Maybe I just watched way too many soap operas in the ’90s, but there’s something particularly romantic about an open fire, isn’t there? (Open fire, bearskin rug, cheesy music in the background – you get the picture.) So while a beachy honeymoon is peachy, I can’t help but think that it would be fun to go the other way completely and enjoy a winter break tucked up in a cosy love nest – maybe in the Alps, or in a little cabin deep in a snowy forest. Lots of hotels have amazing open fireplaces in their sitting or dining rooms, but for an extra special experience, you’ll want your very own in-room fireplace. Staring into the flames over a bottle of red, sharing your hopes and dreams, snuggling up under a single blanket… total romance. I’ve been scouring les internets for a selection of international fireside suites – the perfect way to end off our month of cosy autumn content!

1. Cordee Des Alpes, Switzerland
The Swiss Alps are the perfect place to start when it comes to cold-weather honeymoons, and this stylish new luxury hotel in Verbier is the perfect base. If you can drag yourself away from your room, there’s world-class skiing on offer, and after a long day on the slopes there’s a 14m pool, spa, and fine dining to look forward to. And then, of course, that stone fireplace…

2. Babylonstoren, South Africa
We love Babylonstoren as a wedding venue, but it’s also a lovely place to stay, with whitewashed rustic decor, an incredible fruit and vegetable garden, a renowned restaurant, a spa, and snug open fireplaces to curl up beside in the Cape Dutch farmhouse suites.

3. Kinsterna Hotel, Greece
Imagine an ancient mansion nestled in a valley in Southern Greece, among vineyards, olive groves and citrus orchards, restored to its former glory as a luxury hotel. Kinsterna is as good as all that sounds – with a spa, fully stocked wine cellar and fine Mediteranean dining besides. And just look at that fairytale fireplace!

4. The Yeatman Hotel, Portugal
The Bacchus Suite at this beautiful hotel with views over historic Porto is like the James Bond of hotel suites – freestanding copper bath, revolving bed, plasma screens and huge freestanding fireplace. It’s a haven for wine lovers – a well-stocked cellar, a programme of tastings and wine dinners (at the Michelin starred restaurant), visits to local wineries – even the spa has vine extract therapies. Grab a bottle to sit by that fire with.

5. Babington House, England
This Grade II listed manor house in Somerset is part of the Soho House group, so is exquisitely decorated from bottom to top, right up to this deliciously decadent in-room bath and fireplace combo. It also happens to have been the venue for a number of celebrity weddings, so if it’s good enough for those slebs, you know it’s going to be luxurious enough for us mere mortals!

6. Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita, Italy
I’m not sure it gets too much more romantic than these converted historic cave settlements in Basilicata, a stylish mix of ancient history and modern luxury. Candlelight bouncing from little alcoves off the honey coloured walls, a fireplace tucked in beside the bathtub… total swoonage.

7. Makanyane Safari Lodge, South Africa
Yes, I’ve sneaked another South African property on to the list, but how could I help myself with this amazing view? Makanyane is just an hour’s flight out of Joburg, but it’s another world, deep in the bushveld paradise of Madikwe Game Reserve. There are all the joys and comforts of a luxury safari, and at the end of the day, stargazing in your private suite, where the crackle of the fireplace is joined by the distant roar of the wildlife. Sigh.

8. Hotel Post Zermatt, Switzerland
For a more modern take on ski lodge chic, head to this hotel in sexy snowtrap Zermatt. The decor is contemporary but homey, and the property houses a beautiful spa and a number of bars and restaurants. With the Matterhorn looming, the views are incredible, and can be enjoyed not just from your balcony, but from the warm comfort of a sleek black fireplace with comfy loveseats for two. Blissed-out hand holding required.

9. Amangiri, USA
There are actually a ton of amazing hotels in the US that feature in-room fireplaces, but the combination of breathtaking desert Canyon views, huge windows and a mini fire pit are what sets this one apart for me. I mean honestly – wow. Just imagine watching the moon rise over those craggy cliffs. If you want a change of scenery (but still with a cosy fireplace), you’ll find a glass-walled living room complete with little alcoves that focus on wood-burning fireplaces. Or take a dip and see the stars from the outdoor hot tub, which leads on to its very own Campfire Pavilion.

10. Riad Farnatchi, Morocco
Is there anything more romantic for your honeymoon than a Moroccan riyadh? Well yes, actually – a riyadh in the heart of vibey Marrakech, its heated courtyard pool framed by sparkling mosaics, each of its nine sumptuous suites boasting a cosy lounge area complete with that all-important fireplace. Who wouldn’t want to relax and enjoy some quality time with your love within those walls?

All images from properties’ websites/media.