With Valentines Day just around the corner, do you want to rekindle the romance or simply take a much needed break to an exquisite destination?
We bring you our Top 5 romantic destinations, from the magical Maldives, the snow-covered peaks of St. Moritz, the enchantment of Venice, the mystery of Madrid and the African savannah, start packing right now!
CARLTON HOTEL, ST MORITZ, SWITZERLAND
Situated high above Lake St. Moritz, 60 elegant suites offer a unique living experience. An ever-present, yet discreet and unobtrusive service accompanies you throughout the hotel. Enjoy the day to yourself or explore the dazzling St. Moritz catwalk – you define what excites you.
What is more romantic than spending Valentine’s Day with that special someone amidst unparalleled views of Lake St. Moritz and the picturesque Engadin Mountains beyond it? This year, couples are invited to snuggle up at the Carlton Hotel St. Moritz, a classic example of the destination’s renowned elegance and exclusivity, to enjoy the property’s private Carriage Ride. A fairytale excursion, couples enjoy a romantic ride through town and fondue for two, complete with decadent desserts to eat during the ride back to the Carlton as the snow falls around them.
GILI LANKANFUSHI, NORTH MALÉ ATOLL, MALDIVES
Designed in the Gili Lankanfushi authentic style, built using eco-friendly materials and blended seamlessly into the remarkable landscape of a natural environment, the spectacular overwater villas create a sophisticated and intimate ambience where guests are able to feel truly at home.
Seafood under the stars in a wonderfully romantic and completely private dining offering at Gili Lankanfushi, the pioneer luxury eco-resort of the Maldives. Here guests will enjoy a three-course meal of the highest quality seafood at the overwater bar with a bottle of chilled Louis Roederer Champagne. An insider tip is to save room for the locally caught Maldivian lobster! The team at Gili Lankanfushi decorate the table with candlelights or pyramid candles if you prefer to enjoy the seafood under the twinkling Maldivian stars on the beach. Starting at sunset, this gourmet experience allows couples to share a sensational seafood tasting menu whilst under the stars in complete private soaking up the magical sunset followed by the crystal-clear Maldivian constellations.
HILTON MOLINO STUCKY VENICE, ITALY
If you’re looking to treat a loved one and jet off on a romantic escape for Valentine’s, why not follow in Casanova’s footsteps, head to the City of Canals and check in to the Hilton Molino Stucky Venice, taking advantage of their NEW ‘Romantic Escape’ package. On checking in, guests will find strawberries and prosecco in their room and later will be whisked off for a romantic Grand Canal tour by private taxi where you can kick back and soak up the iconic sights of Venice including the Doge’s Palace, Rialto Bridge and Bridge of Sighs.
On returning to the hotel, if you’re after a bit of pampering, why not book in for an indulgent and spoiling visit to the hotel’s eforea Spa. Included in this package is complimentary access to the Spa where you can enjoy all the facilities including Jacuzzi, Turkish Bath & Sauna plus a special Couples Venetian Massage (additional spa treatments and relaxation packages available on request). For an unforgettable culinary experience in an amazing location by the Giudecca canal, book a table at the hotel’s very own Aromi Restaurant with its outdoor terrace where guests can enjoy dining under the twinkling Italian stars overlooking Venice.
GREAT PLAINS OL DONYO LODGE, KENYA, AFRICA
Serenely located in the Chyulu Hills, in the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro, privacy is guaranteed at ol Donyo Lodge. Swapping a game drive for a morning or afternoon on horseback offers one of the most peaceful and unique ways to experience Kenya’s diverse landscape and its awe-inspiring natural world. Along with traditional game drives, the beauty of ol Donyo Lodge is that it is home to an impressive stable of twenty horses, which allows guests to swap the rumble of the engine for the sound of hooves hitting the grassy plains. This experience is an absolute must and is available for riders of novice to advanced levels and is the perfect experience for adventurous couples (a great place to pop an all-important question), and individuals looking for some alone time in nature.
Start your Valentine’s morning off with a bush breakfast on horseback! Following a short morning ride together the ol Donyo Lodge team will spoil couples with a delicious bush breakfast, accompanied by birdsong, under the shade of an acacia tree. After a morning on horseback and a bush breakfast à deux, couples can enjoy spa treatments together from the privacy of their own suite, surrounded by breath-taking views across the sprawling plains with Mount Kilimanjaro as a constant backdrop.
THE PRINCIPAL MADRID, SPAIN
Offering Madrid’s most extraordinary views and central location, The Principal Madrid is ideal for a romantic stay in Spain’s capital. With 76 elegant suites and rooms and avant-garde gastronomy, the hotel collects elements of old and new with modern detail in the original architecture of the 1917 palatial building. Situated on Gran Vía, renowned historical and cultural attractions such as Puerta del Sol and the Círculo de Bellas Artes are just a few steps from the hotel. Unique to the hotel are the birds-eye panoramic views of emblematic buildings across the entire city from most of the rooms.
These breathtaking views can also be experienced from Ramón Freixa’ Ático and La Terraza – two elegant yet laid back culinary experiences within the hotel. The exclusive Wellbeing area offers a number of unique massages and treatments with products by the exclusive Natura Bissé. Tailored guests’ experiences include private concerts, cocktail workshops and yoga sessions for two on the spectacular terrace with views to the center. In addition, the Principal Madrid Hotel provides a private car for transfers to the airport and around the city, as well as a romantic getaway package.
Article provided courtesy of Billions Luxury Portal written by Heléne Ramackers a freelance journalist who enjoys travelling in her beautiful country of South Africa. A creature comforts girl at heart, she loves all things opulent. Nothing evokes more emotion than visiting her happy place – the bush where one sees animals in close proximity, and you fall asleep to the sound of a lion roaring in the distance
