With Valentine’s Day anchoring this winter month, here are a few of the world’s romantic getaways, some near, some far, all spectacular and tailored made for two
The Brando, Tahiti
Fall in love with the South Pacific the way that Paul Gauguin and Marlon Brando did at this tranquil hideaway tucked on a private island about 30 miles from Tahiti. Villas that are scattered amid the lush landscape are designed in traditional island style with charming thatched roofs. Features like al fresco soaking tubs are designed to immerse guests in the natural setting. Similarly, the spa reflects its surroundings with Polynesian treatments, a waterfall and tea lounge. Dining on property at Michelin-starred chef Guy Martin’s outpost means a culinary romp through France and Asia.
Wentworth Mansion, Charleston, South Carolina
Wentworth Mansion is the most romantic inn in what’s arguably the most romantic city in the United States, Charleston, South Carolina. The ornate 19thcentury inn excludes Southern charm, offering a civilized afternoon wine hour and an evening sherry sampling. Rooms have whirlpool tubs and fireplaces. A worthy splurge is the Grand Mansion Suite, which has two marble fireplaces and original Tiffany windows. The inn’s restaurant, circa 1886, is a local favorite that serves modern spins on traditional Lowcountry cuisine. No wonder this property earned the #2 spot on TripAdvisor’s Best Luxury Hotel list.
Spice Island Beach Resort, Grenada
The fact that Spice Island Beach Resort is all inclusive belies its status as one of the Caribbean’s most luxurious resorts. The boutique property is nestled between lush hills and a pristine beach. It is owned by an English knight, who has infused it with a touch of unpretentious posh. All suites comes with private outdoor space, some with plunge pools. Both the restaurant and 24-hour room service deliver a menu focused on healthy, local options. Even the pool bar has a vigorous juicing program. Best of all, the impeccably trained staff delivers caring, personalized service.
L’Auberge, Sedona, Arizona
The panoramic view from this property’s guest cottages of the stunning Red Rocks that sets ablaze in a riot of gold, red and orange each afternoon, is what makes L’Auberge de Sedona a magnet for couples. The spa includes locally inspired treatments such as the Desert Sage Sugar Scrub that taps sage, yes, but also juniper and cypress from the surrounding landscape. The resort offers exquisite dining at Cress on Oak Creek, which was voted “One of the Top Ten Restaurants in the Southwest” by Condé Nast Traveler. Its wine bar, which provides tasty bites and an elevated wine list, including a formidable dessert wine selection, helped earn Wine Spectator’sAward of Excellence.
The Pierre, A Taj Hotel, New York, N.Y.
This iconic Fifth Avenue property has been welcoming visitors since the 1930s. The old world glam is still very much in evidence from plush, sophisticated rooms, many of which overlook Central Park. This grownup playhouse is home to one of Manhattan’s most beautiful dining rooms, The Rotunda, where New Yorkers head daily for high tea and supper. On weekends, the lobby bar, Two E, transforms into a jazz club and once a month welcomes performers from hit shows to perform in a series the hotel dubs “Broadway at The Pierre.”
Jamaica Inn, Ocho Rios
Jamaica Inn, tucked into a private cove in Ocho Rios, is an adult paradise (no kids allowed), but without the cheesy implications that too often comes paired with. This is a sophisticated oasis that harkens back to the glamorous days of international jet setters like Cole Porter and Marilyn Monroe, who gathered in the same piano bar and stalked the same soft white beach that guests do today. Despite its rich history, a fresh modern vibe permeates the property, especially in the unique cliff side cottages, some of which feature multiple terraces and private pools.
Shangri-La, Paris
It doesn’t get more romantic than the Eiffel Tower. Book a room with a view and you’ll feel like royalty, befitting the property, which was once owned by Napoleon’s nephew Prince Roland Bonaparte. Today, this hotel is renowned for its exceptional service that weaves through all aspects of the hotel. The serene spa includes a hammam, a majestic column-flanked tile pool and a homeopathic organic pharmacy. The signature restaurant called L’Abeille has earned two Michelin stars for its classic treatment of French favorites like fois gras terrine and sole meuniere.
Grand Hotel Tremezzo, Lake Como, Italy
Step foot inside the Grand Hotel Tremezzo and you’ll instantly understand why George Clooney calls Lake Como home. The hotel earned a spot in Best Of Europe lists in both Conde Nast Traveler andTravel & Leisureand for good reason. Italian hospitality is at its finest here, warm and inviting. Aim for a lake view guestroom, where you’ll score water views from every room, including the bath. Work off the homemade linguine