A romantic hotel is for life, not just for Valentine’s Day, but with 14 February just around the corner we couldn’t resist the opportunity to showcase some of the world’s most romantic hotels. So, if you’re looking to whisk your loved one away for a last-minute break – or to book something à deux for a little later in the year – give our team of experts a call on 0203 535 9290.
It was a journalist from Vogue who described Perivolas on Santorini as “the most romantic place I have ever seen.” They certainly weren’t wrong. Once the homes and workplaces of the Greek island’s fishermen and farmers, this group of 300-year-old caves has been transformed into a totally unique five-star complex of 20 private houses set in their very own Garden of Eden. The jewel in the crown is the stunning Perivolas Suite featuring a spacious living area in a grotto-like setting, enhanced by a steam bath and a relaxing pool. Perched on the cliffs high above the Aegean Sea, this intimate oasis, complete with a sublime infinity pool that flows over the edge of the cliff into the horizon, is the perfect escape for the romantically inclined.
Ever since the 2nd Duke of Buckingham built the property for his mistress, the Countess of Shrewsbury, it’s been clear that Cliveden House was destined to be a romantic retreat of choice. Explore over 376 acres that surround this Grade I listed mansion with your loved one, marvel at the romantic views and enjoy a stroll by the Fountain of Love or along the River Thames. Later you can toast your future with a dinner for two in the chandeliered Dining Room, followed by cocktails in the Library Bar, before retiring to one of the hotel’s 48 glorious suites.
Known as the Venice of the North, Udaipur is the embodiment of romance and royalty. Offering the ultimate combination of both is the white-marble Taj Lake Palace. Built in 1746 by Maharana Jagat Singh II, it floats like a giant lotus flower on the waters of Lake Pichola, enjoying 360-degree views of the city and the majestic Aravalli mountains. After ambling around four acres of graceful courtyards, pavilions and gardens, let your personal butler, a descendant of one of the original palace retainers, draw you a rose petal bath. Then what better way to end the day than by sailing into the sunset on board the hotel’s legendary 150-year-old Royal Gangaur boat complete with candlelight and beautifully dressed oarsmen?
Located in the heart of the City of Love, and originally the private residence of Prince Roland Bonaparte, the Shangri-La Paris offers guests a choice of 81 bedrooms and suites, the most sought after of which have large rooftop terraces with spectacular views of the Eiffel Tower. The exquisite glass cupola and Murano chandelier meanwhile reflect the elegance of the meals prepared by Executive Chef Quentin Testart at La Bauhinia restaurant. On the other hand, you could savour the Cantonese cuisine at the renowned Shang Palace which in 2012 become the only Chinese restaurant in France to be awarded a Michelin star. This stunning property’s five-star facilities also include Chi, The Spa, a haven of peace, enchantment and well-being.
A 15th century palazzo dripping with precious fabrics, antiques and art, The Gritti Palace enjoys one of the most romantic and enthralling views of the lagoon city, from the island of San Giorgio Maggiore past landmarks Punta della Dogana and Santa Maria della Salute Basilica to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection. The accommodation is spearheaded by eight Grand Canal-view suites, all named after patrons of art and literature. The Club del Doge Restaurant has one of the most beautiful dining rooms in the city and is part of the cultural and social fabric of Venice. All in all, what’s not to love?
