Every year, the arrival of Valentine’s Day brings renews our sense of wanderlust. After all, what could be more romantic than travelling the world with the person you love? Whether you’re basking in the Dubai sunshine or exploring Mexico City’s thriving cultural scene, every adventure truly begins with the perfect hotel. So we’ve hand-picked some destinations that would make for an unforgettable romantic getaway, along with the best Sofitel Hotels to stay in whilst you’re there.
1. Palm Jumeirah, Dubai
Offering the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation, Palm Jumeirah is one of the ultimate couples’ destinations. From sunset horseback ride along Palm West Beach, to a lavish meal overlooking the iconic city skyline, there are opportunities to find romance at every turn. Taking in the magnificent panoramic views from Dubai Balloon Atlantis, or boating on the shimmering turquoise water are just two incredible experiences you could factor into your holiday.
After exploring the many sights of Palm Jumeirah, Sofitel Dubai The Palm is the perfect blissful haven to relax and rejuvenate. This five-star, beach-front resort has six outdoor swimming pools, a private beach, and an award-winning spa – not to mention the luxurious rooms, including suites and private villas overlooking the Arabian Gulf. Here you can truly enjoy the best of both worlds, residing amidst the elegant French luxury of the hotel, with the buzzing metropolis of Dubai just a short journey away.
2. Darling Harbour, Sydney
If you’re setting your sights even further afield for your romantic adventures, might we suggest Sydney, Australia? Or to get even more specific, Darling Harbour. With trendy waterfront bars and restaurants in abundance, and popular cultural attractions a-plenty, there is so much to see, do, and explore on a romantic getaway here. Taking to the water on a rented kayak is a lovely way to explore the city whilst doing something active, but boat trips and cruises are also available if you’d prefer to simply sit back and relax. There are stellar options for drinks and dining with a view when you’re out and about, but a stay at Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour promises to elevate your culinary experience to the next level.
Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour is home to four restaurants and bars, including a French-inspired grill, an award-winning champagne bar and an al fresco cocktail bar (perfect for a post-swim tipple after a dip in the infinity pool!). The freshly grilled meat and seafood you’ll eat at Atelier by Sofitel is guaranteed to be some of the finest in the city. But before you sit down to enjoy your meal overlooking Darling Harbour, a glass of chilled vintage cuvee or a cocktail before the dazzling skyline in the Champagne Bar is the perfect way to begin your evening.
3. Munich
One of the most exciting things about Munich is the fact that you can enjoy both bustling city life and the slower pace of the enchanting Medieval Old Town. As you wander the quaint cobbled streets, browsing in boutiques and admiring the neo-gothic architecture, you’ll find plenty of traditional beer halls to stop for a drink. Craving a moment of zen amongst nature? Englischer Garten is a wonderful place for a stroll on your romantic getaway. This sprawling, inner-city oasis has stunning fountains and statues, along with a lake and its own pagoda-style beer tower. If you’re looking for the ultimate fairytale experience on your trip, the Baroque Nymphenburg Palace is a breathtaking sight to behold, and is less than half an hour away from Sofitel Munich Bayerpost on the metro.
Much like the city itself, Sofitel Munich Bayerpost is a place where history meets modernity to create something extraordinary. Located in the former Bavarian Royal Post Office, this exquisite hotel boasts sophisticated French design and innovative architecture, throughout its outstanding bars, restaurants and more. With various suites overlooking the Alps and Munich’s glittering skyline, everything from your morning coffee in bed to your workout in the So FIT suite can be elevated with a magnificent view. Of course, there is always the option to dine from the comfort of your room, but modern French cuisine at DÉLICE La Brasserie or cocktails on the terrace at ISArBAR are both moments from your door, should you feel like venturing out.
4. Mexico City
From its vibrant culinary scene and marvellous architecture to its fantastic cultural offering, Mexico City is sure to fulfil all of your romantic getaway wishes. All within a short walk or metro journey from Sofitel Mexico City Reforma, you’ll find famous landmarks such as Palacio Nacional, Monumento al la Revolución (the world’s largest triumphal arc!) and the ruins of Templo Mayor. When you’re ready to swap sightseeing for a moment of tranquillity, The Floating Gardens of Xochimilco are about an hour’s drive away. Glide through the meandering waterways of this World Heritage site on a gondola-esque boat and enjoy ultimate serenity. While, Sculpture Garden at the Museo Universitario Arte Contemporáneo is also a half an hour drive from the hotel, if you yearn for more impressive architectural creations and excellent views.
Once back at Sofitel Mexico City Reforma, you can replenish your energy at one of the hotel’s restaurants and bars. Offering the city’s most exclusive view over Paseo de la Reforma, Cityzen Rooftop Bar provides the perfect setting to enjoy an evening meal you’ll never forget. Here you can enjoy French and Mexican cuisine and toast to the adventure of a lifetime with one of their innovative cocktails. Bajel and Balta Restaurant also offers spectacular dining in a refined yet cosy setting. And when you retire to your room, floor-to-ceiling windows will ensure you don’t miss out on that jaw-dropping city view for even one moment.
5. London
If you’re not able to jet off overseas this Valentine’s Day, why not celebrate the occasion with a special staycation? Sitting in the heart of London’s gorgeous historic St James’s neighbourhood, Sofitel London St James is just a hop, skip and a jump from some of the city’s most sought-after restaurants, bars and iconic cultural landmarks. Spend your time enjoying the boutique shopping on your doorstep, or make incredible memories at a West End theatre show.
To ensure you feel your very best throughout your stay, the hotel spa offers an array of facilities and treatments, including a Turkish hammam, facials and massages. And when it’s time to enjoy the hotel’s phenomenal food and drink offering, you’ll find an utterly unique experience behind each and every door. Within this neoclassical building, French opulence and glamour mingle with playful contemporary elements to create a charming, unique character. From the chic, art-deco restaurant that is the Michelin-starred Wild Honey to the Wes Anderson-esque Rose Lounge, each promises to transport you and your loved one to another place entirely.