STORIES

Renowned for its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and diverse culture it is no surprise that many couples choose Europe as the place to pop the big question. However, with so many popular tourist spots, it can be hard to find a romantic and intimate setting, away from the crowds. 

So forget Paris and Rome, if you’re looking for a unique and off-the-beaten-track proposal, here at the Historic Hotels of Europe we have you covered. From the rugged coastline of Ireland to sun-soaked beaches in Greece, these gorgeous destinations are steeped in history and guaranteed to set your heart alight. Read on for six of the most romantic hotel stays and make that your proposal truly unforgettable.

Villa Cipriani, Italy

Located in the heart of Veneto, Villa Cipriani is a stunning example of Italian elegance and grandeur. With its beautiful gardens, sparkling pool and opulent interiors, this historic hotel provides the perfect backdrop for a romantic proposal. The villa was built in the 1920s and has a rich history, having played host to famous guests such as Winston Churchill and Charles de Gaulle. As you wander through its manicured gardens, surrounded by the rolling hills of the Veneto countryside, it’s easy to imagine the grandeur of the past. And if you’re looking to make your proposal even more special, you can book a private gondola ride through the canals of Venice, just a short drive away from Villa Cipriani. 

Renvyle House, Connemara, Ireland

Renvyle House is a one-of-a-kind Victorian house located in the heart of the wild, untamed and breathtaking landscape of Connemara on the west coast of Ireland. With outstanding views across the Atlantic Ocean, Renvyle House sits in an unspoiled natural setting, surrounded by glass-like lakes and rocky landscapes. Elegantly furnished with antiques, original fireplaces, and four-poster beds, the hotel has a rich history and has been a favourite destination for generations of families. Take a walk on the hotel’s private beach and watch the sunset as you pop the question. Celebrate with a dip in the outdoor hot tub (complete with a glass of bubbles!) and finish a perfect day with an exquisite candlelit dinner in the award-winning restaurant.

Hotel Schloss Hertefeld, Germany

Wow your true love in a medieval castle surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills as far as the eye can see. The Hotel Schloss Hertefeld is peppered with elegant furnishings and luxurious decor and complemented by breathtaking views, making it the perfect place for a swoon worthy proposal. The Hotel Schloss Hertefeld has a rich history that adds to its romantic atmosphere, and the castle has been home to a number of important figures over the years, including local nobility and members of the Prussian royal family. Pop the question in one of the hotel’s cozy sitting rooms, or in the castle’s gardens surrounded by the sheer natural beauty of the surrounding landscapes. 

Twr y Felin Hotel, St.David’s, Wales

Twr y Felin Hotel is located in the heart of St Davids, Wales, encircled by the stunning beauty of Pembrokeshire. Housed in a restored 19th-century windmill, Twr y Felin is luxurious and modern and with almost every spare wall adorned with floor-to-ceiling artwork, an ideal setting for a proposal to anyone enamored by arts and culture. St. David’s is breathtaking year-round – glorious in the summer and thrillingly wild in the winter. Known for its rugged coastlines, undulating hills, and charming villages, it’s the perfect destination for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and experience the romance of the Welsh countryside. 

Solar Do Castelo, Lisbon, Portugal

Nestled in Alfama, the beating heart of Lisbon, Solar Do Castelo is a heritage hotel tailor-made for the romantic urban proposal of your dreams, without the big-city crowds. With a history dating back to the 5th century, the Alfama historic quarter was first inhabited by the Visigoths but it was the Moorish who made it what it is today. With stunning views over the city of Lisbon, lush gardens and charming interiors, Solar Do Castelo provides the perfect setting for a quiet and intimate moment with your lover. The hotel dates back to the 17th century and is an incredible example of Portuguese architecture and a great base from which to explore the city. Stroll around the maze of atmospheric streets and stop to soak up one of the best views over Lisbon from Miradouro Largo das Portas do Sol – once the entrance gates to the old city. We can’t think of a dreamy location to put a ring on it. 

Kyrimai Hotel, Mani, Greece

For a romantic getaway with a touch of history and adventure, look no further than the Kyrimai Hotel in Mani, Greece. Surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, this restored 19th-century tower is now a blend of traditional and contemporary styles, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. One of the most interesting historical facts about the area is the strong influence of the Byzantines and the Franks, who left behind ancient churches and castles that are well worth a visit. The nearby beaches and tranquil waters of the Aegean Sea provide the perfect backdrop for a proposal, whether you choose a sunset stroll along the beach or a candlelit dinner on the terrace.