Month: May 2024

To whet the palate: Exceptional Dining with Luxury Gold

Where do truffles grow?

One reason truffles are so expensive is that they don’t grow in every part of the world. Historically speaking, truffles were largely only found naturally in European countries like Italy, France, Spain and Slovenia. In recent years, some other countries in North America, South America and Asia have successfully started growing their own.  

You may also enjoy reading: 7 ways you’ll celebrate Tuscan food when you travel with Luxury Gold

How do truffles grow?

Truffles grow beneath trees in a symbiotic relationship by attaching their spores to the tree roots. The transfer of nutrients enables them both to grow. Most truffles grow beneath specific tree species, including hazelnut and poplar, which influence their taste and scent. 

Why are truffles expensive?

Truffles are expensive because they’re so rare to harvest. Grown naturally only in a few European countries, truffle hunting is a centuries-old practice in which truffle hunters rarely share their hunting grounds with anyone else. The most expensive truffles are white truffles found in Italy’s Piedmont region. The International Alba White Truffle Fair is the preeminent truffle fair where you’ll find the largest, most expensive truffles for sale.

Bookmark for later: Where to find the most rare and expensive food in the world  

Where can I hunt for truffles with truffle hunters? 

Luxury Gold’s Croatia & the Dalmatian Coast tour is a two week itinerary filled with unforgettable activities, including hunting for truffles with a local farmer in Istria. You can also hunt for truffles on our Ultimate Italy tour in Florence. Keep in mind that the best time to harvest white truffles is typically between September and November, though peak season may alter based on the summer season’s temperatures, spring’s rainfall, and if the holes where the prior year’s truffles were found were filled properly. Black truffle harvest is between April and October in some areas like Slovenia, and their bounty is also impacted by seasonal climate fluctuations.

Read more about truffle hunting: A day in the life of one of Croatia’s top truffle hunters

Where can I taste a truffle?

Although only found in select countries, you can taste truffles at restaurants across the world. Casa di Langa, a hotel just outside of Alba, Italy, has a restaurant with a case of fresh truffles you can choose from. Restaurant Zigante in Livade, Croatia, is another fantastic dining destination where truffles are blended in delicious ways, including in truffle ice cream.

You may also enjoy: Indulge your inner gourmet with these luxury food experiences

Italy

Italy is the epicenter for truffles. When the most expensive truffles are up for auction, it’s likely that they were found in the Italian countryside. Truffle hunters stay silent about where they find these fungi in Le Marche, Tuscany, Piedmont, and Umbria, but the restaurants in these regions aren’t shy about featuring them in both fine and rustic dishes. 

Truffle hunting on the Ultimate Italy tour is the ultimate way to find and taste fresh Italian truffles.

Croatia

Italy may stay in the limelight for having the most expensive truffles, but Croatia’s Istria region has a bounty of its own worthy of your attention. The truffle capital of Croatia wasn’t lauded as such pre-1999, until a hunter and his dog dug up what became the largest white truffle in the world. Now, the Istrian Peninsula is regarded as a popular destination for truffle hunting and sampling.

Get off the beaten path and uncover gems like fresh truffles on the Croatia & the Dalmatian Coast tour.

Spain

The majority of Spain’s truffles are black truffles and its black winter truffles are especially popular, but that wasn’t always the case. In fact, it was until the mid-1900s that truffle hunters from France started seeking out the black diamond truffles they knew in the hills of Spain. When Spanish farmers realized how valuable these truffles were, they seized the opportunity and have since become the world’s largest producer of black winter truffles. 

Discover Iberia on: Spain & Portugal in Style

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France 

It should be no surprise that anything grown in French soil is delectable; that includes truffles. France produces nearly one-third of the world’s truffles. The “black diamond” is a popular truffle found in Provence and Southwest France. Also known as the Périgord truffle, black diamond truffles are known for their strong scent and distinctive taste.

Sample truffle-infused dishes as you explore the French countryside on our Ultimate Southern France tour.  

Bookmark for later: Sophisticated and Stylish: why Southern France is Unmissable

Slovenia

Slovenia shares a small piece of the Istrian Peninsula with Croatia. With Italy as its adjacent neighbor, one shouldn’t be shocked to learn that Slovenia is an underrated destination for truffle hunting and dining. One of the unique experiences you can have in Slovenia that you seldom can elsewhere is hunting for the rare spring white bianchetti truffle which is harvested around March each year. 

With Exceptional Dining a hallmark of every Luxury Gold journey, see how you can enjoy a truffle-infused vacation, or other gastronomical pleasures with our worldwide collection of luxury tours.

Making every journey exceptional, your Luxury Gold Travel Concierge is at your service, 24/7, every step of the way. An expert on your destination and your tastes, they offer a flawless personal service tailored to you. Going above and beyond, they even know what you need before you need it, bringing stunning destinations like Ireland and Italy to life in a personal, tailored way. 

To find out more about what it takes to be a Travel Concierge, and some golden moments you can experience our tours, we spoke with Shona Finnie. A Travel Concierge since Luxury Gold’s inception in 2012, to her exceptional service comes as second nature.

“Luxury service means you don’t have to worry about a single thing,” she tell us. “It means comfort and every need being anticipated and fulfilled. Ultimately it means having a stress free, trouble free, absolutely fabulous way to travel.

Learn more about our personal service: Concierge Services

A flawless, personal service

Luxury concierge services on every small group journey are a hallmark of Luxury Gold. At the helm of your travel experience, they’ll lead you through under-the-radar history, introduce you to undiscovered artisans, and connect you to the humanity and culture of your destination.

A benefit of traveling with a smaller group, you’ll enjoy a personalized service from your Travel Concierge, as well as from the venues and attractions we visit. This tailored touch allows you to travel with ease, knowing everything is taken care of along the way.

You may also enjoy reading: Sunshine on a plate: Travel Concierge Dom on his love of Iberia

A tale of going above and beyond

Even if things don’t go according to plan, your Travel Concierge will go above and beyond. “On Ultimate Italy, we stay in Capri, and our luggage has to leave the night before we do,” says Shona. “So, I’m always reminding guests to keep something back to wear the following day. On one occasion a guests called me in the morning to let me know that she had forgotten to do that, and she just had her PJs in which to travel over to the mainland.

“I always keep something back, just in case. But the lady concerned was very small and slight, the exact opposite of myself. It was hilarious because I had to dress her in one of my outfits and the poor women had to get on the ferry dressed in my voluminous outfit!”

Discover this on: Ultimate Italy

You may also enjoy reading: This little gelateria in San Gimignano may just serve the best gelato in all of Italy

Unforgettable Capri

“Capri is simply sensational and is special because of its beauty, history, stunning blue waters and gorgeous grottoes,” says Shona.

“I love that we stay on the island and so, when the day trippers leave and the locals emerge on to the streets and piazzas, we get to see and experience the real Capri.”

An arrival fit for a celebrity, guests travel in open top taxi through dramatic coastal scenery and lemon groves to get to their hotel, the stunning Quissisana*. A private cruise around the dramatic coast of Capri seeks out hidden coves and grottos that few get to see. Lunch at Michelin-starred Le Monzù offers delicious plates with unforgettable views.

 You may also enjoy: The Isle of Dreams: How to Spend the Perfect Day in Capri

The secret is to listen

“For me the secret to making guests feel extra special is to show them that you care about them,” says Shona. “To listen to their request to find out a little bit about them. To make sure that we can anticipate maybe things that they might ask.

“For example, if a guest on Castles & Kingdoms tells me that their family come from a certain part of Scotland or Ireland, I try and make sure we can pass by that place if possible.”

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My favorite tour – Ultimate Ireland

“If pushed to say my favorite Luxury Gold tour I would say Ultimate Ireland,” says Shona.  “One main reason is because we get to stay at Ashford Castle and that is the most luxurious, fabulous experience anybody could have.

Guests spend two nights at this exquisite 5-star hotel which, along with its extensive grounds, epitomizes the best of Irish hospitality, natural beauty and grandeur.

“The day that we leave Limerick and head to Ashford Castle is particularly memorable. We get to experience the beauty of the Burren, the majesty of the Cliffs of Moher and the vibrant and lively city of Galway. Your day the concludes with a piper escorting you over the bridge to this elegant castle, our stunning home for the next few days.”

Discover this on: Ultimate Ireland

Bookmark for later: How You Can Stay in Europe’s Finest Private Castles

Exceptional dining with a positive impact

“Every Luxury Gold journey features some amazing experiences, curated with our guests in mind,” says Shona. “On Ultimate Ireland our Farm-to-table lunch at Tracey’s Farmhouse on the beautiful banks of Strangford Lough in County Down, between Belfast and Dublin is outstanding.

“We’re welcomed into her home and Tracey shows guests how to make traditional Irish soda bread and gets them involved. We’re then treated to a lovely homemade lunch with time to chat to Tracey and learn all about life on the shores of Strangford Lough.”

A MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, Tracey’s Farmhouse is actively practicing and encouraging the slow food movement, and this visit focuses on seasonal produce, organically grown ingredients sourced from the immediate community. MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences are conscious travel experiences curated exclusively for guests, each designed to ensure it brings a positive social or environmental impact.  At least one is featured on every Luxury Gold small group journey.

Learn more: Tracey of Tracey’s Farmhouse on the benefits of eating what’s in season

Special requests

“I once had a request to hire Ferrari for a guest who wanted to drive around Tuscany,” Shona tells us. “I was nervous until they returned, because driving a Ferrari in Tuscany not the easiest thing to do.

“And a couple of occasions I’ve been asked to organize surprise proposals for people which is really nice to do. When this has happened I’ve put my knowledge of the destination and my contacts book to full use and sought out a particularly romantic spot. I’ve made sure the Prosecco is on ice and the musicians are ready to play. Usually I’m hiding in a bush somewhere with a camera ready to capture the moment that the ring is placed on the finger! Fortunately, every time that’s happened it’s been a positive answer.”

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Extra touch for guests to enjoy

“I like to offer extra little touches for guests along the way,” says Shona. “Something a little unexpected.  It really depends on the destination, But I find guests really enjoy it when you give them something that’s a flavor or a taste of the region. Maybe something to eat or drink, something we wouldn’t have tried before but very much represents the place that we’re travelling in at that point in time.”

See for yourself how your Travel Concierge goes above and beyond with our worldwide collection of  small group journeys.

*Itinerary varies depending on departure dates

Unique romantic getaways can feel difficult to achieve. When so many others have proposed in Paris and honeymooned in Hawaii, no one will fault you for wanting to give your partner an unforgettable experience unlike any other love story.

Luxury Gold’s journeys are full of hand-curated, exclusive activities that showcase the soul of a destination. We offer opportunities to get lost in the thrill of the journey. And we provide ways to communicate with cultures and communities in your love language, be it quality time with your partner in unspoilt nature, shopping for gifts in artisan markets, or snuggling up in one of the handpicked five-star hotels featured in every tour.

Unforgettable experiences with your partner come standard on these Luxury Gold tours.

A Forest Bath for Two in Japan

Escape from the stresses of everyday life with your beau and cleanse your bodies in a Japanese Onsen. Forest bathing in a Japanese hot spring is as relaxing as it sounds. Feel the crystal-clear waters of Oirase Gorge wash over you. Close your eyes and enjoy peaceful moments together. As one of the final unforgettable experiences on our Majestic Japan tour, a soak in the Onsen is a welcomed romantic retreat after a week spent exploring Osaka, strolling temples in Kyoto, and gazing at Mount Fuji from the window of a bullet train.

Discover this on: Majestic Japan

You may also be interested to read: Guardians of a National Icon: Meet Japan’s Cherry Blossom Doctors

Wild Nights in Australia

From the Great Barrier Reef to the Sydney Harbour, you’ll have countless unforgettable experiences under the Australian sun on our Inspiring Australia tour, but it’s the moonlit activities that truly make this adventure a unique romantic getaway like no other. In Uluṟu, you’ll welcome and bid farewell to the sun in two special ways: first, watching dawn illuminate the mesmerizing Field of Light art installation. Such a sight may render you speechless, which is fitting, as that same night you’ll attend a Sounds of Silence dinner under the stars, surrounded by only darkness and the soulful sound of a didgeridoo.

Discover this on: Inspiring Australia

Read more about this experience: Acclaimed Sydney restaurant Bennelong and its love affair with Australian food

A Truly Unforgettable Experience in New Zealand

Rainforests and volcanic valleys. Glaciers and caverns. Waterfalls and cliffs. These aren’t your options: they’re just a small sample of the diverse landscapes you and your love will set your sights on in New Zealand. Unique romantic getaways for the couple that adores the great outdoors don’t get any better than the itinerary on Luxury Gold’s The Long White Cloud tour. This 19-day journey takes you through the Southern Alps, Franz Josef Glacier, Waimangu Volcanic Valley, and more. You’ll trek across frozen ground, descend into caves, and dine on a meal cooked underground with geothermal steam. When you see the bioluminescent creatures light up the Waitomo caverns, you’ll realize that there’s no place quite like New Zealand.

Discover this on: The Long White Cloud

Experience La Dolce Vita in Italy

Divine dishes and stunning vistas await at Michelin-starred Mamma restaurant in Capri, where you dine on Ultimate Italy. Photo credit: @lemonzurestaurant on Instagram

On our Ultimate Italy  journey, food is the only love language you’ll need to speak for 12 days. Settle in for a Lemon Granita and a meal at the Michelin-starred Le Monzù in Capri. Sample truffle-infused cured meats and olive oils in Umbria. Taste wine with vineyard owners and savor decadent gelato with a World Champion Gelato maestro. Learn how to roll pasta by hand. These unforgettable experiences in Italy’s tastiest regions will forever change the way you plan dinner date nights.

Discover this on: Ultimate Italy

Continue Your Love Story in Stratford-upon-Avon

A visit to the birthplace of William Shakespeare is one of the more unique romantic getaways for literature lovers. It’s a place to profess your love in as many creative ways as you can conjure up, taking inspiration from the equally eclectic mix of Tudor cottages and half-timbered homes lining the streets of the bard’s former home. The Luxury Gold British Royale tour is full of unforgettable experiences, bookended by days in London and Edinburgh. A stop in Stratford-upon-Avon, however, offers a small moment of reflection. A chance for you and your partner to pause and acknowledge this exciting chapter of your relationship, before continuing on to the poetic Lake District to write the next line of your love story.

Discover this on: British Royale

A Ritual of Reverence in Peru

There are moments in your relationship, that while even surrounded by others, are still some of the most intimate, unforgettable experiences you’ll ever have together. Receiving a shaman’s blessing in Peru’s Sacred Valley is one of them. Our Treasures of the Incas tour is astounding from start to finish, with visits to Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca, and Lima’s bohemian heart: the Sacred Valley visit, though, is second-to-none. After the blessing, you and your partner will find a deeper appreciation for the vestiges of the Incan Empire before even setting eyes on the historic citadel.

Discover this on: Treasures of the Incas

Bookmark for later: Tap into the spirit of Peru with politician and philanthropist, Dr. Canseco

A Flush of Luxury in France

Paris has written its own definition for the word romance, but there are more unique romantic getaways within France outside of the capital. On Luxury Gold’s Ultimate Southern France tour, you’ll spend a night in a luxurious hotel built within the medieval walls of Carcassonne. Get a feel for France’s Languedoc region as you and your beau cruise the Canal du Midi, sip your way through vineyards, and take a traditional French cooking class with a Michelin-starred chef. These unforgettable experiences offer a true taste of traditional French romance that filled the countryside long before the Iron Lady arrived.

Discover this on: Ultimate Southern France

Soulful Food and Music in the American South

Photo credit: @ritzcarltonneworleans on Instagram

The soundtrack to romance doesn’t require a slow tune. Dance into your favorite vacation memories while exploring the Deep South’s music history. After line dancing in Nashville and jookin’ in Memphis, you’ll end your trip with big bands in the Big Easy. The Southern Grace tour through Luxury Travels has a room at The Ritz-Carlton – New Orleans for you and your dance partner, but nothing’s stopping you from spending the night hopping between jazz clubs in the French Quarter.

Discover this on: Southern Grace

Read more:  High Notes: How Travel Concierge Ann Amplifies the Sounds of the South

Sensational Sunsets in Santorini, Greece

Along with its endless sunshine and blue roofed houses, Santorini is famous for stunning sunsets over the Aegean Sea, turquoise blue waters and romantic cliffside restaurants. The best places in Santorini to enjoy lounging and relaxing are the infinity pools at Imerovigli, cave villas in Oia, or red sand beaches across the island.

History lovers will marvel at the Akrotiri and Thera sites (some of the best places in Santorini to discover archeological treasures). It’s also the perfect location for some romantic horseback riding.

You may also enjoy: Hidden Treasures: Exploring the Riches of Ancient Civilizations

Feel the Freedom in Fiji

Immerse yourselves in a tropical island paradise with pristine beaches, private island resorts, outstanding hotels and sensational cuisine. An independent archipelago of some 800 islands, Fiji lies in the South Pacific Ocean, north of New Zealand,

The prefect excuse to really push the boat out on romantic experiences, picnic on a sand beach on a private island, take a scenic flight, snorkel with manta rays or swim beneath a waterfall.

Bookmark for later: Secret islands and snowy retreats: 5 hotspots loved by the British Royal family

Read the Stars in Prague, Czech Republic

Quite simply a city like no other, pictures and stories do not do this exquisite  Czech Republic capital justice. Founded more than 1,100 years, known as the City of Spires, Prague is one of the most beautiful places in Europe and perfect for a couples trip. From proposals on the iconic Charles Bridge to romantic walks along the cobblestones and sunset river cruises along the Vltava, this is your place to get cozy.

For those that wish to write their love in the stars you are in the right place. At the beginning of the17th century Prague became the astronomical center of the world, home to Tycho Brahe and Johannes Kepler. The perfect spot for meeting of minds you can visit several astronomic observatories and institutions which remind you of your privileges place in the universe.

Discover this on: Harmony of Central Europe

Enjoy the Secluded Paradise of Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Its distant location and exclusivity mean that Bora Bora remains a relatively secluded spot for a unique romantic getaway. The tropical paradise exudes glamour, tranquility and relaxation. Fabulous hotels, exceptional service and luxurious dining are just the start. The tropical weather means sunshine and warmth. Stay in an over-water bungalow for privacy, a cool breeze and the world’s most stunning waters at your foot tips. For a unique romantic experience you can choose to have breakfast delivered by a floral decorated out-rigger canoe. Many of the top hotels offer beach front dining. Plus, at a price, you can have your bed dressed in perfumed Polynesian flowers or bath in a tub with fresh flowers floating on the water.

Sport and Spas in Banff, Canada

The breathtaking beauty of Canada’s Rockies need little introduction, and one of the most romantic ways to experience them is in Banff. A UNESCO World Heritage site Banff National Park is Canada’s oldest national park spanning over 6,641 square kilometers. Glaciers, alpine meadows and rugged mountain peaks serve as a backdrop for the ultimate romantic getaway.

Journey with Luxury Gold and stay at the 5-star Fairmont Banff Springs Resort. Ride together on the Banff Gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain for a bird’s eye view of the Rockies. Let your competitive side shine through and tee up at the world-renowned Banff Springs Golf Course to play nine holes of golf surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Or maybe you would just like to unwind to the calming sounds of rushing waterfalls and bubbling mineral pools with spa treatments at the Willow Stream Mineral Pools and Spa.

Discover this on: Majesty of the Rockies

You may also enjoy reading: Uncovering Indigenous history with Canada’s Warrior Women

Embrace Tradition in Kyoto, Japan

Perfect for couple’s trip, Kyoto could well be called Japan’s City of Love. Stroll atmospheric streets, picturesque gardens and absorb its rich traditional culture. One of the most sought-after sights are the Geisha. Long associated with Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital, these professional entertainers train for years to perfect this ancient art. You mustn’t leave Kyoto without witnessing a charming performance.

A unique way to relax together, pay a visit to a Ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn. A popular choice for travelers back in the day of the samurai, here you can enjoy an exquisite multi course kaiseki meal followed by a soak in a private onsen (hot spring).

Discover this on: Majestic Japan

Read more: The timeless elegance of Japan: admire geisha in Kyoto

Scale the Heights of Paris, France

Maybe more iconic than unique, the City of Love boasts iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame and the Arc de Triomphe, along with charming streets and world-class cuisine. You’ll be spoiled for choice for unique romantic moments. Take in the stunning Paris views and sip bubbly together at the Champagne Bar on the top floor of the Eiffel Tower. Kiss passionatley at the Wall of Love in Montmartre, or toast yourselves on a romantic Seine River Cruise.

For the ultimate romantic date, head to the top floor of the Montparnasse tower where the gourmet restaurant Ciel de Paris offers a breathtaking panorama. At 200 m high, it is one of the highest restaurants in Europe. You can see the Eiffel Tower, the Champ-de-Mars, the École Militaire, Les Invalides and La Défense.

Discover this on: Ultimate France (from 2025)

You may also enjoy: Sophisticated and Stylish: why Southern France is Unmissable

Taste the Bounty of the Cinque Terre, Italy

Explore colorful cliffside villages, hike scenic coastal trails and savor fresh seafood by the seaside. The Cinque Terre is actually five towns along a coastline; Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernaza and Monterosso. Renowned for its beautiful colored houses, the seafood is also sensational.  What better way to celebrate romance than with decadent lobster, shrimp and freshly shucked oysters. Not to mention the Italian wine and sensational sunsets.

Discover this on Ultimate Italy

Read about another Italian paradise: The Isle of Dreams: How to Spend the Perfect Day in Capri

Bask in Barbados

For a romantic Caribbean getaway, imagine a sunset stroll along powdery beaches, with golden hues reflecting off crystal-clear waters. Share quiet moments, hand in hand, by the serene Caribbean Sea. This picture-perfect setting creates lasting memories making it perfect for unique romantic getaways.

Barbados is also a culinary haven. Indulge in a candlelit dinner under the stars at a seaside restaurant, savoring fresh seafood, tropical fruits and local dishes.

For adventure, explore hidden coves, take a catamaran cruise, or ride horseback along the coastline. Barbados’ landscapes and vibrant culture offer countless shared experiences. As night falls, enjoy the nightlife, from lively beach parties to intimate bars, with music and dancing adding magic to your evenings. 

You may also like: These Hotels Have The Best Room Service In The World

World Renowned for a Reason – The Maldives

Renowned as paradise for good reason, The Maldives is a tropical island paradise in the Indian Ocean, boasting luxurious private villas, vibrant coral reefs and secluded beaches. Beyond sandy shores, explore underwater diving and shipwrecks. For the romantics, there are private candlelit dinners on the sand beach and couple spa sessions.

At Dusit Thani Maldives on Mudhdhoo Island, the ‘Borderless Dining’ concept lets you choose any romantic spot for a memorable meal. Their beach pit dining features tiki torch-lit tables by the sea, for a unique romantic experience. While at Finolhu Baa Atoll, you sleep under the stars in a bubble tent with luxurious amenities and be treated to a private beach barbecue.

Embrace Nature in Aspen, Colorado, USA

Nestled in the heart of the White River National Forest and surrounded by the peaks of the Elk Mountains, Aspen in the United States is well known as a ski destination and playground for the rich and famous. An area of outstanding natural beauty, cozy up in a mountain lodge, ski or snowboard together or enjoy après-ski cocktails by a crackling fireplace.

There was a time in Aspen when nearly every family used sleighs to navigate the winter snow. Today, it’s a delightful novelty. Aspen Carriage and Sleigh offers a private experience starting in the forest, leading to a pristine meadow along the Roaring Fork River. Guests enjoy carriage rides and sleigh rides, before sipping hot chocolate while the horses rest. This enchanting winter adventure, with jingling bells and starlit skies, ensures you’ll always remember dashing through Aspen’s snowy wonderland.

Experience Aspen’s past and present with Elk Mountain Expeditions’ unique Mine N’ Dine adventure, available from June to August. Start with a guided tour of Smuggler, Aspen’s last and longest-operating mine, exploring 1,250 feet into the mountain and learning about the silver mining history. Afterwards, enjoy drinks, a barbecue buffet, lawn games, and s’mores by the fire, all while taking in stunning sunset views over the Roaring Fork Valley.

You may also enjoy reading: The Story of The Rocky Mountaineer, North America’s most luxurious train journey

Wine and Dine in Sonoma Valley, California

A sensational spot on the United States, Sonoma Wine Valley in California is renowned for its world-class wineries, scenic vineyards and charming small towns. The 17-mile long valley near San Fransisco is one of 12 wine growing regions within the greater Sonoma County area.

A unique romantic getaway for wine lovers, you can taste a diverse terroir at more than 425 wineries, indulge in gourmet farm-to-table cuisine, and explore the valley’s beautiful landscapes. In addition to learning all about local vintages with a diverse range of wine-tasting experiences, from boutique wineries to large, historic estates. you can also enjoy a romantic hike among towering redwoods and gaze lovingly at the stunning Pacific Coast.

 An enjoyable ready for wine connoisseurs: 10 Award-Winning Argentinian Wines You Must Try on Your Next Trip

Practice Seclusion in Scotland, UK

If it’s solitude you and your lover are after, then Scotland is the place to go. Boasting some of the most romantic, remote landscapes in the world, these places generally remain adults only due to the time it takes to reach them. St. Kilda, a remote archipelago in the Outer Hebrides, offers an unparalleled glimpse into Scotland’s rugged beauty. Accessible only by boat, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the place to admire dramatic cliffs and seabird colonies. Once home to a resilient community, the islands are now uninhabited.

For tranquility and unspoiled nature, Knoydart Peninsula, often dubbed Britain’s last wilderness, is a secluded haven on Scotland’s west coast. Accessible only by boat or a long hike, you’re rewarded with breathtaking views of lochs, mountains, and forests. Topping the board of unique romantic getaways, share a drink at The Old Forge, the UK’s most remote pub. Or head to Sandwood Bay in the far northwest, often regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in the UK and reached only by a four-mile walk from the nearest road.

Discover Scotland on: Castles & Kingdoms

Wrap up warm with this read: A Fair Price: The Timeless Luxury of Fair Isle Knits

Be Dazzled Beyond Belief in Norway

Last but not least the spectacular natural beauty of Norway can put the romance into any vacation. Mayne bot first on your list, but the majestic fjords, such as Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord, provide stunning backdrops for romantic boat cruises or serene hikes,

Not to mention the Northern Lights, visible from places like Tromsø and the Lofoten Islands. Have the privilege to see this mesmerizing display and you’ll create an unforgettable romantic moment. Especially if you view the world’s greatest light show hand-in-hand under starry skies.

Unique romantic getaways, unforgettable experiences, and, most importantly, quality time spent with the one you love. Experience a Luxury Gold tour together this year.