Published on: September 18th, 2017
Last updated: October 7th, 2024
There’s an undeniable romance to travel. Going away gives us time to take a pause from the everyday, savouring new places at a gentler pace with luxuries different to those we find at home. Special places to stay add and that extra touch of magic – and remote retreats, chic city stays, safari lodges and beachfront villas can be equally enticing.
Whether you're celebrating a special ocassion or seeking an intimate trip for two, explore our pick of the world’s most romantic hotels. In this list, curated from our travel designers’ personal favourites, you’ll find not just incredible places to stay but truly extraordinary experiences.
Le Sirenuse, Italy
Overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea in Positano on Italy’s Amalfi Coast, Le Sirenuse is as romantic as cliff-top accommodations come. Sea-view rooms reveal dramatic vistas over the yacht-studded bay, while elegant suites offer sanctuary after sun-drenched days by the pool – or perhaps a day at sea on the hotel’s vintage Riva Aquarama speedboat. As dusk falls, head to La Sponda restaurant, which comes alive with the soft glow of hundreds of candles that take more than an hour to light.
Grand Hotel Tremezzo, Italy
Offering panoramic views of Lake Como’s shimmering waters, the Grand Hotel Tremezzo is the embodiment of timeless Italian elegance. Romance is everywhere you look: beneath the striped parasols on the private beach, in the glamour of the lavish Belle Époque interiors and along the paths that criss-cross the rhododendron-dotted parkland rising behind the hotel. Mornings can be spent in the T Spa, dipping into the infinity pool and Mediterranean steam room, before a lake tour aboard a private water limo. As dusk falls, a fairytale unfolds as secluded rose-petal-strewn tables are set for intimate dinners for two.
The Maybourne Riviera, France
Situated on the sun-kissed shores of the French Riviera, The Maybourne Riviera has a long and illustrious history, the hotel’s past guests including acclaimed fashion designers and stars of Hollywood’s silver screen. A world of understated romance unfolds from the spectacular cliffside location, where elegant modernist architecture is juxtaposed against the undulating coastline that inspired artists such as Cézanne, Picasso and Matisse. Even on a short stay, you can enjoy Michelin-star dining in the restaurant, sunset views over Roquebrune-Cap-Martin from your private balcony and seafood feasts at the hotel’s exclusive beach club, Maybourne La Plage.
The Treehotel, Sweden
True escapes await in the forested wilderness of northern Sweden, where the Treehotel harmoniously intertwines nature and modern design in a series of one-of-a-kind suspended treehouses. Each creation – such as the Mirrorcube, Bird’s Nest and the futuristic UFO – appears more outlandish than the next, some vanishing amid the pines, others seemingly dropped from another world. Romance comes in the form of blissful isolation, relaxing in the steaming outdoor hot tub at the Forest SPA or wrapped up in blankets on a cosy sleigh ride through the winter snow. Our favourite Treehotel experience is the most illusive: catching the northern lights glow in the night sky above.
Taj Lake Palace, India
A marble mirage floating on the tranquil waters of Lake Pichola in Udaipur, the Taj Lake Palace intertwines stories of grand romance and regal heritage. Built as a summer retreat for the Mewar Royal family, it’s now a sumptuous heritage property, complete with intricate and beautifully preserved architecture, lavish lake-view rooms and a team of butlers to cater to your every need. Dinners aboard the hotel’s 150-year old boat, Gangaur, offer a journey back in time, accompanied by live music and the magic of the shimmering lake itself.
Zannier Hotels Bãi San Hô, Vietnam
The Bãi San Hô sits on a secluded coastal peninsular in Quy Nhon. The authentic Vietnamese design, lush gardens and surrounding rolling hills and rice paddies allow you to become completely immersed in your surroundings. Villas are either beachfront or dotted up the hillside, some constructed on traditional stilts. Out in the aquamarine bay there are opportunities for snorkelling, fishing and water-skiing. Back on land, book in for pampering in one of the seven treatment rooms or take a dip in the infinity pool.
Six Senses Yao Noi, Thailand
At Six Senses Yao Noi, amid the limestone karst islands of Phang Na Bay, sublime views await at every turn. You might begin your day here with a sunrise breakfast cruise, before sailing to a secluded island for a private barbecue lunch prepared by a personal chef. As the sun dips below the horizon, intimate sundowners unfold before the sail home. End the day lazing in your luxuriously comfortable room – or floating in the clifftop infinity pool overlooking the bay.
Capella Ubud, Bali
Each of Capella Ubud’s enchanting tented rooms, set deep within the jungle, create a sense of intimacy and inspire a sense of adventure. There’s a strong connection to nature here, the sounds of the forest ever present as you laze in your private salt-water pool or relax on the expansive deck. Staff can arrange bespoke candle-lit dinners, secluded picnics, in-tent spa treatments and much more. In the spa itself, treatments draw on Bali’s rich traditions using carefully sourced organic ingredients.
Wilderness Bisate, Rwanda
With architecture inspired by the shape and form of gorilla nests, Rwanda’s Wilderness Bisate is one of the world’s most distinctive hotels. Rooms overlook verdant volcanic landscapes and you can hike from here on a once-in-a-lifetime experience to meet mountain gorillas. Returning to the lodge in the evening, revel in a rejuvenating couples’ massage at the spa or explore the wine cellar before a cosy dinner by a roaring fire. In a gesture to mark the lasting romance of your visit, you can also take part in the lodge’s reforestation efforts by planting a tree in celebration of your time spent together.
Legendary Mwiba Lodge, Tanzania
Legendary Mwiba Lodge is an intimate safari camp with a difference, set atop colossal boulders with epic views of wildlife-filled savannahs dotted by natural springs. Private, elevated decks with large outdoor tubs bring the outside in – although nothing beats exploring after dark on a night safari before a fly camping adventure, sleeping under a canopy of stars. Back at the lodge, a soak in the infinity pool awaits as you reflect on your connection with nature and each other.
Azura Benguerra, Mozambique
Located on the white-sand shores of Mozambique’s idyllic Benguerra island, Azura Benguerra is one of our favourite beachfront resorts when it comes to romance. The secluded beach villas feature private infinity pools with unobstructed views of the azure waters, surrounded by tropical gardens. They go out of their way to arrange bespoke romantic moments: perhaps a private beach dinner by candlelight or an evening sailing on a traditional dhow at sunset. If you’re looking for a little more of an adrenaline rush, you can even set off on an exhilarating helicopter tour for two.
Lion Sands River Lodge , South Africa
Lion Sands River Lodge is set within a fourth-generation, privately owned wildlife reserve between the legendary Sabi Sands and Kruger National Park. Evenings of star gazing and fine dining will become the norm during your stay here. The property is contemporary and ultra luxe, while still immersed in the bush. The majestic Big 5 roam practically on the doorstep and excellent game viewing is possible without leaving the comfort of your private deck and pool.
Matestsi, Zimbabwe
Close to the roaring Victoria Falls, one of the world’s seven natural wonders, Matetsi is one of Zimbabwe‘s most luxurious properties. Reserve a River Lodge suite, a private villa on the banks of a secluded section of the Zambezi River, for the ultimate experience. You’ll wake up to the sound of the river’s tranquil melody, take dips in your private plunge pool and be looked after by a team of personal butlers. Add in exclusive safari explorations in the private Matetsi Private Game Reserve and you have a stay that blends opulence, nature and intimacy.
Xigera Camp, Botswana
Set within the heart of the Okavango Delta, Xigera Camp redefines luxury. We think it’s one of the most opulent tented camps in Botswana, where no detail of comfort is overlooked. African art is celebrated at every turn with exclusive pieces commissioned from trailblazing young artists; the design of the suites themselves inspired by the natural surroundings. A kilometre away from the main camp, you’ll find the remarkable three-storey Baobab Treehouse – it’s nothing short of a modern design masterpiece. Aside from panoramic views, stays here truly immerse you in the never-ending magic and drama of the Okavango Delta.
Sol y Luna, Peru
Sol y Luna acts as a luxurious gateway to the breathtakingly beautiful and culturally extraordinary Sacred Valley, and to Machu Picchu beyond. Sprawling gardens surround the large, ground-level casitas, built of stone, terracotta and adobe brick, with cosy interiors and log fires. Dining is an equal draw, with innovative Peruvian cuisine and exceptional local ingredients the stars of the show in the two on-site restaurants, Killa Wasi and Wayra. Book the chef’s table for a culinary journey that’s the perfect experience for two, sipping wines from the impressive cellar. And don’t miss indulging in locally inspired Andean spa experiences before you go.
The Vines Resort & Spa, Argentina
Situated at the foothills of the Andes, The Vines in Mendoza is a luxurious and contemporary retreat where relaxation is celebrated as much as the region’s renowned wines. Truly one-of-a-kind experiences await the resort’s private vineyards, where you can learn about the art of winemaking and craft your own small-batch wine, guided by the expert team. Dining centres on ultra-local ingredient sourcing, with open-flame cooking and Argentina’s famous beef often taking centre stage. Choose to have your meal inside our out, or at the open kitchen to see chef Francis Mallmann at work.
Casa San Agustin, Colombia
Bringing to life the romance of old Cartagena, Casa San Agustin is hidden on a cobbled street behind a huge studded door. Inside, a secret retreat awaits, spread across what was once three private houses. There’s a courtyard swimming pool and abundance of tropical plants that splash lush green onto the old brickwork.The alluring, dimly lit bar provides a cool reprieve from the heat outside, while elegant rooms boast beamed ceilings and an ambiance of timeless intimacy.
Esencia, Mexico
On the shores of the Mayan Riviera in Mexico, Esencia was once the private home of an Italian duchess. Romance is never far away here: relaxing beneath the shade of an umbrella, picnicking in the sunshine, or venturing to the secret lagoon for snorkelling, kayaking and paddleboarding adventures in the crystal-clear waters. You might even meet the resident manatees. Private villas are close to both the jungle and quiet sun-kissed sands, creating an idyllic setting whether you’re in search of serenity or adventure.
Awasi Patagonia, Chile
When it comes to epic natural beauty, Torres del Paine will always top our recommendations – and Awasi Patagonia might just be the most romantic place you can stay. Each villa, positioned for complete privacy with views of the Towers, comes with a dedicated private guide and vehicle for personalised. There’s also a good chance you won’t encounter another soul on your adventures. Enjoy private picnics, hikes and horse riding with genuine gauchos before world-class cuisine in the welcoming, fire-lit restaurant.
Trip Inspiration
Feeling inspired? Our expert travel designers are always on hand to help you pick the most luxurious hotel for your honeymoon.