Wanderlust Wednesdays: 7 Romantic Getaways for Valentine’s Day 2020By Francesca Brooking

Wanderlust Wednesdays are back and this week we’ve put together a roundup of romantic getaways for Valentine’s Day 2020 (14th February in case you need reminding). From The Maldives to Cornwall, it’s time to fall in love with your next couple’s holiday destination:

1. For a Winter Romance: Arctic Holiday Northern Lights and Ice Hotel, Norway

What: Norwegian tour operator Arctic Holiday is offering couples the chance to experience the ultimate winter retreat this Valentine’s Day – a stay in a hotel built of ice. 

The Lowdown: Nothing quite says romance than watching the Northern Lights with a partner and then cosying up with a hot drink as your dinner is grilled on an open fire. Arctic Holiday is offering just that plus the chance to stay overnight in one of seven ice rooms in the new and exclusive Ice Hotel outside Tromsø. If the chill isn’t quite your thing then you’re still invited to visit the hotel, take in the beauty and check out the ice bar, wall etchings and sculptures before heading back to a comfortable hotel in Tromsø. This unique and once-in-a-lifetime experience is one of our most exciting romantic getaways for Valentine’s Day 2020. 

How to Book: Prices from £735 pp for 3-4 days until March 31st. Price includes direct flights from Gatwick with Norwegian Air. To book, visit the website here. 

2. For a Holiday in the Sun: Amari Havodda, The Maldives

What: Amari Havodda in The Maldives is encouraging guests to escape to the sunshine this Valentine’s Day for a slice of heaven tucked away in the Indian Ocean.  

The Lowdown: Nestled on one of the most preserved atolls in the archipelago, Amari Havodda is the destination for a romance in the sun. Located on its own private island, guests can stay in one of 120 villas, including beachfront and signature Maldivian overwater villas. Each villa is designed with romance in mind. The overwater villas, in particular, feature a private terrace with an outdoor daybed and hammock and steps leading directly to the glittering ocean. For an extra luxurious stay, the overwater pool villas come with a private infinity pool. When you’re not soaking up the sun, go for a bit of pampering at Amari’s Breeze Spa or enjoy the whole host of activities on offer including, water sports and scuba diving. 

How to Book: Book via the website here.

3. For an Italian Retreat: Trentino Region, Italy

What: The Northern Italian region of Trentino is the perfect destination for couples who enjoy skiing, spa breaks and delicious food all in one. 

The Lowdown: Stretching from the top of Lake Garda up into the Dolomites, Trentino is an excellent base for ski-lovers who want to explore the fantastic tree-lined runs on the Dolomiti Superski route. Head deep into the snowcapped mountains on skis or on snowshoes before warming up in one of the region’s many wellness centres. Stay at the beautiful Muu Village in Folgaria for a chance to really indulge in the alpine wellbeing. Take your pick of Turkish baths, hydrotherapy pools, saunas, a fitness centre and more within the cosy mountain property. Foodie couples certainly can’t go wrong with a visit to Trentino. World-class food and wine await with the region’s award-winning sparkling wine, Trento DOC, being served as a popular aperitivo. Couples can also feast on mountain cheeses, cured meats and fresh handmade pasta. 

How to Book: Visit the Trentino website to find out more here and book Muu Village here. 

4. For a Country House Hotel: Down Hall, UK

What: Down Hall is a luxury country house hotel just 45 minutes from Central London, making it an ideal mini-break destination. It’s bound to be one of the most popular romantic getaways for Valentine’s Day this year. 

The Lowdown: If you and your partner are in need of a quick break this Valentine’s Day then head to Down Hall, located on the Hertfordshire/Essex border. This wonderful countryside escape is set within 110 acres of breathtaking grounds. Guests can relax, reconnect with nature and indulge in the state-of-the-art ESPA spa for a perfect romantic weekend. Spend a leisurely afternoon roaming the grounds before returning to your room where a chilled bottle of prosecco will be waiting. In the evening, enjoy a candlelit dinner in the hotel’s Grill Room, where a special set menu will be served including poached hake with a champagne and caviar sauce and an indulgent chocolate fondant. Breakfast is also included in the package. 

How to Book: Couples Retreat package is priced at £299 for two based on a one-night stay. Contact 01279 731 441, email reservations@downhall.co.uk or book online.

5. For a Seaside Escape: Breakers, UK 

What: For couples wanting to stay a little closer to home this Valentine’s Day, it doesn’t get much better than Breakers in Whitsand Bay, Cornwall. 

The Lowdown: Breakers is a self-catered beach chalet with uninterrupted panoramic sea views. A wonderful couple’s hideaway this Valentine’s Day, it’s cosy and comfortable, offering space and serenity to relax. Wrap yourselves up in blankets and enjoy spectacular views from the decking or get a fire going and cosy up with a glass of wine. Head into Whitsand Bay for a romantic meal for two at The View, a renowned seafood restaurant and take part in the water sports activities, including surfing, coasteering, kayaking and more. 

How to Book: Visit the website here to book.

6. For Mountain Views: La Plagne, French Alps

What: La Plagne, the world’s most visited ski resort is offering an unforgettable place for couples to stay this Valentine’s Day. 

The Lowdown: Enjoy a romantic stay for two in the world’s first luxury converted piste basher 2,400m high up in the mountains. After a trip in the snow groomer to the summit, you and your partner will be left alone in a world of snow-covered peaks under the stars (a radio will be given to you in case you require assistance). Snuggle up to the views of Mont Blanc and enjoy a queen-sized bed, mood lighting, Champagne, chocolates, a jacuzzi, and a whole host of exciting surprises. It’s one of our top romantic getaways for Valentine’s Day 2020. 

How to Book: One night’s B&B in Over the Moon costs from €320/£273 (two sharing), including snow groomer transfer from Plagne Bellecôte. Return flights (London-Geneva) from £52 pp with easyJet. Call La Plagne on +33 (0)4 79 09 79 79 or visit the website here. 

7. For a City Break: The Sacher, Vienna 

What: Hotel Sacher in Vienna is the top 5-star destination for a perfect romantic city break this Valentine’s Day. 

The Lowdown: The epitome of elegance style, Hotel Sacher is one of Vienna’s most luxurious hotels. Treat yourself to a decadent Junior Suite, complete with living room and bedroom spaces for you to relax and unwind in. The suite also comes with a marble bathroom with underfloor heating and separate bathtubs and showers. Couples can peak through their windows and enjoy the view of the famous State Opera and Albertina Gallery, right on the hotel’s doorstep. The Sacher has four on-site restaurants and bars to choose from and guests can also indulge in the boutique spa. 

How to Book: Visit the website here to book.