Best Weekend Getaways for Couples 2015    

[Two Bunch Palms]

   

Two Bunch Palms in Desert Hot Springs, California is an adult-only getaway with its own source of mineral water. The resort has newly renovated rooms on 77 acres, including 13 suites with outdoor patios. Wellness Spa has 19 treatment rooms, mud baths and water therapy pools. Facilities include a lap pool, great lawn, tennis courts, a fitness room, labyrinth, nature trails, turtle pond and a 3,000-square-foot yoga space. Immerse yourself in the healing waters of the Grotto and enjoy a diverse selection of treatments such as outdoor massages, watsu, clay masks and mud therapy. Stay in shape by joining 35 weekly movement and enrichment classes.

Essense restaurant at Two Bunch Palms serves farm-to-table cuisine in an intimate setting. The 4-acre solar field installation, scheduled to be completed by the end of March, 2015, will make Two Bunch Palms the first carbon-neutral resort in North America. Rates start at $309 per night (760-329-8791, website).

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[The Redbury Hollywood]

   

Check into one of the 57 luxuriously appointed suites at the Redbury Hollywood and feel like a celebrity for a weekend. Guest accommodations are decorated with design elements inspired by old-world cultures. In addition to a spacious layout and great service, guests enjoy plush amenities such as a washer & drier, 46-inch TVs and European-style kitchens. Take a complimentary BMW house car to one of the nearby shops, book a massage in the privacy of your own suite and have a romantic dinner at Cleo which serves nouveau Middle Eastern cuisine. Rooms start at $323 per night (website).

[Winvian]

Winvian in the Litchfield Hills of Connecticut is set on 113 acres with a lush forest and lakes, enough to attract anyone wanting to escape the hectic city life. But this retreat didn't stop there - the owners hired 15 architects to come up with totally unique guest cottages. Each has a different shape and theme, such as the Greenhouse for plant lovers, the library for the book worm, and the helicopter cottage that resembles a hangers, ideal for aviation fans. You can visit the spa for a luxurious couples massage, have a romantic dinner and enjoy an array of outdoor activities. The romantic inn is located about two hours from New York City and Boston, a quick weekend getaway from both cities. Activities that couples can enjoy together include hiking, biking, horseback riding and snow-shoeing in the winter.

Couples who have been everywhere and have seen everything should rent the Helicopter Cottage. In the morning, wake up with a 17,000 pound 1968 Sikorsky Sea King Pelican HH3F at the foot of your bed. The interior of the helicopter is a cozy lounge where you can have drinks and watch TV. The cottage is designed to resemble a cozy helicopter hanger, complete with a charming red exterior and a fireplace. You'll have a view of the helicopter even from the bath tub. If you want to brush up on your cooking skills, Winvian offers fun cooking classes designed to address particular ingredients such as fish, salads or poultry dishes. The hotel received a five AAA Diamond award for its accommodations as well as its fine-dining restaurant. Cottage rates start at $459 per night (860-567-9600, website).

[Lake Placid Lodge]

A five-hour drive from New York City and Boston, the Lake Placid Lodge is a romantic getaway surrounded by the Adirondack Mountains and the picturesque Lake Placid. Spend a relaxing weekend hiking, fishing, horseback riding and mountain biking. In the summer, guests can go swimming, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and electric boat rides on the lake. In the winter, take dog sled rides, go ice fishing, cross country skiing and snowshoeing. At the end of the day, request an in-room massage in front of the large stone wood-burning fireplace in your room.

The lodge has 17 guest room and 17 lakefront cabins decorated in a luxurious yet rustic style. In addition to a fireplace, most rooms have deep-soaking tubs, double headed showers and scenic views of the surrounding lake and the mountains - a beautiful setting for a couples' getaway. Each guest room is unique in layout and design, and some guests request the same one every time they return to the lodge. The restaurant serves innovative New American cuisine with a French twist and local organic farm ingredients. Adirondack breakfast and afternoon tea are included in the room rate. Rates start at $649 per night. Guests must be at least 14 years old (518-523-2700, 877-523-2700, website).

[Windsor Court]

In New Orleans, a city filled with French and Spanish history, this stylish hotel stands out with its English manor ambiance. Located in the heart of the business district, Windsor Court Hotel has a stunning rooftop pool, great restaurants and five star service. Inside, guests find 17th and 18th antiques, period reproductions, and accommodations with original works of art. There are 316 rooms and suites with scenic views of the Mississippi River and the city skyline. If you are planning a special celebration, splurge on the Presidential Suite on the 22nd floor of the hotel, especially popular with celebrities. The Presidential Suite has a secluded terrace with spectacular river views, a library, full kitchen and a baby grand piano.

Work out at the health club which has a steam room, sauna and massage facilities. Ask about the Duet Suite at the Spa at Windsor Court on your weekend getaway. The outdoor pool and sundeck are a great place to unwind with a view. Traditional Afternoon Tea is served daily at Le Salon, accompanied by live music. The Grill Room serves innovative southern cuisine in an elegant setting, and offers an extensive wine list. Rates start from $360 per night (800-262-2662, website).

[Photo Credit: Beall + Thomas Photography]

Blackberry Farm is a luxury getaway situated in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee. The resort offers great mountain views, comfortable ambiance, a spa and fabulous cuisine. Throughout the year, the hotel hosts cooking classes with famous guest chefs. Activities include fly fishing, tennis, horseback riding, cycling, clay shooting, paddle sports, hiking, archery, garden tours and cooking demonstrations. Fly fishing is available on Hesse Creek on the 4,200-acre property and nearby in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The resort also offers a fly fishing school. Treatments at the Farmhouse Spa include Swedish and sports massage, reflexology, Shiatsu, body treatments, facials, and beauty treatments. Private spa rooms have scenic meadow and mountain views.

There are 62 guest rooms and suites, decorated with English antiques, art pieces and feather beds. The guest rooms are situated in five separate areas, including the Main House, Guest House, Holly Glade Cottages, Cove Cottage and Gate House. All of the cottages have a living room, a romantic fireplace and a stone veranda with signature rocking chairs. Guests dine at the Main House in the Laurel, Mountain, Rhododendron and Azalea dining rooms as part of the Full American Plan. The property is located ten minutes from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Enjoy the outdoors, beautiful scenery and a picnic lunch in Cades Cove.

Summer is the best time to visit the area because of warm weather. You can fly to Knoxville's McGhee-Tyson Airport and rent a car at the airport. The property is about 1 hour by car from downtown Knoxville. Expect holiday weekends to be busy, especially Easter, Memorial Day and Labor Day. Rates start at US $645 per night (plus tax and service charge) with a required two-night minimum stay. Room rates include a Full American Meal Plan with breakfast, lunch and dinner. There is complimentary on-site fly fishing, hiking, mountain biking and tennis (865-984-8166, website).

[Hammock Beach Resort]

When temperatures in the rest of the country drop, head to the scenic Hammock Beach Resort in Florida. Set on a long stretch of a sandy beach, the resort offers spectacular golf, its own marina and three swimming pools. Book a room at the Harborside Inn at Hammock Beach Resort to enjoy the best water views and spa bathtubs.

[Elm Court]

The White Barn Inn is located in Kennebunkport, Maine, 80 minutes from Boston and 30 minutes from Portland, Maine. The property features a AAA Five-Diamond Award restaurant, elegant rooms and a reverse-edged outdoor heated swimming pool. Guests can get a massage in one of the private cabanas located poolside. After getting pampered, explore the coast by bike or in a canoe. There are 25 rooms, including four garden rooms and seven luxurious suites - all are elegantly decorated and have a fireplace. Each room is appointed with fresh flowers and plush terry robes.

The AAA Five-Diamond Award restaurant is housed in two restored barns featuring nineteenth century antiques and oil paintings. While the restaurant seats 120, guests can reserve the Wine Room for private dinners of up to 14 people if you are planning a special celebration. Poolside lunch is served in season featuring sandwiches, salads and brick oven pizzas. In the summer, guests can enjoy many activities offered nearby, including whale watching, deep sea fishing, horseback riding and swimming in the ocean. The village of Kennebunkport offers fine shops and art galleries. If you go in the summer, you can enjoy warm weather and the outdoor pool. Off-season is a good time to go to relax by the fire and enjoy great food. Room rates from $275 include continental breakfast, daily afternoon tea, bicycles and canoes. During the off-season, rates get reduced (207-967-2321, website).

[The Essex Resort & Spa]

New England offers many romantic weekend spots, perfect for those who are looking to get away from New York and Boston. The Essex Resort & Spa in Vermont has two restaurants serving delicious innovative cuisine. Guest rooms and suites are decorated in charming New England style. They have been recently renovated and offer a flat-panel HD television, new 300-thread count linens, and an ihome audio system. Fireplace mini-suites are a great choice for couples because they have a whirlpool tub and a sitting area in front of a fireplace.

[La Jolla Hotel]

Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa in Southern California is a great getaway from Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego. Guests are accommodated in elegant rooms and suites with balconies overlooking the gardens or the pool. The hotel spa is one of the best spas in the area, offering 7 indoor treatment rooms or private bungalows. Couples can book massages on their romantic getaway. Relax in the saltwater pool, next to the outdoor heated pool, in the Eucalyptus Steam Room and Relaxation Area. The outdoor relaxation garden is available before and after treatments. The hotel has a newly remodeled fitness center.

[The Homestead Resort]

The Homestead Resort in Virginia is built around the healing hot springs which have been drawing vacationers for generations. Two hot springs from the surrounding Allegheny Mountains flow onto the hotel property, allowing you to bathe in this natural source. The pools are named for Thomas Jefferson, who visited the resort in 1818.

The resort is home to the world-renowned Canyon Ranch SpaClub (opening in the spring of 2013) following the philosophy of Canyon Ranch in Tucson. The new spa is a perfect place for a relaxing trip. The Homestead Resort offers romantic rooms and suites with large windows overlooking the surrounding nature. In addition to the hot springs, there is golf, tennis, historic tours, indoor pool, games, shopping and a theater.

[The Inn at Perry Cabin]

The Inn at Perry Cabin is a charming colonial mansion in coastal Maryland with rooms decorated in 19th century style. Linden Spa, named after a tree that grows on the resort grounds, offers a menu of nurturing therapies that utilize local ingredients.

Couples can unwind next to the infinity-edge pool after dotoxing in the steam room. The spa sells the organic products so that you can bring the scents from the vacation back home with you.

The hotel offers the "Linden Spa Experience" package which includes luxury accommodations, a spa credit, daily breakfast and many resort activities, including kayaking, garden tours and wine tastings.

[Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain]

Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain has a spa and a gourmet restaurant. Relax by the pool, visit the meditation garden, and join fitness classes in the movement studio. There are 105 luxury casitas to choose from, featuring spectacular views of Paradise Valley and the mountains. In the evening, couples can enjoy a romantic sunset from their private patio. Accommodations feature Frette linens, plush robes and in-room Fonte Coffee.

If you are looking for active ideas, take a look at the resorts of Arizona. Rancho De La Osa offers cooking classes, horseback riding, hiking and mountain biking. The guest ranch is located southwest of Tucson at the base of the sacred Baboquivari mountains and bordering the Tohono O'odham Indian Nation. Enjoy Southwestern cuisine in the romantic hacienda dining room, secluded outdoor courtyard or under the stars at a cookout. Choose from 18 adobe guest rooms - ask for a room with a wood burning fireplace. Each guest room has a porch with mountain views. Rates include meals and activities.

[Ocean Key Resort]

Visit the sunny Florida Keys to enjoy romantic sunsets, gourmet dinners and stylish accommodations. Ocean Key Resort has rooms and suites with stunning ocean views. Relax on your private terrace overlooking the ocean while you listen to the sounds of the water and the birds. In the evening, the resort restaurant serves delicious food with spectacular water views. A weekend in the Keys is not complete without a massage at the spa which offers treatments from around the world.

Book one of the 600-quare-foot suites with a private balcony overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. The suites are furnished with rich textiles, eclectic furnishings and decor that complements the stunning views of Key West. Order room service and take a relaxing bath in the whirlpool tub.

[Acqualina]

Acqualina is located between Miami and Fort Lauderdale in Florida which makes it a quick trip from both cities. Guest rooms at Acqualina have spectacular ocean views. If you want more space, book a one-bedroom oceanfront Classic Hotel Suite which measures 1,010 square feet in size plus the terrace. The suite has a king-size bed, writing desk, separate living room, two flat-screen TVs and an entertainment unit.

 

The Post Ranch Inn is an ideal romantic hideaway for anyone looking to relieve stress, rejuvenate tired muscles, and relax in one of the inns luxurious rooms. Located just off Highway One in Big Sur California, the property provides its guests with their choice of 30 uniquely styled accommodations, a diverse range of relaxing spa treatments, and award winning dinning, all with great views of the Pacific Ocean.

Each one of the rooms is unique and features a wood-burning fireplace, an indoor spa tub and private deck. To encourage relaxation there are no alarm clacks or televisions in the rooms, but each room does have a digital music system with forty-five channels. The ideal spot for a swim, the basking pool is kept at a comfortable 104 degrees and has sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. Couples on can choose to have a couples massage in their room or at the spa. For couples with a little more energy you can take a Couple's Massage class. In the class, couples will learn basic massage techniques to help each other release built up tension. After a calm, quiet, relaxing day you can have dinner at the Sierra Mar Restaurant. Rooms range from $485 to $935 per night with a buffet breakfast included.

 

The newly renovated Inn at Rancho Santa Fe is a historic getaway with a great restaurant, 3,000 square foot spa and lush gardens. Couples enjoy taking romantic walks through the hotel gardens, dining at the new Morada restaurant and sampling many different activities that the area has to offer. The inn is just minutes from Del Mar, Solana Beach and La Jolla where you can explore beaches, restaurants and boutiques.

 

If you want to enjoy some of the best views of the river in Portland, Oregon, check into the RiverPlace Hotel. The 4-star boutique getaway is a member of Kimpton Hotels which are known for their pet-friendly services, kids' amenities and eco-conscious practices. The property is a heaven of warmth and intimate hospitality, offering plush interiors that make you feel like you are staying in a grand home. Guests who love care, comfort and charm will fall in love with the elegance and modernity.

The property is close to the Hawthorne Bridge, KOIN Building, Athletic Club and the Ira Keller Fountain Park. Local attractions also include the Portland State University and the Pioneer Courthouse Square. The property offers in-room spa services, including facials, massages and body treatments which utilize organic, natural and wild-crafted ingredients. Guests receive complimentary access to the Athletic Club a block away. There is a romantic courtyard patio and a grand Ballroom for weddings and other celebrations.

There are 84 rooms and suites to choose from, all adorned in classic decor. Some rooms look out to the courtyard or the river, while others provide good views of the city. There are separate wood-burning fireplaces and full kitchens in the riverfront suites. These accommodations are fully equipped for modern-day travelers who are used to the best amenities and luxuries. Special touches include a pillow menu with a choice of different sizes and shapes. Pacific Northwest dining is at its best at the Three Degrees restaurant which serves lunch, dinner and breakfast overlooking the river. Recipes are prepared with local, seasonal and fresh ingredients.

Dinner time is particularly popular among the guests and Portland locals because of the sparkling lights of the city in the background. The restaurant has a separate private dining facility for groups of up to 30 diners. Three Degrees Bar & Grill offers a wide selection of wines, cocktails and other beverages from Oregon and around the world. The bar turns into a hot chocolate and coffee lounge in the mornings. Every evening there is the "wine hour" between 5 and 6 pm. Guests can sit back and relax in the teak rocking chairs or on the heated wrap-around porch to enjoy stunning river and city. Room rates start at USD $151 per night. Pets stay free (888-869-3108, 503-228-3233, website).

 

The Pitcher Inn is one of the iconic Vermont inns, offering couples romantic guest rooms, five star service and many outdoor activities. Whether you visit in the fall to watch the spectacular fall foliage, summer to golf, or winter to cross-country ski, the inn is a fabulous getaway on the East Coast.

 

Although the iPad may be all the rage right now, hotels across the country are adding libraries where guests can sit down with a good book. The Joule's $78-million expansion includes a Taschen library and a luxurious new spa. Visitors will be able to purchase Taschen books, choosing from a wide selection of limited editions and unique volumes. The Joule, Dallas is a sophisticated city hotel located in the heart of downtown Dallas, Texas which merges historical architecture with modern style. The property is housed in a 1920's Neo-Gothic building which was completely renovated in a contemporary style. There is an elegant rooftop pool and the hip PM Nightlife Lounge.

Nearby, you will find many shops, restaurants, nightlife and museums. Use a personal driver and a luxury Escalade SUV to make you sightseeing a breeze. Choose from 129 guest rooms and suites, many with panoramic city views. Accommodations feature black Merbau wood floors, a round bed with a red leather headboard, a zebra-print area rug, and imported custom Italian woodwork. There is a 42-inch TV, iPod docking station, 24-hour room service, Zebra-print robe and other special touches. Rates start from $180 per night (214-748-1300, website.

 

Wentworth Mansion is a luxury getaway in the heart of downtown Charleston, South Carolina. The hotel offers attentive service, fine dining and elegant decor, featuring hand-carved marble fireplaces, Tiffany stained glass windows and detailed woodwork. After a day of exploring historic Charleston, exchange stories with other guests in the Harleston Lounge, curl up with a book in the Rodgers Library, or indulge in a relaxing treatment at the spa. Book a side-by-side massage in the couples treatment room at the spa. Guest rooms and suites have king size beds and whirlpools, and most have working gas fireplaces. The elegant Circa 1886 restaurant serves contemporary cuisine and offers a wine list with 280 bottles. The menu at the restaurant changes seasonally, incorporating local produce and seafood. Room rates range from $275 to $450 per night; suites from $480 (888-INN-1886, 843-853-1886, website).

 

Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth is located in Montreal's cultural and commercial district. Since the hotel opened in 1958, it has attracted famous guests, including royalty, heads of state and celebrities. To help you stay in shape while traveling, the property offers a health club with steam baths, relaxing whirlpool baths and an indoor pool great for swimming laps to stay in shape. Choose from several restaurants and lounges, whether you are looking for a casual meal or an elegant dinner. This is the fourth largest hotel in Canada with 939 rooms and 100 suites. Measuring 275 square feet (26 square meters), Fairmont Rooms can accommodate up to four guests. They are located on lower floors of the hotel. Ask for a Fairmont Room with View if you want a view of the city. Moderate Rooms feature contemporary decor.

Choose from several unique suites if you want more space or are looking for a more luxurious experience. The famous song "Give Peace a Chance" came to life in the John Lennon and Yoko Ono Suite which is full of memorabilia of the famous couple. The 1,065-square-foot (99 square meter) Two Bedroom suite has a private entrance and 3 bathrooms. It can accommodate up to 6 people. One Bedroom suites can accommodate up to four people. Executive suites offer some of the best views due to their location on high floors. Some have a kitchenette and a dining room which can seat up to eight people - you can host a small party here and have plenty of space for a family gathering. A cozy sitting area with a sofabed and powder room in a Junior Suite is separated from the bedroom by pocket doors. The Mini Suite bedroom has a full bathroom and the sitting area has a powder room. These suites can accommodate up to three people. Located on the top floor of the hotel, the Mont-Royal (Presidential) penthouse apartment offers 1,020 square feet (95 square meters) of living space.

Fly to Montreal, Canada, and take a taxi to the hotel. If you are traveling by train, the property is conveniently located above the train station. The hotel often offers promotions and seasonal specials. "Celebrate Your Passions Package" starts from $349 CAD per night and includes a food amenity, chocolate covered strawberries, truffles and champagne. The shopping package starts at $289 CAD per night and includes a personal shopper, lists of where to shop, pedicure and free access to the health club. Room rates start at $224 CAD per night, depending on season (514-861-3511, website).

[Loews Hotels]

Loews Coronado Bay is a scenic getaway set on its own private island across from San Diego. Have a romantic dinner enjoying an orange sunset over the Coronado Bay while dining on gourmet French cuisine at the resort restaurant.

[The Westin Stonebriar]

The Westin Stonebriar is a great getaway for those who want to play, eat, drink and relax Texas-style. The hotel has 301 rooms and suites with floor-to-ceiling windows and plush beds. The Presidential Suite has a large balcony overlooking the pool and golf course while the Chairman’s Suite has a living room complete with fireplace, a Jacuzzi tub, and a full kitchen. Play a round of golf at the Frisco Golf Course, designed by Tom Fazio, or get your exercise at the Fitness Studio. Have fun in the 200-foott, lagoon- style outdoor pool with waterfalls, a waterslide, and a steamy whirlpool. The resort has several dining options, including Peter’s Café, The Legacy Grill offering breakfast, lunch and dinner, and Aqua Bar and Grill which serves poolside meals. Grab a cocktail or light meal at Ernie’s Bar. Rooms start at $275 per night (website).