Nkwichi Lodge, Mozambique
Spend a magical evening sleeping beneath the stars with Nkwichi Lodge’s newly launched Star Bed package. Situated on a private beach overlooking the picturesque Lake Malawi and accessed only by boat from the hotel, the king-size bed for two offers undisturbed views of the African sky with nothing but the sound of the waves to disturb you.
Grace, Santorini
Enjoy one of Greece’s most picturesque views from the luxury of your own private villa at the Grace Hotel in Santorini. Admire the whitewashed buildings and blue-domed churches of the island from your own terrace and pool area, let your private chef take care of dinner and ask your PA to organise a couple’s massage in your very own spa – anything is possible.
Hotel Wailea, Hawaii
The adults-only Hotel Wailea in Maui is one of the most intimate properties in Hawaii, with 72 suites set in 15 acres of tropical gardens. Not only are rooms huge – with separate sleeping and living areas, and a kitchenette – but you also have your own sprawling private lanais (a traditional Hawaiian terrace) with chaise lounges and chairs, accompanied by views across all three islands.
Belmond Hotel Cipriani, Venice
The attraction of the Belmond Hotel Cipriani in Venice lies chiefly in its location: tucked away from the crowds of San Marco on Giudecca Island, it can only be reached by a rather glamorous boat ride across the lagoon. This was certainly one of the reasons that George Clooney chose it for one of the locations for his 2014 wedding – that and the incredible suites, which each feature a private dock, plunge pool and 180-degree views of the city.
Rosewood Mayakoba, Mexico
Private plunge pool? Check. Boat dock? Check. Butler contactable by smartphone? Check. The Rosewood Mayakoba takes a more-is-more approach to amenities, with just about every one we can think of available at its luxurious Casa Laguna villa. Located deep within the 1,600-acre resort, the residence is surrounded by verdant jungle and pristine beaches, with nothing to disturb you except the sound of birdsong.
Jamaica Inn, Jamaica
Jamaica Inn has charmed couples since it opened in the 1950s – including Marilyn Monroe and Arthur Miller, who chose this peaceful hotel for their honeymoon. Each of its 52 suites and cottages has incredible views of the Caribbean Sea, not to mention direct access to the beach and a private plunge pool. The best bit? There’s not a clock in sight – or a television – making this the perfect escape from the modern world.
One & Only Reethi Rah, Maldives
Picture this: you’re sunbathing on the deck of your own private villa, raised on stilts over the Indian Ocean, surrounded by nothing but turquoise waters and white beaches as far as the eye can see; your private valet is on hand to drive you to dinner, or maybe he’ll organise for an alfresco meal to be served right here in-villa. Need we say anymore? For more information visit the One & Only Reethi Rah’s website here.
Jade Mountain, St Lucia
It’s no surprise that Jade Mountain, St Lucia’s most breathtaking resort, is owned by an architect. Set into the mountains above the beachfront, the hotel seems to be part of the landscape itself, with its three-walled bedrooms left open to the elements. Bridges lead to secret infinity pools and rugged stone-faced columns stretch up into the sky, with the resort’s lush fauna and flora completing the picture of paradise.
Taj Lake Palace Hotel, India
It’s hard not to be enchanted by the Taj Lake Palace Hotel. Emerging from middle of India’s famous Lake Pichola, the majestic building evokes the beautiful palaces nearby, with its white domes, marble columns and open courtyards. If that wasn’t romantic enough for you, take further advantage of the scenery with a candlelit cruise, where liveried staff will serve you champagne on a traditional 150-year-old boat as the sun sets.
Four Seasons Florence, Italy
Staying at the Royal Suite in the Four Seasons Florence is a feast for the eyes; every room boasts vaulted ceilings adorned with art, beautiful frescoes and stuccos and an original ceramic floor, with incredible views of the gardens. After all, it’s only fitting to somewhere beautiful while visiting such a picturesque city?
