10 Winter Honeymoon Destinations That Aren't the Beach - Brides.com

10 Winter Honeymoon Destinations That Aren't the Beach - Brides.com
The Top 50 Honeymoon Destinations for 2020 - Brides
10 of the best romantic getaways in the United States - TODAY
The Best Cyber Monday Deals for Travelers - Travel+Leisure
Put some romance back into your travels with these six destinations, from the Maldives to Ireland - Daily Mail

Posted: 02 Dec 2019 12:00 AM PST

Is there anything more romantic than the feeling of being inside a snow globe, fluffy flakes falling down around you two all bundled up in down and knit? There's something unquestionably magical about a perfect winter scene—even better if there are hot toddies, dancing fires, and ski-in/ski-out slopes within easy reach. Just as in Bora Bora or the Maldives, the perfect honeymoon for many seamlessly blends activity with pure pampering, and these 10 destinations are the winter wonderland equivalent. Just be sure to pack things to wear both outdoors in the cold and inside in the heat.

Keep scrolling for our curated list of the most romantic, wintery destinations sure to keep things hot, even as the snow falls.

Montana

From the size of the flakes to the outsized array of adventurous and laid-back activities available, Montana is a winter-lover's playground. At the über-luxe The Resort at Paws Up, there's snow tubing, dogsledding, sleigh rides, snowboarding, and even something called skijoring (a Norwegian term), which is essentially skiing while being pulled by a horse. The Ranch at Rock Creek, where lovers thaw out after long days of horseback riding, snowmobiling, and even practicing snowga (yoga in the snow), by sipping bubbly in private hot soaking tubs by the creek or having a cocktail in the bar, is another dreamy—and safe—bet.

Switzerland

What more fantastical setting than a palace to experience blanketed in snow? In Gstaad, the circa 1913 fairy tale-like Gstaad Palace gives its guests a sense of romance along with an air of austerity, fine dining, and spa options alongside thrilling nearby skiing. In Zurich, the Dolder Grand's trio of outdoor hot tubs—overlooking serene fields of snow and the lake—are the best way to experience hot and cold together. Also try ice skating, hand in hand, as the perfect precursor to dinner in their glam Michelin-starred restaurant.

Wyoming

Private suites with deep soaking tubs, fireplaces, and floor-to-ceiling windows for snow gazing make Amangani one of the most refined ways to experience a rugged winter outside Jackson Hole, with sweeping Teton views and plenty of places to ski. There's also dogsledding, fly-fishing, and private nature treks to keep you busy when not taking advantage of all that the suite has to offer. The rustic-elegant Hotel Jackson nearby isn't only poised for easy access to the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, but offers boot valet and warming services, fireplaces in every luxe room, and elk sleigh rides. To go a little more rustic, consider Old Faithful Snow Lodge & Cabins, or Mammoth Hot Springs & Cabins (with a handful of cabins boasting private hot tubs), at Yellowstone National Park, where snowcoach tours are available and cross-country skiers and snowshoers can get their fill of the Old Faithful Upper Geyser Basin.

Queenstown, New Zealand

Summer in the States doesn't mean you have to succumb to the sun. Snow-seekers can find it in Queenstown, New Zealand, where the opposite seasons allow for pristine powder-coated ski and snowboarding in what we think of as the warmest months. Known as the adventure capital of the world (it's where bungee jumping was founded), there are oodles of activities for adrenaline-fueled couples to get their fill, including glaciers to hike, but luxe digs like the intimate and window-laden Matakauri Lodge ensure all that frosty fun is balanced with equal parts TLC and luxury relaxation.

Colorado

A no-brainer of a destination, the ultimate winter wonderland state is more than just Aspen. Telluride, with its world-class, all-levels skiing, claims the iconic Dunton Hot Springs, where secluded cabins make the coziest hideaways between ski runs, hot spring soaks, and many more snowy activities, and The Hotel Telluride has packages that include champagne-paired dinners, snowmobiling trips, and wine and charcuterie in front of the fireplace. Vail has luxury resorts in the form of European-inspired The Arrabelle at Vail Square, a RockResort, and the fab ski-in/ski-out Grand Hyatt Vail where the après game is so strong it boasts a hot chocolate bar, champagne sabering, and music, year round. In Beaver Creek couples who want ultimate privacy can opt for the White Glove Winter Package, which includes first-class airfare, a private helicopter transport, and private car transfer to the luxurious Trappers Cabin, with its personal concierge, private chef, and First Tracks access that means you get first dibs on the runs before they open to the public.

Iceland

What's more wondrous than the Northern Lights? It's a rare sight to behold, and the neon spectacle is only possible in the winter, when the days are oh-so short but full of possibility. Iceland has it all, from glaciers to ice caves to lava fields to hot springs, which are that much more satisfying when the air is frigid and steam rises up, obscuring the other soakers. Come spring, The Retreat at Blue Lagoon is the best way to experience the famed waters and local cuisine (at Moss Restaurant), with suites embedded in lava flow and terraces that give access to the geothermal waters. Hygge vibes and a mega dose of adventure are available at Ion, which is the most luxe pick near the Aurora Borealis.

Sun Valley, Idaho

Snowbirds seeking short lift lines, perfectly groomed trails, and a little historic charm to boot will find it at America's first destination ski resort, Sun Valley, where the Sun Valley Inn is renovated, the dining scene is updated, and the mountains have seen a slew of enhancements. When your muscles ache from the slopes, there's the picturesque outdoor hot tub or heated pool, and a 20,000 square foot spa that will fix you right up.

Tromso, Norway

The most obvious major draw to the Arctic Circle is, of course, those magical lights of the Aurora Borealis, but there's much more adventure to be had for those couples up for getting off the beaten track. Reindeer—broth, steak—is one of the ways you'll be taken out of your comfort zone in this far-north destination that's a prime spot for experiencing the Northern Lights, though it's quite normal for the Lapp people, who are reindeer herders. The cutest part of a trip up here is at the Tromso Wilderness Center, where hundreds of huskies train for racing, and you can cuddle up with adorable pups. A dogsled ride should also be in the cards if fun is what you're after, and after a long day in the powder you can scope out that ethereal light show in the heavens we spoke about earlier from the comforts of your own bed at the Arctic Tree House Hotel.

Banff, Canada

Serious skiers know all about Banff, one of the most epic destinations for the sport in North America, and also the world. Its consistently snow-blanketed peaks are drop-dead gorgeous to boot. The best way to do it? Book a suite at the stunning Fairmont Banff Springs, surrounded by fairy-tale forests and aquamarine river valleys. The jaw-dropping resort harks back to 1888 and is a National Historic Site with 11 restaurants, 50-foot heated outdoor pool, glorious spa, palatial rooms and suites and, of course, plenty of magic-making powder.

Maine

It's not as known as Western ski resorts, but Camden, Maine, is notable for at least one pretty cool reason: It's the only place in America where skiers can gaze out over the Atlantic Ocean while skiing down the Camden Ski Bowl. The ideal place to install yourselves on your romantic getaway is in one of Camden Harbour Inn's (a Relais & Chateaux property) two Grand Suites, with in-suite saunas large enough for two, steam and rain showers, plunge tubs, and multiple fireplaces, alongside original artworks and a fine restaurant serving a drool-worthy, five-course lobster tasting menu.

The Top 50 Honeymoon Destinations for 2020 - Brides

Posted: 16 Dec 2019 12:00 AM PST

Slovenia

If you'd thought about Georgia, last year's trending destination, this year consider Slovenia, the Central European country of castles, verdant fields, snow-capped peaks, thermal springs and the continent's greenest city, Ljubljana. It's a place that's still not overburdened by tourists, meaning you'll enjoy getting to make your way through it a bit like pioneers. In 2020, Slovenia makes its debut in the Michelin Gastronomic Guide, proof of its blossoming and widespread foodie scene. In the Julian Alps, sleep at the just reopened digital detox retreat Sunrose 7, or near an organic chocolate factory overnight in the glamping units of Chocolate Village.

10 of the best romantic getaways in the United States - TODAY

Posted: 05 Jun 2019 12:00 AM PDT

You don't need a national holiday about love to justify taking a vacation with the one you love. All you need is a destination conducive to romance.

Just like there are beaches that are great for families and national parks, theme parks and more which you'll want to experience while the kids are still young, certain places are ideal for reigniting any lost sparks. From rural wine regions to subtropical islands and even the City of Brotherly Love, here are 10 unforgettable romantic getaways that don't require passports.

Hotel Domestique

Greenville is the more pastoral, less posh version of Charleston. It has southern charm, but it also has the Blue Ridge Mountains. With Falls Park on the Reedy, Downtown Greenville also boasts its own outdoor oasis. Falls Park consists of 32 acres of river, waterfalls, gardens and public art. Pack a picnic or grab a bite at nearby Passerelle Bistro, one of only two U.S. restaurants included on CNN's list of most romantic restaurants in the world. In the summer, the park hosts Moonlight Movies at dusk. On Main Street, you can enjoy free salsa dancing and free concerts every Thursday and Friday. Finally, if you dream of a staying in a luxurious French Chateau without the transatlantic flight, stay at Hotel Domestique in Travelers Rest. The inspiration behind this one-of-a-kind boutique hotel comes from one of its owners, 17-time Tour de France racer George Hincapie.

Visit Colorado

Grand Junction is to Colorado what Napa is to California. This underrated region where two impressive rivers collide (the Colorado River and the Gunnison River) is home to more than 20 wineries and vineyards. The scenery is also unrivaled. Grand Junction is bordered by Colorado National Monument — a national park with more than 20,000 acres of canyons and rock formations — and Grand Mesa — the largest flat top mountain in the world. In the winter, you can snowshoe and even downhill ski on Grand Mesa. If you're lucky, your visit will coincide with the Colorado Lavender Festival or Palisade Peach Festival. (If grapes can grow here, why not peaches?) Perhaps the most romantic accommodations in the region are at Two Rivers Winery and Chateau. At the very least you won't have to worry about finding a ride home after tasting too many Chardonnays.

Visit Fort Worth

This former frontier town, famous for its historic stockyards, is where you'll find Lockheart Gables, a B&B with heart-shaped jacuzzis in every suite. Now, one of the fastest growing cities in the country, Fort Worth is perfect for the couple who likes to feel young. For starters, there's Six Flags Over Texas, the first Six Flags and the inspiration behind today's theme park chain. Then there's the Fort Worth Zoo. Not only is it the only zoo in the country to have all four great ape species, it also specializes in weddings. Martha Stewart Weddings even featured a Fort Worth wedding reception including appearances by the zoo's more amicable reptilian and avian residents.

Trending stories,celebrity news and all the best of TODAY.

Sheraton Maui Resort

More than 100 years ago, Niagara Falls claimed to be the "honeymoon capital of the world." Today, that designation probably belongs to a place like Maui. It is to couples what Oahu is to families. In fact, in its list of the best honeymoon destinations in the world, The Knot calls Hawaii's second-largest island a "no-brainer" when it comes to romantic vacations. Not only is the tropical weather welcoming, but Maui offers some of the world's most epic, yet accessible, date ideas. Wake up early to catch a crater-top sunrise at nearly 10,000 feet in Haleakala National Park. End the day at sea level while toasting to the sunset after spending the day snorkeling along a world-class beach. Thanks to Hotel Wailea, Maui also now boasts Hawaii's No. 1 resort, according to Conde Nast Traveler readers in 2018. An adults-only property, it has a spectacular five-day "Romance Under the Stars" package.

Bespoke Inn/Virtu Honest Craft

When you're long overdue for a couples massage, head here. This enchanting Sonoran Desert oasis has more destination spas per capita than any other American city. With nearly 70 resort and day spas, wellness is available at most price points. For example, at Scottsdale's No. 1 spa, according to TripAdvisor reviews, a classic one-hour couples massage costs less than $100 per person. Of course Scottsdale is also a great base for experiencing nature together. Take a day trip to Grand Canyon National Park or make a wish on a shooting star while stargazing on an after-hours desert tour. To be within walking distance of Old Town's lively scene, stay at Bespoke Inn Scottsdale. It's the city's highest-rated B&B, or better put, B&B&B — guests can take advantage of complimentary bicycles for exploring the area during their stay.

Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia

The City of Brotherly Love celebrates all kinds of love. With its iconic LOVE statues, and even an AMOR statue, throughout the city, Philadelphia has plenty of unforgettable places to pop the question. Or at the very least, they make for great photo opps. It's also home to LOVE Park which hosts a charming, German-themed Christmas village during the holidays. Another reason Philadelphia is so great for romance? It's the country's 5th most walkable city, according to Walkscore.com, so there are plenty of opportunities to stroll hand in hand. And where else can mouths meet while sharing a world famous cheesesteak? Book a room at The Independent Hotel, a boutique property with rates starting at $139/night. The property's Out and About Package includes a donation to a local LGBT organization and a 1-hour walking tour of Philly's "Gayborhood."

Goodstone Inn & Restaurant

Even if you've never been to Virginia, you know its slogan. In 2019, the tourism board is celebrating 50 years of "Virginia is for Lovers" which was even inducted into the Madison Avenue Advertising Hall of Fame. Starting in June, take advantage of 50 consecutive days of promotions and special events statewide. Visiting the historic, riverfront city of Alexandria is a must. (It's consistently at the top of Amazon's list of most romantic cities based on sales data for romance novels, relationship books and movies.) Book a room in an oceanfront resort in Virginia Beach, the third-largest beach in the U.S. Or, stay in a quaint inn in the heart of Virginia's wine country. Goodstone Inn & Restaurant in Middleburg made USA Today's 2015 list of most romantic inns in the country. The property's award-winning French restaurant offers a selection of more than 820 wines.

Parrot Key Hotel & Villas

The Florida Keys may be the southernmost point of the continental U.S. but they're also one of the most romantic. Nearly 20% of visitors participate in a wedding or vow renewal while visiting this remote archipelago comprised of more than 1,000 islands. With so much demand, prices aren't outrageous either. Conch Concierge's "Key West Barefoot" wedding package on the beach is only $195 and includes officiant and photos. Of course, you can also just come here for a regular weekend escape. A two-night package at Parrot Key Hotel & Villas — which just underwent a $25 million renovation and made Travel + Leisure's 2019 list of Best New Hotels in the World — includes a "sip and sail sunset cruise" or tropical reef snorkel excursion.

Courtesy Everett

One of film's greatest love stories — power couple Jennifer Lopez and Alex Rodriguez are fans — takes place in this idyllic region just 100 miles north of New York City. While the resort that inspired "Dirty Dancing" (and where Elizabeth Taylor got married) is now closed, this is the perfect place to hole up in a historic inn. The renovated and well-appointed inn, The Arnold House, originally built in 1851, includes rooms in the town's former library and post office. It even has a vintage two-lane bowling alley. While autumn is when the Catskills come alive with color, a summer visit can be just as memorable. In August, Sullivan Catskills hosts the Woodstock Music Festival, celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. Another perk of escaping here? Cell service in the Catskills can be limited. There's no better place to be forced to disconnect and enjoy each other's company.

Dan Ham

With its racetrack and mineral baths, Saratoga Springs, New York makes for an exciting and relaxing time. But if your idea of getting away together involves more open space and less people, consider Saratoga, Wyoming. Saratoga, pop. 1,605, also has natural hot springs, but theirs are open 24/7. And they're free. After a relaxing soak, catch a sunset from your cabin while glamping at The Lodge & Spa at Brush Creek Ranch. For years this 30,000-acre ranch refuge has been the top-ranked resort, according to Conde Nast Traveler. And although you're in the least populated state — which is featured on The New York Times list of 52 places to visit in 2019 — your chance of running into a celebrity is quite high. This is where Reba McIntyre celebrated her wedding anniversary, and more recently, Allison WIlliams got married in front of her famous friends including Katy Perry.

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The Best Cyber Monday Deals for Travelers - Travel+Leisure

Posted: 02 Dec 2019 12:00 AM PST

Cyber Monday Travel Deals for 2019 | Travel + Leisure

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Put some romance back into your travels with these six destinations, from the Maldives to Ireland - Daily Mail

Posted: 18 Nov 2019 12:00 AM PST

Do your holidays lack romance?

Would you like a getaway with the wow factor?

Here expert Sarah Siese recommends six destinations you'll love.

Amanpuri, Phuket

The Amanpuri in Phuket, which translates as 'peaceful place'. It is situated on Phuket's west coast

Best For: Heavenly seclusion. Meaning 'peaceful place', Amanpuri feels more like a private village, where the only interruptions come from exotic birdlife and nocturnal bullfrogs.

Fall in love with: The peace, the space and privacy at Aman's flagship property, known as the mothership by 'Aman-junkies', situated on Phuket's west coast on a private headland overlooking the Andaman Sea. When quixotic hotelier Adrian Zecher fell in love with Phuket 31 years ago, it was barely on the tourist map. Three decades later, and still a word-of-mouth phenomena, the 43 villas and 40 pavilions exude all the romantic architectural grace of Siam's 17th Century capital, Ayutthaya. Feast on epicurean breakfasts, including kombucha and energising smoothies; treat yourself to Thai tea and cake; and candlelit dinner in one of five open-air pavilions specialising in Thai, Japanese and European food.

Room for romance: The peninsula is fringed with feathery casuarina trees and banana palms, and villas 25 and 26 have direct access to the beach. Many continue to cherish the 1980s villas but the millennial villas are hard to top for their handsome opulence with impressive walls of hanging foliage and black-tiled swimming pools that melt into the tropical-jungle canopy.

Romantic Moment: The couple's signature massage and the complimentary meditation sessions high on the hillside in an open-sided teakwood sala. You must also take a private boat trip to Phang Nga Bay; take your darling for a sunset hack along the adjacent beach; or simply kayak around the hidden coves of Surin or Bangtoo Bay to the sounds of crickets and the distant chug of long-tail boats.

The amazing scenery of Phang Nga Bay in Phuket, where you can take a private boat trip

Heavenly hosts: Each dreamy villa has two permanent staff who know the ropes, along with a flock of gracious staff and superb head chef Kannika Jitsangworn, who'll happily give you a cooking lesson.

Keepsake: In-house Aman Spa products, a jar of infused bath salts and the nightly pillow gifts are all keepers.

Book me in: Between December and March to break the long UK winter, from £641 room-only per night. Visit amanresorts.com.

Adare Manor, Ireland

Adare Manor in Ireland, pictured, has lashings of gargoyles and neo-Gothic heraldry

Best for: A whirlwind weekend.

Fall in love with: The dreamy views of a ruined 15th Century Franciscan friary from Adare Manor – a great Hogwarts of a hotel, with lashings of gargoyles and neo-Gothic heraldry proudly proclaiming the Dunraven family connections under the family motto 'I wish to see what lies beyond'.

It's a rare 'calendar house' adorned with 365 leaded windows, 52 ornate chimneys, seven stone pillars, and four towers to mark the annual tally of days, weeks and seasons of the year. It's also foodie heaven. Swoon over the magnificent breakfast in the Long Gallery, pop into Adare for a pub lunch, then draw romantic inspiration from the chivalric past by the flicker of candlelight in the Oak Room.

Room for romance: All 14 rooms in the original manor house are decorated with bay windows overlooking the lawns and the River Maigue.

Many of the rooms at Adare Manor look out on to the beautiful River Maigue, pictured

Romantic Moment: Pedal off on Pashley bicycles around the 840-acre estate – you'll hardly see another soul. Meet the resident birds of prey during a private falconry display, or take a quiet moment fly fishing. For a spontaneous romantic moment, climb Pugin's Staircase to the secret turret, or take a dreamy walk into the Enchanted Forest and follow the Poet's Walk where 'trees dream their long dreams and leaves whisper their secrets'.

Heavenly hosts: Natural Irish charm is mixed with polished American efficiency, so nothing is too much trouble. Today's proprietor is racehorse owner and enthusiast John McManus, who has poured his own heart and soul into the 104-bedroom property.

Keepsakes: Famous Irish lace, made in Limerick, or some Guinness.

Book me in: It's going to rain, so go in spring to put the bounce back into your step. From £319 per night. Visit adaremanor.com.

Joali, Maldives

Joali, pictured, is in the heart of the Raa Atoll and guests arrive at the tiny private island by an exciting 45-minute seaplane

Best for: Seduction – a flop-and-flirt fantasy island.

Fall in love with: Sugar-white beaches, tropical flowers and swaying palms, all surrounded by the shimmering blue waters of the Indian Ocean. It just begs you to kick back and wiggle your toes in the sand. Joali is in the heart of the Raa Atoll and the thrill of arriving at the tiny private island by an exciting 45-minute seaplane hop from Male is unadulterated seduction. Take breakfast in your villa, lunch barefoot on the beach and dine under the stars in Mediterranean-themed Bellinis, or over-water Japanese restaurant Saoke, whose exquisite traditional sushi, sashimi and black sesame ice cream is once tasted, never forgotten.

Room for romance: Almost a thousand master craftsmen have transformed exotic Dharavandhoo into a queen of resorts. All villas have an infinity pool and original artworks. Bathrooms are a complete indulgence, with a large indoor tub big enough for two and outdoor rain shower for a sensual strip and drip dry.

Romantic moment: Smooch around all day in a hammock or cool off with the fish. For a treasure-box moment, go diving at the manta ray hang out, or take a day trip on a traditional dhoni and sail off into the Maldivian sunset.

Heavenly hosts: Every villa has the service of a jadugar (Urdu for butler) who will arrange anything you want, from candlelit dining under the stars to diving trips.

Book me in: Any time you want from £1,520 per night based on two sharing a Beach Villa with pool on a B&B basis. Visit joali.com

Botswana

The desert wetland of the Okavango Delta in Botswana is full of incredible creatures

Best for: Isolation.

Fall in love with: The desert wetland of the Okavango Delta. Each year floodwaters flow all the way from Angola to create this incredible habitat for hundreds of species of animals and birds. Divide your time between the three most romantic of the Wilderness Safari Camps.

Named after a special bull elephant, Abu is set in a riverine forest near a large lagoon; Jao sits among floodplains with prolific wildlife; and King's Pool, renowned for predators and concentrations of game, overlooks an oxbow lagoon in a wildlife corridor in the Linyanti Wildlife Reserve.

Room for romance: Book a night under the Milky Way in a Star Bed at Joa or Abu, where a raised cradle for two near the elephant boma – a compound for the animals' protection – will let you drift away to the lullaby of rumbling from the herd below.

Romantic moment: At King's Pool take time out at the underground hide, followed by sundowners on the Queen Sylvia barge. Take a walk with the elephants at Abu. And at Joa, float along in a glass-bottomed two-seater canoe into the Delta for an experience you'll treasure for ever.

Heavenly Hosts: The team delights in creating moments just for the two of you, whether in the company of elephants or around a campfire.

Keepsake: A thousand photos and a bracelet made from elephant hair.

Book me in: April and May when the skies are clear and the landscapes are green. Cazloyd.com offers an eight-day safari to Botswana from £4,995pp. Visit cazloyd.com.

Santorini, Greece

Seahorse-shaped Santorini, named after Saint Irene, is famous for its whitewashed architecture

Best for: Tranquillity plus wellbeing and quality time.

Fall in love with: Seahorse-shaped Santorini, named after Saint Irene, which burst into life following the apocalyptic volcanic explosion of 1450 BC that created the largest caldera on Earth. Andronis Concept Wellness Resort near Imerovigli has the most spectacular sunsets. Its private terraces and infinity pools are the perfect haven for lovers to enjoy the vast Aegean panorama of whitewashed cliff-hugging cubist villas.

Room for romance: All 28 suites feature the whitewashed architecture of the Cyclades with just a splash of opulence and colour.

Romantic moment: Book a Couples Connect Spa treatment, a sensual ritual for the reconnection on the physical, emotional, and spiritual level. It uses three oils: rose (the flower of love), orange blossom (the flower of bliss), and jasmine (the flower of unity). Take the hiking path in front of the hotel, which connects Oia and Fira, for some impromptu Mamma Mia! magic and renew your vows in the chapel at the base of the headland.

Heavenly hosts: Greek charm personified – they will take you on a meditation-orientated hike around the caldera.

Keepsake: Sate your shopping urges in the town of Oia, with its jewellery boutiques and narrow streets.

Book me in: Between June and September Andronis hosts a Gastronomy Festival in its three restaurants – Lycabettus, Lauda and Throubi – with cuisine from world-renowned chefs. Suites from £250 per night. Visit andronisconcept.com.

Kangaroo Island, Australia

Kangaroos, koalas, wallabies, seals, penguins and goanna lizards can all be found on Kangaroo Island

Best for: A time to talk and walk.

Fall in love with: Kangaroos, koalas, wallabies, seals, penguins and goanna lizards. This is a wildlife sanctuary without fences where you can walk hand-in-hand along spectacular cliffs to the Remarkable Rocks. Dubbed Australia's Galapagos, more than a third of the island is a national park and has barely changed since explorer Matthew Flinders first stepped ashore in 1802.

Room for Romance: Named after local shipwrecks, 21 suites cantilever along the curve of the clifftop, commanding mesmerising views of the Southern Ocean. Book the Remarkable Suite with its outdoor plunge pool overlooking Hanson Bay.

Romantic Moment: Go bush-bashing through honey-myrtle and coastal velvet bushes, beachcombing between shallow reefs fringed by waters that have witnessed 88 shipwrecks, and head out with a picnic to Remarkable Rocks (huge, weather-shaped granite boulders perched on a dome) or to Seal Bay to walk within feet of the colony.

Heavenly Hosts: Attentive and on a friendly first-name basis (with supermodel looks and a passion for wildlife).

Keepsake: Leave footprints on the beach and bring home some delicious Ligurian honey (made by the only virus-free bees in the world) and a bottle of the island's Shiraz.

Book me in: Between December and February, when fur seals give birth to chocolate-brown pups. Visit abercrombiekent.co.uk

Or why not set sail on the seven seas? Six cruises that are sure to make your heart sing

1. Greek Isles

The sleek, four-masted superyacht Wind Star, which has acres of white sails and gorgeous teak decks

Sleek, four-masted superyacht Wind Star has acres of white sails and gorgeous teak decks, perfect for gazing at the horizon with the breeze in your hair.

As she cuts through the waves at 16 knots in full sail, you'll half-expect the theme from The Onedin Line to strike up.

Choose a cruise through the Greek Islands to watch the legendary sunset over Santorini, see the iconic windmills of Mykonos and dine by moonlight with a backdrop of the magnificent facade of the 2nd Century Celsus Library at Ephesus to the tunes of a trio from the Aegean Chamber Orchestra.

Book it: One-week Treasures Of The Greek Isles cruises aboard Wind Star sail round-trip from Athens from May to October 2020. Cruise-only prices start at £4,000pp. Visit windstarcruises.com.

2. Cruise along the Seine

The gorgeous new Spirit of Discovery, which has the ambience of a boutique hotel

Sail up the Seine, where few ships can follow, to spend Valentine's Day in France.

Gorgeous new Spirit of Discovery, with its ambience of a boutique hotel, will dock in Rouen for two nights. Explore the charming medieval centre and dine à deux in a cosy bistro.

Or, take a side trip to Paris for a day strolling hand-in-hand around the City of Love.

Book it: A four-night, no-fly Rendezvous in Rouen cruise departs from Southampton on February 12, 2020. The cost, from £989pp, includes chauffeur service from home to ship (up to 250 miles), tips and travel insurance. Visit travel.saga.co.uk/cruises

3. Caribbean dream

Smart motor yacht SeaDream I, with just 56 cabins, sails from Puerto Rico, pictured, to St Thomas

With a starry sky above and the rhythm of the waves below, you'll feel like the only two people in the world tucked up at the top of a SeaDream yacht.

Extra-special touches for your romantic nights on the Caribbean sea are rose petals strewn on your vast bed's fine Belgian linen and flutes of chilled champagne.

Book it: Smart motor yacht SeaDream I, with just 56 cabins, sails from Puerto Rico to St Thomas for seven nights on December 21, sneaking into small harbours and quiet coves. All-inclusive fares start at £2,180pp – flights are extra. Visit seadream.com.

4. Ultimate privacy

Even big ships can deliver intimate experiences. Enjoy the privacy of your own brightly painted bungalow in the adults-only sanctuary on Princess Cays on a day in the Bahamas.

On board, order Ultimate Balcony Dining, a special room service, with cocktails, champagne, flowers, four-course dinner including lobster and a professional photo as a memento. On another night, snuggle up under tartan rugs with a tub of popcorn watching Movies Under the Stars on deck.

Book it: Nine nights in a balcony cabin aboard Coral Princess costs from £1,199pp. The Southern Caribbean Voyager cruise departs on February 15, 2020, round-trip from Fort Lauderdale. Flights are extra. Visit princess.com.

5. Seychelles sailing

You can sail the sparkling, gin-clear waters of the Seychelles aboard ultra-luxurious and super-stylish motor yacht Crystal Esprit

Treat yourselves to a voyage to the ocean bed in a glass-walled submarine just for two (plus expert pilot). This is just one of the unforgettable moments on a cruise in the sparkling, gin-clear waters of the Seychelles aboard ultra-luxurious and super-stylish motor yacht Crystal Esprit.

Snorkel, jet-ski and kayak from the yacht's marina, land on sweeping palm-fringed beaches of soft white sand framed by lush, emerald mountains.

Book it: Seven-night cruises aboard 31-suite Crystal Esprit in the Seychelles depart throughout January and February 2021. All-inclusive fares, from £4,958pp, include overseas transfers but not flights.

6. Sheer bliss

You can book a spacious suite in the Haven, an exclusive enclave at the top of the Norwegian Bliss (pictured)

Revel in the romance of the wilderness and be mesmerised by the beauty of icebergs and glaciers as you sail on swish resort ship Norwegian Bliss.

Book a spacious suite in the Haven, an exclusive enclave at the top of the ship, so you can enjoy big-ship features – such as the quarter-mile promenade deck, a fantastic choice of restaurants and bars, and full-production shows in the theatre – then retreat to your private sanctuary.

The Haven has its own restaurant, lounge, pool and sundeck. And your butler will ensure you get a reservation for a blissful couples Swedish massage and bathing ritual in the Mandara spa.

Book it: Norwegian Bliss sails on seven-night Awe Of Alaska cruises round-trip from Seattle, May to October 2020. Cruise-only fares start at £3,056pp for suites in The Haven. Visit ncl.com

By Caroline Hendrie

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