5 romantic places you probably haven't heard of

Finding the perfect getaway for your dream romantic retreat is no easy task, especially if privacy and originality top your list of criteria. So for all the romantics dreaming of their next voyage together, we’ve curated a list of five lesser-known destinations, each imbued with a charm and ambience that promise an experience that will linger in your memory.

Nestled on Hokkaido Island, Japan, Otaru boasts a rich history as a trading port and financial hub. While it may not be known globally for its romantic charm, it holds a special place in the hearts of locals as one of Japan's most cherished matrimonial gems. It’s where couples celebrating anniversaries or exchanging proposals often converge.

The city's crown jewel is the enchanting central canal, lined with picturesque stone and brick structures. Victorian-style street lamps add to the allure, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of snow-covered mountains that create a magical scene during Valentine's season. For an intimate and secluded experience, consider booking a few nights at the cosy D plus one doors.

Often overshadowed by its glitzier neighbours, Nice and Monaco, the medieval village of Èze is a hidden gem for romantic escapes. As you wander through its uneven, cobbled streets and bougainvillaea-covered archways, you may find yourself wondering why this charming destination remains such a well-kept secret.

You can spend days basking in the sunlight reflected off the Mediterranean Sea, in a scene straight from a Brigitte Bardot-inspired Côte d’Azur daydream. Don’t miss the must-see Jardin Exotique d’Èze, located at the top of the village. Its stepping stones wind between statues, cacti and tropical plants, along with a neo-classical church boasting frescoes and chipped, canary yellow walls. Hills adorned with orange, lemon and carob trees paint picturesque surroundings, making Èze an ideal backdrop for anyone on the lookout for a breathtaking proposal setting.

For the best ocean and mountain views in town, book your stay at the Eze Villa nestled back in the hills with a magnificent sunny rooftop. Those interested in exploring more of the sun-soaked coast can also book a full-day French Riviera tour.

If a romantic weekend road trip away sounds like your thing, then Bavaria's winding 'Romantic Road' to Dinkelsbühl is the trip for you. This route showcases some of southern Germany’s most enchanting and awesome sights, including fairy-tale castles, spa towns, the Danube River and even a crater formed by a meteorite that crashed into Earth 15 million years ago.

The scenic drive takes you to Dinkelsbühl, where you can enjoy a few romantic days strolling over the cobbled streets and soaking up the uniquely Bavarian atmosphere. Admire the medieval houses with their red-tiled roofs, flower boxes and wooden shutters. Experience the essence of Bavarian comfort by staying in the cosy and beautifully furnished Gartenhäuschen an der Wörnitz cottage. And if you’d like to see more of small-town Bavaria, then head to nearby Rothenburg ob der Tauber and take a walking tour through its beautifully preserved medieval streets.

Orta San Giulio in Piedmont, Italy, is the perfect destination for a romantic retreat in the north of Italy. Despite its captivating allure, the town is often overshadowed by the fame of Venice and Cinque Terre. Perched on a mountain slope overlooking Lago d'Orta, this hidden gem offers spellbinding vistas of Isola San Giulio, a tiny island adorned with a 12th-century basilica, a 19th-century monastery and quaint piazzas.

Whether it's for a secluded anniversary celebration, a honeymoon or a romantic proposal, Orta San Giulio has it all as a romantic destination. Picture yourself wandering the streets as the late afternoon light casts its warm glow over apricot-hued lakeside villas and palazzos, creating an unforgettable experience.

To experience Orta San Giulio to its fullest, book the lake-front apartment Orta Paradise 26 with its own private terrace and jetty. It's quiet and peaceful, yet only a short walk from the main piazza in town. For a quaint day trip consider a boat trip to Fishermen's Island, known as Isola dei Pescatori. This island floats in turquoise waters amid charming seascapes, with boats leaving regularly from nearby Stresa.

Panwa Beach is a picturesque expanse of golden sands, gracefully embraced by slender palm trees. It sits on a quiet, southeastern corner of Phuket protruding into the Andaman Sea, and has managed to evade much of the urbanisation on the rest of the islands. While it doesn’t have much in terms of nightlife, this is what sets it apart for those looking for a serene romantic destination.

While the beach boasts a collection of villas and hotels, significant expanses of land remain untouched, hosting only fishermen’s huts and mangroves. Scale the tranquil Panwa viewpoint for a mesmerising panorama of romantic sunsets over this unspoiled section of the island.

Treat yourself to a stay in one of the Soul Villas right on the beach. The interior truly is a work of art, and its proximity to some fabulous restaurants offering the very best of local Thai cuisine makes it the ideal place for a foodie’s honeymoon.

If you’re keen to take in more of the magical islands in the surrounding area, then consider a speedboat trip out to the Phi Phi Islands renowned for snorkelling and marine wildlife.