These are the most romantic places to visit on your next couples trip.
Scotland
Gleneagles, Scotland
Wander through the green rolling hills and sheep pastures, and take in the history in this beautiful country. Try taking a hike up to Arthur’s Seat for sweeping views, check out Edinburgh’s Old Town for quaint architecture and fun museums (such as the Writer’s Museum), and wander down the Royal Mile to take in street performers. Be sure to stop at a whiskey distillery for a sip or two — try Highland Park or Old Pulteney — and consider staying at Gleneagles Hotel, which sits on a 850-acre estate and has its own train station.
British Virgin Islands
Scrub Island, British Virgin Islands
Have a relaxing, sunny beach vacation in the beautiful British Virgin Islands. Play in the water and lounge on the sand at some of the most beautiful beaches — visit Cane Garden Bay Beach or Smuggler’s Cove Beach for fewer crowds and more privacy. Also try swimming and snorkeling in Spring Bay, sailing to Anegada Island, and hiking in Gorda Peak National Park. Check out Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina, which sits on its own 230-acre private island at the east end of Tortola. It has 52 guest accommodations, plus two-, three-, four- and six-bedroom villas, a spa, restaurants, two private beaches, and a 55-slip marina.
Zihuatanejo, Mexico
This resort city on the Pacific coast of Acapulco has picturesque beaches — visit Playa La Ropa or Playa Blanka for great snorkeling. It also has a quaint town with windy roads lined with galleries and restaurants to explore — be sure to check out La Cucaracha Gallery, Suazo Art Gallery, or Artemayren Studio y Galería for local art and Rufos Grill, Restaurante Las Adelitas, or Restaurantes Mexicanos Any for local food. For the ultimate romantic trip, you can stay in La Casa Que Canta, which was featured in the movie ‘When a Man Loves a Woman.’ The grounds have terracotta villas sculpted into the hillside with secluded suites.
Palm Springs, California
For a trip that feels like you are really getting away without actually having to go too far, check out Palm Springs for its hiking, gondola rides, golf, and warm desert air. Take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway — the world’s largest rotating tram car — to travel 2.5 miles up to the top of Chino Canyon, where you can wander around and explore. Relax together at Estrella Spa or Azure Spa Palm Springs, where you can get desert-inspired treatments.
Whidbey Island, Washington
This island in the Pacific Northwest is a quick trip from Seattle, and it offers stunningly beautiful views for the minimal effort involved in getting there. There are quaint hotels with modern amenities, such as the Inn at Langley, with hot tubs and views of the Saratoga Passage waterway. You can explore the shops in town or hike along the coastal bluffs, maybe catching a sight of gray whales if the season is right. For romantic restaurants with a view, try Oystercatcher, Gordon’s On Blueberry Hill, or Christopher’s On Whidbey, which focuses on Pacific Northwest cuisine.
Idyllwild, California
This rustic mountain town is perfect for exploring with someone you love, or for a first trip together as a couple. Stay in a small wooded cabin and then spend your time exploring the shops in town, stocking up on homemade jams or leather hats. Try hiking the Ernie Maxwell trail for beautiful views, and if you are in town on a Saturday, head to the town square to meet the mayor (he’s a golden retriever named Max). For dinner, sit on the patio in the mountain air at Gastrognome or Idyology.
Montana
Whitefish Mountain Resort, Montana
Explore the wide open plains and enjoy the breathtaking night skies in Montana. While on your trip, stay at a guest ranch where you can experience outdoor activities, such as Flathead Lake Lodge, a family-owned and operated guest ranch that is only open to adult travelers during the month of September, thanks to their new adults-only packages. Or stay at Snow Bear Chalets, which are ski-in/ski-out treehouses located slopeside at Whitefish Mountain Resort in Whitefish, Montana.
La Paz, Mexico
La Paz is a romantic and often-overlooked destination located on the Sea of Cortez, which is known as the world’s richest body of water. French explorer Jacques Cousteau famously named it the “aquarium of the world.” Today, you can try diving, kayaking, snorkeling, sailing, surfing, and island hopping there. For romantic outdoor dining, try Las Tres Virgenes, Sorstis Restaurante, or Nim, or the more casual IL RUSTICO.
Lake Tahoe
Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe
Experience the Reno side of the Lake Tahoe area for outdoorsy activities and intimate restaurants and hotels. Check out the Spa at Silver Legacy or the multitude of hot springs in the area for a relaxing day of romance. There’s also the Riverwalk and Midtown District to explore. Opt to stay in the Sunnyside Restaurant and Lodge, which sits lakeside with its own private beach, or the Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe, where the concierge service can arrange a day of adventure on the mountain, a round of golf, or a day of sailing on Lake Tahoe.
Dana Point, California
This lesser-known beach town is perfect for couples, and it gets you away from the more crowded California beach spots. Do some people-watching or swimming at Salt Creek Beach or Doheny State Beach, or try walking along Bluff Top Trail. For seafood with a view, try dining at Chart House or Wind & Sea, where you can also catch live music. If you are looking for a place to say, the town’s four resorts all have ocean views and spa treatments. Consider whale watching or taking a cruise on the Dana Wharf Sunset Wine Cruise during your visit, too.
Sonoma, California
What better way to celebrate an anniversary, honeymoon, or other special romantic occasion than with wine in this scenic part of California. There are more than 100 wineries to visit in this region. For wineries with beautiful views, check out Bella Vineyards and Wine Caves or Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and Winery in Dry Creek Valley. Then dine at some of the country’s most romantic restaurants, including LaSalette, Valette, or the girl & the fig. Take a wine tour through the valley, take a walk through some of the state’s earliest vineyards, or bike along scenic roads with the person you love for an unforgettable trip.
Chassignolles, France
This village in the Livradois-Forez, France’s largest national park, is secluded and rural — perfect for couples looking to get away from it all. You can check out the local farms and wander among the country lanes. Auberge de Chassignolles is the only accommodation in town, with eight rooms situated next to the village’s 12th-century church.
St. James, Barbados
With platinum white beaches, rugged cliffs, and breathtaking sunsets, Barbados is a perfect spot for a romantic getaway. Be sure to check out the Mount ■■■ Rum Distillery, and go swimming or snorkeling at Carlisle Bay or Brandons Beach. While you are there, why not stay at The House, which is often voted one of the most romantic hotels in the Carribean. Each of the 34 suites has ocean views, and the adults-only property has gardens, champagne breakfasts, and 24/7 service ambassadors.
Willemstad, Curacao
Culture-loving couples will want to visit Willemstad, a vibrant and bustling city in the heart of Curaçao. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the capital of Curaçao and is famous for its colonial architecture and museums. Be sure to walk across the swinging Queen Emma Bridge, visit Serena’s Art Factory to pick up ChiChi dolls, have a meal at an old governor’s mansion, and shop along the old cobblestone streets.
Bend, Oregon
This city on the Deschutes River in Oregon has tons of hiking trails, water activities, and mountain views. While in town, try staying at Brasada Ranch, which has activities including horseback riding, skiing on Mt. Bachelor, and trips downtown to the local breweries. The secluded Ranch House Suites have fireplaces, and the ranch has a new adults-only pool. Dine at Ariana Restaurant, a restaurant built into a cozy bungalow, or The Blacksmith Restaurant, which was built into a former smithy.
Aspen, Colorado
Whether it’s skiing down the slopes to a cozy mountainside lunch, or hiking through fields of lupine and columbine to a high mountain lake for a picnic, there’s something for everyone in Aspen. For a romantic night out, try a rare Bordeaux at The Little Nell’s Red Light Lounge during a private dinner for two.
Chiloe, Chile
Visiting the little-known island of Chiloe is like taking a step back in time. The archipelago is made up of traditional small farms, fishermen, and craftsmen. For accomodations, try Tierra Chiloe (located on the Pullao Bay on the inland sea), which offers a number of interesting activities, including horseback riding, clam digging on the beach, sea kayaking from island to island, and hiking.
Door County, Wisconsin
Blacksmith Inn, Wisconsin
Wisconsin might not sound like the most romantic place in the world, but this area has lots of secluded spots and fun activities that make it perfect for a couples trip. Check out Blacksmith Inn on the Shore, an adults-only bed and breakfast, where all guest rooms have a fireplace, in-room whirlpool, and private balcony with views of the Bailey’s Harbor. You can use bikes, kayaks, sleds, and snowshoes to explore the area, including the nearby Sanctuary State Natural Area, which has 1,400 acres of boreal forest.
The Oregon Coast
Cannon Beach, Oregon
The majestic Oregon beaches make for stunning scenery, and the quaint beach towns have tons of activities for couples to have fun together. Visit Cannon Beach for the iconic rock formations, check out the Tillamook Cheese Factory for a tour and free samples, and for accommodations, stay at Salishan Resort, which has 158 acres of forested land and beautiful views from all guest rooms.
Costa Rica
Playa Cativo, Costa Rica
The amazing jungles on this island will give you plenty to explore as a couple. You can sign up for a group trip or take tours on your own, and then relax at Playa Cativo Lodge in the heart of Costa Rica’s rainforest. Eight of the eco lodge’s rooms have a private outdoor terrace and plunge pool, and guests can also enjoy a fresh-water outdoor swimming pool and complimentary snorkeling, kayaking, paddle boarding, and self-guided nature hikes.
Bequia, St. Vincent
Bequia Beach Hotel
Having your own private island is the epitome of a romantic getaway, and this tropical destination gets you very close. At just 7 square miles, with about 5,000 residents, there are no traffic lights, no neon signs, no chain hotels or restaurants, no golf courses, and no gated communities. In order to get there, travelers must take a flight to Barbados (or St. Lucia), and then take an inter-island hopper flight from there. Once on the island, you can stay at Bequia Beach Hotel, a tucked-away, family-owned luxury resort. Guests can use the resort’s water skis, snorkeling equipment, fishing gear, an outdoor jacuzzi, and stand up paddle boards.
Santorini, Greece
Grace Hotel, Santorini
This magical island is known as the most romantic in Greece, with turquoise waters, whitewashed houses sitting on cliffs, and beautiful beaches. During your visit, you can stay at Grace Hotel Santorini, which sits 300 meters above the caldera. The 20 all-white accommodations feature Greek marble, custom fragrance, pillow menus, and a private plunge pool. While you’re here, go for a hike the on the Fira trail for beautiful views, take in the sunset in Oia, and explore the black sand beach.
Maui, Hawaii
Maui, Hawaii
Maui is the perfect destination for couples in search of a beach vacation filled with unique activities. Check out snorkeling at Black Rock on Kaanapali Beach, view hidden parts of the island on a helicopter tour with Blue Hawaiian Helicopters, and tour local farms on the slopes of Haleakala like Ocean Organic Vodka, Surfing Goat Dairy, and the Alii Lavender Farm.
Maine
Waldo Emerson Inn
Explore the rugged coasts and quaint towns in Maine, a perfect place to visit for a summer trip. Hike through Acadia National Park for beautiful views, visit the Portland Head Light, or visit the Allagash Brewery for a tour and some samples. Stay at The Waldo Emerson Inn in Kennebunkport, one the most historic places to stay on the Southern Maine Coast. Once a shipbuilder’s manse, the original house was built in 1753 by Waldo Emerson, Ralph Waldo Emerson’s great-uncle.
New Mexico
Chaco ruins, New Mexico
New Mexico is perfect for couples looking for natural beauty and cute towns. Check out Chaco Canyon, or wander the historic streets of Santa Fe, stopping to dine at Geronimo, a restaurant built into an old-fashioned adobe home. Also try Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa, which has mineral hot springs and a mountain backdrop, plus a private, clothing-optional soaking pool with fire pit.
Fredericksburg, Texas
Fredericksburg, Texas
You may not think of Texas as a particularly romantic place, but you will after visiting this small town. Explore its more than 45 wineries and local chocolatiers, and book lodging at Gastehaus Schmidt’s guesthouses, which have sweeping views and southern hospitality. Then book a wine tour and have a sunset picnic at the top of Enchanted Rock with delicacies from La Bergie.
The Galapagos Islands
Galapagos Islands
Take a cruise around the Galapagos Islands for a more adventurous take on a couples getaway. The main attraction here is the wildlife, so pack a pair of binoculars and prepare to explore a nearly undisturbed corner of the world, packed with birds, turtles, sea lions, and more.
San Francisco, California
This historic and beautiful city has so many options for food, places to stay, and activities that it can satisfy any couple. Walk along the Fisherman’s Wharf, take a tour of notorious Alcatraz, and check out the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.
St. Bart’s
Since recovering from Hurricane Irma, this island is back and has new things to offer visitors. Book a room at Le Sereno St. Barth’s, one of the only properties on the island with a private beach. While there, check out toes-in-the-sand dining at Plage, a new spa with views of the water and outdoor bathtubs. The signature beaches and crystal blue waters perfectly blend the sophistication of St. Tropez with the laissez-fare Caribbean lifestyle.
Arizona’s White Mountains
Mogollon Rim, Arizona
Take an adventure with your significant other in these beautiful mountains high above the desert. They stand at an elevation of 11,000 feet, and they’re lesser known than Arizona’s bigger parks. Climb to the Mogollon Rim’s 2,000-foot high lookout, check out the history of prehistoric inhabitants at Tonto Natural Bridge State Park, and camp overnight at Petrified Forest National Park, an International Dark Sky Association Dark Sky Park where couples can share a night under the stars.
Malibu, California
Experience gorgeous ocean views from high above on picturesque cliffs, plus visit pretty beaches and great local restaurants in Malibu, California. Dine at Nobu Malibu, a beachfront spot that combines Japanese and Californian cuisines, or eat at Moonshadows, which has a tiki-themed patio and ocean views. Also stop by Malibu Yogurt and Ice Cream Cafe, which has some of the best peanut butter frozen yogurt you will ever taste. While in Malibu, try staying at Malibu Beach Inn, a five-star boutique hotel located on the sands of Carbon Beach. Each of the 47 rooms have full glass doors and private balconies.
Quebec, Canada
Take a trip to what feels like a historic European city without the long flight and jet lag. Visitors can stroll through the narrow cobblestoned streets by foot or on a horse-drawn carriage to admire the city’s famous French-colonial architecture and historic sites such as the Citadel, the Petit-Champlain District, Place Royale, Parliament Building, and fortifications dating back to the 1600’s. The Old City is also a hub for art and cuisine, with a selection of museums and fine dining restaurants. Also visit Ile d’Orleans just across the St. Lawrence River for a wine tasting and picnic lunch while overlooking the Montmorency Falls. Try staying at Auberge Saint-Antoine hotel, where guests are treated to champagne, slippers, and a roaring fireplace.
Phuket, Thailand
This beach town in Thailand has delicious food, fun nightlife, and beautiful turquoise oceans. Enjoy tasty Thai food at Suay Restaurant, Raya Restaurant, or Blue Elephant Governor’s Mansion Phuket Restaurant. For a romantic place to stay, book a room at Trisara, an exclusive beach resort nestled on a secluded cove along Phuket’s less-developed north-western coast. This hideaway is set in a protected nature preserve surrounded by a tropical forest, exotic gardens, and jaw-dropping ocean views.
Scattered among the foliage are 60 spacious ocean-facing villas and private residences, each complete with their own private pool and outdoor shower.
Belize
Caye Caulkner, Belize
Belize is a tiny country, often overlooked because of its close proximity to Mexico and many Caribbean islands, but it is perfect for a romantic getaway. Caye Caulker is a small island that is easily accessible by taxi and then ferry from Belize City, where the main international airport is.
Belize is home to the world’s second largest barrier reef, so be sure to go snorkeling to view the coral and marine life.
Catalina Island, California
Catalina Island, located off the coast of Southern California, is only reachable by boat, making it the perfect location for a low-key romantic trip. Enjoy the Mediterranean ambiance of Avalon, one of the tiny towns on the island, and check out the huge selection of activities, including scuba diving, ziplining, kayaking, and hiking.
St. Lucia
This Caribbean island is known for its iconic twin peaks (called the Pitons), and it has volcanic beaches, reef-diving sites, luxury resorts, and fishing villages. There are so many things to do here, including hiking Tet Paul Nature Trail, exploring Mamiku Gardens, or taking a drive to the Soufriere Drive-in Volcano, where you can explore bubbling sulfur springs in the caldera of the dormant Qualibou volcano. While you’re there, stay at Jade Mountain, set on a cliff with open-air guest rooms with private infinity pools, four-poster canopy beds, and 24/7 butler service.
Kenya’s Great Rift Valley
Angama Mara, Kenya
CREDIT: COURTESY OF ANGAMA
This region of Kenya has sweeping views, overlooking the Maasai Mara, and it offers magical safaris and other experiences. Places to explore include Lake Nakuru National Park, Hippo Point, or the Crescent Island Game Sanctuary. If you visit, stay at Angama Mara, an owner-run safari lodge on the Oloololo Escarpment, some 1,000-feet above the plains of the Maasai Mara.
Marrakech, Morocco
This city in western Morocco is filled with history, mosques, palaces and gardens. Take a romantic vacation and explore the medina, the walled medieval city with mazelike alleys filled with markets selling fabric, pottery, and jewelry. Book a room at El Fenn, close to the main square of Jemaa el-Fnaa. Its 23 guest suites and rooms sit below a large roof terrace with sundecks, hanging gardens, shaded dining areas, a roof-top putting green, and a swimming pool.
Eilean Shona, Scotland
This private island, owned by Vanessa Branson, claims it’s the inspiration for Neverland in “Peter Pan.” While exploring the island’s 2,000 acres of pristine moor, wild hills, secluded paths, and woodland, book a stay at Shepherd’s Cottage, one of eight cottages available to rent. You can spend your time building camp fires, crabbing, swimming, painting, picnicing, kayaking, and walking the island’s coastal and woodland paths.
Anderdalen, Norway
Take your significant other on a trip to Norway in search of the northern lights, and explore the breathtaking scenery while you are there. Book a stay at Senja’s Lighthouse, which has 360-degree views of mountain, fjord, and sky. It is also close to Anderdalen National Park, where you can ski or snowshoe in the winter and hike in the summer.
Tanzania
Serengeti, Tanzania
This African country has endless wilderness to take in with your love, including the plains of Serengeti National Park. Take a safari for chances to see the country’s famous animals, including elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos. Then visit Kilimanjaro National Park, home to Africa’s highest mountain. Stay at Chaka Camps, which offers a Serengeti balloon safari, private dinners under the African stars, and bush breakfasts.
Virginia
L’Auberge Provencale Bed and Breakfast
“Virginia is for lovers” — and once you visit, you’ll see why. This state has a number of historic museums, gardens, and parks to explore — visit Shenandoah National Park, Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, or Maymont to take in the scenery. While checking out Virginia’s local wine scene, stay at L’Auberge Provencale. The inn has warm hospitality, delicious food, and some of the rooms have private patios, aromatherapy steam showers, and fireplaces. Each room is individually decorated with French country antiques and original artwork, making it feel as though you’ve been transported to Provence.
Tuscany, Italy
Ristonchi Castle, Italy
Tuscany is the perfect place for a romantic getaway — it’s breathtakingly beautiful at every turn, with plenty of delicious food and wines to indulge in. Be sure to dine at Enoteca Pinchiorri in Florence or La Cantinetta Di Rignana in Chianti, both of which have Italian cuisine you’ll be dreaming about for years to come. Stay at Castello di Ristonchi, a 1,000-year-old medieval castle, which sits high in the Tuscan hills overlooking quaint villages, vineyards, and olive groves. Couples can even book the former watchtower at the very top — you can open your window and look out on an Italian fairytale setting.
Blue Ridge, Georgia
This mountain town in northern Georgia has an artistic community, several brewpubs, and delicious restaurants. Be sure to check out Bear Claw Vineyard for its beautiful view or Mercier Orchards, the only apple orchard in Georgia that grows, presses, ferments and bottles their own hard apple cider and farm wines. For beers, visit Grumpy Old Men Brewing, Blue Ridge Brewery, and Fannin Brewing Company.
Port Angeles, Washington
This beautiful seaside city overlooks the Strait of Juan de Fuca and boasts a great array of small luxury bed and breakfasts. Each inn has a unique style and personality, but all have views of the water, San Juan Islands, and beautiful gardens. Try Colette’s, George Washington Inn, Eden By The Sea, or Sea Cliff Gardens, each of which have their own distinctive vibe. While in town, visit Olympic National Park for hiking or water sports.
Daufuskie island, South Carolina
This tiny island is only accessible by boat, offering a perfectly secluded romantic getaway. Stay a few nights at the 1873 Lighthouse, a real lighthouse that has a 40-foot tower, plus a fireplace and clawfoot bathtub, as well as a rocking chair-lined porch with views of the Calibogue Sound. Take a trip by bike or horseback on the beach with Daufuskie Island Trail Rides. For dinner, visit the newly opened Melrose Beach Club with oceanfront views.
Savannah, Georgia
This beautiful southern city has something for every couple. Book a room at The Bohemian Hotel Savannah Waterfront, and take a stroll along the river. Be sure to get some delicious southern food while you’re in town — Atlantic, The Grey, and Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room are all great options. In the evening, take a romantic walk through Forsyth Park and admire the stunning architecture of the nearby homes.
Nova Scotia, Canada
This stunning part of Canada has scenery that you and your significant other will never forget. Try staying at a bed and breakfast or local AirBnB to get a true feel for the area. Be sure to check out the art galleries in Peggy’s Cove and go for a sunrise sail on Halifax Harbour. Visit Digby to see the dramatic tidal changes and wander on the beautiful beaches.
Sedona, Arizona
Sedona Rouge, Arizona
Relax at one of the many spas and soak in the calming spirit in this Arizona town. Stay at the Sedona Rouge Hotel & Spa, which has 500-year-old Tunisian wrought-iron gates, gardens, and a pool. This area is known for its incredible natural beauty, so get out and go for a hike to take in all the unique rock formations. Dine at restaurants like Cress on Oak Creek, Dahl & Di Luca Ristorante, or The Golden Goose American Grill, which has both a fine dining room and an outdoor patio.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Even if you don’t like to tango, you should definitely visit this romantic city (with someone you’d like to tango with). Book a room at Bonito Buenos Aires or Palacio Duhau—Park Hyatt Buenos Aires, both former mansions transformed into hotels. Shop among the antiques markets and wander the cobblestoned streets, stopping to tango (or just watch) at Bar
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Conclusion
So now that you have all of these ideas for a Best Romantic Getaways for Couples where will you go? I’m dreaming of back to Sedona, Arizona for a quiet weekend away. How about you?Please do write comments and please try one of above for your dream weekend ahead.