Hideaways International Names Top Romantic Spots

PORTSMOUTH, NH - Hideaways International, the premier association specializing in intimate, out-of-the-ordinary travel, has announced the winners of its annual "Most Romantic Hideaways" Award. Hideaways Guide publisher, Mike Thiel, picked the 2003 winners based on reader responses and his own travels to these idyllic escapes. "I've stayed at most of these lodgings," claims Mike, "and they sure seduced me!"

This year's winners include a New York City hideaway, an Irish castle, and an island in the Caribbean. "One of the greatest gifts a couple can give each other these days is quality time . . . alone,” says Mike. “And let's face it, one night on the town doesn't always cut it. But an escape to one of these retreats is a sure way to keep Valentine's Day romance alive all year."

Villa San Michele, Fiesole, Italy
Nestled in the charming hills of Fiesole, overlooking the red rooftops of Florence, this former fifteenth-century Franciscan monastery is now a luxury hotel. Boasting a magnificent Michelangelo facade, this hideaway offers a handful of well-appointed rooms, all created from former monks' cells. Its furnishings are steeped in history, including an ancient refectory-turned-cocktail bar dominated by antique frescoes. La dolce vita for you and that special someone.

Palm Island Beach Club, Palm Island, Grenadines
The Grenadines is a part of the world where time is seemingly suspended, waters are clear, and beaches are white. In this mystical strand of islands lies Palm Island Beach Club, a paradise where tranquility is a state of mind and romance is definitely in the air. With its sprinkling of green-roofed bungalows, Palm Island offers an unrivaled setting with the most serene solitude found anywhere in the Caribbean.

The Casablanca Hotel, New York, New York
Situated in the heart of Times Square, this intimate European-style, family-owned boutique hotel has been totally restored in a magnificent Moroccan decor. Its luxury guest rooms and suites are designed for comfort with meticulous attention to detail, as seen in its archways, ceiling fans, ornamental moldings, unique tapestries, paintings, murals, and its soundproof rooms.

Park Hotel Kenmare, Kerry, Ireland
Overlooking the famous Ring of Kerry, the limestone walls of the Park Hotel Kenmare have welcomed guests with renowned warmth since 1897. This five star Hotel has terraced gardens stretching to the lapping waters of the bay below. Log fires, relaxing corners to hide in, and splendidly comfortable surroundings will find you content to do very little but relax . . . with that special someone, of course.

Palais Maeterlinck, Nice, France
Perched high above the Mediterranean, the palatial architecture and opulent luxury of this four-star hotel will make any couple feel like a king and queen. The royal treatment includes dining al fresco on the terrace, soaking in the glamour of the French Riviera, and slipping away aboard a private yacht available to guests.

Wedgewood Hotel, Vancouver, Canada
On fashionable Robson Square in the heart of downtown Vancouver, this intimate, privately owned hotel endears guests with its personal service, homey atmosphere, close attention to detail, and timeless European elegance. After sightseeing in beautiful Vancouver, relaxing at Wedgewood's spa, or dining at acclaimed Italian restaurant, "Bacchus," retire to your room and relax in front of a roaring fire.

Villa Rolandi, Isla Mujeres, Mexico
Overlooking the turquoise Caribbean Sea with a breathtaking view of Cancun, Villa Rolandi lies in a residential setting between a white sandy beach and a lush lagoon. Guests arrive via the hotel's luxury yacht to enjoy modern Mexican-Mediterranean style, ocean view suites, full amenities, and only the finest service and foods. This luxurious hotel, in perfect harmony with the environment, is a delightful spot for a romantic getaway.

The Vintage Inn, Yountville, California
Set on 23 beautifully manicured acres, The Vintage Inn's spacious guest rooms and villas offer a stylish hideaway in tourist-heavy Napa. Romantic touches abound in each room, including whirlpool baths, wood-burning fireplaces, dimmers for every light, and a complimentary bottle of local wine upon arrival.

Hotel Jerome, Aspen, Colorado
Located in the heart of Aspen with the majestic Rocky Mountains as its backdrop, the Hotel Jerome is still as magnificent as it was when it was built in 1889. Elegantly restored to its original Victorian grandeur, this National Register landmark is one of the richest experiences in comfort, hospitality, and romance to be found not only in Colorado, but in the American West.

Hotel Goldener Adler, Innsbruck, Austria
For a memorable stay in the charming old town center of Innsbruck, choose the venerable inn enjoyed by Mozart and the poet Goethe. Founded in 1390, this historic Old City hotel was recently renovated and its cozy rooms and suites are all furnished with modern conveniences, plus nightly zither music and noble drops from a well-furnished wine cellar. Enjoy a bit of old-fashioned romance and the unique sensation of spirits from the past in the comfort of one of Europe's oldest inns.

Hideaways International is the world's premier travel club for those seeking the out-of-the ordinary in vacations--worldwide. For 25 years it has been guiding discerning and passionate travelers to "the vacation road less traveled." Hideaways' staff and "Ambassadors" roam the world in search of its best intimate resorts and lodges, boutique hotels, yacht-like cruise ships, yacht and barge charters, secluded villas, city-center apartments, guest ranches, and more.

Hideaways' portfolio of inspected and recommended properties, as well as unique destinations, are profiled in Hideaways Guide, its full-color semiannual members magazine. The quarterly Hideaways newsletter and bi-weekly Hideaways Insider e-newsletter keep members informed of the latest discoveries and special travel opportunities. For more information visit Hideaways.com or call 800-843-4433 (603-430-4433 in NH and internationally).