“Toque” in the native Indian language means island, so this and the fact that it is located in a preserved area of natural beauty near São Sebastião, immediately tells us something about the place. This area of São Paulo, some 2 ½ hours by car from São Paulo, is absolutely beautiful and takes in mountains, the Atlantic Ocean and forests for good measure. The Ilha do Toque Toque is the only hotel within a 6 mile radius in this little corner of paradise, so if you want secluded, you’ve got secluded. Sitting comfortably some 50 metres above the sea, with amazing views to match, it is an easy walk to a couple of the best beaches in the whole area – Toque Toque Grande and Calhetas beaches. Calheta is only accessed by foot.
                     

This former plantation has 10 simple, but comfortable and well decorated rooms. Don’t expect top notch luxury, but do expect a place that is close to nature. And in this area, nature is glorious indeed, whether you’re looking for beaches, lagoons, vegetation or simply a place to while away your time. Sub-tropical trees and shrubs, offering guests the opportunity for peaceful retreat amidst lush vegetation, pool, as well as sunny and shaded verandas, cosy resting places with hammocks, a lake with an island and a viewpoint with sea-view make sure that batteries will be recharged.

Built in the 19th century, this peaceful country house has only recently opened up its doors to visitors. More’s the pity as it fully lives up to its name (Jardin being Spanish for garden). Firstly, the attractive and comfortable bedrooms, which include two junior suites, open up to some 30,000 square metres of amazing garden full of centuries old trees, which is even crossed by a river. Secondly, the hotel is located between the pretty seaside towns of Santillana del Mar and San Vicente de la Barquera. Decoration and furniture has been specially designed for the hotel and is made from local wood another nice touch.

This XVI century palace is situated on a hilltop amongst the prairies and centuries old trees facing the Sueve ridge of mountains – known for the asturcone horses. The views are accordingly delicious. Javier Álvarez and Sandra Iglesias applied all their know-how into this establishment, the end result of which is a truly friendly and luxurious accommodation.

When it comes to experiences that are bound to keep a couple together - you can't really go past a huge amounts of G-forces and tightly strapped harnesses... and the fear of death.

Admittedly, thrill seeking couples are bound to find common ground on a holiday adventure, especially in a place like the Gold Coast. It literally is a city catered 100% to those who, well, actually like to do things.
 

The Abel Tasman Coastal Track is one of New Zealand's nine Great Walks . But my friends and I made Abel Tasman National Park a sea-kayaking destination, since we had just tramped another Great Walk, the Heaphy Track.