Shared experiences bring people together. Quality time makes connections even stronger. Celebrate each other at these romantic locations.
From the black beaches of Santorini to the rolling vineyards of California’s wine country, here are a few of the most romantic getaway ideas.
Santorini, Greece
With picture-perfect views in every direction, Santorini is the Greek pinnacle. Countless boutique hotels perched on cliff walls face the azure Mediterranean. Whitewashed buildings and cerulean domed churches dominate the landscape. Splurge for a suite with a plunge pool, overlooking the postcard views and mythical caldera below.
Tip: Stay in Oia, located on the quieter side of the island. While there are still cruise groups and tours passing through, it offers a far more intimate feel than busy Fira.
Maui, Hawaii
Visitors to the Aloha State are greeted with a temperate climate, stunning vistas, and the lingering scent of plumeria in the air. Couples gravitate to the luxurious Wailea, home to the island’s finest resorts. From The Four Seasons and The Fairmont to The Grand Wailea and newly built Andaz, Wailea provides an upscale environment to unwind.
Tip: Explore the islands from the air on a jaw-dropping helicopter tour that showcases the dramatic and lush Hawaiian landscape. Think Jurassic Park in real life.
Napa Valley
Known for its cabernets, Napa Valley is a wine lover’s dream just 2.5 hours from San Francisco. Stroll the countless vineyards, indulge in gourmet fare at The French Laundry, and take in Napa’s vibrant art scene. The laid-back Sonoma Valley offers visitors a less commercialized alternative, and at almost double the size of Napa, plenty of wineries to choose from. Sonoma’s Fairmont Mission Inn Resort & Spa makes for a great home base to explore the region.
Tip: The Napa Valley Wine Train is a great way to make stops at the vineyards without the use of a car, and in a more elegant (and romantic) setting than a minibus.
The Amalfi Coast
Italy defines romance. A popular destination for Italians and world travelers alike, the Amalfi Coast is romance personified. Pastel-colored buildings perch on steep cliffs over the sparkling Mediterranean ocean. Winding streets and alleys buzz with Vespas zipping past. The smell of coffee and baked goods emanate from cozy, family-run establishments.
There are myriad options for your home base, like conveniently located Sorrento (perfect for day trips to Naples and Pompeii) or the luxurious Positano (famous for its dramatic scenery and sandy beach). If you’re looking for the glam of Positano without the crowds, consider the more laid-back Ravello, a tiny village lacking direct beach access – yet luxurious accommodation options. Plus, there’s always Tuscany
French Polynesia
A mainstay on lovebird bucket lists, Bora Bora and its surrounding atolls always exceed expectations. Known for its towering Mt. Otemanu and luxurious overwater bungalows, Bora Bora is about as romantic as they come.
Travelers seeking that same experience with a slightly lower price tag often opt for the island of Moorea, with a range of resorts offering both hotel rooms and overwater bungalows – all set against a stunning tropical backdrop.
For couples who are ready to go all out, there’s The Brando – a luxurious resort located on the private Tetiaroa atoll and touted “The Most Luxurious Eco-Resort in the World” by Town & Country Magazine. The brainchild of Marlon Brando, the resort offers guests intimate access to French Polynesia and acts as a center for research and education. Sustainability is weaved through everything at The Brando, from the deep seawater air-conditioning system to the coconut oil biofuel power station. However, luxury has not been abandoned. Guests arrive by private plane, stay in individual villas on personal white sandy beach, and enjoy access to biologists and naturalist guides for one-on-one tours and educational sessions.
COMMENTS