By Lizzie Gore-Grimes
15th Aug 2016
15th Aug 2016
Where to go and what to bring for the most romantic retreat of your life.
DAZZLING D’AZUR
Perched on a cliff overlooking the French Riviera, Chateau Eza, in Eze, is the former residence of a Swedish prince, no less, and is the perfect place to taste the unadulterated high life of the Cote D’Azur. From the awe-inspiring vistas to the impeccable service, everything here is high end. For newlyweds honeymooning in May, a stay here offers a first-hand experience of the Monaco Grand Prix – the last word in aristocratic excitement. What fun to get all dressed up with Europe’s elite and watch the competition, and glamorous parties unfold around you.
Doubles from €200, +33 493 411 224; chateaueza.com
What to pack…
Safari ivory trolley case, €1150 at globetrotter.com
Beaded bikini set, €46 at Topshop
Creme de la Mer Reparative Sun Body lotion, €90 at Brown Thomas
RUSTIC RETREAT
If hiding away from the world, just the two of you, in a cabin lost in the breathtaking Welsh Brecon Beacons, sounds good for you – you’ll love Ty Donkey. This recycled railway cabin is about as romantic s they come, offering a free-standing bath, lashings of hot water, sheepskin rugs, log-burning stove, a bed in the eaves with pretty fairy lights and your own hand-built kitchen. There are breathtaking walks and local bike hire, a cosy pub within walking distance, and a gentle mountain river running far below for a secret skinny dip if you’re up for it!
From €389 for three nights; sugarandloaf.com
What to pack…
Striped floppy hat, €30 at River Island
Tortoiseshell sunglasses, €16 at Topshop
Cocoa Cashmere V-neck sweater, €149 at cocoacashmere.com
CITY SLICKER
Stockholm, with her crystal waters, medieval Old town and wealth of museum, art and design, makes an ideal city-break destination. And you won’t find anywhere better to stay than the intimate Ett Hem hotel, located in the smart embassy quarter of ‘stermalm. This luxurious residence offers just 12 bedrooms and oozes a sense of easy-going exclusivity and intimacy. Added into the mix is world-class dining, a private spa and dreamy garden and snug spaces.
Deluxe doubles from €445, +468 200 590; etthem.se
What to pack…
Roisin Linnane Melissa blue dress, €359 at Arnotts
Isabel Marant gold-tone cuff, €250 at net-a-porter.com
Aquazzurra Linda sandals, €495 at Brown Thomas
Charlotte Tilbury Bronze and Glow, €65 at Brown Thomas
SPA-CATION
After all the months of planning, once the main event is over, there are few things better than crashing out for a few days, wrapped up in your robes, wallowing in warm water and eating well. This is where a spa staycation in Ireland makes the perfect reprieve. How does a private hot tub overlooking the River Maine with a bottle of chilled bubble sound? Having recently undergone an €11 million renovation, Galgorm Resort & Spa, in Co Antrim, boasts a state-of-the-art spa experience. The expansive new thermal village, covering a whopping 7000sqm, boasts a magnificent swimming pool, snow cabin, sanarium, Celtic sauna ritual, private riverside hot tubs and stunning, glass-fronted, river house for Yoga.
Two-nights B&B with afternoon tea, one dinner, access to Thermal Village from €180pps, +44 28 2588 1001; galgorm.com
What to pack…
Lenny Niemeyer ruched swimsuit, €240 at net-a-porter.com
NK iMode silk robe, €190 at Brown Thomas
Seavite Soothing & Replenishing face cream, €47.50 at seavite.ie
ATP Atelier Astrid leather slides, €130 at patelier.com
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