Explore the up-and-coming hotspots along with the tried and tested favourite honeymoon destinations; these are some of the best locations to enjoy being newlyweds.
1/ Patagonia, Chile
You can literally travel to the ends of the earth with your beloved with a trip to Patagonia. A once in a lifetime experience, the views here will leave you speechless. From the snow-capped mountains to the crystal blue lakes, Torres del Paine National Park is rugged and remote with various trails waiting to be explored. Other activities on offer here include whale watching, kayaking around glaciers, exploring the vast region by horseback, bicycle or foot, or perhaps treat yourselves to a romantic cruise through the Patagonian waters. Round your day off with a spot of Chilean wine tasting under the stars.
2/ Champagne, France
What better place to toast your new marriage than in the Champagne region in France! The birthplace of bubbly, this region is home to miles of spectacular vineyards, complimented by a handful of world class Michelin starred restaurants to create the most exquisite culinary experience to please even the most delectable palate. Stay in the five star Champagne Hotel & Spa with visits to a selection of the impressive list of champagne houses including Ruinart, Veuve Clicquot, Moet & Chandon, Bollinger and the exquisite Perrier-Jouet Maison Belle Epoque (pictured). But be warned, the Perrier-Jouet estate is invite only so it may take some grafting to gain access!
3/ Canouan
Destined to be the next ‘it’ place, Canouan is a small, somewhat unknown island in the Caribbean. A 45-minute flight from Barbados, visitors embrace the laid-back island vibe from the second the plane touches down on the runway at their quaint, thatched roof airport. The name Canouan derives the Caribbean definition of ‘island of the turtles’ and you can expect to see these little guys in their masses during the cooler hours of the day. This tropical island is truly idyllic and offers natural unspoiled beauty like you’ve never experienced before. Boasting some of the best beaches in the Caribbean, Canouan is currently home to three luxury resorts – The Mandarin Oriental, Sandy Lane Yacht Club (expect to see lots of Superyachts!) and Soho House, with a fourth resort reportedly planned by the prestigious Aman group. Already beloved by celebrities including George Clooney, Nicole Sherzinger, Tom Cruise, Rory McIlroy and jewellery designer Stephanie Gottlieb, it’s easy to see why this little piece of paradise is so hard to leave!
4/ Kyoto, Japan
An enchanting location for the most memorable honeymoon, Kyoto is an incredibly romantic city in the cultural heart of Japan. Home to countless quiet gardens and temples, intimate restaurants, ancient shrines and superb accommodations, Kyoto boats a rich cultural history. Embodying grace and warmth, the local people will go above and beyond to make you feel welcome and provide an unforgettable trip. Pay a visit to the Yasui-konpira-gu Shrine to take a trip through the love-binding stone or make a pit stop in Kiyomizu-dera Temple which has an especially dedicated shrine devoted to romantic matters.
5/ Canggu, Bali
Located on the south-west coast of the island, Canggu is a surfer’s paradise. Whether a beginner or seasoned pro, Canggu provides the ideal conditions to ride the waves. Even if you’re not one to partake in the action, sit back and unwind on one of the swinging daybeds to watch folks take on the frothy waves. Honeymooners can also take a trip out to visit the local waterfalls or pay a visit to the Tanah Lot Temple, a picturesque temple that sits on its own island, glowing as the light reflects off the surrounding water. Stay at the impressive Como Uma Canggu (pictured) for an unforgettable experience.
6/ Napa Valley
A road trip down the west coast was what we had originally planned for our honeymoon (thanks again Covid), with stops including LA, San Francisco, Big Sur and most importantly, some wine tasting in the picturesque Napa Valley. Whether you want to organise a jam packed schedule taking in the west coast or opt for a relaxing break in the wine country, Napa Valley offers exceptional food and wine choices with some of the most picture perfect backdrops. From intimate B&B’s to luxurious resorts, you will be spoiled for choice with an array of impressive vineyards to explore each day. Make sure to check out Domaine Carneros, a chateau style estate founded by the Taittinger family where you can expect the bubbly to flow!
7/ Masai Mara, Kenya
One of the few reserves which are home to the big five (lions, leopards, black rhinos, African bush elephants and African buffalo), it’s no wonder that Masai Mara has earned worldwide recognition as one of the best safari destinations in Africa. Boasting an array of excellent lodges and camps who have created specific packages tailored to a romantic honeymoon break away, couples can enjoy stunning landscapes and exhilarating safari tours, taking in all of the indigenous flora and fauna of this region. AndBeyond Bateleur offers sublime lodgings for honeymooners. Action, adventure and romance all tied up in one, there won’t be a dull moment!
8/ Galápagos Islands
If beach holidays are a little too slow-paced for your tastes, investigate the adventure which awaits at Galápagos. While the volcanic islands may not boast the lush, tropical landscape on show elsewhere, this spot is filled with magical creatures, many of which won’t be found anywhere else in the world. Unperturbed by humans, the wildlife takes precedence here with efforts to keep the human footprint at a minimum with the islands being named a UNESCO World Heritage site back in 1978. For couples with even the remotest interest in nature, the Galápagos are known to surpass all expectations.
9/ Nevis
Embrace a slower, more laidback pace of life at the low key island of Nevis in the Caribbean. Known for its white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, tropical palm trees and captivating dive sites, the island of Nevis offers a charming break from the rush of everyday life. For a more intimate break away, pay a visit to the Golden Rock Inn, an eleven room hotel designed by the Aman resorts architects. A hike on one of the island’s trails will reward you with the most exceptional views.