Romantic getaways are forever sought after by the young and old. And what could be more romantic than waking up to the sight of a palm-fringed beach with waters so pure you could mistake them for gin? Or, perhaps a candle-lit alfresco dining experience in a pine forest by the sea is your slice of heaven.
One of the most rewarding aspects of being in a relationship is being able to enjoy such moments in the company of another.
In a world where every experience you can imagine is possible, the biggest challenge is committing to that one romantic destination that will expand both of your horizons, bring you closer together and uncover sides of your partner you never knew existed. Here are 10 of the most romantic locations for couples.
1: Paris, France
With an array of iconic landmarks to choose from – the Eiffel Tower, the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Louvre Pyramid – and charming cafes on every street corner, it’s no wonder that the French capital is synonymous with romance.
Popular romance films and series like Emily in Paris, Before Sunset and Midnight in Paris have only served to strengthen this perception. Why not take a sunset cruise down the River Seine, stroll the streets of Montmartre in the evening or soak in the incredible Parisian views at one of the city’s rooftop bars?
Accommodation recommendations
Le Narcisse Blanc: the perfect blend between history and modernity, romance and comfort.
Le Petit Moulin: Four-star boutique hotel with only 17 exclusive rooms.
Relais St Germain: an art deco hotel close to all the top sites.
Saint James Paris: a neoclassical mansion built on the city’s first aerodrome.
2: Saint Lucia, Caribbean
The volcanic island of Saint Lucia is renowned for its twin mountains, otherwise known as ‘The Pitons’, its tropical weather and lush terrain.
Enjoy an exclusive private dining experience overlooking the majestic Caribbean waters at Cap Maison or take a sunset cruise or encounter more than 30 species of whales and dolphins that frolic in the Saint Lucian waters.
As a couple, the ‘Tunnel of Love’ featured in the Pirates of the Caribbean film series is a must, as are the snorkeling spots and waterfalls that add to the adventures that can be had at this romantic destination.
Accommodation recommendations
Jade Mountain Resort: a cornucopia of organic architecture and scenic beauty.
Ladera Resort: located on a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Anse Chastanet Resort: renowned for its legendary hospitality.
3: Patagonia, Chile
For couples who appreciate natural beauty and outdoor adventures, Patagonia is teeming with verdant forests, snow-capped mountains and turquoise rivers that serve as incredible backdrops in which to propose, get married or simply unwind.
Torres del Paine National Park, the Atacama Desert or a road trip along Patagonia’s Carretera Austral offers breathtaking scenery and a glimpse into the nation’s unique ecosystem. While you’re enjoying the views, why not indulge in world-class Chilean or Argentinian wine?
Accommodation recommendations
Awasi Patagonia: stay in just one of 14 private villas in its private reserve.
Tierra Patagonia: an architecturally stunning spa hotel.
Explora Patagonia: the nation’s original luxury lodge.
4: Seychelles, Africa
If you’re looking for a secluded getaway with lush tropical vegetation and pristine beaches, then look no further than this archipelago – comprising more than 100 islands – in the Indian Ocean.
If you’re seeking tranquility, Anse Georgette will likely pique your interest, while Curieuse Island is home to some impressive marine life.
Perhaps the best aspect of coming here is that you can easily hop from one island to the next while indulging in a handful of ultra-luxe resorts at each destination. Plus, you’ll want to bathe in the warmth of the waters as much as the local hospitality for which Seychelles is renowned.
Accommodation recommendations
JA Enchanted Island Resort Seychelles: a luxurious hideaway located in the heart of the Saint-Anne Marine Park.
North Island, a Luxury Collection Resort, Seychelles: a five-star hotel that’s perfect for honeymooners and privacy seekers.
Cerf Island Resort: for those who wish to experience superb Seychellois architecture.
5: Tulum, Mexico
There is so much more to the Mexican city of Tulum than just its pristine beaches that function as a magnet for sun-starved tourists.
Home to well-preserved ancient Mayan ruins and plenty of exotic wildlife, Tulum is one of those destinations that strikes a balance between high and low-intensity adventures.
Here, you’ll find some of the world’s best street food, fine dining in the heart of the jungle and the opportunity to swim in the presence of turtles.
Accommodation recommendations
Ahau Tulum: an eco-friendly beach resort with ocean-front suites.
Be Tulum: a four-star boutique hotel that’s carbon-neutral.
Encantada Tulum: for couples looking for privacy and relaxation without having to compromise on luxury.
6: South Tyrol, Italy
This region in northern Italy, otherwise known as ‘the sunny side of the Alps’, produces some of the world’s best wines coupled with culinary delights underpinned by the ‘farm-to-table’ ethos.
With hundreds of castles nestled in breathtaking scenery and majestic mountains, thanks to the Dolomites, the restorative powers of this alpine region is bound to be good for any relationship.
The convergence of German, Italian and Austrian cultures additionally means that you’ll be feasting on a fusion of different cuisines.
Accommodation recommendations
ADLER Lodge RITTEN: a five-star hotel overlooking the Dolomites.
Hotel Fragsburg: a five-star hotel with style and character.
Meisters Hotel Irma: choose from a safari tent or treehouse suite.
7: Amalfi Coast, Italy
For enchanting spots that make for the most romantic moments, Italy’s Amalfi Coast easily surpasses other romantic destinations with its lovers-themed landmarks.
Here, you’ll find the ‘Path of Love’ ( or ‘Passeggiata dell’Amore’), Lovers’ Arch and a secluded beach dedicated to lovers that can only be reached by sea. To access Amalfi’s picturesque coves, be prepared to book a boat tour where you’ll be able to view the coastal stretch from a different vantage point.
Accommodation recommendations
Villa Cimbrone: renowned for its botanical gardens and Michelin-starred Mediterranean restaurant.
Belmond Hotel Caruso: its infinity pool and Hollywood glamor serve as a reminder that you’re walking in the footsteps of the rich and famous.
Monastero Santa Rosa Hotel & Spa: a former convent that now boasts beautiful terraced gardens and a world-class spa.
8: Dalmatian Coast, Croatia
If unspoiled nature and dramatic coastlines appeal to you, then the Dalmatian Riviera is likely to captivate your heart. From island-hopping to Michelin-starred dining, this region is teeming with history and natural attractions you’d be hard-pressed to find elsewhere.
At Europe’s oldest national park, Plitvice Lakes National Park, you’ll encounter a forested canyon, and, if that’s not enough, the nearby cities of Split, Sibenik and Dubrovnik (‘the pearl of the Adriatic’) have plenty to explore in the way of culture and dining, including Game of Thrones filming sites.
Accommodation recommendations
Brown Beach House: a tobacco warehouse-turned design hotel near Split.
Lešić Dimitri Palace: a Silk Road themed luxury hotel.
Villa Orsula Dubrovnik: retains the homeliness of its origins as a 30s private villa.
9: Cotswolds, Britain
With its rolling green hills, rambling rivers and idyllic villages that ooze charm, it’s difficult not to fall in love with the Cotswolds. Boasting an abundance of luxurious hotels, you’ll be able to choose between a more traditional or modern home-away-from-home nestled in the English countryside.
Accommodation recommendations
The Fish Hotel, Broadway: have the option to stay in a luxury treehouse or a shepherd’s hut.
Thyme, Lechlade: choose from suites located in barns, cottages and farmhouses.
The Swan, Bibury: located in one of Britain’s most picturesque villages.
10: Maui, Hawaii
The island of Maui invites couples to immerse themselves wholeheartedly in a vibrant culture alongside exclusive adventures to make memories that will surely last a lifetime.
Whether proposing or seeking unique bonding experiences, Mount Haleakala’s summit at sunrise is a-must while the evening is best spent enjoying a sunset cruise with a Luau feast – a traditional Hawaiian celebration.
For those seeking something airborne, why not enjoy a birds-eye view of Maui from the comfort of a helicopter?
Accommodation recommendations
The Hotel Wailea: a five-star luxury option for adults only that’s ideally suited for honeymooners.
Royal Lahaina Resort: a four-star resort that offers dinner cruises and snorkeling excursions into a volcano crater.
Montage Kapalua Bay: enjoy beachfront views and exquisite Hawaiian cuisine.
