Atlanta sweetheart deals

Treat your true love to a sumptuous evening at one of the city's finest hotels.

Valentine's Day is a time for indulgence, and we've found three Atlanta hotels that are passionate about providing it. So get in the mood, and surrender to the temptations of sweet surprises that thump heartstrings. Be prepared, however. Although we found a few ways to celebrate without breaking the bank, the price of pampering comes dearly for most of these ultra-- special nights.

Putting on the Ritz

The Ritz-Carlton Buckhead's contemporary facade belies the old-world charm within. Guestrooms and suites comfort visitors with luxurious linens and spa-quality bath products.

This month's Enchanted Evening package begins with Champagne and chocolates, Your turndown service sets a romantic tone by lighting candles in the room and scattering rose petals on your bed while the strains of a soft jazz CD accompany the scene (package starts at $285 a night).

If you visit between February 11 and 15, don't miss the city's sweetest Valentine's dinner. Chef Bruno Menard hosts his father, a renowned chocolatier from France, in The Dining Room (Georgia's most highly awarded restaurant). They'll serve a four-course menu featuring a first and second dessert course ($110 per person).

The Ritz's Ultimate Romantic Celebration for two provides a suite, chauffeur, massages, elegant dinner in The Dining Room, rose petal turndown, and breakfast ($1,095 per night). The Ritz-Carlton Buckhead: 3434 Peachtree Road; (404) 237-2700. Regular rates from $265.

Stay and Shop

Ask for the Occasion Celebration package at the Swissotel Atlanta, and you can choose between a Champagne or a wine-and-cheese welcome. This sleek Buckhead hostelry adds a hearty breakfast in The Palm restaurant to the package for $199 per night. For dinner, stroll over to the chic BluePointe for sizzling seafood fashioned with Asian influences.

If you would prefer to forgo the overnight, it's still worthwhile to drop by the Swiss6tel and enjoy a cocktail in the trendy lobby. Then you can visit Tiffany & Co. at Phipps Plaza and treat your sweetie to a glittery gift. Swiss6tel Atlanta: 3391 Peachtree Road; (404) 365-0065. Regular rates from $149. BluePointe: 3455 Peachtree Road; (404) 237-9070.

Season for Love

Midtown's Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta prides itself on offering the best guestrooms in the city. The marble baths alone make a stay worth the price. February's Sweetheart Deal treats you to accommodations, valet parking, and breakfast for two at $195 per night.

This month's stays are even more precious when combined with the four-course Valentine's Day Dinner Package in the hotel's Park 75 Restaurant ($95 per person).

Skip the big prices, and drop in to the Park 75 Lounge for the Chocolate Lover's Table for $15. Set your fantasies afire with Valrhona chocolate desserts, including milk chocolate-- peanut butter gateau and handcrafted truffles. We promise that it will be a sweet night for all. Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta: 75 14th Street; (404) 881-- 9898. Rates from $195.

ANNETTE THOMPSON

Copyright Southern Progress Corporation Feb 2003
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