Whether you've spent lockdown as lovers or are dreaming of a romantic reunion, give yourselves something to look forward to and plan a luxury trip for two to one (or more) of these enchanting European gems...
Villa Cora, Florence, Italy
The backdrop to romance: Nestled in exquisitely kept grounds and rose-filled gardens, Villa Cora was built in the 1870s by Baron Oppenheim for his beloved wife, Princess Eugenia. Channel their love story and step back in time to experience the aristocratic elegance of 19th-century Italy, with the romantic Renaissance buildings and art treasures of Florence just a short distance away.
Accommodation you'll adore: The gorgeous guest accommodation ranges from delightful rose-themed boudoirs, to Moorish-inspired rooms, to opulent suites with parquet mahogany floors and frescoed ceilings. The bathrooms are also beautiful, made entirely of Carrara marble and stocked with romantic rose-scented bath products and super-soft robes.
Don't miss: Be sure to sample the locally sourced and seasonal specialities on offer at Le Bistrot, headed up Executive chef Alessandro Liberatore. This highly regarded eatery offers a splendid sala during the winter months, while during summer, you can dine alfresco beside the pool. Allowing you to really get your teeth into the culinary heritage of Tuscany, the restaurant also offers private dinner, cookery lessons and guided wine tasting.
![Roof Terrace at Villa Cora]()
Roof Terrace at Villa Cora
Grand Hotel Tremezzo, Lake Como, Italy
The backdrop to romance: An iconic Art Noveau Palace built in 1910, the family-run and endlessly elegant Grand Hotel Tremezzo nestles on the western shore of lovely Lake Como, a destination long adored for its romantic air and spellbinding scenery. Indeed, as well as the calm waters of the lake, the hotel boasts dreamy views towards Bellagio and the Grigne mountains.
Accommodation you'll adore: For a truly magical Como stay, opt for a room or suite with lake views, waking up each morning to the sun reflecting off the water's serene surface. For a real treat, there are four fabulous rooftop suites that offer the highest level of luxury, privacy and some of Italy's most magical scenery. An idyllic spot for spending lazy hours looking out at the picture-perfect panorama, these suites flaunt terraces with outdoor whirlpools. You can also look forward VIP check-in, welcome aperitifs upon arrival and quality time together with complimentary in-suite breakfast every morning.
Don't miss: The hotel owns two beautiful Venetian motor launches that glide elegantly across the lake on eye-opening excursions to lesser-known spots on its shores. Sip Prosecco and soak up the scenery as you experience the true romance of Lake Como together.
![Exterior, Beach and Floating Pool at Grand Hotel Tremezzo]()
Exterior, Beach and Floating Pool at Grand Hotel Tremezzo
Royal Hotel Sanremo, Sanremo, Italy
The backdrop to romance: Set within gloriously kept, sub-tropical gardens filled with fragrant flowers, this formerly royal retreat (first opened in 1872) lies close to the Italian Riviera town of Sanremo, overlooking the bright blue hues of the Mediterranean Sea.
Accommodation you'll adore: Treat yourselves to a stay in a suite here and you won't be disappointed. Ultra-romantic, they exude a classic Italian charm and royally retro style; think parquet floors, antique furnishings and fabulously opulent upholstery, and enjoy fresh flowers throughout your stay. Most suites flaunt wraparound sea views from their private terraces - the perfect spot for a morning coffee or pre-dinner drink together - some of which also feature alfresco whirlpools.
Don't miss: Offering much more than your regular dip, the scenographic, sea-water swimming pool was designed by iconic Italian designer GiòPonti in 1948, after he declared "I hate rectangular swimming-pools. Are lakes and rivers rectangular? I want some pools for nymphs where it is possible to dive from the top of a tree and that have a bar on the water's edge." Today, this aquamarine marvel is surrounded by blooming gardens and looks towards the sea, while GiòPonti got his wish with the laid-back poolside eatery and bar, Corallina.
![Swimming Pool at Royal Hotel Sanremo]()
Swimming Pool at Royal Hotel Sanremo
Palazzo Avino, Amalfi Coast, Italy
The backdrop to romance: Known for its captivating coastline of rugged cliffs, sandy coves and terraced towns, Italy's Amalfi Coast is synonymous with romance. Dating to the 12th century and exuding an inherent charm, Palazzo Avino is set 1,000-foot-high on a clifftop, meaning you can enjoy magnificent Mediterranean views that few hotels here can rival. Set within terraces filled with flowers, the historic villa itself flaunts regal Renaissance features and plenty of outdoor space.
Accommodation you'll adore: Choose from one of the seven stunning Capsule Collection rooms, designed by Cristina Celestino. Indulge in interiors that feature soft alcoves, colours that recall the sea and precious details, in a concept is inspired by the Italian gardens of Ravello and the odyssey of forgotten stories from the Tyrrhenian Sea - heavenly.
Don't miss: For sunset views you won't forget in a hurry, head to the aptly named Lobster and Martini Bar, serving fresh local lobster, crisp Champagne and a choice of 100 different Martinis uniquely crafted by the masterful mixologist! During the summer, take dinner at Rossellini's, a Michelin-starred eatery that celebrates the best of Italian cuisine.
![Belvedere Suite Terrace at Palazzo Avino]()
Belvedere Suite Terrace at Palazzo Avino
Canaves Oia Suites, Santorini, Greece
The backdrop to romance: The whitewashed buildings and bright blue roofs of sun-soaked Santorini have become emblematic of romance, and the super-chic Canaves Oia Suites is one of the island's most intimate retreats. Known for its easy-going lifestyle, Oia is Santorini's most popular village, visited by many for the incredible sunset view every evening.
Accommodation you'll adore: Offering just a handful of elegant suites and one villa, all with cascading sea views, a stay here is all about slowing down the pace and getting away from the stresses of everyday. Styled to reflect modern, minimalistic luxury, suites are spacious, serene and filled with natural light. Nestled on the highest level and affording utmost privacy, the Honeymoon Suite is the ultimate choice for newlyweds seeking seclusion.
Don't miss: For a dreamy dinner unlike any other, book the solo, candlelit table on the private Panorama Balcony, enjoying breathtaking sunset views over the Caldera and Aegean Sea. Feast on Mediterranean menus from the refined Petra Restaurant, and raise a toast to the two of you.
![Honeymoon Suite at Canaves Oia Suites]()
Honeymoon Suite at Canaves Oia Suites
Amanzoe, Peloponnese, Greece
The backdrop to romance: Built in an elegant Acropolis style - think soaring pillars and plenty of marble - this romantic resort is secluded on a hilltop, surrounded by olive groves, vineyards and cypress trees, and looking out towards the brilliant blue bay below, where you can find the exclusive Beach Club.
Accommodation you'll adore: Fusing classic Greek architecture with five-star luxury, the wonderfully private pavilions are accessed via stone-walled courtyards, and all open out to fragrant gardens and terraces with private plunge pools. If you fancy a stay directly on the beach, choose a beautiful Beach Cabana located away from the main resort, complete with all the luxury of a pavilion, plus instant access to the sands.
Don't miss: As you might expect at an Aman resort, the spa is out of this world. The treatment menu is based on the healing philosophy of Greek medicine, best enjoyed in a totally romantic couples' suite. For true relaxation with views to-die-for, how about a yoga session for two in the dedicated pavilion?
![Breakfast in the Amphitheatre at Amanzoe]()
Breakfast in the Amphitheatre at Amanzoe
Regent Porto Montenegro, Boka Bay, Montenegro
The backdrop to romance: This luxury hideaway overlooks the fjord-like, UNESCO-listed Boka Bay, the largest natural harbour in the eastern Mediterranean and surrounded by rugged mountains, sandy bays and ancient hamlets.
Accommodation you'll adore: With a subtle nod to the many yachts that frequent the exclusive Porto Montenegro marina, the rooms feature plenty of blue and cream colours, wood and linen. They were envisioned by Tino Zervudachi, the go-to interior designer for many celebrities and an expert in restoring historic estates. For a home-from-home complete with a kitchen, living area and huge terrace with panoramas of the bay, opt to stay in the One-Bedroom Suite Sea View.
Don't miss: Make memories together as you explore your superb surroundings. You may take a scenic boat ride to the medieval town of Kotor, exploring its narrow streets and pretty squares hand-in-hand, while adventure-seeking duos can head into the mountains for hiking and biking with views to cherish. We can even arrange private helicopter itineraries for mind-blowing mountain and sea views.
![Swimming Pool at Regent Porto Montenegro]()
Swimming Pool at Regent Porto Montenegro
Amanruya, Bodrum, Turkey
The backdrop to romance: 'Aman' means 'peace' in Sanskrit and 'ruya' means 'dream' in Turkish; never has a hotel been more appropriately named than this serene, stone-built hideaway. Set on the beautiful Bodrum peninsula, surrounded by fragrant pines and overlooking the Aegean Sea, romance simply comes naturally here.
Accommodation you'll adore: Refined, contemporary and beyond luxurious, you'll struggle to leave your villa, complete with fabulous four-poster bed and a beautiful blend of Mediterranean and Turkish architectural details. Head outside to your very own garden to unwind on your private pergola's large cushioned daybed or take a dip in the swimming pool.
Don't miss: A variety of experiences are on offer to showcase the beauty and diversity of Bodrum. Head to a local village known for its pottery artisans for a private class with a master potter, enjoy a gourmet picnic at UNESCO-listed Ephesus, or simply unwind at the uber-chic beach club. Don't miss a cruise aboard the impressive motor yacht, whether for an island-hopping adventure or a romantic sunset cruise.
![Pool Pavilion Garden View at Amanruya]()
Pool Pavilion Garden View at Amanruya