Ultra-romantic international travel ideas
But to truly show them you care? Nothing beats a holiday booking. Here's a few ideas that should get their heart racing.
Watch their eyes sparkle in Vienna
Treat that special someone to a trip stuffed with sweet surprises and bubbly moments.
The Sans Souci — a decidedly upscale boutique hotel in Vienna, sandwiched between the traditional 1st District and the hip 7th — is currently gearing up for its Romantic City Getaway offer.
This is your chance to go on an unforgettable trip to Austria, tailored exactly to your beloved's needs and wants. Swim with your beau or belle under crystal chandeliers, dine in front of breathtaking artwork, indulge in romantic massages and let it all go to your head at a private champagne tasting — the Sans Souci Wien wants nothing more than for your sweetest dreams to come true.
Visit now
Savour the sublime on Santorini
Ikies Santorini is not just a hotel: it's a love letter to the island's heritage.
Perched on the edge of Oia, this boutique retreat offers 14 cave-style suites, each inspired by a traditional local trade. From the Boatman's Suite to the Artisan's House, every space is a chic blend of minimalist, modern design and subtle nods to Santorini's past.
The result? A stay that feels both rooted and refined. Privacy reigns supreme here. Tucked away from Oia's bustling centre — a mere seven-minute stroll — the hotel offers uninterrupted caldera views from private terraces and whirlpool baths.
Sunset cocktails are practically a ritual, as is sampling the Greek-inspired menu, crafted with local ingredients. Recently revamped by leading architects, Ikies is a captivating stay whether you're honeymooning or still in the first throes of passion.
Don't forget to use promo code 'SANTO25' for exclusive perks at ikies.com
Enjoy a flavour of authentic Italy
In the green and gorgeous heart of Italy, the village of Cartoceto is one of the country's hidden gems, as is the wider region of Le Marche.
Villa Cartoceto, a charming B&B with only four rooms, is the perfect spot for a memorable break. Here, you can enjoy Italy in its purest form and taste high-quality and organically certified olive oil, and red and white wines, among other produce from its own farm.
Right across the street, Osteria del Cardinale boasts authentic Italian food, with a menu that includes dishes such as risotto with organically grown artichokes, and polpo, piselli e menta (octopus, peas and mint).
Are you ready for a taste of authentic Italy?
Book now
Smooch in a landmark in The Hague
Housed in the former KLM headquarters, Hotel De Plesman represents the pinnacle of historic gravitas and modern luxury in The Hague. Opening on March 1, the meticulously restored hotel is pure class.
Its 103 rooms and suites, designed by Amsterdam's Nicemakers studio, boast mid-century furnishings, lofty ceilings, and curated art that nods to the building's aviation heritage. The crown jewel? The Plesman Suite, once airline founder Albert Plesman's office, now a haven of retro charm.
Dining at De Plesman is equally thoughtful. Restaurant Suus offers brasserie classics elevated by a talented chef, while the Albert Bar & Lounge serves as a stylish perch for cocktails or late-night conversation. Beyond its walls, the hotel's location invites exploration — stroll to Madurodam, bike to Scheveningen Beach, or lose yourself in the Mauritshuis's Dutch Golden Age masterpieces. De Plesman isn't just a stay — it's an experience that connects past and present with effortless romance.
Use code SPRING2025 for an additional 10% welcome discount for bookings — valid for stays from 1 March until 29 December 2025.
Rekindle the flame in Zanzibar
Xanadu Luxury Villas & Retreat, tucked along Zanzibar's balmy southeastern coast, feels like a secret whispered by the Indian Ocean.
Its nine villas, designed by Zambian visionary Eileen Smith, are masterpieces of natural elegance, blending recycled materials with atmospheric tropical surroundings. Privacy reigns — each villa is a romantic sanctuary, with private pools and spaces that invite you to linger.
Dining is a celebration of Zanzibar's abundance. Fresh, local ingredients and sustainably caught seafood are transformed into vibrant dishes, served wherever the moment feels right — poolside, barefoot on the beach, or beneath the stars. At Kiota Spa, treatments rooted in African traditions unfold in open-air pavilions, where sea breezes clear your mind and soul. Xanadu isn't just a retreat, it's an invitation to reconnect — with nature, and with each other.
Use code ROMANTICTRAVEL FOR A 15% discount on bookings here.
The offer includes sparkling wine and biscuits on arrival, romantic dinners throughout the stay, and a 15-minute relaxing hand massage. The offer is valid until 30 November 2025 for stays between 14 February to 30 November 2025.
Have it all in Hvar, Croatia
Love Hvar Apartments represent a haven of wellbeing in tranquillity in Hvar Town, just yards from the beach and mere steps from the humming harbour.
Once a family home, this collection of three meticulously designed apartments is the work of Jozo Novak, who has infused the property with his love for local craftsmanship and childhood memories. Design-wise, it balances contemporary minimalism with regional touches — Macedonian tiles, Bosnian woodwork and Croatian design.
The penthouse is a standout, with floor-to-ceiling doors opening to a terrace that frames views of the Franciscan Monastery and Pakleni Islands. Downstairs, the garden apartment offers two terraces surrounded by lavender and palms.
Whether sipping wine at sunset or wandering Hvar's cobblestone streets, Love Hvar feels personal, serene and utterly unpretentious — accommodation straight from the heart.
Bathe in starlight in Ubud, Bali
A sanctuary of quiet sophistication nestled in Ubud's lush forest where the sacred Petanu River carves through the valley below, Bumi Kina is the ultimate, intimate romantic retreat.
There are eight Skylight Villas, each a 1,200sq foot haven of quiet luxury. By day, the villas' private terraces invite you to lose yourself in the verdant jungle views, while by night, an automatic skylight above the bed reveals a twinkling canopy of stars. The resort's design nods respectfully to Bali's natural charms, seamlessly blending curvilinear architecture with the surrounding landscape.
At Tukad Terrace, a private five-course candlelit dinner reflects off an infinity pond with Mount Agung in the distance. Between rose baths at the spa and yoga sessions by the river, Bumi Kinar is all about connection, executed with love.
Plan an extraordinary, tailored holiday
Completely Croatia creates tailor-made holidays to hidden gems across Croatia, Slovenia and Montenegro.
Offering off-the-beaten-track destinations and unique, character-filled hotels, they provide a truly authentic experience. The team's deep local knowledge and long-standing relationships with partners ensure personal attention, exclusive benefits and 24/7 support.
From luxurious island-hopping cruises to multi-hotel itineraries, travel experts will curate the perfect getaway. Completely Croatia's portfolio includes distinctive smaller hotels and ships that offer warmth and familiarity, far from the impersonal feel of hotel chains.
For those seeking romance and luxury, the portfolio includes Istria's Meneghetti Wine Hotel & Winery, Brač's Lemongarden Hotel, Dubrovnik's Palace Natali and Slovenia's Hotel Grad Otočec, among other stunning properties.
Get £200 off your first booking when quoting 'we love Croatia' at checkout — offer valid until 1 September 2025. T&Cs apply.
With 20 locations across Wales and Cumbria, Lyons Holiday Parks offers the nation's best loved days out.
Expect lively resorts with a staggering array of entertainment and activities — whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation. Situated in picturesque settings, all parks provide easy access to local attractions, beaches and natural beauty.
Some of the popular locations include Snowdonia, Barmouth, Conwy, Talacre, Rhyl, Prestatyn, Towyn, Ruthin, St Asaph and the Lake District.
From static caravans to camping pitches, there's something for every budget and preference. Holiday cottages provide a cosy home-away-from-home experience for families and couples or discover the ultimate relaxation in a hot tub lodge, featuring modern interiors, spacious living areas and premium amenities.
Receive a 25% discount on summer holidays with code SUM25 at checkout. Offer valid until 29 August 2025. Valid for stays between 21 July to 29 August 2025.
To truly unwind, many benefit from utter seclusion and serenity. Set within a unique resort, home to stunning hot tub lodges and boutique hotel rooms, Serenity Spa is the perfect place to relax.
Rejuvenating wellness treatments like massages and body scrubs help you relax, before enjoying luxury facilities like an indoor heated pool, spa pool, sauna, steam room and gym and fitness suite. The hotel offers tailored spa packages ideal for every occasion, like the couple's package designed for reconnection.
For as little as £184, enjoy indulgent spa treatments for two, a sumptuous two-course dinner at the elegant View restaurant, as well as a full Welsh breakfast and full access to leisure facilities.Whether you're seeking peace, pampering or stunning surroundings on your romantic getaway, you'll find exactly what you're looking for amidst the glorious North Wales scenery.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Daily Mirror
5 hours ago
- Daily Mirror
Race to save woman stuck 22,000ft up Victory Peak with broken leg and no food
Avid thrill seeker Natalia Nagovitsina has been stuck up Victory Peak in Kyrgyzstan for about a week after she suffered a significant injury and needed a sleeping bag to be delivered to her Desperate rescue attempts are underway to save a female climber stuck for a week about 22,965ft up a mountain with a broken leg and no food and little water. Russian Natalia [Natasha] Nagovitsina, 47, has been marooned for a week. Her partner gave her first aid after an accident on their descent, and went down the mountain to summon help. Repeated missions to save her have failed because of bad weather on 24,406ft Victory Peak in Kyrgyzstan. The experienced climber is famous because four years ago she refused orders to leave her husband - who had suffered a stroke at 22,638ft. She survived by a miracle after comforting him on the mountain, but was unable to save him. An initial attempt to reach Nagovitsina - who was injured on 12 August - failed due to bad weather, though rescuers were able to deliver a sleeping bag. Worse followed when a defence ministry Mi-8 helicopter carrying six rescuers ran into turbulence and crash-landed on the mountainside, injuring the pilot and one rescuer. Another helicopter, a Mi-17VM, was later sent, but zero visibility again forced rescuers back. During a rescue attempt an Italian climber died and two more - Russian and German - were injured, according to reports. A fresh attempt to reach and evacuate the marooned mountaineer is expected. In 2021, her radio conversion with base camp went viral as she refused to leave husband Sergei Nogovitsin at a similar altitude - 22,638ft - who suffered a debilitating stroke during an ascent of Khan Tengri close to the border of Khan Tengri, close to the borders of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and China. 'He can't sit up, falls on his side, his speech is confused,' she told rescuers. 'Natasha, you need to go down yourself. You won't be able to help him in any way. Do you understand me? Over.' She replied: 'I understand everything, but I will not leave him alone. Natasha, answer…..Listening…' 'You need to go down, Natasha, the weather is getting worse, it's almost night. I won't leave my husband, he's completely helpless, I'm giving him something to drink.' 'So, your decision is to spend the night next to him? Yes.' Rescuers eventually reached the pair and two men tried to move Sergey while she went down. But they could not go far, and secured him with ropes, and left all their warm clothing and food, before cutting a route further down the mountain, to get more help. An account said: 'Most likely in delirium….he broke out of ropes and crashed to his death. His body has never been found.' His body was never found. The account continued: 'A year later Natalia once again went to Khan Tengri to install a plaque in memory of her husband. But no one in the new group had any idea what this courageous woman had lived through on that summit a year earlier – a woman who showed the whole world what love and self-sacrifice mean.'
Scotsman
6 hours ago
- Scotsman
I tried the buzzy new Edinburgh luxury hotel restaurant that's got everyone talking
The Hoxton You'll find this restaurant in the capital's west end Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... If I had fifty quid for every time someone had asked me if I'd tried The Hoxton's restaurant yet, I'd be able to get a room. Give me a chance, I tell people, this four-star hotel has only been open for two months. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Anyway, not visiting was giving me Oasis-at-Murrayfield levels of FOMO. At last, we booked in for a Sunday lunch, and got the tram to Haymarket Station. It's been a while since I was in this vicinity, and it's odd how much my old stomping ground has changed in a short period of time. Grosvenor Street used to be the home of some rather middle of the road hotels, in contrastingly grand Georgian buildings. Now the street is monopolised by this 214-room place, from Ennismore - the people behind Gleneagles in Perthshire and Gleneagles Townhouse on St Andrew's Square. I'd say The Hoxton's branding is slightly younger than their Edinburgh sister. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Their main restaurant is Patatino - the Scottish-Italian trattoria, named after the Italian word for 'little potato'. It's on the ground floor and along a corridor past a few glossy cheeseplants, as well as a stylish and bustling residents' lounge. (Or maybe we went in the wrong door). Prepare for a visual overload, when you make it to the restaurant, which is inspired by sunny Sorrento and Amalfi. It has an open kitchen, with loud decor that looks like it's been designed by a crack squad of clashing pattern lovers - say Versace, in collaboration with the merchandising team from Anthropologie. There are walls covered in the best pieces of crockery, like it's a glamorous Nonna's house, and a plastic jungle's worth of faux flowers. In common with Gleneagles, the staff are patient, and so enthusiastic. I don't know how they stay so upbeat, this far into the Edinburgh Festival, but it's an impressive feat of endurance. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Our waiter asked if we wanted anything from the Nibbles list to start, but we had to pass. How are you still supposed to have room for lunch, after deep-fried spaghetti squares (£8) or slow-cooked brisket arancini (£9)? Still, we did say aye to a cocktail, and not purely because this baby pink take on an Amaretto sour had the excellent moniker of Solemn Pomace (£13). It's funny, because that's my pet name for my husband. For starters, we chose the Caesar salad (£11) and the beef carpaccio (£18). Both were great. The salad wasn't really a salad at all, but a whole baby gem that had been luxuriously anointed, like the wealthiest Egyptian pharaoh, Lettucekhamun, with cured yolk, whole anchovies and a flurry of Parmesan. It was a lovely combo, and what a way for a bit of shrubbery to go. Lettuce pray. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Their beef carpaccio was a bit more interesting than the average version, too. There were feathery and velvety petals of pink meat fanned onto a creamy emulsion of Parmesan and balsamic, with a handful of rocket on top. Great start. For mains, they've kept the concept simple. There's pizza, pasta, or a smattering of meaty dishes, like whole sea bass or steak. We shared a couple of things, including the taglioni (£23), which was a little cold, and could have come with a bit more of the billed Amalfi lemon. However, the custard-coloured threads of pasta had a satisfyingly firm bite, and were clad in a rich shellfish bisque, with a large scoop of sweet and shredded Eyemouth crab on top. Gaby Soutar We also tried one of their pizzas - the haggis and nduja (£18), which seemed like a rather nice Scottish Italian partnership. We were given a heat warning, when it came to this option, as it also featured hot honey and Jalapeno. I was preparing to sweat, but this was easy - Portobello Beach in August, rather than Sardinian sands. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad It had a charred and billowy sourdough base, and there was plenty of mozzarella, with a judicious amount of the other toppings. Gaby Soutar We also had an unnecessary but pleasant side dish of charred tenderstem broccoli with toasted almonds (£6.50). For pudding, the tableside tiramisu sounded a bit theatrical and crepe Suzette-esque. However, it turned out that they just scoop a big dollop out and plop it in your bowl, while you observe. I'd worry that I'd make a sad face if it wasn't big enough, like when you buy a cake in a bakery, they choose the runt and your eyes fill with tears. Instead, we went for the roasted panettone (£8), which turned out to be a take on bread and butter pudding, with a syrupy soaked slab of this Italian bread. It came with rum and raisin ice-cream and a heap of sandy biscuity crumbs. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Well, I'm glad that I can say that I've officially made it to The Hoxton's restaurant.
Metro
6 hours ago
- Metro
British tourist, 22, left seriously injured after falling from hotel balcony
Following a string of balcony-related falls in Ibiza, a 22-year-old British tourist has become the latest to be seriously injured after falling three storeys in the party resort of San Antonio. The unnamed man fell around 8 pm yesterday at the Marco Polo hotel, suffering chest and head injuries before being taken to Can Misses Hospital, according to the Civil Guard, who have launched an investigation. San Antonio has come under increased scrutiny this summer following several tourist deaths and hotel plunges. Dundee-born ice hockey star Gary Kelly, 19, became the fourth holidaymaker to die at the four-star Ibiza Rocks Hotel since April, when he fell from a third-floor balcony on July 21. On July 7, Ewan Thomson, 26, from Aberdeen, fell to his death at the same hotel. A 19-year-old Italian tourist plunged to her death on April 27 from a fourth-floor balcony at the hotel, owned by the Ibiza Rocks Group. Metro has contacted the Marco Polo hotel for a statement. Accidents involving British tourists in Ibiza have skyrocketed this summer. In late July, a British tourist was rushed to intensive care after smashing his head on the bottom of a pool. The Ibiza Rocks hotel, which has seen a spate of accidents this year, suspended its events after a third British tourist died there in July. A young footballer died from a suspected drug overdose this summer before he could even 'unpack his bags', his parents said. The family of 18-year-old Ryan Long, from Eastwood, Essex, said they 'can't wrap their heads' around what happened to their son. His parents believe he had a bad reaction from taking ecstasy, adding: 'We've sat our boys down many a time and told them not to take drugs. 'I just can't get my head around it. Not in a million years did I ever think he would do anything like this.' The island's ambulance service is under such strain from tourist-related incidents that it's on the brink of collapse. More Trending Major clubs are being urged to contract private ambulance services to keep up with the demand and ease the number of calls the local ambulance service responds to. Drug overdoses in clubs are common in Ibiza, but rose last year after pink cocaine, a new drug, was found on the island. Former Love Island star Zara McDermott investigated the drug last year on Ibiza: Secrets of the Party Island. In the series, she helped police uncover a bag of drugs thrown into bushes by a drug dealer and met a drug boss who said dealers can make £43,000 a day. Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@ For more stories like this, check our news page. MORE: Work to fix 'botched' restoration of Virgin Mary statue leaves her 'even worse' MORE: Former mayor dies trying to save town from wildfires sweeping southern Europe MORE: I followed a dusty path in Ibiza and found the 'White Isle's' most iconic hotel
