Listopedia: the World’s Best Adults Only Hotels

Forget the chocolates and rose petals this year. Nothing says I love you more than a getaway – and Expedia’s new research shows a holiday can be vital to keeping the spark alive. According to Expedia’s Vacation Deprivation study, more than half of Aussies travel with their significant other, with 48% identifying holidays as critical to keeping their relationships on track. So sweep your special someone off their feet with these romantic adults only destinations.

Pumphouse Point, Tasmania, Australia

Located at the end of a jetty in Lake St Claire, Pumphouse Point wilderness lodge is the spot to hide away from the world. And to do it in style. Decommissioned in the 1990s, the original Pumphouse was brought back to life as a boutique hotel – it’s the perfect setting for an evening curled up with a book and a bottle of wine, and in the day, the famous Cradle Mountain Overland Track awaits.

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, Maldives

Tiny patches of bright white sand surrounded by azure ocean; the Maldives’ thousands of islands were made for romance. At The Conrad adults have their very own island, with a bridge and traditional dhoni ferries connecting it to the more family friendly other island. The staff have nicknamed it Sunset Island and the name says it all – watch the sun dip into the ocean from your over water plunge pool.

Viceroy Riviera Maya, Mexico

Mexico suffers from the misconception that it is all mega resorts and college students but the Viceroy is a pocket of paradise as far removed from that reality as you can get. Tucked in the lush rainforest of the Riviera Maya, the resort’s standalone villas have their own plunge pools, day beds and outdoor showers, so you never really need to leave.

Tokoriki Island Resort, Fiji

The Mamanuca group of islands in Fiji are home to plenty of hotels, but Tokoriki Island Resort is a world away from the more family-friendly properties often associated with the region. Book a bure on the beach and get ready for a taste of paradise – white beaches, a great house reef, tropical gardens, your own hammocks and a private pool are worth leaving the kids at home.

Hepburn at Hepburn, Hepburn Springs, Australia

There’s no surprises Melbourne’s neighbouring spa country makes it onto this list. Just an hour and a half drive north west, this region is famous for its natural mineral waters. Hepburn at Hepburn’s villas are across the road from the beautiful Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa and are seriously decadent, with enormous spa baths, fireplaces, velvet lounges and king size beds.

Banyan Tree Shanghai on the Bund, Shanghai, China

If your loved one loves the bright lights of the big city, whisk them away to Shanghai for a serious dose of sky high living. The Banyan Tree’s suites look straight down on the Bund and Huangpu River beyond. A big day exploring the city is best ended with a soak in your bathtub, but forget the bubbles, you’ll be too distracted by the view.

L’Horizon Resort & Spa, Palm Springs, USA

Oozing old world Hollywood, L’Horizon sprawls across three acres of desert gardens and was the setting for plenty of parties back in the 1950s – guestlists have included presidents and celebrities alike. These days the bungalows are perfect for minimalist couples wanting to relax without distraction – you’ll still have all your luxe mod cons, but the setting is a study in mid century modernity.

Sun Rocks Boutique Hotel, Santorini, Greece

The Greeks have been writing romance for centuries and Santorini’s white washed walls, bright sunshine and dramatic Caldera views are storybook perfect. For something really special, book into the beautiful Sun Rocks Boutique Hotel carved into the cliffside of Firostefani, well away from the tourist trail.

The Bale, Nusa Dua, Bali

The Bale is a world away from the supersized resorts of Nusa Dua’s beachfront. Instead, its pavilions are sprawling enclaves with private pool, day beds and 24 hour butlers. Make a beeline for the spa, which has its own restaurant, relaxation areas and plenty of couples treatments to choose from.

Alila Jabal Akhdar, Oman

If you’re after something truly unique, Alila Jabal is tucked into the shadows of Oman’s Al Hajar mountain. One of the newest Alila properties, it has a seriously swish design aesthetic, immaculate service and stunning views.

Hotel Wailea, Maui, Hawaii

If you’re after adults only in Hawaii, it’s slim pickings but the relatively new Hotel Wailea fills the gap perfectly. Located on 15 acres of Maui’s notoriously lush hillsides, the resort has just 72 suites so you’re guaranteed a quiet, private getaway. You certainly can’t get away from the view, with 180 degree ocean views – whether you’re partaking in morning yoga, lounging by the pool or sipping cocktails on your balcony.