Whale watching capital Hervey Bay named in top 10 romantic cities
Hervey Bay’s just been named in the top 10 most romantic cities in the nation and it’s no surprise to a loved local restaurateur who's ready for the romance - and rush of Valentine’s Day dining.
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With its sunset cruises, picturesque locations and incredible whale watching experiences, Hervey Bay has been named in Australia’s top 10 most romantic cities ahead of Valentine’s Day.
A study conducted by e-learning platform Preply compared 50 of Australia’s largest cities using seven different metrics – number of romantic hotels, romantic restaurants, activities for couples, search volumes for romantic-related queries associated to engagements, Valentine’s Day plans, flowers, dating interests.
Each city was given a Romantic City Break Score out of 5.
Orange in New South Wales came in at number one on the list, scoring 4.47 on the romance scale, with the national average at 2.58.
Albany scored 3.79, making it the second most romantic city in Australia, followed by Port Macquarie, scoring 3.71, in third spot.
Hervey Bay came in at number 10 on the list, with a romantic city score of 3.14 out of 5.
Hervey Bay ranked fifth for the most romantic activities.
Liberty Saint-Jon, owner of one of Hervey Bay’s most romantic restaurants, Aegean Waters French Restaurant, said they had long been booked out for the big day.
“I could have taken another 50 tables,” she said.
“We were booked out so early. My phone has been ringing earlier and longer than any other year.”
Mrs Saint-Jon said it was always great to see couples enjoy their special day.
“Everyone’s just looking at each other and holding hands,” she said.
There had even been a proposal at the restaurant on a previous Valentine’s Day, she said.
A poem written by the man who popped the question now hung in the bathroom of the popular restaurant.
Mrs Saint-Jon said she would love to see another proposal at the venue.
Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour said the region was seeing more destination weddings and it was a popular choice for couples to get away together.
He said that offered huge tourism opportunities going forward, especially with K’gari and activities out on the water.
“It’s always pleasing to see Hervey Bay on these kinds of lists,” he said.
Sylvia Johnson, head of methodology at Preply, said the research had revealed the most romantic cities in the nation.
“Our latest analysis unveils the most enchanting cities across Australia, where love flourishes amid scenic landscapes and vibrant cultures,” she said.
“From the charming cobblestone streets of historic towns to the breathtaking coastal vistas, our findings illuminate the allure of these romantic destinations, capturing the essence of love in every corner of the continent.”
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