See more: Top 10 destinations for a luxury winter sun holiday
Best for: Tropical island getaway
Laucala Island, Fiji Set in the South Pacific’s Fijian archipelago, Laucala Island is a private tropical paradise and ecological Garden of Eden. Combining a unique commitment to the environment with unparalleled levels of luxury, true indulgence is appreciated in the privacy of the resort’s 25 villas as well as the freedom to experience a variety of activities. From the wide variety of watersports and boat trips to playing golf on the 18-hole championship golf course, rainforest walking tours and farm visits to horseback riding on one of the resort’s eight Fijian horses, there really is something for every couple. Laucala Island is 85% self-sustainable and prides itself on an integral philosophy, incorporating elements of the entire island into each guest’s experience, from island-made spa products to cuisine derived from indigenous plants, fruit and aquatic life. Hemmed by lagoons and coral reefs, the island of Laucala epitomises the peaceful serenity for which the Fijian archipelago is famed. The island has its own private air strip and offers a level of seclusion and security unmatched in the South Sea Islands. Laucala Island, laucala.com (opens in new tab)
Best for: A Robinson Crusoe fantasy
MY Vittaveli by Jumeirah Vittaveli, Maldives New for 2020, Jumeirah Vittaveli, Maldives, launches MY Vittaveli – the ideal accommodation option for a couple looking to live their Robinson Crusoe fantasy. Boasting four meticulously designed bedrooms (a master cabin, VIP cabin and two twin cabins), the 85ft Azimut superyacht can accommodate up to eight guests for overnight stays. MY Vittaveli’s three decks comprise of a beautifully crafted lounge, open air dining area, multiple swim platforms and an outdoor jacuzzi. On board MY Vittaveli, couples may enjoy a 24 hour personal butler, experience four hours of daily sailing, explore private sandbanks and uninhabited islands, snorkel with Manta Rays and indulge in beach BBQs. MY Vittaveli is available to guests from $25,000 per night. MY Vittaveli,jumeirah.com (opens in new tab)
Best for:Wild luxury adventure
Serengeti Bushtops, Tanzania Guests can enjoy the feeling of the whole world being just for them with a secluded stay in a private safari tent at Serengeti Bushtops. This addictive combination of wild Africa and luxurious opulence sees guests return from game drives in search of Africa’s incredible wildlife, to find the tent’s private hot tub drawn and ready to be enjoyed with a glass of Champagne. Hot air balloon safaris are on offer at the camp, offering couples the chance to observe the vast Serengeti from the skies. For the more adventurous romantics, walking safaris are also available; supervised by a qualified armed Tanapa (Tanzania National Parks) ranger, couples will be able to safely approach herds of impala, zebra and giraffe, leaving them with lasting memories to take home. Guests can further the romance at the end of the day with an intimate meal next to the glowing campfire, while enjoying the hot sun sinking over the Serengeti. Serengeti Bushtops,bushtopscamps.com (opens in new tab)
Best for: Escape to the bush
Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve, South Africa It’s hard to think of anywhere more escapist from the stresses of everyday life than a romantic break in the South African bush, on a safari at Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve which this year celebrates its 40th anniversary. Wake up to just the sounds of nature in a gorgeous suite at Earth Lodge, inspired by the textures and colours of the environment. Head out on an early morning game drive to witness the incredible wildlife which calls the Bush home, from the largest of elephants to the smallest of insects. Return for a relaxed breakfast with far-reaching views over the watering hole, before a dip in the suite’s private pool or a couple’s massage in Earth Lodge’s Amani Spa. Come evening, head out on a sunset game drive, stopping off for a traditional sundowner best enjoyed with a glass of South African wine from an undiscovered producer or with a chilled G&T with local botanicals. Private dining may be arranged upon return for couple’s to relive their memories of the day, with dinner at a different spot each evening such as to the crackle of the fire in the Boma, or in Earth Lodge’s extensive underground wine cellar. Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve,sabisabi.com (opens in new tab) See:The i-escape 2020 Hotel Awards: The top places to stay on your next getaway
Best for: Skiing
Place Blanche 2, Verbier by Leo Trippi Place Blanche 2 is perfect for couples who want to be part of the slope action. Just steps away from the Medran piste and lift station, this chic apartment is conveniently located close to all the shops, bars and restaurants that Verbier has to offer. Curl up in front of the fire together in the open plan living area or enjoy the inspiring mountain views from the south-facing terrace. The bedrooms are beautifully furnished but we particularly love the en-suite bathrooms. With an innovative glass roof in one bathroom, enjoy a spot of stargazing whilst you relax in the free-standing tub. Place Blanche 2 comes fully serviced with a 24-hour in-resort chauffeur service, private chef and host. Leo Trippi,leotrippi.com (opens in new tab)
Best for: Romantic city break
Hotel Schweizerhof Bern Hotel Schweizerhof Bern’s ‘Be My Valentine’ offer provides couples with a romantic experience and luxurious short break in the heart of Switzerland’s capital city. The beautiful medieval city of Bern with its many fountains, sandstone facades, narrow streets and historic towers is unique and the ideal destination for inquisitive couples looking to explore. The old town boasts one of the longest weather-sheltered shopping promenades in Europe, which is a must-see along with the Clock Tower (Zytglogge), Parliament Building and BearPark. An elevated Rose Garden above the Bear Park and The Hotel Schweizerhof’s own elegant Sky Terrace also offers some of the best panoramic views over the city and old town, around which the River Aare flows. Included in the indulgent package is gold massage oil: Royal Luxury (24 Karat Gold, 12ml), Schweizerhof breakfast which may be served in-room, an exquisite 3-course dinner served in the legendary Jack’s Brasserie and free entry to the Spa with its pamper pool, hammam, Finnish sauna (with cold pool and ice fountain), experience showers a relaxation room with soothing water beds, five treatment rooms and a fully equipped gym with the latest cardio and weight machines. Schweizerhof Bern,schweizerhof-bern.ch (opens in new tab)
Best for: Swiss spa retreat
Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne This Valentine’s Day, celebrate love’s joy and sweetness in the fresh Alpine air, high above the glittering waters of Lake Lucerne, feeling like the only two people in the world. The legendary mountain-top Bürgenstock Resort has prepared a number of exciting ways for couples to create special memories together. From being pampered in the luxurious Waldhotel spa with special indulgent packages for both him and her, to dining en amoureux in one of the resort’s ten award-winning restaurants, lounges and bars, with five delicious Valentine’s Day menus including a traditional Swiss fondue. Couples will come together in an unforgettable way as they enjoy the breathtaking view, clean mountain air and beautiful warm sunshine, and where better to revel in romance than the location of Audrey Hepburn’s wedding to Mel Ferrer in 1954. Bürgenstock Resort,buergenstock.ch (opens in new tab)
Best for: Voyage under the stars
SeaDream Yacht Club SeaDream Yacht Club, one of the most romantic cruise lines in the world, offers seven-night voyages to the dreamiest destinations in the Caribbean and Mediterranean. With a maximum of 112 guests, SeaDream I and II offer the most personalised and luxurious escape at sea for couples. Guests feel as if they have embarked on their own private getaway while enjoying the mega-yachts’ casual splendour and outstanding cuisine. Sleep under the stars in a signature platform Balinese bed, enjoy a beautifully prepared Champagne breakfast as the sun rises and soak up the unobstructed views of the most romantic places on the planet SeaDream, seadream.com (opens in new tab)
