Fancy some special alone time with your loved one? New Idea asked three couples to test a few of Australia's best 'love packages' 

Hilton Sydney Provocateur package

Paul and Natalie tested the delights of Sydney's Hilton.
As we entered the room after a delicious dinner at the hotel's Luke Mangan Glass Brasserie, our home for the night had been transformed.

The room was bathed in candlelight with little red tealights dotting the suite. Rose petals were scattered everywhere, leading from the entrance to the bed, while on the bed itself was a heart made of petals. In the lounge area was an aphrodisiac platter, designed by Luke Mangan, filled with prosciutto with a ginger and coriander salad, lush strawberries, fresh figs with truffle honey and delectable chocolate truffles.

Even a chilled bottle of champagne was on offer. To enhance the sensual atmosphere, an oil burner gave off a subtle aroma and an iPod had been especially loaded with five of our favourite romantic tunes.

Before you arrive, you fill out a booking survey and pick your signature scent and music - whether it's Barry White or The Rolling Stones, guests can choose sexy tunes to get them in the mood.

The Hilton Sydney has enlisted the help of an expert in the field, Sydney's notorious sex icon Madame Lash, who has plenty of tips to spice up that special night in just for two.

These included a tickling stick with an envelope containing a little game, and we had to find five envelopes hidden around the room each with a unique game for two.

'I hope everyone can share in this fun package and enjoy themselves,' Madame Lash says.

The room and facilities were fantastic with great views of Sydney. We were even able to watch the sunset. But the best feature was the huge spa bath for two with a TV mounted on the wall. Luxuriating in the bath you could look out over Darling Harbour - pure bliss!

The Provocateur package is a true relationship enhancer that will appeal to any loved-up couple.

Romance Rating: Paul adored their sexy night in so much he decided it was the perfect setting to propose to his gorgeous girlfriend - Natalie accepted.

To Go: Priced from $749, the Hilton Provocateur package includes a night in a Relaxation Suite, Madame Lash's seduction tips and a Luke Mangan tasting platter. Call (02) 9265 6045, or visit www.hiltonsydney.com.au

Stamford Plaza Melbourne

Romance and Seduction package David and Amanda visited Melbourne to sample some true romance.

The beauty of this package is in the preparation. We were asked to provide our full names, a special love message for our partner and the exact time of our arrival.

Entering our room it was clear why. The room was aglow with candlelight, soft music and the sensual smell of essential oils. A foaming bath filled with petals had been drawn while champagne tipped the romance scale to red hot! And a personalised bottle of wine to take home would remind us of the ultimate decadence.

The Stamford Plaza is located at the 'Paris end' of Little Collins Street, and our spacious suite had a wonderful marble bathroom.
After a night of bar-hopping, we were blessed with breakfast in bed, a spa and swim at the hotel's indoor wellness centre, and a late checkout. The package is the ultimate in escapism and was a reminder of why we fell in love in the first place.

Romance factor: Perfection - even down to the fresh strawberries wearing little chocolate tuxedos!

To Go: The Romance and Seduction package is available at the Stamford's 10 Australian and New Zealand hotels. It includes one night's accommodation in a one-bedroom suite, a personalised bottle of wine, a selection of canapes, breakfast in bed and late checkout. It's priced from $330. For further information, call 1300 131 487, or visit www.stamford.com.au

Hayman Island

Ultimate indulgenceSimon and Nadia travelled north for their indulgent trip.

We wanted the ultimate in romantic decadence so we visited Queensland's Hayman Island.

The resort repeatedly tops travel-industry awards as Australia's best and it's easy to see why. The degree of service is second to none from the moment you step off the plane.

We were welcomed aboard the immaculate luxury cruiser that goes to the island with champagne. Our spacious suite at the resort featured marble bathrooms and a view of the ocean and breathtaking pool - it's one of the biggest in the southern hemisphere, seven times an Olympic-sized pool. Some suites even offer a private entrance to the water.

Strolling the lush grounds we saw cockatoos, kookaburras and herons. And we treated ourselves at the Spa Chakra, often rated the best in Australasia and the South Pacific.

To say we were impressed was an understatement. We were left refreshed and ready for a romantic dinner by the ocean.

There are a variety of cuisines to choose from - everything from fresh Australian seafood to authentic Italian. We feasted well before retiring for a night of pure romance.

If you're feeling energetic, there are loads of free activities, including sailing, windsurfing and paddleskiing.

For us, it was enough just to bask in the sun on our private balcony and take in the tropical atmosphere.

Romance Rating: Relationship need a bit of rejuvenating? A stay at the idyllic Hayman Island is a must!

To Go: For more information on how to indulge yourself, call 1800 075 175, or visit www.hayman.com.au