1 Paris

It's still the most romantic city in the world. And now you can stay in a room kitted out by one of the world's most glamorous fashion designers - Christian Lacroix has transformed a former boulangerie in the Marais into the sexy, opulent Hotel Petit Moulin. Special offer price €180, paris-hotel-petitmoulin.com.

2 Kent

Now for something a little different ... a timber-framed gatehouse, situated above a private road in the grounds of Nettelstead Place Manor House. Three nights, £400, vivat.org.uk.

3 Venice

Where better to lose yourself than the higgeldy-piggledy lanes of Venice. Renting a chic apartment means you can stock up on basics at the supermarket and whip up a romantic meal for two at "home". Four nights £595, venice-rentals.com.

4 Devon

Gibhouse is one for traditionalists: a 16th-century thatched cottage 200 yards from the River Teign in Dartmoor national park. From £618 per week, helpfulholidays.com, 01647 434063.

5 Malta

A period house with huge oil paintings on limetsone walls is a suitably dramatic setting for big romantic gestures. Two nights £250; £380 per week, thelittledomain.com.

· All properties were available on or around Valentine's Day at the time of going to press.