Weekend of Love: Valentine’s Edition

Even when you’re living in a metropolitan city, life can get monotonous. Considering Valentine’s Day falls on a Friday this year, why not make a weekend out of it and whisk your partner away for a romantic getaway? Unwind with your better half on a staycation in your city or at a hideaway in the lap of nature. Gather up your couple friends and book a private villa or take your pooch along for a paw-fect break. From serene retreats to wellness-centred stays, our edits of romantic getaway spots covers it all. Take your pick.

Forest Hills at the Tala, Maharashtra

If you are looking for a serene retreat amid nature, the pet-friendly Forest Hills at Tala is an ideal choice. With each villa being different, you can book one of the luxurious villas or the stunning Glass House or even a glamping tent or a rustic mud hut and can wake up to birdsongs, explore forest trails and enjoy serene views from any of the above you choose.

Evolve Back, Karnataka

Located in the middle of a 300-acre plantation, this resort rests at a height of 800m, giving you a mystic view of the mountains in the distance, and the Kaveri river. Take a stab at birdwatching on your trip, or spend your time walking around the plantation. Plus, you can also visit the nearby village for a novel experience.

Ffort Raichak, West Bengal

Even the trip to Ffort Raichak by Raichak on Ganges promises a romantic start to your Valentine’s Day getaway—that’s how perfect it is. Located in a grand, medieval fort-like building—complete with lush gardens and a moat—you need to take a ferry ride from Kolkata to reach the resort. Combine the experience of living at a heritage fort resort with a picturesque sunset along the Ganga river, and you’re sure to have a Valentine’s Day that you’re not likely to forget any time soon.

Aman-i-Khas, Rajasthan

Perched on the edge of the reserve is an elegant tented camp, set on 10 acres and surrounded by the Aravalli Hills, Aman-i-Khas. It stands out for its mix of nature and Mughal appeal, combined with Aman’s signature pampering (read: spa). The large air-conditioned tents echo traditional Mughal pavilions and come with twin writing desks and a freestanding bath. You can relish native and continental fare made using organic produce from the camp’s in-house garden at the dining tent or a cocktail by the central fire.

Pathiramanal Villa, Kerala

A stay by the palm-fringed backwater canals in God's Own Country is always a good idea. The Pathiramanal Villa by amã Stays & Trails (from The Indian Hotels Company Limited whose portfolio also includes Taj) overlooking Vembanad Lake boasts five rooms (for a maximum of 19 guests) and comes with a swimming pool, lotus pond, lounge and gazebo. Azure blue skies will greet you from every window, and each path leads to the backwaters. Did someone say picture-perfect?