As Valentine's Day approaches, panicked men everywhere are sifting through boxes of chocolates, red roses and perfumes. But if you are tired of the old standbys, surprise your loved one with a weekend away from it all in one of China's three most romantic spots.

Stunning Lugu Lake

The awe inspiring natural beauty of Yunnan backlights your enchanting escape to Lugu Lake, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas. Northwest of Lijiang, you'll find the "pearl in the highland" and its sparkling turquoise blue waters. The Lugu Lake area is a perfect place to forget the rush of city life, slow down and focus on one of life's more spiritual pursuits: The search for true love.

Start your trip off right at the elegant Banyan Tree Lijiang. Currently the hotel is offering a "Spa Indulgence" promotion, which includes a stay in a villa, daily breakfast for two and choice of one 90 minute massage per person. After you and your sweetie get your fill of pampering, head to Lugu Lake for a day of stunning scenery and a lesson in alternative love.

The local Mosuo ethnic group has managed to preserve their long practiced tradition of matriarchal society and "walking marriages." Under the prescriptions of this practice, a man enters the home of his lover only between the fall of night and the dawn of morning, when he returns home to his mother's household. Lovers may dissolve their relationship whenever they feel the flame has burned out, and continue in search of an ideal partner.

Just as there is paradise in heaven [there's] ... Hangzhou on Earth.

Find inspiration for your quest in the picturesque scenery by taking a three hour hike up the mountain to a mysterious cave dedicated to worshiping the god of the mountain. Stop here to take in the spectacular view and indulge in a romantic mountain top picnic. And if the mood strikes you, Banyan also offers wedding packages.

Poetic Hangzhou

"Just as there is paradise in heaven, there are Suzhou and Hangzhou on Earth." Hangzhou is the famed destination where many touching Chinese romances took place including the "Legend of White Snake," a tale of a snake spirit who was transformed into a beautiful women who falls in love with a man at West Lake. Their love affair was plagued by a monk who wanted to banish the snake spirit incarnation and finally succeeded in locking her in the Leifeng Pagoda. In the end though, the power of love triumphs. For those who want a tender weekend to remember, China's most poetic city is your best bet.

Book your stay at one of the many five star hotels around the West Lake (we like the Sofitel Westlake Hangzhou) and take in the picturesque scenery from the comfort of your room.

We recommend taking a three day weekend to tour around the West Lake, visiting all 10 noteworthy scenic areas. Locals believe that the West Lake looks more breathtaking on rainy days (so don't let the weather deter you from a romantic weekend escape), but the lake is at its best after nightfall. In the evening, the teahouses, bars and cafes along the lake offer a cozy atmosphere perfect for falling in love all over again.

Three Gorges View

For those looking for a more private getaway, a cruise along the Three Gorges is the way to go. With the completion of the second phase of the Three Gorges Dam, sailing the Yangtze River has become better than ever. Deeper waters allow for further exploration of the Yangtze's tributaries, and puts travelers closer to the sacred mountaintops.

Book your trip with Victoria Cruises, which boasts the most luxurious fleets to sail the Yangtze. Let yourself be carried away by the chandeliers, sweeping staircases and rich carpets, creating a romantic ambience perfect for Valentine's Day. The cruise ship usually sets sail the next morning, so take your time on the first evening to enjoy the onboard amenities. Whisper sweet nothings into your squeeze's ear over a candlelight dinner, take time for a couple pampering session in the spa or watch a romantic movie on the balcony. Get up early the next morning, head to the gigantic observation deck and snuggle up with your honey to watch the sunrise over the Three Gorges.

Travel Tips

Lugu Lake Banyan Tree Lijiang at Shuhe Yuerong Road, Gucheng District, Lijiang. Tel: (0888) 533-1111. The price for a villa stay is US$500 per night.

Hangzhou Sofitel Westlake Hangzhou at 333 West Lake Avenue. A deluxe room, including breakfast for two, is priced at ¥1,519. Tel: (0571) 8707-5858. West Lake Jade Garden Restaurant at Xihu Tiandi. Tel: (0571) 8702-6618. Cha Mate at Xihu Tiandi Tel: (0571) 8791-6422

Three Gorges Victoria Cruises is offering a five-day cruise trip leaving from Yichang to Chongqing in February. It is priced at US$300. Tel: (0717) 6908-280, 6908-270 www.threegorgestours.com