Top Romantic Hotels and Resorts Across the Globe as Selected by Our Readers in 2018

Ladera Resort — Soufrière, St. Lucia

This island sanctuary is distinguished by its open-walled accommodations, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in breathtaking views of the beautiful Caribbean landscape while still enjoying a sense of privacy, thanks to Ladera’s hillside positioning.

Cap Maison — Gros Islet, St. Lucia

The all-inclusive Cap Maison, featuring 49 hacienda-style rooms, caters to every couple's desires, whether you and your partner want to relax in the spa or partake in the lively street celebrations that take place on Friday nights.

Belmond Castello di Casole — Casole d'Elsa, Italy

Nestled within 4,200 acres of the stunning Tuscan landscape, Belmond Castello di Casole is built around a meticulously restored 10th-century castle, showcasing historical elements like wooden beam ceilings and Etruscan relics unearthed on the premises. For those who love the outdoors, a particularly special offering is the chance to go truffle hunting right on the property.

Amandari — Ubud, Bali, Indonesia

Nestled just outside Ubud’s bustling center, the opulent Amandari whisks guests away to a serene retreat high on the hills overlooking the Ayung River gorge. Designed to resemble traditional village homes, the suites offer complete privacy for couples seeking tranquility while immersing themselves in authentic Balinese culture.

Badrutt’s Palace Hotel — St. Moritz, Switzerland

Straight out of a Swiss fairytale, Badrutt’s Palace Hotel has been a gathering spot for the elite since 1896. Glamorous couples can experience its charm through the famous afternoon tea and indulgent spa treatments, featuring a stunning pool with expansive windows that showcase breathtaking mountain views.

Surf & Sand Resort — Laguna Beach, California

The Mediterranean-inspired Surf & Sand Resort in Laguna Beach embodies the relaxed sophistication that the Orange County area is known for. With an oceanfront pool and close proximity to Bluebird Beach, it’s a favored spot for couples eager to enjoy water sports at a moment’s notice.

Calistoga Ranch, an Auberge Resort — Calistoga, California

Nature lovers are drawn to this enchanting retreat, where 50 luxurious cottages are nestled across 157 acres adorned with oak trees and babbling streams. At Calistoga Ranch, couples can find their bliss, whether it’s zip-lining through towering redwoods, cycling through scenic vineyards, or practicing yoga in the great outdoors.

The Setai — Miami Beach, Florida

Soaring 40 stories above South Beach, The Setai forgoes the area’s typical vibrant Art Deco style for a more tranquil, Asian-inspired ambiance. While the bustling nightlife is just steps away, couples can also choose to unwind in the property’s serene spa oasis.

The Ritz, Paris — Paris, France

Since its debut in 1898, this iconic establishment embodies the essence of Parisian sophistication — and not just because Coco Chanel made it her home. With its lavish Belle Époque furnishings throughout the rooms and common areas, alongside the legendary Hemingway Bar, the prestigious Ritz Paris delights couples seeking a truly extravagant escape.

Shangri-La Hotel, Paris — Paris, France

Much of the charm of this property stems from its rich history: it was once the residence of Napoleon Bonaparte’s grandnephew. Now beautifully restored to its former splendor, the Shangri-La Hotel, Paris features 81 luxuriously adorned rooms and suites, many offering stunning views of the Eiffel Tower or private balconies — often both.

Katikies Hotel — Santorini, Greece

Nestled between the azure waters of the Aegean Sea and the gleaming white structures that house 27 rooms and suites, the five-star Katikies embodies the enchanting atmosphere that attracts countless couples to the idyllic Oia.

Koa Kea Hotel & Resort — Kaua'i, Hawaii

In a landscape filled with sprawling mega-resorts, the lively 121-room Koa Kea offers a more intimate experience, placing couples in close proximity to stunning beaches and surf.

La Residence — Franschhoek, South Africa

This charming boutique hotel features 11 elegantly appointed suites. Nestled in the scenic Western Cape winelands, La Residence is perfectly situated for couples eager to explore the region's renowned restaurants and vineyards, making it a wonderful choice for culinary enthusiasts.

The Oberoi, New Delhi — New Delhi, India

A gem in the heart of the bustling city, The Oberoi captivates couples with its impeccable white-gloved service, elegant decor, and convenient access to Delhi’s rich cultural offerings.

Zoëtry Paraiso de la Bonita — Puerto Morelos, Mexico

For couples focused on wellness, Zoëtry Paraiso de la Bonita offers a comprehensive holistic experience. The award-winning spa provides unique treatments such as thalassotherapy, which uses warm seawater, seaweed, and marine mud, along with a temazcal ceremony — a traditional local ritual believed to detoxify and rejuvenate.

Huka Lodge — Taupo, New Zealand

Spanning 17 acres of beautifully manicured gardens alongside the breathtaking Waikato River, Huka Lodge provides a serene escape for couples. Once they arrive, guests can engage in a variety of activities, including horseback riding, hiking, white-water rafting, and bungee jumping.

Southern Ocean Lodge — Kangaroo Island, South Australia, Australia

An exquisite eco-retreat in Australia, Southern Ocean Lodge immerses guests in the breathtaking wilderness. Couples can encounter diverse wildlife, such as koalas and other marsupials, through options like self-guided walks or private tours to nearby Seal Bay.

Post Ranch Inn — Big Sur, California

Perched 1,200 feet above the Pacific Ocean, the Post Ranch Inn is renowned for its breathtaking views. Each of the 39 rooms offers a serene escape, but for the ultimate romantic experience, consider booking one of the modern treehouses that elevate you nine feet above the forest floor.

One&Only Palmilla — Los Cabos, Mexico

Featuring deep soaking tubs, outdoor daybeds, and breathtaking views of the Sea of Cortez, the rooms and suites at the legendary One&Only Palmilla are perfect for couples eager to unwind and reconnect.

Farmhouse Inn — Forestville, California

This charming cluster of small yellow buildings surrounded by gardens feels like its own little village. While there are numerous independent wineries to discover in the nearby Russian River Valley — with private tours arranged by the concierge — couples can indulge in the world-class spa and Michelin-starred dining right at the Farmhouse Inn.

Jade Mountain — Soufrière, St. Lucia

Among the stunning resorts that the island has to offer, Jade Mountain stands out with its expansive suites that feature breathtaking views and private infinity pools, making it a remarkable choice for couples.

The Mulia Bali — Bali, Indonesia

Couples may hesitate to leave the tranquil luxury of their modern suites at The Mulia, which overlook either lush gardens or sweeping beaches, if it weren't for the enticing spa and pools available at this beautiful resort.

Timber Cove Resort — Jenner, California

The revamped Timber Cove, which completed a significant renovation in 2016, seamlessly combines the charm of Sonoma wine country with the rugged beauty of the California coastline. In addition to delightful dining and drinking options, couples can partake in leisurely hikes, kayaking adventures, and breathtaking stargazing.

The Lowell — New York, New York

Just a few blocks from Central Park, The Lowell serves as an ideal retreat for couples eager to discover New York’s elegant Upper East Side. With seventy uniquely designed rooms, each features thoughtful details like wood-burning fireplaces and luxurious raw-silk drapes.

Villa Cora — Florence, Italy

Surrounded by lush gardens and adorned with exquisite frescoes and stunning chandeliers, the opulent Villa Cora offers a glimpse into traditional Italian luxury. Couples visiting in the spring and summer should take advantage of the spacious pool for delightful alfresco cocktails.

Nizuc Resort & Spa — Cancún, Mexico

Couples with a passion for cuisine will love the seven restaurants at Nizuc Resort & Spa, while those seeking relaxation can indulge in signature spa treatments inspired by ancient Mayan traditions.

Hotel Du Cap-Eden-Roc — Cap d'Antibes, France

A renowned choice among Cote d’Azur retreats, the historic Hotel Du Cap-Eden-Roc, established 147 years ago, provides a tranquil haven for couples seeking relaxation on the French Riviera.

Ventana Big Sur, An Alila Resort — Big Sur, California

Nestled on over 200 acres of lush hillside near the famed Highway 1, the adults-only Ventana Big Sur offers couples an immersive nature experience. No matter the choice—be it a stylish room with a wood-burning fireplace or a bespoke luxury glamping site—they're bound to enjoy their stay.

Six Senses Yao Noi — Yao Noi, Thailand

At the wellness-centric Six Senses Yao Noi, located about 45 minutes from Phuket, couples can immerse themselves in the lush jungle or bask in the sun on pristine beaches.

La Réserve Paris Hotel, Spa & Apartments — Paris, France

This elegant gem boasts 26 luxurious suites and 14 opulent rooms, all adorned with silk wallpaper, velvet drapes, and marble bathrooms. Situated just off the Champs-Elysées, La Réserve offers couples easy access to iconic attractions like the Grand Palais and Tuileries, perfect for a romantic exploration of Paris.

Palazzo Avino — Ravello, Italy

Adorned with exquisite furniture and antiques spanning the 17th to 19th centuries, the lavish Palazzo Avino makes guests feel like royalty. Couples seeking romance should not miss the rooftop solarium at sunset and the chance to indulge in a special chef's table experience at the restaurant.

Hotel Caesar Augustus — Capri, Italy

The Hotel Caesar Augustus, with its rich history as a private residence and cultural hotspot for Italy’s elite, infuses its 55 rooms and suites with an air of sophisticated charm.

Lodge at Edgewood Tahoe — Lake Tahoe, California

At the enchanting Edgewood Tahoe, couples can enjoy intimate moments by the outdoor firepits or indulge in the delightful nightly s’mores hour, creating a whimsical atmosphere throughout the 154-room property.

Canaves Oia, Santorini — Santorini, Greece

Oia is already a romantic haven with its iconic white-washed buildings and azure waters, but the Canaves takes the experience to another level. Nestled within a 17th-century cave complex, it offers guests private plunge pools and extraordinary adventures like helicopter tours.

The Resort at Pedregal — Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Boasting a stunning tunnel entrance carved into a mountain and a cozy oceanfront spa, the exclusive Resort at Pedregal epitomizes luxury and intimacy.

Hotel Wailea — Maui, Hawaii

Spread across 15 acres, Hotel Wailea features seventy-two elegantly designed one-bedroom suites, ensuring privacy for couples at this adults-only haven. A distinctive touch: guests can enjoy rides in Tesla Model X house cars to discover the local area.

Las Ventanas al Paraíso, A Rosewood Resort — San José del Cabo, Mexico

With a dedicated romance director who orchestrates unforgettable experiences (like composing love letters for guests' partners) and a personal butler assigned to each suite, the team at Las Ventanas al Paraíso ensures that couples can focus solely on each other.

Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora — Bora Bora, French Polynesia

With breathtaking landscapes and private overwater bungalows, Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora creates an enchanting atmosphere that remains a favorite among honeymooners.

Tensing Pen — Negril, Jamaica

Nestled on one of the Caribbean's most sought-after islands, Tensing Pen presents couples with a variety of accommodations, including rooms, suites, and villas in delightful thatched-roof designs, complemented by relaxing facials and other spa treatments.

Il San Pietro di Positano — Positano, Italy

Renowned for its romantic ambiance, the exquisite Il San Pietro di Positano elevates the experience with its secluded location, lavishly decorated rooms, and a cliffside terrace that provides a perfect view of the sun setting over the Mediterranean Sea.

Viceroy Riviera Maya — Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Nestled in the charming village of Playa Xcalacoco, the Viceroy Riviera Maya offers a cozy atmosphere with its all-villa accommodations. Couples can immerse themselves in the jungle, relax on nearby beaches, or indulge in a variety of wellness services, featuring yoga and spa treatments rooted in Mayan traditions.

The Wickaninnish Inn — Tofino, British Columbia, Canada

Set amid majestic pines, this Vancouver Island gem harmoniously combines the charm of a mountain lodge with the sophistication of a luxury spa. Each of the 75 rooms and suites at The Wickaninnish Inn, many featuring a cozy gas fireplace, offers stunning sea views.

Frangipani Beach Resort — Meads Bay, Anguilla

With its breathtaking white-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, Frangipani is perfect for both adventurous couples eager to dive into a variety of water sports and those looking to relax and unwind.

Sheen Falls Lodge — Co. Kerry, Ireland

Sheen Falls Lodge embodies the allure of a classic Irish manor, placing couples near stunning countryside, beautiful coastlines, and quaint towns ripe for exploration. However, the lodge itself offers plenty, featuring a top-notch restaurant and activities such as horseback riding and falconry.

Six Senses Douro Valley — Lamego, Portugal

Housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century manor within a renowned wine region, Six Senses Douro Valley invites couples to savor local dishes sourced from its on-site organic garden and to indulge in spa treatments that utilize regional ingredients.

Nihi Sumba Island — Sumba, Indonesia

Spanning 400 acres of pristine jungle, the enchanting eco-resort Nihi Sumba offers guests the choice of relaxing in spacious one-bedroom bungalows or enjoying the 1.5 miles of soft white-sand beach for sunbathing and surfing.

Nayara Springs — Arenal Volcano National Park, Costa Rica

With sixteen secluded villas, the adults-only Nayara Springs provides a private retreat for couples, while thrilling activities like white-water rafting, canyoning, and horseback riding invite adventurous exploration.

Zero George — Charleston, South Carolina

At the delightful Zero George, featuring a collection of historic homes and carriage houses surrounding a serene garden courtyard, couples can borrow bicycles to discover the town, take a cooking class, or simply savor their time together while enjoying the daily breakfast offerings.

J.K. Place Capri — Capri, Italy

Couples will find themselves enchanted by the stunning surroundings of the airy J.K. Place Capri, whether they are enjoying a sunset over the Mediterranean from their balcony or soaring over Mount Vesuvius in a helicopter.

Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan — Bali, Indonesia

As soon as guests arrive at the Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan, nestled within 18 acres of lush highlands, they are enveloped in tranquility, which continues in the private suites and cozy villas, each featuring its own outdoor living area and plunge pool.