Romantic Road Trips Across Europe
Where better to spark up romance than on the road? Racing through the landscape of a candy-coloured postcard, musically enriched by the carefully orchestrated Spotify playlists, you can enjoy the delightful food experiences, from stacks of gnocchi served on authentic plates to Michelin-starred restaurant dishes.
Tyrol, Austria
Fly into Munich and check into the luxurious Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski, where you can comfortably chart your upcoming route and unwind at the spa. After an evening stroll around the Old Town, indulge in exquisite dining at Restaurant Atelier, the city’s only three-Michelin-star establishment.
The next day, rent a classic convertible and drive through the stunning green mountains of Austria, making a stop at the medieval village of Kitzbühel. Just a 15-minute drive from there is the serene Stanglwirt Hotel, a hushed retreat carved from reclaimed Swiss stone pine, where you can enjoy a traditional dining experience.
Continue your journey south to the breathtaking Dolomites, staying at Castel Fragsburg, where you can relax with a wooden goat’s milk bath on a panoramic terrace. Afterward, appreciate the wonders of the Miramonti Hotel with its infinity pool, surrounded by majestic nature.
Don’t forget to explore the abandoned castles along the way and enjoy a picnic before your final night at Hotel Jagdhof, perfect for a romantic candlelit supper in a refurbished ski gondola.
The Amalfi Coast
This trip takes you along the Blue Highway, a picturesque 43-mile road showcasing Amalfi’s most scenic towns. Start by flying into Naples and enjoy your first night on the volcanic island of Ischia, famous for its thermal spas, at the charming Mezzatorre Hotel.
Return to the mainland and head to Sorrento, where you can sip cocktails while enjoying views of Mount Vesuvius. Drive on to Positano, renowned for its stunning sea views and the legendary Sirenuse, the perfect spot for relaxation and adventure alike.
Journey onward to Amalfi, savoring lunch in terraced gardens surrounded by lemon groves, then indulge in wine tasting at the Marisa Cuomo vineyard, listening to the waves crash against the cliffs. Your final stop will be Ravello, where you can stay at Belmond Caruso, an 11th-century palace with a breathtaking infinity pool.
The English Countryside
Depart from London and immerse yourself in the rolling hills, charming villages, and the breathtaking beauty of the Lake District, the UK’s first national park designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stay at The Clive Arms in Ludlow, and if you’re visiting in September, don’t miss the fantastic local food festival.
Continue your exploration through the Yorkshire Dales, stocking up on local cheeses for picnics amid the lush countryside. For a taste of luxury, unwind at the Devonshire Arms, enjoying their spa and splendid accommodations.
Finally, relax at Another Place, located on Ullswater with access to a private lakeshore and a host of activities such as paddle-boarding and kayaking, ideal for a romantic getaway.
Iceland
Circle the entire island on a 13-hour drive to see the wonders of icebergs, geothermal springs, waterfalls, and the breathtaking northern lights. This trip truly requires at least a week to immerse yourself in Iceland’s dramatic landscape, best explored in a sturdy four-wheel drive.
Stay in Reykjavík at Hotel Berg, and make sure to reserve a table at the cosy Torfan restaurant. Visit iconic sites like Thingvellir National Park and Gullfoss waterfall while embracing the opportunity to take in the beautiful natural surroundings.
Dedicate time to exploring the black beaches of Vik, the East Fjords, and the stunning Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon. For an authentic experience, consider renting a traditional cottage for a homey feel amidst nature.
The Portuguese Coast
Begin your journey in Porto at The Yeatman, offering stunning views and an incredible wine cellar that perfectly showcases Portuguese culture. On your second day, head to Douro41 Hotel & Spa located on the banks of the scenic River Douro, a great place for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Don’t miss visiting Aveiro, known as the “Venice of Portugal,” exploring its picturesque canals in colorful moliceiros. Continue to Nazaré for lunch, enjoying the stunning beachfront vibrant with local culture, followed by the serene Lagoa de Óbidos.
End your trip with a stay at Quinta da Foz farmhouse, surrounded by its stabilizing ambiance, and enjoy cultural spots in Cascais and Lisbon, culminating your romantic coastline journey with a sunset boat tour in the Ria Formosa lagoon, spotting playful dolphins along the way.
