Best Secluded Romantic Getaways Around the World
I find that sometimes the best road trip takes you away from it all, to the quiet places where we can relax, reconnect, and simply enjoy being together. I think that these getaways in my guide offer the perfect mix of privacy, beauty, and unforgettable moments that I hope you get to experience too.
Looking for vacation ideas closer to home? Check out my favorite romantic weekend getaways in the U.S.
- #1. Hotel Ranga, Iceland
- #2. Mallinson's Woodland Retreat, UK
- #3. Casa Tara Retreat, Mexico
- #4. Hotel Gotthard, Austria
- #5. Hamanasi, Belize
- #6. Secret Bay, Caribbean
- #7. Kachemak Bay Wilderness Lodge, Alaska
- #8. Anchors Inn, B.C., Canada
- #9. Cayo Espanto, Belize
- #10. Kilkea Castle, Ireland
- #11. DDG Retreat, Costa del Sol, Spain
- #12. Kata Rocks, Thailand
Hotel Ranga, Iceland
This is easily one of my favorite secluded romantic getaways, surrounded with scenic countryside of South Iceland near Hella! In fact, I felt like we had discovered a hidden gem, far removed from the busy tourist spots in the "Land of Fire and Ice".
After landing in Reykjavík, and then driving about 2 hours southeast from the capital, Chris and I arrived at what would quickly become one of coolest secluded romantic getaways!
Now, first things first, from the moment we arrived at Hotel Rangá, I was captivated by the unique log cabin-style architecture. In addition, the wide open landscapes and volcanoes (and glaciers!) in the distance will make you feel like discovering a magical world!
Our room for three amazing days had an outdoor hot tub which was my favorite spot! So, at night, we had the coolest experience stargazing. In addition, sometimes you can even catch the Northern Lights by just stepping outdoors!
What I loved best:
The restaurant onsite was my personal highlight! I loved that Chris and I had a chance to try local Icelandic cuisine for the first time. I recommend going for the hearty soup (kjötsúpa) and hangikjöt (smoked lamb), both a standout and, for me, a great way to warm up at the end of the day!
Mallinson's Woodland Retreat in Dorset, UK
This has to be one of the coolest and most unusual places I’ve ever stayed in. I can can personally guarantee that it's romantic, and best of all, it's eco friendly! Hidden deep in the woods near Lyme Regis, I felt like I was stepping straight into a fairytale. In addition, it was so peaceful, with even a touch of magic, and it quickly became one of my favorite romantic getaways across the pond!
After spending the holidays in London, we drove out in the late morning for 3.5 hours, easing past the city’s edges and then through winding country roads. (I loved that the drive itself was scenic!).
We stayed in one of their unique treehouses for five blissful days, and it honestly this place felt like the best mix of childhood dream and grown-up luxury. I loved waking up surrounded by towering trees, birdsong, and the smell of fresh woodland air!
Mallinson is full of unique touches that make your vacation special. My favorite features were the wood-burning stove and outdoor hot tub!
- Location Map
- Check prices or availability at Mallinson's Woodland Retreat
What I loved best:
You can explore Dorset’s countryside, walk along coastal paths, and take great photos. While it was exciting to have so much to do nearby (I especially liked Corfe Castle and Old Harry Rocks), we kept wanting to return to our woodland hideaway because it felt so peaceful.
Casa Tara Retreat
This was one of those magical discoveries that instantly became one of my favorites for a underrated secluded romantic getaway in Mexico this month!
To get here, we flew from Austin to Cabo San Lucas, rented a car at the airport, and drove 2 hours and 15 minutes to Casa Tara Retreat. We found it on the Sea of Cortez near the peaceful town of El Sargento, and I imdiately admired how this place feels like a hidden gem where desert meets turquoise waters.
Our room here for three relaxing nights felt like a sanctuary (romantic, airy!) and I thought it was the perfect place to celebrate my husband's birthday. Best of all, it was just steps away from the beach so I absolutely loved waking up to the sound of waves, and then seeing the ocean right after. In addition, catching the most awesome sunrises over the water was easy here (I'm an early riser!).
I loved that there was so much to do in Cabo San Lucas, though just a heads ups, for a first time visitor I highly recommend a local tour to make the most of your time here and get insider local tips.
- Location Map
- Check prices or availability at Casa Tara Retreat
What I loved best:
The wellness experiences were my favorite highlight during our romantic vacation. I started with a yoga session overlooking the ocean, headed to the spa for a holistic 60-minute massage, and enjoyed quiet time by the infinity pool after.
Hotel Gotthard in Lech, Austria
Ready for a romantic getaway to the Austrian Alps? If you love the mountains like we do, you'll absolutely love Lech.
We drove out of Innsbruck (where our flight landed) for 1 hour and 40 minutes to reach Hotel Gotthard in Lech which quickly became one of my favorite secluded romantic mountain escapes.
This family-run gem is super unique. Our room for four days was spacious, with touches of alpine wood, soft linens, and mountain views all around. I especially appreciated the well-stocked spa style bathroom.
The wellness area at Hotel Gotthard was unforgettable and we spent hours here, movingbetween the indoor pool, sauna, and steam bath...I thought it was one of the coolest features for couples looking to unwind.
What I loved best:
The food was exceptional starting at breakfast of fresh bread from their own bakery, regional cheeses, and homemade jams. Dinners here were equally amazing, with Alpine flavors, perfect for a romantic evening in the mountains!
Hamanasi Adventure & Dive Resort in Belize
If you want to combine romance and diving, this all-inclusive resort in Belize is easily one of the most unique romantic places I’ve ever stayed. Hamanasi is situated along the Caribbean coast in the town of Hopkins, where rainforest meets reef!
You'll find the resort right on a stretch of golden beach, with turquoise waters in front and lush jungle behind. I instantly thought our journey was worth it!
Our room for four blissful days was spacious, with local wood details, and a private veranda. I loved waking up to ocean views and falling asleep to the sound of waves...it felt like a dream come true.
- Check prices or availability at Hamanasi
What I loved best:
We spent our days snorkeling along the Belize Barrier Reef, exploring Mayan ruins, and trekking through the rainforest.
My favorite highlight was the food here...fresh, flavorful, and creative, featuring local ingredients and Caribbean flair.
Secret Bay
This has to be one of the most spectacular romantic escapes I’ve ever experienced in the Caribbean. Why? We loved having lots of privacy privacy, luxurious villa, and great food at every meal.
We flew into Dominica (connection from Antigua), and then drove 1 hour 15 minutes north along winding mountain roads through rainforest, and finally ending at Secret Bay by the sea.
Here you'll stay in a gorgeous villa in a forest setting. Our villa had a private plunge pool, open deck where we did a lot of relaxing, and sweeping ocean views... it felt like our own hidden paradise.
Kachemak Bay Wilderness Lodge
This is one of my favorite getaways to escape for romance because of total seclusion and breathtaking natural beauty.
We flew into Homer, Alaska, on the edge of the Kenai Peninsula, and then boarded a boat that carried us across Kachemak Bay. Kachemak Bay Wilderness Lodge itself is small, with just a handful of guests at a time, so it felt like a very private stay.
Our cabin for five wonderful days was rustic, with warm wood interiors, and large windows with a view.
What I loved best:
The food was a real standout, with lots of fresh local seafood, and local garden vegetables.
Anchors Inn, Ucluelet
This is one of my favorite places to plan a romantic getaway because of its rugged West Coast beauty.
We drove along the wild edge of Vancouver Island (about 5 hour road trip from Vancouver, BC!), winding past the rugged coastline until we reached the little fishing village of Ucluelet.
You'll find Anchors Inn right at the water’s edge in a cluster of cozy oceanfront suites tucked into the forest.
Our suite for four days overlooked the harbor. You can watch fishing boats come and go. I loved waking up to the sound of gulls when taking a summer afternoon nap.
Cayo Espanto
Looking for a romantic private island getaway in the Caribbean? Check out Cayo Espanto, a real standout off the coast of Belize.
We had our own private villa for three days, called Casa Manana, with 1,500 square feet of space right on the ocean. I loved that the villa was right on the ocean, with a private dock and a private plunge pool (a true indulgence!).
The place completely won me over because everything felt personalized, from customized meals to excursions designed just for us. I think it's amazing for a tropical honeymoon!
You can trust that this is a special resort because it's ranked #2 in the “Best of Central America Resorts” in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards.
We spent an hour each afternoon snorkeling right from our villa - The reef was alive with coral and colorful tropical fish.
One of my favorite memories was lounging in a hammock over the water for a hour (or two!), while time slowed down in this hidden slice of paradise.
What I loved best:
My favorite highlight was when the sun set, I felt completely immersed in the magic of the island, especially when lanterns lit up and dinner was served under the stars.
Booking with Absolute Belize is like having an insider friend who knows all the secrets. In addition, they tailor every piece of your itinerary.
If you loved this resort, check out my other favorite tropical tropical island vacation ideas.
Kilkea Castle in Ireland
To me, this castle is one of the best places in Ireland for a secluded getaway. In fact, if you are looking for romance like we were, this historic gem has it in spades! In addition, there are heaps of unique things to do nearby too!
You'll love how this 12th-century castle castle feels like stepping straight into a fairytale. You'll find it just about an hour from Dublin, Ireland. Plus the surrounding scenery of The Emerald Isle is enchanting!
You'll find grand stone walls, and lush gardens (if you go in the warmer season like we did!).
Inside, though, our guest room for two days was spacious, stylish, and cozy, with a cosy bed, elegant décor, and all the modern amenities you’d want.
My favorite part was waking up to views of the rolling Irish countryside, which had a touch of magic to it.
The castle grounds are equally impressive and perfect for a vacation that un-plugs you from the ordinary life. Why? I loved that I could wander the woodlands, explore the gardens, or simply relax by the fire in one of the elegant lounges.
For more activity, there’s an 18-hole championship golf course, horse riding, falconry, and even archery (which I tried for the first time here and loved!)
The spa was another highlight for me, and I went the first chance I had for a classical 60-minute massage.
To book, check availability or prices for Kilkea Castle.
What I loved best:
I thought that Kilkea Castle was one of the best secluded romantic getaways, yet surprisingly easy to get to just an hour's drive from Dublin.
The dining experience was unforgettable and a real standout. From fine dining in the grand restaurant to cozy pub fare in the on-site bistro, every meal was romantic and just perfect on our anniversary trip!
A downside? Be ready to drive on the left or call the hotel concierge and ask them to help arrange transportation from the airport!
DDG Retreat, Costa del Sol, Spain
Ready for a totally magical escape on Spain's Costa del Sol?
From Málaga, we drove 65 miles southwest (about 1 hour 15 minutes) into the whitewashed village of Casares, perched in the Sierra Bermeja mountains (population around 6,000). That's where you'll find DDG Retreat.
What I loved most during our four day stay was the atmosphere. Our villa felt private, stylish, and absolutely perfect for a romantic getaway. My favorite part was the infinity pool (of course!) that looked out over the Mediterranean coastline, honestly, it was spectacular.
Kata Rocks Resort and Residences
This Phuket resort is one of my favorite luxury romantic getaways in Thailand. It's a modern place with breathtaking ocean views.
I drove about an hour south from Phuket International Airport along winding coastal roads to Kata Rocks above the Andaman Sea. If you are like me, you'll find the architecture striking. Everything feels open, airy, and designed to highlight the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea.
Our villa for a blissful week was truly a dream. You'll get floor-to-ceiling windows, a private infinity pool, and a terrace that quickly became my favorite spot to watch the sunset. The spa was a highlight too.
What I loved best:
For me, Kata Rocks Resort and Residences is one of the best secluded getaways for couples. It's romantic, peaceful, and a scenic escape I can’t wait to return to!
Relaxing while the sky turned pink was easily one of my favorite moments of the trip. I also loved how private and exclusive the resort felt, yet it was only minutes away from Kata Beach’s lively scene.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, we've found that buying the America the Beautiful Pass is cost effective.
