Whether it is a Valentine’s Day gift or a treat at any time of year, here are some of the most romantic places to stay in Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Europe and the UK in 2023.
AFRICA
Glass dome safari accommodation at Misty Mountain Reserve, South Africa
Part of the Misty Mountain Reserve, the new glass Ocean Dome sits amongst the trees set 230m above sea level. The clear dome is perfect for stargazing at night or looking out onto the Indian Ocean by day.
Nightly rates from £279 based on 2 people sharing.
Shambala Private Game Reserve, South Africa
With just eight beautiful chalets at its Zulu Camp, Shambala Private Game Reserve in Limpopo provides the ultimate safari experience complemented by unrivalled luxury and exceptional service that allows couples to plan their own adventure as they go.
Nightly rates from £723 based on 2 people sharing.
Lepogo Lodges a Safari for Two, South Africa
Lovebirds can expect an unforgettable holiday at Lepogo Lodges‘ Noka Camp. Lepogo Lodges is one of Africa’s few entirely not-for-profit high-end safari lodges and are set within the 50,000-hectare, malaria-free Lapalala Wilderness Reserve, home of the ‘big five’. Couples can choose from a range of thrilling activities such as game drives and water safaris or can relax with a yoga session or special spa treatment. Each villa also offers a unique outdoor ‘sky bed’ placed on the glass floor balcony over the ravine, providing guests with the ideal opportunity for star-gazing under the incredible African night skies, before drifting off into a peaceful slumber with their loved one.
Nightly rates from R16,500 (£769*) per person on an all-inclusive basis. Images: Lepogo Lodges
Celebrate your Anniversary with 30% off at Dinarobin Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa, Mauritius
For those celebrating a special anniversary, Dinarobin Beachcomber in Mauritius is the perfect place to head to next year, with an impressive 30% off all stays till 31 October 2023. The special discount applies to every fifth wedding anniversary year and also includes the addition of a memorable Beachcomber Experience, where guests can choose from a romantic horseback ride around Le Morne, a sunset boat cruise, a signature treatment at the Spa, or a local Mauritian cooking class.
Nightly rates from £1,930 per person for two adults staying full board in a Junior Suite for seven nights on the Honeymoon Package. Price includes return economy flights with Air Mauritius, various complimentary land and water sports and private transfers in Mauritius, departing 19th May 2023.
Wilderness DumaTau, Botswana
Wilderness DumaTau offers a luxury Linyanti safari with up-close encounters with Africa’s highest density of elephants. After a long day out on the reserve, couples can retreat to an elegant tented suite, and linger in a private plunge pool toasting life with a bottle of chilled bubbly, as animals wander peacefully through camp. Wilderness DumaTau’s new spa, the Osprey Retreat, will be available to those looking for relaxation.
Nightly rates from £1,560 per person.
ASIA
InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort, Maldives
InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort, an exclusive private island resort on the southernmost tip of the Raa Atoll, is delighted to have launched an island romance package. This package is the perfect honeymoon getaway for newlyweds or a couples getaway where loved ones can indulge in lazy mornings by the poolside, rejuvenating wellness treatments and intimate dining experiences. This luxury package includes a stay in a beautifully appointed villa or residence of the guest’s choice, a bottle of champagne, a three-course dinner at The Lighthouse, a 60-minute couples treatment at the overwater AVI Spa, and includes the Club InterContinental benefits.
Island Romance Packages start from $1,105.
The Leela Palace Udaipur, India
Escape next year to Udaipur, also known as the ‘city of love’ and experience a magical romantic getaway at The Leela Palace Udaipur. The hotel offers spectacular views of the tranquil waters of Lake Pichola, the perfect backdrop to watch the sunset. With a lake-facing pool, spa and an array of restaurants and superlative lounges, the Palace provides a fairy-tale setting for a royal Mewar experience.
Nightly rates from £600.
CARIBBEAN
Jade Mountain offers a special ‘Total Romance’ Package, Saint Lucia
Guests looking for all-out-romance can enjoy the ‘Total Romance’ package at Jade Mountain, which includes everything from all-inclusive dining, a bottle of champagne on arrival, and a wide variety of activities. From a tour of the nearby volcano, sulphur springs and mineral baths, to a resort scuba diving course; as well as a half-day sailing on a skippered resort yacht, to a relaxing Swedish massage in the comfort of your own Sanctuary, couples can expect total luxury and indulgence.
Prices from US$7,547 (approx. £6,292) in a Sky Sanctuary based on a 3-night stay on the Total Romance package with double occupancy. Rates are subject to a 10% service charge and 10% VAT. Images.
Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort, Saint Lucia
Located on the stunningly romantic Eastern Caribbean Island of St Lucia, Windjammer Landing is a Mediterranean-style resort on a sizeable crescent-shaped stretch of beach. The resort’s architecture lends itself to total privacy, with over 200 acres of villas spread across 60 acres of lush hillside, making this the ideal location for couples to enjoy a holiday filled with romance. Couples can experience their romantic fantasies with a luxury Caribbean getaway, offering an array of private villas, romantic dining options such as in-villa services and lovely restaurants with amazing views and romantic atmosphere, and top-of-the-line spa facilities which offer fantastic couples treatments.
Nightly rates from £302/US$354.00 with villas starting at £492/US$577.00 per night.
EUROPE
Le Grand Mazarin, Paris, France – opening early 2023
Maisons Pariente has chosen the heart of the Marais for its new 5-star address: Le Grand Mazarin – the epicentre of the excitement. A place of life with multiple influences and a place to meet and share that’s both joyful and flamboyant, Le Grand Mazarin is a jewel box of elegance and sophistication that channels a mixture of styles with a touch of humour. Paris is the city of romance and Le Grand Mazarin invites couples to fall in love with the city as the Parisians know it.
Nightly rates from £595.
Le Coucou, Meribel, France
Couples can enjoy a pampering alpine break at Le Coucou, and indulge in a couples spa treatment at the incredible Tata Harper Spa. The pool areas, divided by a bay window create a stunning, trompe-l’oeil effect with views of the striking vista outdoors. Your alpine haven in the heart of the Three Valleys awaits!
Nightly rates from 460 Euros on a half-board basis.
Oliver’s Travels Chateau De Montpezat, France
Everything will be tailored to your needs at this impeccably designed chateau in Midi-Pyrénées. The chateau is set in 40 acres of French forests, creating a fairytale home away from home. The opulent blend of old and new styles will please the most discerning guests – from the bathroom lounges to the ultramodern suite beneath the eaves.
Weekly rates start from £15,131.
Gatsby Athens, Greece
Gatsby Athens is a boutique, contemporary property in the heart of Athens. Ideal for a playful city break for couples to book in 2023. Each room has its very own surprise button for guests to push if they dare. The concierge will arrange a gift to be sent to the room, ranging from a sweet treat, delicious cocktail or exciting entertainment. Couples are able to book Juliet balconies or terraces with private outdoor sitting areas or a jacuzzi hot tub. The hotel has an air of temptation, beauty and romance. Offering unique touches in each corner of the hotel, Gatsby Athens is perfect for couples who would like to stay in or go out on their holiday.
Nightly rates from 107EUR / £92 based on 2 people sharing a double standard room on a B&B basis.
Aristi Mountain Resort & Villa, Greece
Situated in west Zagori, Epirus in north-western Greece, Aristi Mountain Resort & Villas is not only home to luxurious accommodation, but also to wild and rugged landscapes. Aristi is the perfect location for couples looking for a holiday that is both relaxing and active. After a day filled with hiking or rafting guests can unwind at the resort’s tranquil open-air spa. With views out across the woodlands, couples can experience the calm waters of the pool in a light and airy atmosphere or try a personalised massage followed by a visit to the sauna and Jacuzzi. Aristi also offers exceptional culinary experiences from the comfort of the resort, as well as in nearby local villages. Both allow couples to become fully immersed in Zagori culture through taste.
Nightly rates from £130 in a double superior room on a B&B basis based on 2 people sharing.
ELIVI Skiathos, Greece
Overlooking the beautiful Aegean sea, ELIVI Skiathos is the only 5* hotel on the island and is spread across an area of natural beauty beside a stunning wildlife refuge. With direct access to four of the island’s best beaches, ELIVI is the perfect getaway for any couple who is looking for luxurious, off-grid privacy. Guests can enjoy a number of romantic experiences such as sailing to Koukounaries cove for sunset, evening dips in the sea by Tsougrias or Arkos, or an intimate candlelit dinner on the beautiful sandy beaches of Ambelakia or Big Banana under a private gazebo.
Nightly rates from €245 based on two people sharing a standard room.
The Magnolia Hotel, Quinta do Lago, Portugal
The Magnolia Hotel pays homage to the iconic 1950’s motor-hotel aesthetic of Palm Springs, offering affordable and stylish accommodation as well as a new energy in the heart of the Algarve. Just moments away from Quinta do Lago, the Magnolia Hotel provides an idyllic base to sample world-class golf, shopping, beach, nightlife and the new elite performance centre, The Campus. Quinta do Lago is known for its fantastic culinary offerings, such as Casa Velha, a Michelin guide-recommended restaurant, and Casa do Lago, perfect for a romantic and delicious date night. The Magnolia Hotel is inclusive to all couples looking to holiday in the beautiful Algarve setting of Quinta do Lago resort, Portugal.
Nightly rates from €120/£105 for a Standard Double Room on a B&B basis. Family Cottages are from €216/£188 per night on a B&B basis. Images: The Magnolia Hotel & Quinta do Lago
Badia Tower, Villatravellers, Sicily
The beautiful Villa Badia Tower is the perfect romantic getaway for couples to enjoy this summer. Available through Villatravellers, Villa Badia Tower looks like a fairytale castle with a tall tower. The villa is surrounded by lovely scented gardens filled with leafy vegetation, towering palms and brightly coloured oleanders. Guests can enjoy a glass of wine in the gardens, or a lovely meal inside, surrounded by bright colours and decorations throughout the villa. There are shops, bars, wineries and restaurants nearby, as well as the centre of Marsala.
Badia Tower features 1 bedroom and sleeps 2 guests, available through Villatravellers from EUR 1,000 per week (www.villatravellers.com/ ; 0044 (0)20 3608 4505.)
Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni, Lake Como, Italy
Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni, the only 5-star luxury hotel in the best-loved village on Lake Como, Bellagio, makes for the perfect couples’ getaway. The hotel prides itself on Italian hospitality and service, ensuring the experience of a lifetime for all its guests so that they can enjoy the array of exceptional cuisine, relax in an oasis of pure tranquillity at the spa, or simply marvel at the breathtaking lakefront views.
Nightly rates from €495 for a Classic Park View Room.
UNITED KINGDOM
Culloden Estate & Spa, Northern Ireland
Standing high on the slopes of the Holywood Hills, overlooking Belfast Lough and the County Antrim Coastline, is the magnificent Culloden Estate and Spa, the most prestigious luxury five-star hotel in Northern Ireland. Originally built as an official palace for the Bishops of Down, the Culloden stands in 12 acres of beautiful secluded gardens and woodland. Palatial surroundings, exquisite decor, fine antiques and exceptional service come together to give the Culloden Estate and Spa a unique air of elegance perfectly suited to a weekend away with a loved one. Guests can head to the spa to treat their loved ones to a special treatment or couples massage.
Suites at Culloden Estate & Spa start from £650 per night and Garden Rooms from £350 per night, including breakfast.
YTL Hotels’ The Glasshouse, offers an exclusive Romance Package, Edinburgh
Those looking to rejuvenate their romance in the heart of Edinburgh, need to look no further than YTL Hotels’ The Glasshouse Ultimate Romance Package. The Glasshouse offers the perfect, indulgent and romantic break, which includes overnight accommodation, a chilled bottle of Champagne in your room on arrival, a romantic turndown service, pamper and relax toiletries, Champagne breakfast in bed and an extended late check-out until 1 pm. Guests can also choose additional items from the hotel’s Surprise & Delight Menu to make your romantic getaway extra special. For added romance the Suite Romance Package is also on offer which includes a stay in one of their spacious suites, a private 3-course dinner served in the room and a deluxe 1-hour couple’s massage.
Nightly rates on the Romance Package at The Glasshouse start from £275.
The Gainsborough Bath Spa Presents The Townhouse Experience – private thermal bathing in the historic Cross Bath
Additionally, YTL Hotels’ The Gainsborough Bath Spa is proud to offer couples the chance to stay at The Townhouse, an elegant Georgian property that combines the space of a private home with the luxury services of the five-star hotel and its world-class team. The Townhouse experience also offers guests unrivalled exclusive access to The Cross Bath, an intimate, open-air bath where guests can bathe in the city’s famed natural thermal waters in complete privacy. Loved ones looking to relax in private need look no further for a characterful destination to unwind and connect in the centre of historic Bath. The Townhouse offers peaceful and private accommodation spread over four floors. With three bedrooms, one king, one queen and one single sleeping up to five. Guests of The Townhouse can also take advantage of all facilities at The Gainsborough Bath Spa and private access to the historic Cross Bath, reserved solely for the use of Townhouse guests for a romantic bathing experience.
Nightly rates start from £765 per weeknight and £995 per weekend night, with a minimum two-night stay required over summer weekends.
A Romantic Valentine’s Day Feast at The Montagu Kitchen & Lounge and The Churchill, London
For those looking to enjoy a romantic staycation in London this year, then look no further than The Churchill, a luxury 5* hotel near charming Marylebone Village. With spacious guestrooms and suites with views over Portman Square Gardens, handcrafted cocktails at The Churchill Bar & Terrace, and indulgent dishes at The Montagu Kitchen & Lounge, there is no better place to unwind in the Capital. The Montagu Kitchen & Lounge will also be offering a special Valentine’s Day 4-course dinner for couples, with live music and a glass of Champagne to toast the night.
Valentine’s Day Dinner at The Montagu Kitchen & Lounge is £110 per person, including 4 courses, a welcome glass of Champagne and wine.
Ellenborough Park, Gloucestershire
A stunning 15th-century manor house set within 90 acres of glorious parkland, Ellenborough Park is Gloucestershire’s only 5-star hotel and the perfect choice for any couple wanting a romantic break. Complete with original stone flags and glorious vast open fireplaces, beautiful luxury guest rooms (all of which will be refurbished by March 2023), as well as a relaxing Elemis spa and outdoor pool which is heated year-round.
Nightly rates from £299 inclusive of VAT and breakfast based on a Cosy Double room sleeping two people.
Monkey Island Estate offers the ultimate romantic island retreat at the Shepherd’s Hideaway, Bray
Couples can look forward to a cosy retreat at the Monkey Island Estate’s handcrafted Shepherd’s Hideaway. Situated on the picturesque private island on the River Thames in the historic village of Bray, the cosy winter cabins are stylishly furnished with contemporary countryside interiors and offer the ultimate destination for couples looking to spend quality time together this Valentine’s day. Expert hospitality services are paired with gourmet picnic hampers, filled with local treats and chilled bottles of Harrow & Hope English Sparkling Wine. Enjoy countryside strolls through the estate’s grounds and herb gardens, balmy evenings star-gazing, or cuddle up with hot chocolate and fluffy blankets around the campfire.
The Shepherd’s Hideaway Experience caters for up to 6 guests at £100 per person and includes a gourmet picnic hamper and half a bottle of Harrow & Hope Brut Reserve per person with access to the Shepherd’s Hideaway for three hours. Minimum spend £600.
Read our review of Monkey Island here
