It’s one of those occasions that many people dread, and even if you’re in a couple, the idea of a forced romantic encounter can feel a bit too contrived. But that doesn’t mean we should ditch the day (and night) completely. If you’re keen on an alternative Valentine’s break, here are a few options to try…

Everyone has a wish list of destinations to tick off, but these days, travel isn’t simply about the choice of location. Real adventures are shaped by experiences – encountering local people, grappling with tricky terrain and witnessing once-in-a-lifetime events.

Ah, the sights and sounds of the ski season. The wind rushing through your hair; the panoramic views of imperious mountain vistas; the exhilaration of nailing a tricky black run. And, of course, the terrified screams of an unwilling newbie crashing headlong into a snowdrift.

For enthusiasts, skiing feels incomparably liberating and comes almost as second nature, but for sceptics it runs counter to every human instinct they possess.