Unexpected Honeymoons: 6 Destinations You’ve Never Thought Of
Bhutan: For Peace, Quiet and Culture
Known as the Hermit Kingdom due to its secluded and insular nature, Bhutan is a haven of cultural preservation, with stellar landscapes visible from unique hotel viewpoints to boot. Considered pricy and exclusive, Bhutan is a perfect honeymoon destination for environmentally conscious couples looking for an active, once-in-a-lifetime experience. In Bhutan, you can hike through misty snow-capped Himalayan mountains and wild paths, through Buddhist temples and among bustling local markets, then return to a luxury hotel for a gourmet meal made from entirely local delicacies and hot stone bath spa treatments.
Azores: An Island Hopping Honeymoon
Portugal’s nine volcanic islands in the Atlantic offer a perfect balance between active and luxury travel. With animals grazing over majestic hills and terraced outdoor restaurants overlooking the latest sea catch, expect relaxed and romantic late-night dinners of local seafood, pork and divine cheeses and wine. The islands are small and interconnected by boat and air travel, making for plenty of unique sailing, fishing and waterborne activities, as well as for remote exploration of gorgeous, lush forests and mountains like Mount Pico.
Romania: The Gothic Romance
Romania, or specifically Transylvania in the middle of the country, is an ideal location for romantics and fans of gothic nineteenth-century literature. Being the folkloric center of the Dracula stories, the rolling hills, lush forests and imposing architecture in legendary forts like Bran’s Castle transport you into another time and mythology. Yet it’s not all doom and gloom, Transylvania is a picturesque region of wood beamed hotels and gorgeously draped four poster beds, and honeymooners can travel throughout the country to the beautiful Black Sea coastline amid vineyards, spa resorts and sandy beaches.
Iceland: A Glistening Winter Wedding
Iceland is seeing a lot of tourism thanks to its prominent geographical placements in popular films and television series’ and its ongoing Instagram presence. But the area is still not renowned for its romantic honeymoon potential. Warm, secluded hot springs can be found on hikes and trails throughout Snaefellsnes. Better still, the chance to cozy up beneath the monumental Northern Lights with a cold bottle of champagne is enough to set this honeymoon apart from any other winter wedding.
Palawan, Philippines: A Jewel in the Asia-Pacific
The Philippines is home to some of the most archetypical romantic coastal scenery. Crystal clear waters, palm trees and sandy beaches abound throughout the country and its many resorts, but Palawan wins on its pristine charm. Perfect for a sleepy, relaxing seaside stay, you can dive, surf and kayak throughout the area’s crystalline waters or visit the most incredible natural features like Chocolate Hills and subterranean rivers. Opt for the coastal regions which are connected by bangka boats for a more secluded, romantic stay.
Croatia: A Sleepy Coastal Honeymoon
Long known to its European neighbors as a paradise of unspoiled beaches and crystalline waters, Croatia ticks a lot of romantic boxes. With impressive Roman ruins and medieval villages like Korcula, the region is also home to many spectacular natural features like Krka National Park and a number of fantastic spas and hotels. The coastal region sees a litter of beautiful islands where you can dock in and out of secluded spots and bustling port towns.
