fondue feast with Cheryl’s Valentine Fondue Set (yes, it includes cookies). Light some candles, put on your favorite playlist, and let the magic happen.

Valentine’s Day in El Dorado Hills doesn’t have to be complicated or over-the-top—it just has to be thoughtful. Whether you’re sipping wine at a local vineyard or laughing over fondue at home, there are plenty of ways to show your love while supporting local businesses. So go ahead, make those reservations, or pick out that quirky gift—your Valentine deserves it!

Sources: bestproducts.com, delish.com, countryliving.com, visit-eldorado.com
Header Image Source: Becca Tapert on Unsplash