grand vistas; Richard Alleman combs the globe for the most romantic destinations.

Byline: Richard Alleman

magical morocco

An hour's drive south of bustling Marrakech, Kasbah Tamadot, Richard Branson's fantasy fortress in the shadow of the High Atlas Mountains, is a tranquil oasis of Moorish courtyards, fragrant gardens, and reflecting pools. The eighteen guest rooms are lavishly appointed with Moroccan and Indian antiques, and most have spectacular views of a steep river valley studded with adobe Berber villages. But for the best view and the most privacy, book the master suite, a separate bungalow perched high above the canyon with three bedrooms. An infinity pool, a spa, a hammam, an indoor lap pool, tennis courts, open-air tents for whiling away the afternoon, and a family of camels complete the property. Doubles from $405; kasbahtamadot.com.

spanish bloom

In the foothills of the Pyrenees, Can Serola, an enchanting new hideaway in Catalunya, occupies an eighteenth-century manor with terraces, lush gardens, and a pool surrounded by green lawns. The eight guest rooms-with stone walls and floors and Moroccan polished plaster baths-are tastefully decorated with African textiles. Explore the surrounding mountains and meadows on foot, bike, or horseback before booking a massage in your room-or in a leafy pergola. Doubles from $210; chicretreats.com.

return to capri

Capri has seduced everyone from Roman emperors to the 1960s jet set. Now comes the JK Place Capri hotel, which opens next month in a historic nineteenth-century ...