Couples seeking the ultimate romantic holiday can choose from a range of experiences and settings such as – hidden getaways, wellness retreats, culinary sojourns and adventures in the wilderness. But how do you choose whether you want to snuggle up in front of a fire or relax to the sound of the tides on a hammock?

**Romantic Getaway. Image Courtesy: Grapevyne Saigon**

From a wide array of idyllic locales such as Greece, Switzerland, South Africa, and Italy, here’s a list of this season’s handpicked hotels for the discerning traveller:

1. THE SECLUDED RETREAT: Myconian Villa Collection, Greece

Nestled into the hillside above Elia Bay, the Myconian Villa Collection is a unique luxury resort concept. This tranquil island escape offers impeccable service with quintessential Greek decor, accented by bespoke wood-crafted furnishing and vibrant fabrics. The essence of Myconian beauty and lifestyle runs like a blue thread through a constellation of exceptionally spacious suites and rooms, while superb villas offer the discreet yet boundless opulence of a private house in Mykonos.

**Myconian Villa Collection, Elia Beach, Greece. Image Courtesy: Myconian Villas**

Leaning into the mountain, the terraced villas have uninterrupted views of the Aegean Sea, culminating in a 360-degree panorama on the vast entertainment deck with its plush bar, epicurean restaurant and saltwater infinity pool.

Travellers can choose the luxurious privacy of the Lover’s Suite where special services such as in-room evening meals, couples’ massages on the scenic deck, and other such intimate indulgences can be experienced. This Cycladic Island combines a romantic ambience for newlyweds with sandy beaches, turquoise waters and a world-class nightlife scene for evenings that take guests into the morning hours.

2. THE WELLNESS GETAWAY: The Capra, Switzerland

An intimate, alpine luxury spa lodge in a spectacular natural setting. The Capra is a car-free Swiss ski resort, also a favourite among winter sports connoisseurs. There is guaranteed high-quality snow, and authentic charm – combining the cosiness of a chalet with the comforts of a luxury hotel. Expansive suites in warm earthy tones have panoramic views of snow-frosted peaks, pristine valleys, and wide-open skies where guests can relax, recharge and reconnect with nature. The fire-lit lounge, well-appointed library, and deluxe spa are designed to soothe the senses.

**The Capra Hotel Switzerland. Image Courtesy: Skiinluxury**

Even more indulgent is the wholesome farm-to-table cuisine offered at the hotel. The Spa at the resort is run and managed by Peak Health. Their goal is not only to help guests to unwind, but to develop personal strategies and holistic approach to resetting health based on the latest scientific research by a team of wellness experts from around the globe. The Spa offers a fully immersive retreat programme that helps guests transform their lifestyle, it also consists of indoor and outdoor hydrotherapy pools, salt-therapy rooms, saunas, fully equipped gym, yoga studio, and a varied selection of intensive treatments for the mind and body.

3. THE ADVENTURE ESCAPE: Gondwana Game Reserve, South Africa

Less than a four-hour drive from Cape Town International Airport, along South Africa’s scenic Garden Route, the 11,000-hectare Private Game Park offers a distinctive and luxurious safari destination with free-roaming Big 5 safari animals (lion, buffalo, elephant, rhino, and leopard). Gondwana Game Reserve is known for its well-appointed safari lodge accommodation, awe-inspiring views, attentive service, exquisite South African cuisine, and an array of adventure-linked activities including game drives, birdwatching, fynbos walks, mountain biking, hiking trails and more.

**Gondwana Game Reserve SA. Image Courtesy: Vacations & Travel**

Luxury accommodation is offered in Kwena Lodge, a modern twist on the traditional Khoi-San dwelling. The 14 open-plan suites are nestled into the breath-taking natural surroundings with 180-degree views, skylights for star gazing, fireplaces and deep baths. Gondwana Game Reserve is an ideal African honeymoon destination for adventure enthusiasts.

It is a picture-perfect retreat where guests can create lasting memories on their romantic vacation, from immersing themselves in the spectacular scenery, enjoying private dining experiences, to the reinvigorating Africology massages at the spa and more. Italy is a very romantic travel place for couples.

4. THE CULINARY SOJOURNS: Il Castelfalfi, Italy

Nestled amid the sun-kissed Tuscan hills, surrounded by vineyards, centuries-old olive trees and period farmhouses, Il Castelfalfi is the perfect getaway to plan a romantic escape. Sample traditional ingredients and flavours with a cooking class at Rosso Toscano Cooking school, you could also visit the local vineyards to discover the favourite wines.

**Il Castelfalfi Experience Resort Tuscany Italy. Image Courtesy: Conde Nast**

Once set in a village, the grounds now surrounding the resort are filled with charming shops and restaurants sure to transport travellers to a different era. At the gourmet restaurant – La Rocca di Castelfalfi, top chef Michele Rinaldi reinterprets traditional cuisine for guests to savour. Located within the medieval castle brought back to life after a meticulous restoration, the restaurant is a landmark in the village, where guests enjoy the authentic taste of traditional Tuscan cuisine.

Source: Newsgram