The essential ingredients for a romantic getaway? Privacy, comfort and beautiful surroundings — whether it’s a hidden corner of a stylish city or a secluded beach.
Nebesa Soca Valley, Slovenia
Nebesa means “heaven” in Slovenian, which is an apt name for this quartet of simple chalets for two, perched high on a remote plateau. The silence is absolute, the views staggering (snow-capped mountains in one direction, the distant Adriatic in the other) and your only neighbours are the wild red deer that occasionally wander past. Stroll through the meadows before unwinding in the sauna.
Livek, Kobarid. From £165 for two including breakfast.
Casita La Laguna Costa de la Luz, Spain
You’ll have only the ocean and the stars for company at this little hideaway for two, tucked amid sand dunes and pine trees to the north of Tarifa. The rustic-chic interior has a wood-burner to keep things snug; outside there’s a terrace overlooking the Straits of Morocco and a tiny footpath leads down to a small pebble beach which you’ll have to yourselves for much of the year.
Paloma Baja, Tarifa, Andalucia, Spain . From £76 per night for two, self-catering.
Ion Hotel near Thingvellir National Park, Iceland
Few things are more romantic than watching the Northern Lights dance overhead, particularly when you’re surrounded by the moss-covered lava fields and soaring peaks of the Icelandic wilderness. Set on stilts at the foot of Mount Hengill, the striking Ion Hotel offers a heady blend of pampering and adventure. Journey to the Golden Circle to watch geysers erupt, dive in the icy waters of the Silfra Rift or unwind with a massage in the spa.
Nesjavellir vid Thingvallavatn, Selfoss, Iceland. Doubles from £180 room only.
Cartshed Cottages North Norfolk, UK
Slip away to this cluster of self-catering cottages in the grounds of a Jacobean manor house near the North Norfolk coast. They were rescued from ruin by their interior-designer owner, and all the essentials for romance are in place — roll-top tubs, wood-burners, four-poster beds, scented candles. A bottle of wine will even be waiting on arrival.
Sharrington, Norfolk. Cottages for two from £121 per night, self-catering.
CimaRosa Venice, Italy
Venice is unfailingly romantic — and unfailingly busy. Escape the crowds at this chic B&B, hidden in the largely residential quarter of Santa Croce. These restored 15th-century palazzo houses have five beautiful rooms with mullioned windows, ancient beams and a soothing blend of misty blues and cool lagoon greys; three overlook the Grand Canal. The owners will introduce you to secret gardens, neighbourhood restaurants and the best gelaterie.
Venice, Italy. Doubles from £145 including breakfast.
Pylaia Hotel Astypalaia, Greece
It’s a bit of a trek to reach remote, rugged Astypalaia but that only adds to the appeal of this unspoilt Greek island. Built into the cliffs just outside the small town of Chora is the Pylaia Hotel, whose dazzling white walls frame views of the azure sea. The restaurant spills onto candlelit terraces perched above the water. There are twin pools and a small spa, while hilltop castles and pristine beaches can be found nearby.
Chora, Astypalaia, Greece. Doubles from £73 including breakfast.
Château la Thuilière Dordogne, France
This sumptuous 19th-century château has something of a fairytale air. It’s set in Dordogne parkland, with a pool and terrace overlooking pea-green lawns. The interior is just as romantic, and the seven guest rooms mix marble fireplaces and gilt mirrors with classic pieces by the likes of Ludwig Mies van de Rohe. Welcoming hosts Eduard and Jordi will point you in the direction of markets, vineyards and more, before serving delicious five-course dinners.
Saint Front-de-Pradoux, Dordogne, France. Doubles from £115, room-only.
Boutique Houseboat Berlin, Germany
There’s something special about staying in a private bolthole in one of Europe’s busiest capitals. Moored on a serene inlet of the River Spree, this floating retreat is 30 minutes from central Berlin yet it feels wonderfully tranquil. The interior is sleek and stylish, with comfy seating, polished concrete and floor-to-ceiling windows. Start your day with coffee on the deck as swans glide past; end it with a glass of wine by the wood-burner as the city lights sparkle.
Lichtenberg, Berlin, Germany. Rental from £160 per night for two, self-catering.
To book any of the properties featured, visit i-escape.com
Trending
1
2
3
4
5
