North Island, Seychelles
This private island in the middle of the Indian Ocean is all about barefoot luxury, which means that style and sustainability come in equal measure. Cradled in a bowl formed by three granite peaks, the island’s palm-lined beaches are the ultimate backdrop for eleven guest villas, crafted from local materials harvested during the island rehabilitation process and with décor inspired by the marine environment. For the ultimate in romance check into Villa 11, perched on granite boulders and with tiered levels cascading down through a coconut grove to a private beach. If you can tear yourself away, there’s kayaking, guided walks, scuba diving and sunset boat trips.
north-island.com
Aman Sveti Stefan, Montenegro
Located off the Adriatic coast of Montenegro, this stunning Amanresort is set on a private island attached to the coast by a narrow isthmus. A fortified village dating back to the 15th century, Sveti Stefan is a charming union of cobbled lanes, handsome courtyards and serene sea views. The resort’s hand-restored stone buildings house 50 rooms, cottages and suites, each individually styled to showcase original details. An open-air piazza is the heart of the island’s village setting, with dining venues here that include an antipasti bar where you can sample local delicacies while gazing at the sunset.
aman.com
Huvafen Fushi, Maldives
A private resort island retreat by Per Aquum situated in the Maldives’ North Male atoll, Kaafu, Huvafen Fushi couldn’t get any more romantic. Among the luxuries include an underwater spa, where you can indulge in treatments while watching all manner of marine life glide by. Whether stilted over the sea of on a private beach, the resort’s villas all come with a pool, not to mention beds that you will have serious trouble getting out of. When you do, diversions range from sunset cruises on a Maldivian sailboat (you can even stay on-board overnight if you wish) to a manta ID programme, snorkelling and world-class meals in restaurants including a raw bar.
minorhotels.com
St Regis Bora Bora, Tahiti
French Polynesia’s ultimate paradise, the St Regis sits in the shadow of Mount Otemanu, by the shores of one of the most beautiful lagoons on the planet. With such a dazzling setting, the resort is popular among honeymooners, many of whom check in to one of the spectacular overwater villas – fitted with every luxury imaginable – and only leave to book an appointment at the Miri Miri Spa by Clarins. Or to snorkel in the warm waters of the surrounding marine reserve. Or to relax on the impossibly soft sand of the private beach…
stregisborabora.com
Four Seasons Sayan, Bali
On an island known for its lavish resorts, the Four Seasons Sayan – located on the outskirts of Ubud, Bali’s cultural heart – stands out for its intimate approach to hotel life. Surrounded by jungle and overlooking the Ayung River, the resort’s 18 suites and 42 villas reflect the island’s natural, serene beauty. Each is appointed with a mix of contemporary and Balinese décor, including rich teak furnishings and exotic hand-loomed fabrics. Generous bathrooms feature terrazzo tiles, double vanities, deep soaking tubs and separate showers. Linger in the spa, or lounge beside the two-level riverside swimming pool; work out in the fitness centre, or take a vigorous walk through the surrounding hillsides, rice paddies and the nearby villages.
fourseasons.com
One & Only Hayman Island, Australia
Nestled close to the northernmost point of Australia’s Whitsunday archipelago, in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, One&Only Hayman Island is the nearest Whitsunday Island to the Outer Reef, including the world-famous Heart Reef. Reaching the resort by helicopter, seaplane or luxury yacht only adds to the One&Only allure; when you arrive, you’re welcomed by blindingly white sand enveloped by rainforest. We highly recommend checking in to one of the Beach Villas, designed by internationally acclaimed architect Kerry Hill and offering unsurpassed interior appointments, private pools and uninterrupted beachfront views of the Coral Sea.
oneandonlyresorts.com