Want to get away with that special person in your life but the thought of staying in a typical hotel is not putting that spark in your romantic plug? These cozy retreats will set the mood for rest, relaxation and endless possibilities for so much more:

www.waimea plantation.com

The 61 cottages on the Waimea Plantation were once lodging for workers at the sugarcane plantation. Set in a coconut grove on the coast of Kauai, each one has been restored with period furnishings and modern conveniences.

www.crystalpier.com

The historic Crystal Pier Hotel in San Diego has 24 clapboard cottages with the surf of the Pacific literally under your bed and lulling you to sleep. The sea air and breathtaking sunsets offer a perfect combination for a restful and romantic sojourn.

www.casitasdegila.com

The five adobe cottages of Casitas de Gila are located in the tiny desert community of Gila, New Mexico. Days are filled with horseback rides through canyons and rivers and the clear Southwestern nights provide stunning views of the starry skies.

www.griffinn.com/cottages.htm

The eight cottages at Griffin House Inn are located on the Mendocino coast in Elk, Calif. The weathered Adirondack chairs on the decks of the oceanfront abodes are a great place to watch for gray whales as you sip your complimentary wine.

Trip Tracker is compiled by Joy Guest. Is there a vacation or excursion that interests you? E-mail jguest@adn.com or comment online at adn.com/life/travel

Excerpt "Come relax at Les Petites Maisons where you can enjoy the beautiful surrounding wineries, stroll in the garden, ride a bike, have a picnic and a glass of wine, paint a picture, or just read a book." -- www.lespetitesmaisons.com

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