Published 28th Jun. 2021
Reading time
Valentine's Day: two words that strike fear in the hearts of women and men the world over. The first challenge, obviously, is remembering when it actually is (14th of February, just in case). And once that's out of the way, how to procure the perfect gift? Well, if it had slipped your mind (temporarily, of course) then fear not because there's still time to plan a romantic getaway (a.k.a the aforementioned perfect gift). Oh yes, there's no better way to celebrate good old St. Valentine than by jetting off for a long weekend (or even longer) of being spoiled in a lovely boutique hotel, exploring somewhere new (or revisiting an old classic) and generally winning some serious brownie points. Consider this your three week (well, two and a half) warning...
Bordeaux is home to one of Original Travel's favourite hotels in Europe - Les Sources de Caudalie. This beautiful boutique hotel sits within its own vineyard and, needless to say, the grapey stuff permeates much of the action here, from wine tasting to vinotherapy spa treatments. The perfect boozy weekend away.
A combination of Oman's capital, Muscat, and the Wahiba Sands makes for a wonderfully romantic break over a long weekend. Stay at The Chedi in Muscat and spend a day or two exploring the beguiling old town (culture: tick), before heading out into the desert for a night under the stars in your very own Bedouin-style tent at Desert Nights Camp (luxury, adventure, romance: tick, tick and tick).
Cape Town may be a 12 hour flight away from London but it is entirely do-able in a long weekend thanks to overnight flights and just a one hour time difference. A firm Original Travel favourite, this is pretty much the ultimate city break with its stunning natural setting, delicious food and wine, and countless activities from snorkelling with seals to helicopter trips over Robben Island.
Just a 45 minute drive from Marrakech airport and you will be amidst the remote Berber villages, ravines and canyons of the Atlas Mountains. There are several lovely hotels in the region but, for a spot of romance, Kasbah Tamadot is our pick of the bunch. Dine alfresco beneath the stars on the hotel's rooftop, enjoy a traditional hammam and take a gentle stroll among the eucalyptus and olive groves.
The wild card entry. If you're planning on going away for a week or longer, the flawless hotels, talc-white sands and clear azure waters of the Maldives serve as the perfect antidote to February in Britain. Simply bask in the sunshine beside your over-water villa, chill on the beach, enjoy some seriously indulgent spa treatments or inject some adventure with diving and snorkelling.
Practical advice and inspiration for your next trip
Pin drop travel is our portfolio of destinations where silence is golden. With screens, schedules and the general chaos of the world competing for our attention, there’s never been a better time to escape to quiet holiday destinations so still you can (as the name suggests) hear a pin drop. Sometimes, all we need is the chance to slow down, breathe deeply and rediscover the simple joy of hearing… almost nothing at all.
27th May 2026 - Travel Inspiration
Sitting pretty just off the coast of Spain lie Menorca and Mallorca – two Balearic beauties that share azure waters and Mediterranean charm (and fairly similar names), but each offer a different slice of island life, making the decision between Menorca or Mallorca a tough one. Mallorca, the life-and-soul sibling, dazzles with culture-packed cities, chic beach clubs and energy that lingers long after golden hour.
25th May 2026 - Spain Travel Inspiration
Soaked in sunlight, suncream and ice-cream, August is brimming with holiday spirit, particularly for us in the Northern Hemisphere. The only problem? Figuring out how – and where – to savour it. From balmy breaks on the French Riviera to far-flung forays into Singapore’s concrete jungle, there’s no shortage of places to dial up the heat and bask in holiday bliss before autumn rolls around. So, to whet (or should we say warm?
18th May 2026 - Travel Inspiration
Our team of destination experts will get to know you and your unique requirements for your holiday
We work with you to build an ultra-personalised holiday itinerary with your choice of accommodation, experiences and activities
All of our holidays include little extras designed to make a big difference to your trip, from checking you in for your flights to our network of local Concierges
