What could be more romantic than cosying up beneath reindeers skins in the ICEHOTEL, wandering the cobble-stone streets of Amsterdam or enjoying a candlelit barbecue on the beach in the Maldives? We asked three travel experts to pick their favourite luxury holidays for the hopelessly romantic
Baros, Maldives
For a real show-stopping Valentine’s Day, there is no better place than Baros. From private barbecues on the beach to candlelit picnics in a palm grove, there are myriad intimate spots for romantic moments alone. The Spa offers four private suites for couple’s treatments, ideal for relaxing amid the lush tropical gardens. February is in high demand, with the archipelago enjoying some of its best weather. Carrier
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
As an alternative to Paris and Venice, how about whisking your loved one off to Amsterdam. There’s nothing more romantic than walking the cobble-stoned streets alongside the inner-city canals, particularly around the Negen Straatjes (nine streets) district. Book into De Kas, situated inside a greenhouse, which is perfect for airy, romantic dining, and stay at the hip Conservatorium (below). Exosphere
Sanctuary Makanyane, South Africa
Sanctuary Makanyane is a very special safari lodge and one that promises an intimate, authentic and personal safari experience that will stay with you for ever. The lodge is tucked away from the other Madikwe lodges on a private 4,500 acre concession and surrounded by lush forest with views of the Marico River. With just eight suites – each with real ‘wow’ factor – the Makanyane experience is very intimate and personal. In summer time, a ‘must’ is a night at the Hide, a two-storey sleep out with no roof. Arrive at the Hide after dinner to find the entire place lit with lanterns and your favourite drinks waiting for you. Sleep under the elements and be amazed at the vastness of the skies and listen to animal noises around you. Waking up to the sunrise in the middle of nowhere, just the two of you, is a very special and romantic experience. And with the current exchange rate, there’s never been a better time to visit. Turquoise Holidays
Maia Luxury Resort & Spa, Seychelles
Nestled into 30 acres of award-winning gardens, the all-villa residences at Maia resort are secluded sanctuaries offering uninterrupted views of crystalline waters and bright white sand. Each villa has with its own butler, who lights candles around your own petal-strewn pool and caters to your every whim. Romantic doesn’t begin to describe it. Carrier
Reykjavik, Iceland
Visiting Iceland in February will by its very nature force you to be up close and personal with that special someone. Take a long soak in the hot waters of the Blue Lagoon, go on a ‘hunting’ expedition to view the eerie Northern Lights, or sip fiery brennivin (a local spirit distilled from potatoes and flavoured with caraway seeds) while sitting under furs in an ice bar. Book into Hotel 101. Exosphere
Hermitage Bay, Antigua
Privately owned, exclusive and nestled into a secluded cove, Hermitage Bay is a real hidden gem. Surrounded by undisturbed hillsides and the brilliant blue waters of the Caribbean Sea, with the islands of Montserrat, St Kitts and Nevis forming intriguing silhouettes in the distance, this luxury all-inclusive retreat revels in its glorious location. Hermitage Bay has a true Robinson Crusoe feel combined with chic living and discreet personalised service. Tucked along the beach and hillside, the 27 individual suites are beautifully appointed with a very stylish, contemporary feel. Think swathes of dark, polished timbers and a décor of natural luxury with pristine white linens and ivory cushions. Indulgent outdoor showers and louvered shutters to capture the ocean breezes complete the idyll. Turquoise Holidays
ICEHOTEL, Lapland
Adventurous couples looking for a romantic getaway this winter can take advantage of Discover the World’s direct flight from London Heathrow to Kiruna in Swedish Lapland and a stay at the ICEHOTEL. This year’s departure dates happen to coincide with the leap year and, with proposals in mind for the ladies, the 27 February flight offers guests a glittering backdrop for that special engagement. A 1970s-inspired ice-crafted love suite adds to the romantic wow factor at the hotel this year, where couples can opt to snuggle up in double thermal sleeping bag.
Le Taha’a Island Resort & Spa, Tahiti
This hideaway on the edge of Taha’a’s turquoise lagoon is one of the most romantic retreats in French Polynesia. Known as the ‘Vanilla Island’, the lush, fertile and alluring island of Taha’a produces Tahitian vanilla so fragrant it is sought after by the best chefs around the world. Breathe in the flower’s sweet scent as your boat transfer from nearby Raiatea arrives at Le Taha’a Island Resort & Spa, tucked away on an islet named Motu Tautau in the lagoon’s outer reef. Facing the island of Taha’a with the distant silhouette of Bora Bora behind, this immaculate hideaway – a member of the Relais & Châteaux collection – is celebrated as one of the region’s most exclusive retreats. Turquoise Holidays
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