Two romantic getaways

If you’re feeling romantic but are someone who avoids the February 14th clichés, then you can travel to some of these alternative getaways. Dubrovnik in Croatia provides the perfect medieval setting for seduction.

It offers “architectural beauty wherever you look”, says Jamie MacLean in The Observer, with “enough piazzas, campaniles and cupolas… quiet cloisters and cool churches to keep you and your partner in a state of wonder”. 

For a stimulating aperatif, head to Buza 2 outside the city walls. This is “one of the world’s most precarious bars”, says MacLean, and offers a great view of sunset over the ocean. The Grand Villa Argentina (www.gva.hr) affords old fashioned grandeur at a reasonable price, with doubles starting from $200.

Inca Trail

Adventurous lovers could trek the Inca Trail

“Not only will you feel rather worthy but you’ll find the experience bonding. Also, you’ll end up in one of the world’s most spectacular settings,” says Francisca Kellet in The Daily Telegraph. 

Of course, the prospect of a long mountain trek is a lot more romantic if there’s a luxurious place to lay your weary head at the end of it. The Sanctuary Lodge, right beside Machu Picchu, fits the bill perfectly. For those planning to get down on one knee, Kellet suggests watching the sun rise over the ancient ruins. “The mist-shrouded Inca structures, early-morning Andean light and your spontaneous proposal should prove utterly intoxicating”.