The Best Romantic Hotels to Book in Connecticut

Couples who play together, stay together, and there’s no chance you’ll be bored at this sprawling resort between two lakes on 30 acres (12ha) of grounds in northwest Connecticut. Take your pick from kayaking and swimming in the lake, some golf on the nine-hole course or a game on the basketball and volleyball courts. There’s also a game room with a pool table, ping-pong and air hockey, plus jogging trails, sculpture gardens and a spa for a well-deserved couples massage at the end of the day.

Treat your other half to some good old-fashioned pampering at this spa resort in Norwich, set in 42 acres (17ha) of gardens. Book in for a blissful massage for two, then while away a lazy afternoon floating between the indoor pool, steam room, sauna and hot tub. Afterward, head to the stylish Kensington’s Restaurant for local seafood, filet mignon and unmissable cinnamon churros with warm chocolate sauce.

A dream retreat for foodies, art lovers and wine buffs, this property in Essex is one of the oldest continuously operated inns in the country and one of the most romantic hotels in Connecticut. It’s renowned for its extensive marine art collection, vast wine selection and excellent dining with classic American dishes, tapas and home-made desserts a specialty. After feasting, retire to one of the 34 antique-stuffed rooms featuring cloud-like Leonard’s Beds, most famously used in the White House.

You’ll soon be as smitten with this beautiful country hotel as you are with each other. Set in 58 acres (23ha) of landscaped gardens and woodland in Washington, Connecticut, the property is exquisite throughout thanks to a wood-paneled library, roaring fires and rooms in pretty sorbet shades with four-poster beds, Asian rugs and printed wallpaper. Venture out to visit the expansive spa, then dine by candlelight in the renowned farm-to-table restaurant, the Garden Room.

Go all out to impress by booking a suite or even duplex at this stately boutique hotel, built in 1881 as an apartment building. Rooms are a dream for chic couples with cobalt blue velvet furniture, brass accents, embossed ceilings and parquet flooring. If you do emerge from your room, there’s a stylish cocktail bar (try the blood orange margarita) and an excellent Italian restaurant, Terreno, for rustic Italian dishes to die for.

There’d be no judgment from us if you locked yourself away in your tastefully decorated room once you’ve checked into this boutique property 5mi (8km) from the state capital, Hartford. Understated but elegant, rooms are decorated in shades of gray, duck-egg blue and taupe with faux-fur throws, Bulgari amenities and Nespresso machines. There’s no need to go far when hunger strikes either, as the on-site Artisan Restaurant serves impeccable New England classics made with seasonal, farm-fresh ingredients.

With its wide covered porch and pristine lawn, the White Hart impresses before you’ve even walked in the door. Inside, you’ll both be head over heels at the tasteful neutral color palette, hardwood floors, striking art collection and cozy corners for curling up with cocktails together. Also, be sure to book a romantic meal for two in the award-winning on-site restaurant led by chef Annie Wayte.

This stylish waterfront hotel is part of a small Connecticut hotel chain and popular with New York couples looking to escape for the weekend. The 82 rooms and suites ooze grown-up elegance, with soothing colors, thick carpets and refined French-style decor. Many have balconies for looking out over the marina with its 500ft (150m) of private dockage. Take a romantic cruise from the water’s edge, then head back to this romantic hotel in Connecticut to dine on caviar, lobster and film-themed cocktails at L’Escale restaurant.