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This Valentine’s Day, OppiDam offers romance without the high price tag

February is the month of love and Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to spoil your special someone.

February is known as the month of love, with Valentine’s Day celebrated every year on February 14. While some take it very seriously and others see it as just another commercial date on the calendar, for most couples it remains a fun excuse to pause, reconnect and do something a little special for the person they love.

The origins of Valentine’s Day go back centuries and are rooted in legend rather than fact.

One of the most popular stories links the day to Saint Valentine, a Roman priest who, according to tradition, secretly performed marriages for young couples at a time when marriage was banned by Emperor Claudius II. Over time, the day became associated with romance, devotion and gestures of love.

Today, Valentine’s Day is less about history and more about intention. It doesn’t have to be extravagant or expensive. In many households, love is celebrated every day, Valentine’s Day simply adds a bit of sparkle and an excuse for flowers, chocolates or a shared experience.

What are couples planning this Valentine’s Day?

For some, it’s all about little surprises, a handwritten note, a favourite meal prepared at home, or a small but meaningful gift. Others are planning a night out, a quiet brunch, dinner, or even a weekend away to escape daily routines.

With the rising cost of living, however, careful planning has become part of the romance. Couples are increasingly looking for ways to celebrate without breaking the bank, choosing experiences over expensive gifts and opting for nearby destinations rather than long-distance travel.

For Barberton residents, one such romantic escape close to home is the option offered at Vygeboom Dam, just a fairly short drive away. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, scenic dam views and peaceful surroundings, OppiDam offers the feeling of a getaway without the cost and stress of long-distance travel.

This Valentine’s Day, Ararat Restaurant at OppiDam is offering a special menu, for only R300 per couple, designed for couples who want to enjoy good food, a relaxed setting and a touch of romance. Couples who book and pay before February 10 will receive a complimentary bottle of red or white house wine.

For reservations, WhatsApp Ararat.

Why not make a weekend of it? Instead of a single evening out, couples may want to consider turning Valentine’s Day into a relaxed weekend away. OppiDam’s accommodation options make it easy to stay over, enjoy the dam, unwind in nature and return home refreshed.

Whether it’s a surprise dinner, a planned weekend escape, or simply quality time together, Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes, love is best celebrated with good food, good company and a setting that allows you to slow down and appreciate one another.