There’s nothing quite like a romantic getaway to rekindle the flame in a relationship, and North Lake Tahoe’s shores provide the perfect setting to do just that! Whether you’re visiting for Valentine’s Day or looking an idyllic spot to reconnect, the breathtaking landscapes, unparalleled outdoor recreation, charming mountain towns and unique activities make North Lake Tahoe a dreamy destination for a romantic retreat. We know planning the perfect getaway can be hard so we’ve created a fool-proof, three-day itinerary packed with romantic activities to make the most of your time in this stunning paradise no matter where you’re staying in North Lake Tahoe! For the most romantic vacation rentals, check out our charming one bedroom and two bedroom properties in the best locations in the region!
Day One: Explore Downtown Truckee
Morning:
Begin your romantic journey with a light breakfast and incredible cup of coffee at Coffeebar in Truckee! With everything from pastries to full brunch fare, you’ll find a perfect way to start your holiday in North Lake Tahoe!
Late Morning:
After a hearty lunch, there’s nothing better than taking a walk, hand in hand with your special person–and historic Downtown Truckee is the perfect place to do just that! Here, you can wander the downtown core and marvel at the impeccably preserved buildings that look like they’re straight out of the Old West. Here you can browse unique shops, bookstores and galleries and if you are a history buff, even visit the Old Jail Museum!
Afternoon:
If you’re hungry after a walk around Downtown Truckee, grab a table at Jax at the Tracks! This lively, classic diner is a local favorite and offers incredible menus with lots of classic, American diner fare. When you’re ready to explore some more, head over to Bike Truckee, rent a bike and explore the Legacy Trail that follows the shores of the Truckee River. This trail is fairly flat, wide and paved, making it a great (and easy!) way to explore the shores of the Truckee River!
Evening:
For the perfect conclusion to your first day in North Lake Tahoe, book a table at the upscale Trokay for a romantic dinner where the incredible service, creative dishes and perfectly curated wine list is sure to impress even the most exclusive tastes.
Day Two: Outdoor Adventures!
Morning:
Fuel up before to take on the great outdoors and pop into Pep’s Place for a hearty on-the-go breakfast! With lots of handheld options like flaky croissant and dense bagel sandwiches as well as granola and delicious coffee, you’ll have all the energy you need to take on the Sierra Nevadas!
Late Morning to Afternoon:
Whether you’re taking on epic downhill slopes or peaceful trails, head to Palisades Tahoe for the afternoon. With over 6,000 skiable acres, and some of the most beautiful forested hiking trails in the summer, you can spend hours out in nature at Palisades!
Lunch:
When you’re ready for some lunch, head over to 22 Bistro in Palisades Village for healthy, satisfying food with a great view! If you’re ready to get off the hill altogether, grab lunch at Rosie’s Cafe in Tahoe City! With a menu filled with American comfort food and a cool, eclectic atmosphere, Rosie’s is a great place to go after a day on the mountain!
Afternoon to Evening:
After a day conquering the mountains, there’s nothing better than to just spend and evening in your romantic vacation rental–especially if you have a hot tub! Grab some food from a local shop and whip up a simple dinner for the two of you to enjoy after a relaxing soak or to nibble on while you curl up beside the fire.
Day Three: Treat Yourself!
Morning:
What better way to spend the last day of your romantic getaway at the fantastic Squeeze In in Truckee? This quintessential brunch spot is a great place to find an incredibly hearty breakfast with plenty of options no matter what you’re craving!
Late Morning to Afternoon:
It’s time to shop until you drop! Head into downtown Truckee to fill up on awesome gifts and mountain gear, hit Boatworks Shopping Mall in Tahoe City or browse vintage shops! Have a look at our full list of places to shop in North Lake Tahoe for more ideas!
Afternoon:
After a light lunch, you’ll want to end your day out at an incredible spa. You can find lots of options for treatments at our favorite spas in North Lake Tahoe! Whether you’re booking a couples massage, a full body healing session, yoga or a rejuvenating facial, you can all this and more in the region–just be sure to book ahead!
Evening:
For your final dinner in North Lake Tahoe, you’ll want to grab a table at Pianeta Ristorante in Truckee. This high-end Italian and Mediterranean restaurant offers handmade pasta and sets the stage for a delicious and intimate dinner.
Bonus Activities:
Didn’t find exactly what you were looking for on the itinerary? Here are a couple of our favourite activities that didn’t make the itinerary:
Sunset Cruise: If the weather permits, you can take a sail or a sunset cruise around the lake, explore the crystal waters and enjoy the changing hues of the sky over the lake.
Scenic Lookout Hike/Snowshoe: There are lots of trails where you can enjoy stunning vistas of the region! Our favorite is Martis Peak Fire Lookout that offers unparalleled views of Truckee, Lake Tahoe, and the Western Sierra Peaks.
