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The World’s Most Romantic Hotels and Resorts

The World’s Most Romantic Hotels and Resorts

By Travel + Leisure Staff

February 01, 2019

Courtesy of Hotel Wailea

Travel + Leisurereaders know what it takes for properties to win over couples and set the tone for a romantic escape. Certain touches are a given: ultra-personal service, luxurious accommodations, and — perhaps above all else — privacy. But the crop of standout properties that T+L readers voted as their Top 50 romantic hotels go beyond the basics with little extras and diverse amenities that indulge couples’ shared interests, whether that means warm-weather strolls on white-sand beaches, meditative spa treatments amid lush jungle forests, or exhilarating adventure sports.

Every year for the World’s Best Awards survey, Travel + Leisure asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Hotels were rated on their facilities, location, service, food, and overall value, with romance being an additional optional factor. Our readers voted for properties all around the world, but clearly have an affinity for warm-weather islands (St. Lucia, Bali, Hawaii), coastal California (Big Sur, Laguna Beach), and glamorous old-world Europe (Paris, Florence, St. Moritz).

Our next class of World's Best winners will be announced this summer, but for now, the 2019 survey is still open, and you can vote for your favorites until March 4.

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Ladera Resort — Soufrière, St. Lucia

Courtesy of Ladera

This island retreat stands out for its open-walled rooms — all the better for taking in panoramic vistas of the stunning Caribbean scenery — which still feel private, thanks to Ladera’s mountainside location.

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Cap Maison — Gros Islet, St. Lucia

Courtesy of Cap Maison

The all-inclusive 49-room, hacienda-style Cap Maison has a little something for every type of couple, whether you and your partner would prefer to hole up in the spa or join one of the boisterous street parties that light up the area on Friday nights.

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Belmond Castello di Casole — Casole d'Elsa, Italy

Courtesy of Belmond

Spread across 4,200 acres of Tuscan countryside, Belmond Castello di Casole centers around a 10th-century castle, carefully restored to highlight antique touches, including wood-beam ceilings and Etruscan artifacts found on-site. Among the more unique activities for outdoor enthusiasts: on-site truffle hunting.

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Amandari — Ubud, Bali, Indonesia

Courtesy of Aman

Though not far from Ubud’s city center, the luxe Amandari transports guests light years away from civilization with its perch on the hills above the Ayung River gorge. Suites mimic local village houses in their design and provide total seclusion for peace-seeking couples who want to enjoy traditional Balinese culture.

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Badrutt’s Palace Hotel — St. Moritz, Switzerland

Courtesy of Badrutt's Palace Hotel

Seemingly plucked from a Swiss storybook, Badrutt’s Palace Hotel has served as an epicenter for high-society gatherings since 1896. Jet-setting couples can capture the glamour for themselves through the hotel’s legendary afternoon tea and treatments at the renowned spa, which also houses an impressive pool with floor-to-ceiling windows that face the mountain scenery.

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Surf & Sand Resort — Laguna Beach, California

Courtesy of Surf & Sand Resort

The Mediterranean-leaning Surf & Sand Resort in Laguna Beach captures the laid-back elegance for which the Orange County town is famed. The oceanfront pool and adjacency to Bluebird Beach make it popular among couples who want quick access to water sports.

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Calistoga Ranch, an Auberge Resort — Calistoga, California

Courtesy of Calistoga Ranch

Nature enthusiasts flock to this idyllic hideaway, where 50 rustic luxury cottages dot 157 acres filled with oak trees and trickling streams. Couples can find rejuvenation at Calistoga Ranch however they define it, whether that’s zip-lining through redwoods, biking through vineyards, or practicing alfresco yoga.

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The Setai — Miami Beach, Florida

Courtesy of The Setai

Towering 40-stories above South Beach, The Setai trades the area’s dominant style (flashy Art Deco) for a more subdued Asian-inspired aesthetic. The neighborhood’s famed nightlife is steps away, but couples can also opt to seek out lower-key energy in the property’s zenlike spa.

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The Ritz, Paris — Paris, France

Kira Turnbull

First opened in 1898, this grande dame typifies Parisian elegance — and not just because Coco Chanel once called it home. From the opulent Belle Époque decor in the rooms and common spaces to the iconic Hemingway Bar, the storied Ritz Paris wows couples who want an over-the-top getaway.

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Shangri-La Hotel, Paris — Paris, France

Courtesy of Shangri-La Hotel, Paris

Much of this property’s magic lies in its history and evolution: it was once the home of Napoleon Bonaparte’s grandnephew. Now, fully restored to its original grandeur, Shangri-La Hotel, Paris houses 81 sumptuously decorated rooms and suites, many of which boast Eiffel Tower views or private balconies — sometimes both.

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Katikies Hotel — Santorini, Greece

Christos Drazos/Courtesy of Katikies Hotel

Between the cerulean waters of the Aegean Sea and the crisp white buildings that contain 27 rooms and suites, the five-star Katikies captures the quintessential atmosphere that draws so many couples to picture-perfect Oia.

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Koa Kea Hotel & Resort — Kaua'i, Hawaii

Courtesy of Ko'a Kea

On an island with mega-resorts aplenty, the vibrant 121-room Koa Kea provides a more intimate option and puts duos even closer to pristine beaches and waves.

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La Residence — Franschhoek, South Africa

Courtesy of La Residence

Refined rusticity abounds at this 11-suite boutique hotel. Located in the rolling Western Cape winelands, La Residence is well-positioned for exploring the area’s excellent restaurants and vineyards, making it an ideal choice for couples who share a love of world-class food and drink.

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The Oberoi, New Delhi — New Delhi, India

Courtesy of Oberoi Hotels & Resorts

One of the bustling city’s most storied properties, The Oberoi will impress couples who appreciate white-gloved service, sophisticated decor, and easy access to Delhi’s vibrant culture.

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Zoëtry Paraiso de la Bonita — Puerto Morelos, Mexico

Partners looking to focus on wellness will appreciate Zoëtry Paraiso de la Bonita's holistic approach. Treatments at the award-winning spa go beyond the usual offerings with thalassotherapy (a form of aquatic therapy that relies on warm seawater, seaweed, and marine mud) and a temazcal ceremony (a local purifying ritual said to have detoxifying and regenerative benefits).

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Huka Lodge — Taupo, New Zealand

Courtesy of Huka Lodge

Seventeen acres of immaculately landscaped gardens and the stunning Waikato River encourage relaxation from the moment couples arrive at Huka Lodge. Once settled, duos can immerse themselves in a broad range of activities, from horseback riding and hiking to white water rafting and bungee jumping.

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Southern Ocean Lodge — Kangaroo Island, South Australia, Australia

Julian Kingsma/Courtesy of Southern Ocean Lodge

One of the most refined eco-retreats Down Under, Southern Ocean Lodge whisks guests away from civilization to put them amid the rugged Aussie landscape. While there, couples can experience a riot of wildlife, including koalas and the island’s namesake marsupials, through activities like self-guided walks or a private excursion to nearby Seal Bay.

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Post Ranch Inn — Big Sur, California

Kodiak Greenwood/Courtesy of Post Ranch Inn

Perched on cliffs that tower 1,200 feet over the Pacific Ocean, it’s no wonder the Post Ranch Inn has earned a reputation for its superlative vistas. Though all 39 rooms provide a sense of peaceful solitude, the ultimate romantic move is to book one of the modern treehouses, which rise nine feet high into the forest.

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One&Only Palmilla — Los Cabos, Mexico

Nicolas Sargent/Courtesy of One&Only Resorts

With deep soaking tubs, alfresco daybeds, and stunning Sea of Cortez views, the rooms and suites at the iconic One&Only Palmilla enchant couples looking to unplug and reconnect.

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Farmhouse Inn — Forestville, California

Courtesy of Farmhouse Inn

This cluster of small yellow buildings flanked by gardens seems almost like a tiny town unto itself. There are plenty of independent wineries to explore in the surrounding Russian River Valley — and the concierge will happily arrange private tours — but couples don’t need to leave the secluded Farmhouse Inn thanks to the world-class spa and Michelin-starred restaurant.

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Jade Mountain — Soufrière, St. Lucia

Macduff Everton/Courtesy of Jade Mountain

The breathtaking island certainly has plenty of dreamy resorts for couples to choose from, but Jade Mountain's spacious suites — with panoramic views and private infinity pools — are particularly impressive.

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The Mulia Bali — Bali, Indonesia

Courtesy of The Mulia Bali

Pairs might think twice about leaving the seclusion of their sleek suites at The Mulia, which front either lush gardens or expansive beaches, were it not for the spa and pools at this stunning property.

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Timber Cove Resort — Jenner, California

Courtesy of Timber Cove

The reinvented Timber Cove, which underwent a major renovation in 2016, blends the best of Sonoma wine country and the rocky California coast. While eating and drinking are certainly among the wonderful activities for spending time here, duos can also enjoy casual hikes, kayaking excursions, and unimpeded stargazing.

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The Lowell — New York, New York

Courtesy of The Lowell

A few short blocks from Central Park, The Lowell provides a home base for romantically inclined travelers looking to explore New York’s refined Upper East Side. Seventy uniquely designed rooms are all thoughtfully executed, with elegant touches like wood-burning fireplaces and raw-silk drapes.

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Villa Cora — Florence, Italy

Courtesy of Villa Cora

Encircled by gardens and lavishly decorated with grand frescoes and striking chandeliers, the palatial Villa Cora feels like a study in old-world Italian opulence. Couples staying during spring and summer months would do well to enjoy an alfresco cocktail by the spacious pool.

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Nizuc Resort & Spa — Cancún, Mexico

Courtesy of Nizuc Resort & Spa

Gastronomically inclined couples will appreciate the Nizuc Resort & Spa’s seven restaurants, while those looking to recharge at the spa have their pick of signature treatments that draw on ancient Mayan techniques.

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

Courtesy of the Oetker Collection

A celebrity favorite among the Cote d’Azur properties, the 147-year-old Hotel Du Cap-Eden-Roc — anchored by a stately 19th-century mansion — caters to duos looking to unwind in peace on the French Riviera.

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

Courtesy of Alila

Set on more than 200 acres of forested hillside just off of the iconic Highway 1, the adults-only Ventana Big Sur immerses partners in nature. Couples can’t go wrong no matter which accommodation type they choose, be it an elegant guest room with a wood-burning fireplace or one of the custom luxury glamping sites.

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Six Senses Yao Noi — Yao Noi, Thailand

Courtesy of Six Senses

At the wellness-focused Six Senses Yao Noi, situated roughly 45 minutes from Phuket, you and your partner can lose yourselves in the abundant greenery of the jungle or soak up tropical rays on the immaculate beaches.

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

Courtesy of La Réserve Paris Hotel, Spa & Apartments

Elegance abounds at this stately jewel, where each of the 26 suites and 14 rooms features luxe touches like silk wallpaper, velvet curtains, and marble bathrooms. Since La Réserve is located off the Champs-Elysées and within walking distance of the Grand Palais and Tuileries, it’s also easy for couples to explore some of the city’s most storied sights.

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Palazzo Avino — Ravello, Italy

Courtesy of Palazzo Avino

Decorated with furniture and antiques from the 17th through 19th centuries, the ornate Palazzo Avino treats guests like royalty. Honeymooners and romance seekers should be sure to soak up a sunset in the rooftop solarium and feast on a special menu at the restaurant’s chef’s table.

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The World’s Most Romantic Hotels and Resorts

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Ladera Resort — Soufrière, St. Lucia

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Cap Maison — Gros Islet, St. Lucia

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Belmond Castello di Casole — Casole d'Elsa, Italy

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Amandari — Ubud, Bali, Indonesia

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Badrutt’s Palace Hotel — St. Moritz, Switzerland

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Surf & Sand Resort — Laguna Beach, California

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Calistoga Ranch, an Auberge Resort — Calistoga, California

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The Setai — Miami Beach, Florida

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The Ritz, Paris — Paris, France

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Shangri-La Hotel, Paris — Paris, France

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Katikies Hotel — Santorini, Greece

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Koa Kea Hotel & Resort — Kaua'i, Hawaii

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La Residence — Franschhoek, South Africa

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The Oberoi, New Delhi — New Delhi, India

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Zoëtry Paraiso de la Bonita — Puerto Morelos, Mexico

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Huka Lodge — Taupo, New Zealand

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Southern Ocean Lodge — Kangaroo Island, South Australia, Australia

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Post Ranch Inn — Big Sur, California

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One&Only Palmilla — Los Cabos, Mexico

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Farmhouse Inn — Forestville, California

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Jade Mountain — Soufrière, St. Lucia

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The Mulia Bali — Bali, Indonesia

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Timber Cove Resort — Jenner, California

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The Lowell — New York, New York

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Villa Cora — Florence, Italy

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Nizuc Resort & Spa — Cancún, Mexico

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