Are you more interested in relaxing on a beach with a martini in hand or zip-wiring through a rainforest? When it comes to honeymoons, there is no one-size-fits-all formula. While an all-inclusive beach vacation may be someone else’s ideal way to celebrate their marriage, there are lots of other possibilities if you want to make your honeymoon into an amazing journey.
Making your romantic getaway unique is the primary rule for a honeymoon – creating a trip that is both unforgettable and distinctive to your own interests. Whether it’s mountain trekking, animal adventures, or soaking in the world’s finest offerings.
If you’re looking for a truly unique honeymoon that goes beyond a luxury island vacation, here are some excellent options for a romantic getaway with a twist.
Hike around Peru’s ancient Inca ruins
For a more active honeymoon, why not travel to Peru’s Machu Picchu, one of the most stunning ancient ruins in the world?
While permits for the Inca Trail are restricted, there are numerous more trekking trails in the surrounding area. I traveled with G Adventures on the Lares Trek, camping beneath star-studded skies, hiking through local towns, and learning about other Inca ruins along the way. At the conclusion of the journey, we boarded a glass-roofed train to the dreamlike community of Aguas Calientes, which is located right below the famous sight.
In the Galapagos Islands, embark on a nature expedition
If you, like me, are an animal lover, you may like to devote your honeymoon entirely to wildlife. Instead of taking a standard cruise for your honeymoon, consider a small sailing trip to the magnificent Galapagos Islands.
More than only an opportunity to observe famous Galapagos residents like the Galapagos Iguana and the magnificent Galapagos Giant Tortoise, many sailings give the opportunity to obtain in-depth expertise from aboard biologists. Sailing and being one with the ocean is one of the most romantic ways to travel, and when combined with visits to some of the world’s most secluded and well-protected islands, it makes for an unforgettable honeymoon.
Indulge in rural Japan’s traditions and heritage
Japan is, without a doubt, one of the world’s most fascinating tourist destinations. Amazing culture, gastronomy, and heritage come together here, plus the pastoral charm and tranquillity of the area make for an ideal romantic getaway.
Away from megacities such as Tokyo, a far slower pace of life awaits — one governed more by tradition than by towering city blocks. Kochi is one of my favorite regions; it’s a lush place of crystal clear rivers, excellent hiking trails, tea farms, and traditional artisans ranging from knife makers to paper craftspeople. Additionally, expect an abundance of delicious food as a result of the coastal location — sushi anyone?
The Maldives, but not the conventional over-water villas
Is there anything more evocative of honeymoons in the Instagram age than the Maldives overwater villa? Perhaps not, but your honeymoon island vacation is not restricted to this South Asian archipelago.
Tahiti and Bora Bora are frequently the focus of attention in French Polynesia, but this South Pacific nation is actually made up of over 100 islands. If you’re looking for a more lush, rocky, and mountainous honeymoon destination than the Maldives’ little sandy islands, Moorea is an excellent choice.
Visit Dominica, the Caribbean’s lesser-known nature island
Dominica is the Caribbean, but unique – that is how I would describe it. If you desire the Caribbean climate for your honeymoon but prefer trekking over white-sand beaches, Dominica, the ‘Nature Island,’ may be the answer.
Only reachable via a small plane from neighboring nations such as Antigua, everything about Dominica feels adventurous. Numerous treks, stunning waterfalls, and postcard-perfect secluded beaches await you. Due to the island’s volcanic nature, lack of airplanes, and cruise ships that stay on one side of the island, you may genuinely enjoy an exclusive and secluded getaway, ideal for a honeymoon away from it all.
Plan a safari journey to see all five of the big cats.
Luxury lodges and tailor-made safaris combine to create an epic and unforgettable honeymoon experience. Observe animals in their native habitat, unwind beneath the stars at night, and repeat the following day.
Zambia, Tanzania, and South Africa are all famous Safari locations, but they are not the only ones — Namibia and Botswana, for example, are rising in popularity and can provide slightly more reasonable package alternatives if you want to enjoy a Safari for your honeymoon.
Take a culinary journey around Spain
Gastronomy is more than just cuisine in Spain; it’s a way of life, and combining food and stunning scenery on your honeymoon is an excellent way to experience the nation. It’s unsurprising that the Mediterranean diet is one of seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites!
Food + Spain + Honeymoon Equals the perfect romantic vacation!
Slovenia’s romantic gastronomic heaven — The Vipava Valley – by car
In the Vipava Valley, sustainability is not a buzzword; it is a way of life. Slovenians tend to their beehives here, sip fresh wines from local cellars, and savor delectable cheeses from family farms, all accompanied by a heartwarming grin.
Welcome to the Vipava Valley, a gourmet paradise dished up with a degustation of lush landscapes, adventure sports, and vintage villages – all washed down from the barrels of an underground world – where wine cellars and home-brewed beers are a typical occurrence in many families.
The Vipava Valley, which was just given Slovenia’s first Michelin star, is certainly a foodie’s paradise. Consider rolling green hills of vineyards, almost Tuscan in look, dotted with lovely villages, authentic local cuisine, and an abundance of adventure sports ranging from paragliding to longer cycling excursions between wineries. In the Vipava Valley, romance is very much alive.
Witness the northern lights from an ice hotel
Consider sleeping beneath a canopy of northern lights, with reindeer and winter wonderland experiences to keep you company during the day. At Finland’s Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, you may pick from a variety of specifically constructed honeymoon accommodations, including igloos, suites, and the resort’s iconic glass-domed rooms. You can even hold your wedding ceremony here if you prefer.
Take a campervan vacation across New Zealand’s natural splendor
New Zealand is one of the most gorgeous nations I’ve ever seen, with an abundance of incredible outdoor activities for newlyweds to enjoy. From epic climbs to one-of-a-kind geothermal sites, breathtaking beaches to fjords and animals, there’s something for everyone. Combine this with some excellent museums, movie locations, and cultural activities, and you’ve got yourself a fantastic tour of Australia.