Even in the best cities in the world, there are times that escape feels so desperate a necessity that any borrowed friend-of-a-friend’s dilapidated cottage upstate seems like it would do the trick. From dreamy and not-too-far-away to dreamy and across-the-pond, these six romantic getaways are sure to get your imagination, and your heart (and libido) stirring. Book one now. You won’t regret it.
1. Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa, Montauk
Just a quick Jitney trip away lies Montauk–which sheds the pretension of the neighboring Hamptons, but keeps the pristine oceanfront real estate. Thanks to a spa, salt water pool (with ocean views (!)), and yoga classes offered, you can get the perks of a tropically detoxifying retreat in just a 2.5-hour trip. End the night watching the sunset or sipping champagne by the fireplace.
Photo: Courtesy of Gurney’s Montauk Resort
Photo: Courtesy of Gurney’s Montauk Resort
Photo: Courtesy of Gurney’s Montauk Resort
2. Ace Hotel and Swim Club, Palm Springs
For a west coast romantic getaway, look no further than Palm Springs: this desert mecca of mid-century modern architecture doubles as a hip destination for anyone who wants California weather, sans the glitz of L.A…and should you want for just a hint of glitz, The Ace Hotel might just be the perfect resolution. If it’s pure, unadulterated relaxation you seek, “The Feel Good Spa” offers couples packages–in fact, anything from facials and seaweed body wraps, to earth clay wraps and body brushing can be done in twosome form. And, since no vacation has ever felt long enough, couples can indulge in a personal massage lesson to learn inspired, professional techniques to use at home. Outdoorsy types can soak up the SoCal sunshine via bike rentals–even better–the hotel can arrange a private dinner on the stargazing deck, which overlooks the pool and mountains.
Photo: D.L. Thompson and Jon Johnson
Photo: Douglas Lyle Thompson
Photo: D.L. Johnson and Jon Johnson
3. The Prairie by Rachel Ashwell, Round Top, TX
Looking for a romantic American getaway that’s truly off the beaten path? Try Texas. Just 75 miles from ultra-hip Austin lies mecca, as told by the queen of shabby chic. Each cottage offers privacy and comfort. Couples spend time reconnecting with long walks and quality time spent together. Trying to win some extra boyfriend/girlfriend points? Flowers can be added to the room for an extra special touch.
Photo: Courtesy of “Rachel Ashwell Couture Prairie and Flea Market Treasures,” Cico books
Photo: Courtesy of “Rachel Ashwell Couture Prairie and Flea Market Treasures,” Cico books
Photo: Courtesy of “Rachel Ashwell Couture Prairie and Flea Market Treasures,” Cico books
Photo: Courtesy of “Rachel Ashwell Couture Prairie and Flea Market Treasures,” Cico books
4. The Berkeley Hotel, London
Here’s one for the sartorially inclined couple. If you missed the jaw-dropping Alexander McQueen retrospective when it debuted at the Met’s Costume Instutute in NYC in 2011, fear not–the corsetry, the chance to be thisclose to pieces from the groundbreaking Highland Rape collection is just one reason to head to the UK. It’s now at the V&A–a British institution, if you’ve never been. (Plus, even if you’re going for just an extended weekend, a flight to England is a solid hour less than almost any other country in Europe and the same goes for the time difference). If the exhibit isn’t enough, revel in the quirky spirit of English fashion at The Berkeley Hotel (that’s Rachel Zoe’s favorite to you) where you can enjoy Pret-a-Portea–proper high tea that pays homage to McQueen favorites. Of course, The Berkeley is more than just cookies and tea sandwiches…there are the balcony suites overlooking Hyde Park, duos can enjoy treatments at the Bamford Haybarn Spa, and unwind from the buzz of London by the rooftop pool.
Photo: Courtesy of Maybourne Hotel Group
Photo: Courtesy of Maybourne Hotel Group
Photo: Courtesy of Maybourne Hotel Group
Photo: Courtesy of Maybourne Hotel Group
5. St. Regis Bahia Beach, Puerto Rico
Though leaving the premises of the St. Regis Bahia Beach would be, by no means, necessary, the couple who likes their vacation with a healthy mix of the highest-end luxury (think: a Jean-Georges restaurant on the premises) and a bit of authentic culture, look no further than this gorgeous Puerto Rican retreat, where the ocean is warm, the pool is massive and the cabanas are made for making out–but the charm and pastel colors of Old San Juan are just a short drive away. Kayak in the on-property lake, hike holding hands through the nearby El Yunque rainforest, or simply read by the pool, you’ll leave having enjoyed a restorative serving of both piña coladas and Vitamin D. Though adventure on and around the premises abounds, rooms come equipped with sun-drenched patios and walk-in showers. Even better, giant baths that are an insanely simple dial-zero to the butler away from filled with bubbly–in the bath and your glasses. Prepare for 24/7 romance.
Photo: Courtesy of St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort
Photo: Courtesy of St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort
Photo: Courtesy of St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort
Photo: Courtesy of St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort
6. KiCHIC Resort, Peru
Located on the edge of a traditional Peruvian fishing village, Mancora is fast emerging as one of the world’s best beach destinations (you heard it here first)! KiCHIC offers a unique hideaway where guests find call rooms, located between gardens of coconut palms and maye pepper trees facing the northern ocean breeze, home. For an especially romantic indulgence, spring for the Piedra room which has its own open-air bathtub on a private terrace made out of local flagstone, or the Himalaya. Should you decide (and no judgement, if not) to ever get out of bed, you can take your pick of surf lessons, kayaking, and outdoor movies every weekend.
Photo: Courtesy of KiCHIC
Photo: Courtesy of KiCHIC
Photo: Courtesy of KiCHIC
Photo: Courtesy of KiCHIC
The post Weekend Trip: Six Romantic Getaways To Book Right Now appeared first on BlackBook.