Long Island Love Story

Linger on Long Island. What is more romantic than a leisurely look at a genteel past, followed by a picnic in a vineyard, drifting over seaside towns in a hot-air balloon, then dining on fresh seafood while overlooking Jones Beach on a stormy night.

Begin at Old Westbury Gardens, Old Westbury (516/333-0048), which rivals manors in Europe with its formal gardens, tree-lined avenues and beautiful statuary. This filming location of "Love Story" and "North By Northwest" is the perfect romantic spot for a stroll and a lovely beginning for your Long Island encounter.

In Glen Cove, travel 19th-century style along Long Island Gold Coast on the paddlewheeler Thomas Jefferson (516/744-2353). This replica of period paddlewheelers is the setting for dinners, narrated historic excursions and "murder mystery" cruises.

The Museums at Stony Brook, Stony Brook (516/751- 0066), feature 19th-and 20th- century art, period rooms and a Carriage Museum with more than 90 internationally known horse-drawn carriages. Take a romantic carriage ride around historic Stony Brook and escape to the past.

On Long Island's North Fork, Palmer Vineyards, Aquebogue (516/722-WINE), has a tasting house constructed from two English Pubs. Enjoy winemaking tours, even a hayride. Palmer Vineyards will pack you a lunch and set you off to a choice spot on the grounds for a lovely picnic. Peconic River Cruises, Riverhead (516/369-3700), offers a romantic dinner cruise on a paddlewheeler.

On the east end, drift over the Hamptons in a hot-air balloon. Adventures Aloft, Deer Park (516/595-9213), will carry you over the famous seaside resort area and provide you with a champagne toast for the end of your flight. Dine at any one of many quaint seaside restaurants.

Have you ever dreamed of riding horseback on the beach? Deep Hollow Ranch, Montauk (516/668-2744), offers 4000 acres of riding trails to the beach. Maybe a day lying on the beach will suit you, but don't miss a moonlight walk hand in hand on the beach near the Montauk Lighthouse -- a beacon in the night, guiding those at sea toward home.