It’s no secret that places like Paris and Rome rank high on the scale of the best romantic getaways for couples. So if you’re looking for somewhere really exotic to get away to, somewhere a little more obscure, why not let us help you? Whether you need some serious cozy time in the Southern Hemisphere sun or the adrenaline rush of a foreign city, look no further than these 10 under-the-radar spots.

Here are ten most romantic destinations you’ve never heard of:

1. Colchagua Valley, Chile

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Move over Napa, Chile has a growing and beautiful wine region with 54,000 acres of vineyards and 5 star hotels. Colchagua Valley is the star of this show, with about one dozen high-quality vineyards to tour and a museum of early American art.

Don’t leave without tasting the region’s star red wine, Cabernet Sauvignon. (According to research from 2018drinking red wine is good for you!)

Where to stay: The Casa Silva Hotel is a small boutique hotel with luxurious details plus its own wine bar, acclaimed restaurant and vineyards through which guests can take a romantic carriage ride.

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2. Nyungwe, Rwanda

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Rwanda is not the first thing that comes to mind when you think of romancebut picture this: hiking trails nestled in a lush rainforest surrounded by green hills as far as the eye can see. Parc National Nyungwe Forest is East Africa’s largest protected high-altitude rainforest, located in southern Rwanda, and is home to more than 13 different species of monkeys, among other exotic creatures.

Where to stay: The 5 star Nyungwe Forest Lodge offers private villas with fireplaces, private balconies and very seductive in-room jacuzzis, plus a communal infinity pool, all set on a tea plantation on the edge of Nyungwe Forest.

3. Muscat, Oman

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Another unexpected addition to the list, Oman is exotic, sweet and wild, with Muscat as its chic capital. Rich in history (archaeologists have found remains from the 6th century BC), this port city offers walkable souks (markets) and old walled cities plus simple, fresh food, the Al Hajar Mountains to the west and the Gulf of Oman to the east.

Where to stay: Chedia leading hotel in the world located on the bay, has everything from BOSE Sound systems to rain showers to make guests feel pampered. The suites are idyllic and luxurious, with complimentary cocktail hours and sumptuous breakfasts.

4. Grindavik, Iceland

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Just half an hour’s drive from Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital and largest city, you can find total relaxation in a geothermal spa known as the Blue Lagoon. The steaming blue pool in Grindavik was originally part of a lava formation and now hosts a cozy sauna, silica clay treatments and a cave-like geothermal steam room. And because it’s heated by nature, even during the winter, the lagoon stays at a balmy 98 degrees Fahrenheit so you can stay outside and enjoy the gorgeous Icelandic sky.

Where to stay: Hotel Borgin Reykjavik, was Iceland’s first luxury hotel when it was built in the 1930s and although it has been updated, it has retained an Art Deco charm. Its luxurious Tower Suite is booked a year in advance.

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5. Gibraltar

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Although this peninsula – a British territory in southern Spain – is considered one of the oldest areas in the world, it is not often thought of as a romantic destination. But its chic beachesunique culture and ancient roots make Gibraltar no ordinary beach trip. Living near the coast has many advantages, a 2013 study claimsincluding reported higher levels of happiness.

Where to stay: The Rock Hotela colonial-style resort and one of the most famous in the entire Mediterranean sits on top of the island with absolutely stunning views of both Spain and Morocco. The hotel offers British touches such as manicured gardens and high tea.

6. Macau

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If you want an exotic vacation in China but aren’t ready to fully commit to the Far East, Macau is your getaway. With a bit of Hong Kong and a bit of Vegas, you’ll find a smart mix of bustling Cantonese markets and glittering casinos on this island.

For a truly romantic stay, however, step away from the nightlife and spend an evening in Coloane, a waterfront neighborhood that played host to pirates in the early 20th century but is now brimming with fine dining and colonial charm. Whatever you do, don’t miss sharing one of Lord Stowe’s sweet egg tarts as you stroll past St Francis Xavier’s Chapel.

Where to stay: Grand Coloane Resort features signature amenities – a full-service spa, luxurious fitness center and the Heavenly Bed brand you’ll never want to leave – all located in Coloane directly on the South China Sea.

7. Catanzaro, Italy

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What’s more romantic than draping yourself in silk and velvet? How about doing it in Italy? Forget Rome, Naples and the Amalfi Coast and head south, far south, to Catanzaro, a former industrial city still famous for its luxurious fabrics, sweeping coastlines and stunning Byzantine architecture.

Take a stroll in idyllic public gardens or visit one of Calabria’s best historic sites, a 16th-century cathedral as old as the remaining tower of the Norman Castle. Even if you just enjoy the view from this peninsula, you are guaranteed intimacy other Italian cities lack.

Where to stay: Check out the 4 star Hotel Palace for seaside luxury, proximity (the hotel is on Catanzaro’s promenade) and amenities like an on-site Turkish bath.

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8. The Maldives

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Looking for the most beautiful beach in the world? You will find a contender in the Maldives. But while the natural beauty of porcelain sands and turquoise waters is amazing enough to justify a vacation, the activities that this chain of islands offers guarantee you and your partner an adrenaline rushalso.

Dive through the Indian Ocean’s coral reefs, surf 8-foot waves, or take a sunset boat ride out to a secluded fishing spot. The relaxed luxury and eco-friendly atmosphere of the Maldives will linger months after you return home.

Where to stay: Four seasons Maldives offers sunrise and sunset views, beachfront villas with private pools, a full-service spa, and five different restaurants.

9. Hvar, Croatia

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Croatia’s gift to couples and travelers is the enchanting Adriatic nightlife, fairytale architecture and historic cathedrals just minutes from deserted Adriatic beaches. To really get in the mood, go see some stars. Hvar has one of the most beautiful observatories in the world, located on top of a hill in an old French quarter. Or, tempt your taste buds with the delicious fresh seafood that Croatians are proud of; the seafood risotto is one not to be missed.

Where to stay: Hotel Podstine offers its own private beach, plus a spa and other luxurious touches, all 15 minutes’ walk from central Hvar.

10. Pueblito Paisa, Colombia

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Colombia has a nice hidden secret in Medellin. This gritty, sprawling urban destination is known for its prowess in the industry but has recently become a hub for ex-pats and artists alike.

The best place in town? Hightail it with your honey to Pueblito Paisa, a recreation of an old antique village where street vendors sell arepas and musicians walk the streets playing tunes. You won’t find more amazing views anywhere else in the city; on a crystal clear night, you’ll get a 360-degree look at Medellin’s lights and sounds.

Where to stay: The Intercontinental Medellin has pools, a spa, tennis courts and an on-site patisserie within a couple of miles of Pueblito Paisa.

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Annemarie Dooling is a YourTango contributor who writes about love and travel.