With Valentine's Day edging ever closer, it's the excuse we needed to take a look at some of the most romantic hotels in the world. From Hotel Caruso on the spectacular Amalfi Coast where Greta Garbo once romanced, to the hidden island in the Seychelles where the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge spent their honeymoon after the royal wedding in 2007 and the Beverly Wilshire where Julia Roberts played Pretty Woman...Take a look at our pick of the world's most wonderful escapes, perfect for you and your someone special...
Hotel Caruso, Amalfi Coast, Italy Set on the highest point of Ravello this stunning luxury hotel perches on a clifftop around 1,000 feet above sea level, with spectacular views over the Mediterranean and Amalfi Coast.Originally an 11th century palace, with unique white cave dwellings, ancient walls and carefully reserved fresco-covered ceilings, the idyllic setting was where the famous Match of the Day presenter Gary Lineker chose to marry his model girlfriend Danielle Bux in 2009 with an intimate ceremony. Strictly Come Dancing star Erin Boag also chose the lawns of the elegant and historic hotel to say 'I do' to her business consultant boyfriend Peter O'Dowd last year.Over the years this wonderful spot, where couples can enjoy an open-air massage immersed in the lush and picturesque gardens and dinner under the stars, has conquered the hearts of many celebrities who have signed the hotel's Golden Book. Greta Garbo and conductor Leopold Stokowski once enjoyed some of Europe's most beautiful and enchanting coastlines from these beautiful grounds. More recently A-listers Diane Keaton, Alicia Keys, Mark Zukerberg and Nicolas Cage have all resided at this palatial hotel.With breathtaking views, this southern Italy setting is perfect for a certain someone to go down on one knee before popping the big question…
The Cranleigh Hotel, Bowness on Windermere, Lake DistrictCrowned the UK's most romantic hotel by TripAdviser's Traveller's Choice Awards 2013, the Cranleigh Boutique in Bowness-on-Windermere is just a minute's walk from the shores of Lake Windermere where couples can enjoy lovely long walks and shopping in the area's quaint towns, followed by a Ben de Lisi glass jacuzzi bath, mood lighting and an outdoor hot tub.The hotel has also been ranked third most romantic hotel in the world, with around 25 couples getting engaged each year according to the boutique's owner, Stephen Hargreaves. He told HELLO! Online: "Not only is the Lake District the most romantic place in the UK. The Cranleigh Boutique offers in-room facilities and extras that make it the perfect place to escape and pop the big question. We love to make that moment a special one for our guests so they come back to us again and again, which they do". With prices as reasonable as £85 a night, we can see why!
Desroches Island Retreat, the Seychelles The Seychelles have long been one of the world's most romantic destinations. And its reputation as the perfect romantic hideaway was confirmed when Prince William and Kate Middleton spent their honeymoon there following the royal wedding in 2007.With miles of sparkling white beaches and fantastic coral reefs which are perfect for snorkelling, the private island of Desroches is paradise for couples looking for a romantic beach holiday far from the rest of the world. The only accommodation on the island, Desroches Island Retreat, comprises 20 luxury villas nestled under shady coconut palms and offers absolute intimacy in the most beautiful surroundings.
Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora, Motu Tehotu, French PolynesiaAbout 90 per cent of visits to the Four Seasons in Bora Bora, the most famous of French Polynesia's Leeward Islands, are on a romantic holiday – for a wedding, honeymoon, anniversary, vow renewal or engagement.With majestic views and surrounded by sand-fringed islets on an outer coral reef that enclose a turquoise lagoon, guests can enjoy a floating love seat tied to their bungalow, savour authentic cuisine on a private beachfront table, and venture underwater for snorkelling.Named number one luxury hotel in the South Pacific by 2013 Travellers' Choice, the hot destination was also recently awarded the title of "the best island in the world" by U.S. News. Celebrity couples like Australian beauty Miranda Kerr and Orlando Bloom, Megan Fox and Brian Austin Green and Calista Flockhart and husband Harrison Ford have all swam in these crystalline, private shores.
Beverly Wilshire, Beverly HillsThis magnificent five-star hotel on Wilshire Boulevard and Rodeo Drive is ideally situated near some of the best shopping, dining and art galleries in the world. So it's no wonder it's a favourite with Hollywood's A-listers such as Sharon Stone, Toni Braxton and Russell Brand, as well as royals and even presidents.And of course it's become a mecca for romantics who want to experience a Pretty Woman weekend (don't we all?). Here Vivian, played by Julia Roberts, got her first taste of the high life in the 1928 Beaux Arts-style luxury hotel in the timeless classic.Vivian was invited to stay in the heart of Beverly Hills by Edward Lewis – gorgeous actor Richard Gere – where they resided for several days. You won't be able to stay in the same suite as Julia though – the rooms featured in the film were a set built at the Disney Studio. But we're sure the real Penthouse will be just as good.