The 2022 Top 25 Historic Hotels Worldwide® Most Romantic Hotels List Announced
WASHINGTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–#bridal—Historic Hotels Worldwide® is pleased to announce its list of the 2022 Top 25 Historic Hotels Worldwide Most Romantic Hotels and a “Dozen Roses,” 12 very honorable mentions. Around the world, Historic Hotels are the perfect places to “woo and wow.” The romantic hotels on this list represent 18 countries on four continents. Nominees for the 2022 Top 25 Historic Hotels Worldwide Most Romantic Hotels list were considered based on services, service levels, special touches and amenities for couples (whether courting, becoming engaged, celebrating a wedding, honeymoon, or anniversary). Consideration was given to luxurious suites, breathtaking views, fine dining, architecture and interior design, and historical character. This is the first year of the annual Top 25 Historic Hotels Worldwide Most Romantic Hotels list.
These legendary historic hotels are ideal locations for a romantic weekend getaway, to propose marriage, to host a perfect wedding, to enjoy a memorable honeymoon, and to celebrate a special anniversary together year after year. Some hotels are recognizable, located in cities famous for their romance, and others are hidden gems, waiting for you to discover with your beloved. These iconic, award-winning hotels offer bespoke experiences, beautiful settings and architecture, and romance that is anchored by the past.
The 2022 Top 25 Historic Hotels Worldwide Most Romantic Hotels
1. Dromoland Castle Hotel (1014)
Newmarket on Fergus, Co. Clare, Ireland
Dromoland Castle Hotel is a place where love stories unfold. Located in Newmarket on Fergus, Ireland, the estate’s history goes back to 1014 and it was inducted into Historic Hotels Worldwide in 2011. The enchanting, picturesque castle with over 1,000 years of history provides the perfect backdrop for romantic getaways, honeymoons, and anniversary celebrations. Discover its charm as you explore the beautiful surroundings of the 450-acre estate and create magical memories that you will both cherish forever by enjoying one of the many wonderful estate activities together from falconry to archery or even a round of golf. One of the favorite spots for lovers on Dromoland Castle’s vast estate is the Temple of Mercury: a domed circle of Doric columns atop a raised stone platform, topped by a sculpture of the Roman god Mercury. The neoclassical temple was built in the 1730s by Sir Edward O’Brien to honor his racing horse, Seán Buí, whose speed won the funds he needed to keep the estate within the family. If you intend to propose while a guest at Dromoland Castle, the estate sets the scene for a fairy-tale proposal like no other. Dromoland Castle Hotel offers the opportunity to surprise your beloved with a lovely outdoor proposal where a hawk will deliver the ring. All you will need to do is find the perfect words! Enjoy a romantic stroll through the woodlands to the banks of the lily pond, where you will ask the important question. The castle’s falconer will meet you at the pond where a Dromoland hawk will deliver the ring to you to present to your fiancée. A photographer will be present to capture this important occasion. Return to the castle for a six-course candlelit dinner in the Earl of Thomond restaurant overlooking Lough Dromoland. The following morning, enjoy a decadent breakfast with champagne in your bedroom or the castle dining room.
2. Kilkea Castle (1180)
Castledermot, Ireland
Kilkea Castle is one of the most historic castle hotels in Ireland, with traditions and masonry dating back to the year 1180. Home to the famous FitzGerald family for generations, Kilkea Castle has played host to lords and ladies for centuries. There is no doubt that the castle provides beautiful, romantic settings to relax and recharge with your beloved. Discover together the castle’s romance in the FitzGerald Suite situated on the top floor of the castle and the chandelier-lit drawing room, and every grand room and intimate alcove in between. The romance of Kilkea Castle hits a high at its fine dining restaurant, Restaurant 1180. With large bay windows looking out onto the rose gardens, lakes, orchard, and golf course, the views induce sighs and longing that can make a romance bloom. Restaurant 1180 was once the main banquet hall for the lords and ladies of Kilkea and the hotel today is delighted to be able to offer this majestic space to couples long into the future. The Rose Garden is an ideal location for couples to spend a romantic moment together. Outdoors, couples can enjoy picnics under the watchful eye of the 12th-century castle and explore all that the rose gardens have to offer. Picnics come complete with everything you would need and are presented in a beautiful wicker basket with blankets for supreme comfort. Certainly, Kilkea Castle is a special location for those looking to propose or share a quiet weekend together.
3. Barberstown Castle (1288)
Kildare, Ireland
Many fairytale love stories start in a castle and Barberstown Castle in Kildare, Ireland, welcomes you and your beloved to write your own fairytale on its ancient estate. This centuries-old castle has a treasure trove of picturesque, quiet locations where you can propose or simply be together. Beside the medieval castle is a 300-year-old beech tree that has seen many engagements over the years. Another popular location is within the weeping willows, where the proposal is best at sunset with light trickling through the leaves as one gets down on bent knee. Proposals within the castle itself in the shadows of lords and ladies of yesteryear are also immensely popular. Barberstown Castle is one of the first great Irish country houses to display its splendor to the outside world when it opened as a small guesthouse in 1971. It has maintained the elegance of design over eight centuries by seamlessly blending its Victorian and Elizabethan extensions with the original medieval castle keep of 1288. It was a former home of the acclaimed musician Mr. Eric Clapton from 1979 – 1987, when famous rock stars came to stay and played music into the early hours in the Green Room & Castle Keep. The Castle Keep is an enchanted setting for a romantic proposal and backdrop for dramatic proposals with memories to last. The suites featuring four poster beds, overlooking the historic castle estate, are the most romantic spaces for a lovers’ escape. Irish hospitality is famous throughout the world for its warm and friendly approach, and Barberstown is no different. The historic Geraldine tradition of generous hospitality to all who enter its ancient, vaulted rooms and sixteenth century banquet halls endures.
4. Bernini Palace Hotel (15th Century)
Florence, Italy
The Bernini Palace Hotel is situated in a luxurious and iconic 15th-century palace in the heart of Florence, Italy. With its central location, its prestigious history, and its superior service, it is a much sought-after location for engagements. A museum within the hotel tells of the glorious past of ancient Florence and the staff recommends it as the most romantic place at the hotel for someone to ask the “big question.” The hotel offers couples the pick of several suites overlooking Palazzo Vecchio and the cathedral, where couples experience unforgettable moments. The most romantic setting at Hotel Bernini Palace is undoubtedly the Junior Suite overlooking the Cupola of Brunelleschi. A large open space with a fireplace, the room is decorated with antique pieces of furniture and offers a completely refurbished bathroom in white marble with a wonderful large dual shower cabin. For special occasions like a honeymoon or anniversary celebration, Bernini Palace offers complimentary bottles of sparkling wine to the couple. The concierge is always available to assist in setting up romantic experiences like a private gondola tour on the Arno River, or private hot-air balloon ride to take in the views of Florence. Stunning landmarks like the Ponte Vecchio, Piazza Signoria, and the cathedral are only a few blocks away. Stroll hand-in-hand through the city’s luxurious shopping districts and charming alleys, winding your way to an intimate restaurant where you can share an unforgettable candlelit meal.
5. Metropole Hotel (1500)
Venice, Italy
Arrive at the Metropole Hotel in the heart of Venice, Italy, and discover a beautiful, sumptuous ambience where you and your love can be at home. This eclectic and enchanting hotel overlooks the Lagoon in front of San Giorgio Island, a few steps away from St. Mark’s Square and the venues of the Art Biennale Exhibition. The building dates to 1500 and the hotel was inducted into Historic Hotels Worldwide in 2011. Recharge and relax at Metropole Hotel’s suites, featuring refined furnishings and luxurious comforts. The guestrooms are designed with balance and harmony to give each one a unique soul. In the evening, enjoy a romantic dinner on the terrace with a view over the lagoon and the rooftops of Venice. The beautiful terraces of Venice, with outstanding views over the Venetian Lagoon, are ideal for memorable engagements. Metropole can also arrange a private tour of the city for you and your beloved aboard a luxurious wooden water taxi. Imagine being surrounded by the breathtaking magic of an unforgettable sunset at the Venetian Lagoon, enjoying a bottle of champagne together. Attentive service, special amenities and little surprises combine to create an unforgettable night – a hymn to Love! If all goes well during your courtship, say “I do” in Venice, the city of Love, and celebrate your wedding day at the Metropole. The Metropole is the ideal setting for intimate wedding receptions and banquets, with every little detail made to measure.
6. Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam (1578)
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
As the former city hall of Amsterdam, Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam has set the stage for wedding couples for over two centuries. One of the most memorable marriages in the history of The Grand is the wedding ceremony of former Queen of The Netherlands, Princess Beatrix, in the legendary Council Chamber in 1966. Former soccer icons Johan Cruijf, Louis van Gaal, movie director and art painter Jeroen Krabbé, and many more celebrities have followed since. The Grand has maintained the romantic tradition into the 21st century and the hotel has welcomed many couples over the last couple of years, each with their own beautiful story. The hotel’s Marriage Chamber encompasses one of the most unique ambiences not only for an intimate wedding ceremony but also for a romantic private dinner to celebrate an anniversary or to propose to your loved one. The refined mural drawings and wall frescos, created by Chris Lebeau in 1926, symbolize the circle of life and love and therefore offer a unique backdrop for romantic couples. At Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam, staff go the extra mile to create the perfect wedding day or any other romantic experience for every couple with the cousu-main service – service right from the heart.
7. Quinta Real Oaxaca Hotel (1579)
Oaxaca, Mexico
Let yourself be enchanted by the floral gardens, peaceful courtyards, and serene fountains of Quinta Real Oaxaca Hotel. Built in the late 16th century, the hotel was the Convent of Santa Catalina de Siena until the mid-1700s. The hotel was inducted into Historic Hotels Worldwide in 2012. Today, the historic Quinta Real Oaxaca Hotel is located right in the heart of the iconic Mexican destination, Oaxaca de Juárez, Oaxaca, which UNESCO designated a World Heritage Site in 1987. Amazing attractions, such as the Church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán, are only a few minutes away from Quinta Real Oaxaca. The city is host to beautiful art, mouth-watering gastronomy, lively music, and viceroyalty architecture that set the scene for a proposal or honeymoon to remember forever. This charming luxury Oaxaca hotel, with its amenities and over 90 suites, is also ideal for weddings. The beautiful suites of the Quinta Real Oaxaca exhibit authentic Hispanic flair, and many boast magnificent views of the historic center of the ancient town or the lush gardens, pool, and terraces of the hotel.
8. Alfiz Hotel (17th Century)
Cartagena, Colombia
Romance is in the air at the Alfiz Hotel in Cartagena, Colombia. From the candles and flowers in the guestrooms to the Caribbean charm of Cartagena, the stage is set for a romantic proposal or honeymoon. The Alfiz Hotel was inducted into Historic Hotels Worldwide in 2014 and the city has been named “South America’s Leading Honeymoon Destination” over the past five years by the World Travel Awards. One of the most popular ways couples get engaged at this hotel is on a horse-drawn carriage ride through the worn city cobblestone streets of Cartagena. The views of the sea from the hotel are unparalleled and the intricate details throughout the hotel are what makes an engagement at this hotel so special. The preserved city of Cartagena, with its colorful streets and beautiful colonial-style houses, is the perfect setting for a romantic getaway or the ideal place to celebrate a honeymoon. Enjoy the city and stay at Alfiz, intimate and steeped in history. Alfiz Hotel offers a romantic package that includes round trip transfer from the airport, welcome cocktail, romantic decoration with candles and rose petals in a split level 1820s-inspired junior suite. 1820s-inspired suite, à la carte breakfast served in the room, bottle of sparkling wine to be enjoyed in the jacuzzi with relaxation session and finally a horse-drawn carriage ride through the city.
9. Pulitzer Amsterdam (17th Century)
Amsterdam, Netherlands
The Pulitzer Amsterdam offers many ways to woo and wow sweethearts during a stay at this historic hotel. From a private chauffeur to a private bath butler, there is no shortage of luxury accommodation for your romantic stay. Pulitzer Amsterdam is located within twenty-five restored 17th and 18th-century houses at the heart of the World Heritage Canal District and cozy Nine Streets area. It was inducted into Historic Hotels Worldwide in 2015. A popular method for many to pop the question is either while flying with their beloved aboard an exclusive helicopter ride above the city to spot all the famous sights or while cruising aboard a vintage saloon boat. Each trip is tailored to ensure the most memorable engagement experience possible. Pulitzer Amsterdam has many romantic nooks and alcoves, but when asked to highlight one, staff could offer no better romantic spot than the Pulitzer Suite. This suite will pull at your heart strings with its eclectic mix of curated furniture, grand architectural details, and thoughtful modern comforts. The Pulitzer Suite is in one of Amsterdam’s most romantic canal houses. Since 1635, the canal house façades have evolved but their charm and historical character endured. When staying in one of the Pulitzer Amsterdam’s suites, you are staying in one of the finest and latest art pieces of quintessentially Dutch architecture. When you leave your guestrooms, there is no more romantic way to experience Amsterdam than from the water and the Pulitzer Amsterdam offers two unique vessels. The saloon boat, built in 1909, has all the classic characteristics one would expect including polished teak and brass, marble, leather, and original beveled glass. In fine weather, Pulitzer’s open-air vessel is a charming option for cruising the canals while enjoying the sunshine.
10. Hacienda de los Santos (1685)
Alamos, Sonora, Mexico
Hacienda de los Santos’s reputation for excellence and beauty has become known throughout Mexico and, as each year passes, the hotel sees more visitors coming to make wedding and ‘special event’ reservations. With its uncommon tropical desert location, this adds to the ambience of the Spanish Colonial resort of which some structures date to the 17th century. Hacienda de los Santos was inducted into Historic Hotels Worldwide in 2015 and was the winner of the Historic Hotels Awards of Excellence for Best Historic Hotels Worldwide Hotel in the Americas in 2021. Romance is everywhere at Hacienda de los Santos, but the staff know that a popular spot to propose is in the shade of three large Banyan trees on the resort. Quite often, someone will take advantage of the intense, ancient feeling these trees invoke and couples return from the trees ready to say, “I do.” If proposing indoors is what a guest wants, the Spanish Colonial dining room is the perfect place. A fireplace is ideal for a luxurious dinner setting for two people. This is the single most popular spot for a proposal or anniversary. The stone church also is an ideal setting for a proposal, wedding, or renewal of vows. Hacienda de los Santos is known for its beautiful candles and the candlelit dinners are extremely popular.
11. Hacienda Labor de Rivera (1700)
Teuchitlán, Jalisco, Mexico
A treasure of Mexican heritage, Hacienda Labor De Rivera is a perfect spot to celebrate your historic love story. Located in the historic village of Teuchitlán, Jalisco, which is famous for its Archaeological Zone of Guachimontones (the ancient circular pyramids of Teuchitlán), the Hacienda dates to the 16th century. It was inducted into Historic Hotels Worldwide in 2016. The rooms feature a Mexican colonial-style décor and feature beautiful views of the lake and gardens. Prior to a romantic dinner the couple might enjoy a variety of activities, such as horse riding, bicycle rides, kayaking on the lake, or a couples spa treatment. Being on the Tequila Route, a heritage trail for tequila production, the hotel arranges horseback rides and guided tours to visit the Guachimontones archaeological zone. The hotel also has holistic activities and tequila tastings. The romance package includes a night of lodging in “Alcoba del Lago,” or a suite with a jacuzzi, decorated with flowers and candles. A romantic four-course dinner with live music assembled exclusively for the couple includes a bottle of wine. Need to unwind after a day of sightseeing? Enjoy a couples massage and aromatherapy at the spa or sit on the terrace and share a drink together under the stars.
12. The Mozart Prague (1770)
Prague, Czech Republic
Originally constructed in 1770 as the private residence of Count Pachta, The Mozart Prague is a family-owned boutique hotel located in the ancient historic district of Prague. The hotel was inducted into Historic Hotels Worldwide in 2021. Its coveted location across the iconic Charles Bridge means guests enjoy direct, sigh-inducing views of the stunning Prague Castle and the romantic Vltava River – especially at sunset. The romance of art and music can be found in every room and hall at Mozart Prague, where stunning frescos, vaulted chapel ceilings, charming courtyards, ornate decor, crystal chandeliers, and impressive balconies set the scene for a romantic getaway. While the Pachta family enjoyed private performances of concertos and sonatas from the likes of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756 – 1791), Giacomo Casanova (1725 – 1798) and Richard Wagner (1813 – 1883), today’s guests are similarly enchanted by the endless list of international art pieces featured throughout the palace, including Ignaz Franz Platzer’s original baroque sculptures, Pavel Roucka’s contemporary art, Maurizio Toffoletti’s magnificent marble statue, and a splendid collection of frescos. The hotel is conveniently located in the city center, just five minutes away from Charles Bridge, but the courtyards are peaceful and quiet. The white stones and the blue skies are the perfect setting for a romantic breakfast, lunch, or dinner. This hidden gem gives lovers the opportunity to enjoy Prague as its famous historic guests did.
13. Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar (1780)
Bagac, Bataan, Philippines
Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar is a landmark of Filipino heritage and history, making it a perfect place to celebrate timeless love stories. It was inducted into Historic Hotels Worldwide in 2017 and was the 2021 winner for Best Historic Hotel in Asia and the Pacific. It is easy to see why: nestled in a fishing village in Bagac, Bataan, Las Casas is rich in gorgeous shores, scenic nature views and picturesque charm of a heritage hotel- beach resort, providing an idyllic backdrop for every love story. Elegant heritage houses or “Casas” in Las Casas are perfect for a dream honeymoon or a romantic weekend getaway. Choose the one that fits your style and desires. For example, Casa Terraza has a terrace overlooking a beachfront and four-poster bed with romantic draperies. Casa Byzantina, the high-end casa, gives a sophisticated romantic experience. It offers a full butler service, six-bedroom accommodation with beds straight out of the Renaissance, pristine bathtubs, and luxe Hermès toiletries. Aside from superior amenities, lush mountain and lake views complement the heritage house for a romantic atmosphere. Casa Gapan, located on a semi-exclusive island, has commanding views of the Umagol river. Stepping out into the sprawling hotel-beach resort, couples can wade in the blue waters, stroll along the beach, and enjoy the beautiful sunset. Couples can bike through the resort and bond through activities like fishing, kayaking, horseback riding, local art or cuisine classes, guided walking tours, and visits to local artisan workshops. Dream weddings happen at Sanctuario de San Jose, a replica of a church in Bataan. With stone and brick façade and intricately designed interiors, Sanctuario de San Jose is a magical place to get married. Everywhere you turn, the historic hotel can capture the heart of any reluctant or unabashed romantic.
14. Great Southern Killarney (1854)
Killarney, Ireland
There is no better place for a romantic retreat among the stunning Lakes of Killarney in southwestern Ireland than at Great Southern Killarney. Built in 1854 with the mission to “take the guest’s breath away,” the hotel still stands proudly as Killarney’s Premier Historic Hotel. Great Southern Killarney was inducted into Historic Hotels Worldwide in 2019. Surrounded by incredible scenery in every direction, the hotel boasts stunning views of the Kerry mountains, with the world-famous Killarney National Park, historic Muckross House, and romantic Torc Waterfall all just minutes away. With six acres of landscaped gardens and breathtaking views of the mountains and town center, there are an abundance of locations to pop the big question. The staff’s pick for a perfect proposal setting would be in the classic Garden Room. The Garden Room Restaurant boasts the gold gilded dome of the original stunning Victorian dining room, with views of the Kerry mountains. The Garden Room also highlights the best tastes of the Kerry countryside, with the traditional Wine Room and sommelier providing the perfect champagne accompaniment to mark such a special occasion. Located just minutes from the Great Southern hotel, there is no shortage of stunning natural backdrops that would make for an incredible romantic getaway.
15. The Savoy London (1889)
London, United Kingdom
The Savoy London – with its prime location on the River Thames, opulent décor, floral arrangements, world renowned restaurants and award-winning bars – is one of the most romantic places to pop the question. For a truly memorable engagement, guests can treat their beloved to a stay in one of the rooms or suites with breathtaking views over the river, or a memorable experience in the hotel’s many restaurants or bars. The Savoy, which was inducted into Historic Hotels Worldwide in 2011, has long been renowned for hosting elegant parties and glittering events over its extensive history. Untouched by time, today it is still the London location of choice for the most important and memorable of occasions, combining timeless glamour with modern luxury.
Contacts
Katherine Orr
Historic Hotels of America® │ Historic Hotels Worldwide®
Manager, Marketing Communications
Tel: +1-202-772-8337
[email protected]
