For world explorers in search of the ultimate Valentine’s getaway, below is a selection of global, 5-star hideaways in which to escape with a significant other. From chocolate in Africa, to cava in Spain, to breath-taking views in Switzerland, and a true “Downtown Abbey” experience in the United Kingdom, any of these romantic escapes in exclusive destinations are sure to please.
The perfect retreat for chocolate loving readers of Refined-Life, Finch Hattons announces its “Chocoholic Valentine’s Day” experience – an all-inclusive stay in a lavish, tented suite with an assortment of chocolates upon arrival. Afternoon tea is served along with locally grown coffee and an array of cookies, chocolate fondue, chocolate cakes, and pastries. Chocolate dessert cooking classes are offered and taught by Executive Chef, Isaac Muhika. The most decadent element of the experience is a bush breakfast and a guided bush walk to taste Kenya’s rich culture. This wildly romantic expedition in the heart of Kenya is available February 12th-16th and a fourth, complimentary night’s stay is offered with a three-night minimum reservation.
For a less wild but equally delicious escape, South Africa is perfect for the globe-trotting duo. Couples can spend this Valentine’s Day at the Ellerman House in the colorful and alluring South Africa. Instead of chocolate lovers, this escape is tailored to wine connoisseurs; The Ellerman House boasts an exquisite South African wine collection totaling over 7,500 different bottles from all throughout the Southern African region. The two-story villas are one-of-a kind masterpieces. With three adorned bedrooms, each with a personal bathroom and terrace, the villas also include an exclusive cinema, an infinity pool, an interactive, couture kitchen, and a private chef at hand. This exclusive special includes a 60 minute couples massage, plus sunset cocktails and canapes overlooking Bantry Bay, followed by a three course set menu dinner with wine pairing. Four night minimum stays are required.
Jumping continents, those who want a zesty side of Mediterranean added to their romantic weekend, can enjoy Valentine’s Day encompassed by the ocean, art, and Catalan culture at the Hotel Arts Barcelona. With exclusive cava and chocolate covered strawberries presented upon arrival, Hotel Arts Barcelona offers accommodations including a dinner for two at Arola Restaurant. A signature cocktail, Michelin- starred chef Sergi Arola’s creative tapas and a personalized wine pairing are on the menu for this delicious evening. In the morning, couples can indulge in an American breakfast for two at Café Veranda and linger in-room with a delayed, 4pm checkout. This special will be offered February 11th-15th.
Travelers in search of another Mediterranean escape, this one off the beaten path will be surprised to find it in Switzerland. Hotel Eden Roc is situated on the Italian/Swiss boarder and is offering a special Valentine’s Day experience.
Ascona, Switzerland offers lovers some of it’s very best views with an exclusive two night get-away on glistening Lake Maggiore. Guests will enjoy a couple’s massage, in traditional Swiss fashion and later be enchanted by the landscape visible from Cardada; a magical lookout point, it provides views of both Switzerland’s lowest point, Lake Maggiore and the highest point, the Dufour peak (located in the Monte Rosa mountain range.) A candlelight dinner for two will also be served while admiring the majestic lake, twinkling beneath the stars. This visionary, two-night package is offered February 12th-15th.
Also set in Switzerland, but in a better-known region, St. Moritz is mountainous with a sparkling dusting of snow freshly fallen for the holiday. The Carlton Hotel is ideal for the equestrian loving pair, who would enjoy three nights in a suite or junior suite, including one VIP ticket per person to experience the White Turf exposition. White Turf is the only skijoring race in the world, during which guests enjoy a champagne bar, and Swiss buffet breakfast while watching skiers race, while gliding behind horses across a frozen lake. A food and beverage voucher is also provided for each guest to enjoy countless participating dining tents. This experience also includes access to the opulent Carlton Spa, butler service, transportation to Corviglia ski station, and 24 hour Bentley limousine service. The special experience can be reserved February 11th-15th per availability.
Romance fit for a royal is alive in the beautiful Cotswolds region of England, celebrated at the original countryside manor house of Ellenborough Park. Rolling hills, award-winning spa facilities, and quintessential British High Tea are all on offer. Travelers will revel in theunsurpassed elegance of a 15th century manor house hotel, which presents an authentic experience and provides a personal immersion into a quaint British country lifestyle. This Valentine’s celebration includ
London is calling and it can be answered at The Draycott where couples are invited to spend Valentine’s Day in the heart of the bustling city. Its exclusive location in an intimate garden oasis makes for a cozy town house hotel. Guests will feel right at home as they enjoy complimentary tea, champagne, hot chocolate, and a fire place in their room. Each will be outfitted with a dozen, fresh roses, an exquisite box of hand-made chocolates, a bottle of pink, chilled champagne, and silky rose petals at turn down for the ultimate in romance. A late 1pm check out, exclusive room service & a full English breakfast for two, means travelers practically never have to leave the privacy of their room. This special is available February 6th– 14th.
Across the Atlantic in São Paulo, Brazil, Hotel Unique is perfect for the couple looking for an intimate and exotic experience this Valentine’s Day. Offering the “Dream Purple” Package, traveling duos can enjoy a sensual night including a bottle of Veuve Clicquot compliments of Chef, Emmanuel Bassoleil, “spicy” surprises, and two “hot” DVDs. Breakfast at Skye Restaurant is included and can be enjoyed while taking in some of the best views of the São Paulo city scape or sent down to be enjoyed in the privacy of one’s own room. Couples can be enveloped in this purple hued, dreamscape until a relaxed 6pm check out.
Last but not least, Jacada Travel offers exclusive, customized retreats that intend to meet the wildest desires and dreams of any and every variety of traveler this Valentine’s day. Perfect for the adventurous couple who wants control of their day to day activities and experiences, one sample expedition is a Vietnam and Cambodia adventure scheduled through Jacada. Couples have the option of dining privately under the stars at their own Angkor Wat temple equipped with a butler, a single violinist, or traditional Cambodian music if they prefer. Pre- dinner drinks served under a canopy with authentic Cambodian dancing and a locally produced 5 star menu is another potential itinerary element to this tailorable destination escape. Jacada provides travelers with once-in-a-lifetime opportunities, such as exploring sacred temples in luxurious seclusion. Jacada can even arrange a blessing by a Buddhist monk for an extra memorable experience. Every package is priced according to the personalized excursions.
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