Some journeys are about sightseeing. Others are about the two of you. The right hotel shapes the mood of a proposal, a honeymoon, an anniversary or simply time carved out together. From wild Australian coastlines and Santorini sunsets to Himalayan valleys and private atolls in the Maldives, these are some of the world’s most romantic hotels and travel experiences. These are the places couples return from feeling closer than when they left. Some are remote and elemental. Others are steeped in culture or wrapped in glamour. All of them understand that romance is less about spectacle and more about how a place makes you feel.
Six Senses Douro Valley, Douro Valley, Portugal
In the Douro Valley, vineyards spill down steep terraces towards the river. At their centre sits Six Senses Douro Valley, a restored 19th-century manor that feels both grand and relaxed. Rooms and suites are spacious and serene, many with private balconies overlooking the vineyards. Villas with private pools sit within flourishing kitchen gardens.
This is a hotel for couples who love food and wine as much as scenery. Dining is rooted in the seasons, with locally sourced ingredients and a strong focus on regional wines. Couples can enjoy private picnics, vintage boat rides, Six Senses’ signature wellness journeys hiking and mountain biking as well as join tile painting workshops and chef’s table evenings.
As a Virtuoso property, Travelcall clients enjoy daily breakfast, potential upgrades on arrival, a USD 100 hotel credit and flexible check-in and check-out, plus select suite offers for longer stays.
Canaves Oia Suites, Santorini, Greece
Santorini has long been associated with romance, and Canaves Oia Suites is widely regarded as one of the island’s most sought-after addresses. Carved into the caldera cliffs, the hotel offers just 44 expansive suites and two private villas, each with sweeping views over the Aegean.
Private verandas, plunge pools and candlelit dinners on panoramic balconies set the tone. The adults-only setting makes it especially appealing for honeymoons and milestone celebrations. Beyond sunset views, couples can explore wine tastings, yachting along the caldera, cooking classes and creative workshops, or host an intimate wedding overlooking the sea.
Virtuoso amenities include daily breakfast, potential upgrades and food and beverage credits for extended stays.
Amankora Paro, Paro, Bhutan
You have no choice but to feel a sense of elation in a kingdom where ‘gross national happiness’ is paramount. In Bhutan’s Paro Valley, Amankora Paro pairs Himalayan scenery with Aman’s signature zen-inspired architecture. Pine forests frame views towards snow-covered peaks and the rhythm of life slows to something more contemplative.
Couples can hike together for a barbeque lunch at Tiger’s Nest Monastery, join monk-led meditations, forest bathe, soak in traditional hot stone baths and share meals under the stars overlooking Drukgyel Dzong. Activities such as archery, calligraphy, market visits and cooking classes offer insight into Bhutanese culture. For something truly memorable, vow renewals can be held in one of the valley’s ancient temples.
Virtuoso amenities include daily breakfast for two, hotel credit and flexible arrival and departure times.
Vocabolo Moscatelli, Umbria, Italy
Vocabolo Moscatelli, nestled in the Umbrian countryside, occupies a restored 800-year-old monastery surrounded by idyllic lavender fields and olive groves. With only 12 rooms and suites, it feels private from the moment you arrive.
Stone walls, timber beams and honey-toned façades create a warm backdrop for couples who prefer understated Italian charm. Some suites feature private gardens, jacuzzis or outdoor bathtubs built for two. Experiences are immersive and local, from truffle hunting and guided tours of nearby hill towns to private chapel dinners and hands-on pottery classes. The travertine pool and couples’ massages in the former chapel add to the sense of retreat. Here, there’s plenty for love birds to swoon over.
As a Design Hotels preferred partner, Travelcall clients receive exclusive benefits including daily breakfast, VIP welcome and special amenities.
Gili Lankanfushi, Male Atoll, Maldives
Private overwater bungalows, what could be more romantic? Spacious open-air living rooms with direct ocean access, rooftop terraces and private infinity pools create a sense of total escape.
Pop the question or tie the knot, stunning proposals, weddings and vow renewals can be arranged in secluded corners of the island. Couples can book private sandbank picnics and dinners, open-air cinema nights, sleeping under the stars experiences and spa journeys at Meera Spa as well as resort activities such as diving and snorkelling, tennis lessons and cooking classes.
Virtuoso inclusions range from food and beverage credits to complimentary massages and upgrades.
Southern Ocean Lodge, Kangaroo Island, Australia
High on the cliffs of Kangaroo Island, Southern Ocean Lodge commands uninterrupted views over the Southern Ocean. The newly rebuilt lodge feels both contemporary and grounded in its landscape, with sweeping glass walls and expansive decks that bring the coastline into every suite. Days are shaped around tailor-made itineraries: guided wildlife encounters, coastal walks, cellar door visits and restorative spa treatments.
Kangaroo Island’s raw beauty creates a powerful backdrop for reconnection. Evenings are best spent lingering over dinner with local produce and South Australian wines, watching the light fade over the water. It is remote, dramatic and deeply romantic.
La Dolce Vita Orient Express, Italy
Step back in time to the golden age of travel and romance on board La Dolce Vita Orient Express. Revive the glamour of classic rail travel with bespoke overnight journeys across Italy, from Venice and Tuscany to Sicily and Portofino, with curated experiences like wine tastings, handicraft workshops and guided city tours.
Cabins range from refined deluxe compartments to expansive suites, with the La Dolce Vita Suite offering a private lounge and dining area. Michelin three-star dining by Chef Heinz Beck anchors the culinary experience. For couples who value nostalgia, design and slow travel, it is a compelling way to explore Italy together.
Deplar Farm, Troll Peninsula, Iceland
For couples drawn to remote landscapes and adventure, Deplar Farm at the edge of the Arctic Circle on Iceland’s Troll Peninsula delivers a unique experience far from the crowds. A restored 15th century sheep farm, the property is isolated by rugged mountains and untouched shores and hosts a maximum of 32 guests.
Under the northern lights or midnight sun, the distinct seasons bring unique experiences. Winter brings heli-skiing, snowmobiling and the chance to swim under the glowing sky. Summer offers whale watching in 24-hour daylight, puffin tours, sea kayaking and horseback riding on Icelandic horses. The wellness program draws on Nordic traditions with geothermal pools, cold plunges and sound bathing – the perfect opportunity to wind down after active adventures through the day.
Virtuoso guests receive daily breakfast, a resort credit and wellness inclusions in select room categories.
The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel, New York City, USA
For city romance and art and culture lovers, The Carlyle on Madison Avenue remains an icon. Opened in the 1930s, it is known for its opulent art deco interiors, white-gloved elevator operators and deep connection to New York’s cultural scene.
Evenings begin with a martini masterclass while listening to live music at Bemelmans Bar, followed by an intimate dinner at Dowling’s. Discover New York’s cabaret scene at Café Carlyle. Suites feel residential and refined, with special romance packages including champagne and breakfast in bed. Expect to be spoiled during a stay at The Carlyle.
Through our preferred partnership with Rosewood Hotels, Travelcall clients receive daily breakfast, personalised welcome, potential upgrades and exclusive suite offers.
The Brando, Arue, French Polynesia
On the private atoll of Tetiaroa, The Brando offers just 35 villas, each with its own stretch of sand and plunge pool. Beloved by Marlon Brando since filming Mutiny on the Bounty, the island blends Polynesian heritage with a strong environmental focus through the Tetiaroa Society.
Days are spent snorkelling, paddleboarding, cycling between palms, a round of pickleball or lounging by the beach. Evenings might mean a private beach dinner under the stars to the sound of crashing waves or a couples’ treatment at the spa. Enjoy high-class dining showcasing fresh island produce and flavours with refined technique.
Virtuoso guests enjoy daily breakfast, food and beverage credit and potential early check-in and late check-out.
Plan Your Romantic Escape With Travelcall
The most romantic hotels in the world book quickly, especially for honeymoons and peak seasons. Travelcall secures preferred partner availability, exclusive offers and personalised planning to ensure every detail is seamless for your couples retreat with knowledge of the hidden gems and secluded hideaways.
To begin planning your romantic hotel stay or once-in-a-lifetime journey for two, contact Travelcall and let our advisors curate something extraordinary for you.
Speak with a Travelcall advisor to begin planning your romantic hotel escape.
MELBOURNE 03 9252 3800 | SYDNEY 02 8333 7700 | BRISBANE 07 3368 2113
or email travel@travelcall.com.au
