MOST suitors seek a key to their loved one's heart, but couples in Rome take the opposite approach. As a declaration of eternal love, they attach a padlock to a railing on the Ponte Milvio in Rome, tossing the key into the River Tiber below.

The famous bridge, dating back to 207BC, is now covered with bunches of colourful locks, each one emblazoned with the initials of hopeful young lovers. And despite attempts by authorities to quell the phenomenon, it's now more popular than ever.

For Valentine's Day, five-star hotel Rome Cavalieri is offering guests an opportunity to take part in the ritual, which was originally inspired by author Federico Moccia in his 2006 bestseller Ho Voglia di Te (I Want You).

Couples will be taken on a champagne drive to the bridge, where they'll have an opportunity to attach their own bespoke padlock to one of the many steel columns.

But the romance doesn't end there. The hotel, which sits atop one of Rome's famous hills and is surrounded by umbrella pine trees, offers some of the best views in the city.

Of course, simply meandering through the backstreets of Trastevere or climbing the Spanish Steps is a romantic experience. And while it's impossible to explore Rome in a day, unlike the padlocks on Ponte Milvio, its treasures are much easier to unlock.

The Ponte Milvio package costs 680 Euros per couple and includes one night DBB, spa package with cocktails and engraved padlock. Valid February 1-19 . Visit www.romecavalieri.com or call +39 06 3509 1.

EasyJet now flies to Rome up to five times daily, from £59 return in February. Visit www.easyjet.co.uk.

BEST FOR: CLOSE-KNIT COUPLES Horse & Groom Inn, Charlton, Wiltshire

Stressful lives and hectic work schedules often put a strain on a relationship, and sometimes the best way to rekindle romance is to get away from it all.

The idyllic Horse & Groom Inn, located in the sleepy village of Charlton, on the edge of the Cotswolds, ticks along at a wonderfully slow pace.

Passing ramblers are drawn into the cosy bar, attracted by an open log fire and a fine selection of real ales, while foodies from further afield come to sample the restaurant's carefully crafted menu.

The 16th century, grade two listed inn has five rooms, each bursting with historic character but benefiting from tasteful modern touches, such as roll top baths.

The nearby market town of Malmesbury is ideal for an afternoon of idle window shopping, while the Westonbirt Arboretum offers several relaxing walking trails.

The Valentine's package costs from £50 per person and includes one night B&B. A four-course dinner for two with champagne cocktails costs from £35 per person. Valid February 11-14. Visit www.bes pokehotels.com or call 01666 823 904.

BEST FOR: LAID-BACK LOVERS Hotel Hermitage Gantois, Lille, France

Paris may be the obvious choice for a romantic getaway, but lesser-known Lille is a chic alternative, with the added bonus of being closer to home.

Near the Belgium border, it's just an hour and 20 minutes by Eurostar from London St Pancras, making it an easy option for a weekend break.

Reached along a red carpet, the five-star former medieval hospital Hotel Hermitage Gantois is cosy enough for couples without being overbearingly sickly sweet. Rooms tucked into the wooden eaves are perfect for discreet lovers, while a lively bar can provide some welcome relief.

Breakfast is served in front of a roaring fire, with piles of croissants and pain au chocolat to munch on, while the hotel's L'Estaminet Gantois restaurant is a great introduction to dishes from the local area.

Just a stone's throw from the hotel is the old gate of Porte de Paris, which is just as impressive as the Arc de Triomphe. Lille's main square is surrounded by cute little side streets, packed with history; and the cathedral, which looks unfinished from the outside, has an amazing glowing wall of yellow marble.

Double rooms at Hotel Hermitage Gantois start from 159 Euros and breakfast is 19 Euros. Visit www.hotelhermitag egantois.com. Eurostar return fares cost from £69. Visit www.eurostar.com or call 08432 186 186.