The 15 Most Romantic Winter Destinations

The 15 Most Romantic Winter Destinations

Winter is the perfect time for romance; whether you want to cuddle up with your significant other under the colorful displays of the Northern Lights, go skiing down jaw-dropping mountains, or relax in a hot pool under the stars, there is a getaway that will fit your desires.

*Related: The Most Luxurious Honeymoon Trips Worth The Splurge

Regardless to if you would rather imagine sandy paradises with private beaches and stunning views or snow covered mountains with incredible observation points and peaceful hideaways, the destinations on this list have you covered.

Seychelles’

Escape the cold and head to Seychelles' for a romantic winter getaway. Spend your time island hopping throughout their 115 islands. Enjoy luxuriously lounging on the white sand beaches of the Seychelles' North Island and enjoy the rich marine life and nature reserves. If you're an adventurous couple, there are plenty of activities to participate in. Embark on an 8-day North Island Escape Tour and spend time kayaking, hiking, fishing, cycling and diving.

Charleston, South Carolina

South Carolina offers couples plenty of stunning places to stay, including romantic inns, luxurious resorts and peaceful hideaways. Stay at the Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina and enjoy a variety of complimentary amenities, some of which include a private beach, Jacuzzi, three restaurants and recreational programs.

Maui, Hawaii

Spend your winter getaway relaxing and exploring Maui. You and your loved one will enjoy the best of both worlds – a laid back atmosphere and extreme adventure. Spend time relaxing on the beach and catching some rays, or embark on something more adventurous like hiking, zip ling, rappelling, and snorkeling.

Byron Bay, Australia

Byron Bay is known for their sandy paradise and stunning views. Go for a hike to the lighthouse at The Pass for stunning worth-your-time views, try new things at the impressive Stone and Wood Brewery, and get a massage at one of the many spa centers in town.

Scotland

Put the spark back into your relationship and step into a fairytale of castles, lochs and glens during a Scottish winter. Embark on a private tour of Scotland with Wilderness Travel. Couples will enjoy hiking Loch Lomond, visiting the stunning Isle of Skye, kayaking and taking a classic railway journey. For more storybook romance, you will have the option to stay in a castle. "At night you walk through the gates of a castle, sit down to a dining table under a magnificent chandelier complete with a button to call a butler," says Barbara Banks, director of marketing and new trip development for Wilderness Travel. "It's just like stepping into a scene from Downton Abbey."

Iceland

If you and your significant other are debating on where to embark on your winter getaway, consider Iceland, the ultimate Arctic paradise. Visit Akureyri, a small city in Iceland, for stunning views of the Northern Lights. Stay at the luxurious Ion Hotel for an unforgettable experience; rent a car and take a road trip on The Golden Circle.

Salzburg, Austria

Enjoy a romantic getaway with your significant other in Salzburg. From November through April you will be in awe of the city covered in snow – go skiing and snowboarding. During the warmer months, make sure you experience the beautiful Salzburger Dom Cathedral and attend the Salzburg Festival, an annual cultural event.

New Zealand

Whether you want to spend some quality time indoors or head outside for stunning scenery, New Zealand is your perfect winter getaway. There is so much to do and even more for you and your partner to explore. Navigate your way through the beautiful water in Milford Sound, visit Hot Water Beach and dig a hot pool right in the sand and relax, or  bungee jump The Nevis in Queenstown – one of the most terrifying bungee jumps in the world.

The Tetons, Grand Teton National Park

Capture views of these beautiful mountains during the park's off season, where the snow drifts are plentiful and wildlife are out and about. "The crowds are long gone and the wildlife are usually much more visible, making this one of the best times to be in these parks," says Dan Austin, president of Austin Adventures. "If you didn't make it out this summer, this is the perfect time to come and explore a whole other side to their beauty with our guides who truly know these parks inside and out."

Berkshires, Massachusetts

The Berkshires is the perfect getaway for couples looking for both romance and adventure. This small town lights up its streets for the holidays. While you are there make sure that you visit the Williams College Museum of Art and go skiing and snowboarding at one of their many luxurious resorts.

Costa Rica

The best time to visit Costa Rica is from December through April. You and your significant other will enjoy relaxing on beautiful beaches, exploring spectacular jungles, and walking through stunning national parks. If the two of you are up for adventure go zip lining, hiking, whitewater rafting, cliff jumping and even skydiving.

Mexico

You will love Mexico for its almost perfect year-round weather. Relax on its pristine beaches, view stunning artwork and architecture, and stay at a luxurious hotel. Head to Cenote Dzitnup for romance and explore a natural underground oasis; relax in a spectacular swimming hole, or go snorkeling and view fish in the clear blue water.

Grand Cayman Island

For little rain, sunshine and a refreshing cool breeze visit Grand Cayman Island from mid-November to April. Romance is in the air – watch the sunset on Seven Mile Beach, go kayaking along the bioluminescence bay, have dinner in a private cabana on the beach, embark on a sunset sail cruise, and make sure that you take a picture at Lover's Wall.

Abisko, Sweden

Abisko, also known as the "Northern Lights Capital," is by far one of the most romantic winter destinations in the world. The marvel appears in many shades but pale green and pink are the most common. There is no natural phenomenon like the colorful displays of the Aurora Borealis.

Venice, Italy

Skip the tourist attractions in Venice and visit the more secluded side. Head to St Mark's square for spectacular views, smaller crowds and delicious food. Wander hand-in-hand along picturesque canal sides, and make sure that you take a romantic gondola ride through Venice.