Couples looking for a short break often want something a little different – a change of scenery, a slower pace, and the chance to spend time together without the everyday noise. The good news is that Europe offers plenty of cosy options, from peaceful cottages tucked into mountain landscapes to lazy days gliding down French waterways.
Here are five getaway ideas perfect for two, each offering its own version of comfort and calm.
Exploring the Cotswolds
For something closer to home, the Cotswolds remain one of the UK’s most romantic countryside escapes. Rolling hills, golden-stone villages, and quiet walking paths make it a destination that feels timeless.
Couples can spend their days wandering through villages like Bourton-on-the-Water or Stow-on-the-Wold, browsing independent shops, and pausing at traditional tea rooms. The walking trails here are gentle but rewarding – routes along the Cotswold Way give you views across farmland and valleys, while shorter loops connect charming villages.
It’s the kind of place where the pace naturally slows. Even a simple afternoon wandering through a market town or enjoying a riverside walk can feel restorative. If your idea of a couple’s break is all about cosiness and countryside charm, the Cotswolds delivers.
A Cottage Retreat in Fort William
For couples who love the outdoors but also want somewhere snug to retreat to at the end of the day, Fort William in the Scottish Highlands is an ideal choice. Known as the “Outdoor Capital of the UK,” it’s surrounded by mountains, lochs, and hiking trails, making it perfect for long walks, scenic drives, and fresh air.
A walk along Glen Nevis offers sweeping views without being too demanding, while Ben Nevis – the UK’s highest mountain – challenges those who want a full day out. Loch Linnhe provides opportunities for gentle boat trips, or you can simply enjoy a stroll along the waterfront and watch the sun set over the hills.
When it comes to staying here, there are plenty of fantastic dog friendly cottages in Fort William, so if you’re travelling with a four-legged friend, they can join in too. Evenings can be as simple as sitting by a fire with a glass of wine after a day spent exploring together – a balance of adventure and relaxation.
Barge Tours in Burgundy, France
If your idea of a getaway is slow travel, barge tours in France are a wonderful option. In Burgundy, the canals wind through vineyard-dotted landscapes, quiet villages, and historic towns, offering a relaxed way to see the countryside.
Days on the water are unhurried, with time to read on deck, cycle along the towpaths, or hop off to explore local markets and small châteaux. Couples can enjoy gentle strolls through towns like Beaune, known for its wine heritage, or take a walk along vineyard trails to sample Burgundy at its best.
The rhythm of life on a barge suits those who want to switch off. You wake to birdsong, spend the day surrounded by calm scenery, and end with evenings where the only noise is the water lapping against the side of the boat.
It’s a simple but memorable way to enjoy France together.
Island Time in Madeira
For couples who want a mix of comfort and a touch of adventure, Madeira is a great choice. This Portuguese island is known for its dramatic landscapes – from lush mountains to black-sand beaches – but it also has a slower side that makes it perfect for a romantic escape.
The levada walks, which follow old irrigation channels, are one of the highlights. Some are short and gentle, winding through forests and flower-filled valleys, while others offer more of a challenge with sweeping coastal views. There are also botanical gardens to explore, and cable cars that carry you up the cliffs for panoramic views over Funchal.
Madeira balances activity with relaxation. You can spend one day exploring rugged trails and the next simply sitting by the ocean, watching the waves crash against the volcanic cliffs.
It’s a destination that suits couples who like their getaways to be both refreshing and a little adventurous.
A Coastal Escape in Donegal, Ireland
For those who want somewhere wild and less crowded, Donegal in Ireland is a memorable choice. The coastline here is rugged and dramatic, with long sandy beaches, high cliffs, and small villages dotted along the way.
Slieve League Cliffs are one of the highlights – higher than the more famous Cliffs of Moher, they offer spectacular views over the Atlantic. Glenveagh National Park, with its castle and walking trails, gives couples a chance to immerse themselves in quiet landscapes.
Donegal feels untamed but welcoming, perfect for couples who want a retreat away from tourist-heavy spots. Add in the warmth of Irish hospitality, and it’s a place where you can combine bracing walks with evenings spent in cosy surroundings.
Finding Your Perfect Couple’s Escape
Whether it’s walking in the Highlands, drifting through Burgundy on a barge, or sitting by the sea in Ireland, each of these destinations offers a different way to spend time together. Some focus on outdoor adventure, others on peace and stillness, but all create space for connection.
The best couple’s getaway isn’t about how far you travel – it’s about finding the setting that feels right for you, whether that’s a cottage in the Highlands, a slow river journey in France, or a quiet coastline far from the crowds.