Sometimes the stars align where the ambiance, surrounds and sheer beauty imbue a holiday spot with romance. And sometimes, it’s just about the one you’re with. To set the scene for love, here are some of the world’s most romantic hotels.
Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, Finland
Warm climes and tropical isles don’t have the franchise on couples getaways. Soft snowfall outside and a roaring fire inside also makes for a romantic rendezvous in a winter wonderland. Snuggle up to your loved one while you watch the Northern Lights at Lapland’s Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort. Thermal glass-domed igloos provide the perfect opportunity to go aurora hunting together.
Hôtel Plaza Athénée, Paris
A Parisian pied-á-terre near the Champs-Elysees with views of the Eiffel Tower can’t help but spark an affair to remember. Built in 1911, the Hôtel Plaza Athénée boasts elegantly appointed Eiffel Suites and rooms furnished with either a classic or art deco style and finished with a balcony decorated with bright red geraniums. Plump for breakfast for two on the balcony to really drink in the sights.
This image: View from an Eiffel Suite at the Hôtel Plaza Athénée.
Aman Canal Grande, Venice
Nowhere does elegant decay quite like Venice and the historic architecture, arching bridges and meandering canals are steeped in romance. An intimate boutique hotel such as the Aman Canal Grande makes the most of the city’s iconic status with regal embellishments. The 16th-century palazzo reveals just 24 rooms with soaring frescoed ceilings, Grand Canal views and chandeliers.
Jade Mountain, St Lucia
From your ensuite infinity pool at Jade Mountain, you’ll feel on top of the world with a panoramic view over the lush Pitons World Heritage Site and the endless Caribbean Sea. The resort was designed in harmony with the natural surrounds for a sanctuary for two. With no technology to intrude on your peaceful idyll, it’s truly an opportunity to reconnect in a stunning locale.
This image: The bold architectural design of Jade Mountain, St Lucia.
San Ysidro Ranch, California
A romantic getaway destination for many a well-heeled American for over a century, the tastefully appointed private cottages and suites at San Ysidro Ranch are located in the middle of South California’s bucolic wine region. Take a hot tub for two on a private patio, sip the local wines under lanterns in the plentiful gardens, and enjoy an in-room couples massage for intimate bliss.
Gili Lankanfushi, Maldives
Synonymous with romance, extend the honeymoon glow in a remote overwater bungalow in the Maldives. With colours so bold and beautiful right under your doorstep, Gili Lankanfushi is perched on a private island for the ultimate in luxury and seclusion. Opt for The Private Residence so you and your paramour can enjoy the two-person bathtub over a coral pool and sea gardens together.
This image: Crusoe Residence at Gili Lankanfushi.
Makanyane Safari Lodge, South Africa
With the low rumble of animals the only soundtrack to a panorama of stars, a night spent under a velvet canopy on an overnight hide amid the vast Madikwe Game Reserve is truly breathtaking. If you’d prefer to stay indoors, myriad rare and wondrous animals roam freely throughout the reserve with plenty of alfresco spots in your stylish suite to spy the wildlife in understated luxury.
Beldi Country Club, Morocco
Infused with innate yet unobtrusive hospitality, Beldi Country Club in Marrakech melds classic Berber traditions with pared-back French chic for a stylish stay. Traverse the property’s riads, alleys, onsite souk and sunken gardens that reference a Moroccan village, soak in a traditional hammam, take in the tranquility of the pools or hop in a quad to escape together into the desert.
This image: The gardens of Beldi Country Club, Morocco.
