Of all the saints celebrated throughout the year, one holds a special place in our hearts. Saint Valentine, the patron saint of lovers, lived in the 3rd century and was a bishop from the vicinity of Rome. It’s often mentioned that he had a special love for roses, which he would gift to betrothed couples to wish them happiness in their life together. Various legends are associated with this historical figure; you might hear that Valentine secretly married young soldiers to their beloveds (despite prohibitions) or that he miraculously cured the daughter of his jailer of blindness. In the signature of the letter he dedicated to her, his name was written, which is why “Valentine” became synonymous with a secret admirer in love messages.
It is assumed that this holiday became popular in our regions under the influence of Americanization. However, there has long been an old Međimurje tradition in which bird-shaped bread pastries are baked on this day because on this day, “ftičeki ženiju,” or “birds get married.” Regardless of which legend you believe, it is thanks to this mysterious saint that Love rightfully earned its day. It’s customary to exchange symbolic gifts on Valentine’s Day – flowers, perfumes, cards, and chocolates. But how about surprising your better half with a romantic weekend or dinner in the heart of Gorski Kotar? We’ve made an effort and come up with arrangements that will make you remember this Valentine’s Day for a long time. Here’s what we suggest:
For all those craving a weekend getaway, we offer a fantastic (pre-)Valentine’s package. It includes two nights for two people from Friday, February 10th, to Sunday, February 12th, and you’ll discover why mornings are our guests’ favorite part of the day. The scent of a delicious mountain breakfast made from local ingredients, which is also included in the package, fills the kitchen. Choose from one of our 25 rooms, each exuding a unique charm and character. Our Afrodita room, renowned far and wide, is designed for two, and if you’re still wondering what makes it so famous, take a look here. The package also includes the use of the hotel’s wellness area, and with a prior reservation, you can enhance this package with a relaxing massage. Let yourself be pampered by the expert hands of our masseuse and let go of your worries!
After recharging your batteries, it’s time to have some fun. On Saturday, February 11th, live music awaits all restaurant guests, and you can choose from one of three top-notch menus at a special price. It sounds like a recipe for a perfect weekend! If you want to celebrate Valentine’s Day on the very day, we offer the aforementioned lunch or dinner menu, with each course accompanied by carefully selected wines of your choice. No one will remain indifferent to the delicacies from our kitchen, as our skilled chefs infuse plenty of love into delicious Gorski Kotar specialties. We take the saying “the way to someone’s heart is through their stomach” quite literally, and to complete the experience, you can dance and sing along to live music in the afternoon. This is the ideal option if you want to enjoy a romantic time alone with your partner or have fun with your closest friends. Whatever you choose, you simply can’t go wrong.
There’s something uniquely romantic about the lush evergreen forests of Gorski Kotar, often draped in a snowy blanket during this winter season. And there’s something special about hearty homemade food, warm rooms, and the broad smiles of our staff. Fresh Gorski Kotar air and the warm embrace of your loved one are enough for happiness, and we’ll take care of everything else. We await your call at +385 (51) 830 005 or an email at info@bitoraj.hr. To all the loving couples, we wish you a happy Valentine’s Day, and to guests with names like Valent, Valentino, Valentina, or Tina (…), we wish you a happy name day! 🙂
