Resort at a Glance: Castle Wood Cottages

Not only does Castle Wood Cottages provide bundles of wood for you to kindle your in-room fireplace (firewood available at an additional charge), it also provides the setting for couples to rekindle their romance. Set just outside the peaceful village of Big Bear Lake, Castle Wood Cottages specializes in whimsical, themed rooms with jetted tubs and storybook decor. You can even call ahead and arrange for rose petals to be sprinkled on the bed or chocolate-covered strawberries or a gift basket to be waiting in your room (available on request for an additional fee).

• Different rooms, different eras: You could step into a stone age era inside the Crystal Cave or don King and Queen costumes during a night in King Arthur cottage.
• For maximum relaxation, you can arrange an in-room massage.
• Soak your stress away in your in-room two-person jetted tub.

Big Bear Lake, California: Outdoorsy Resort Community in the Foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains

Big Bear Lake is situated nearly 7,000 feet above sea level and surrounded by the San Bernardino National Forest and the snowy peaks of the San Bernardino Mountains. Los Angeles is less than 100 miles to the west, which is probably why Big Bear Valley has served as a backdrop for so many films and TV shows, including The Parent Trap, Doctor Dolittle, and Bonanza.

The lake is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and swimming during the warm months. You’ll find miles of hiking and mountain-biking trails in the surrounding forest. The 2-mile Castle Rock Trail weaves through groves of pine and cedar trees and past a waterfall before rewarding trekkers with a panoramic view of the water. But Big Bear isn’t entirely rustic—head to the village, located on the south shore, for restaurants and shopping.