After the whirlwind of planning a wedding, it’s no wonder that many couples want nothing more than to lie on a beach during their honeymoon. But if you’re looking for a post-wedding getaway that goes beyond the sun-soaked clickés, you’re in for a treat! Today, we’re whisking you away from the ordinary and into the extraordinary, to off-the-beaten-path honeymoon destinations that will ignite your wanderlust and inspire you to break free from the norm.
Banff, Alberta
Not in the mood for a run-of-the-mill honeymoon destination where you simply relax? Banff offers the ideal alternative. Located in Alberta at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, Banff has long been a haven for couples in search of outdoor adventures. From canoeing and hiking, to helicopter tours, gondola rides and scenic drives, it’s the kind of magical place that ignites romance and gets the heart pumping at the same time.
Pacific Northwest and British Columbia
Experience the best of both worlds by glamping (luxury and camping) in the Pacific Northwest or British Columbia. Imagine waking up to the gentle rustling of leaves in a stylishly furnished tent or a cozy treehouse, all nestled amidst the lush forests of Oregon or Washington. Many glamping sites offer private decks or patios to enjoy your morning coffee while enjoying the serene forest views.
Enjoy activities like hiking through ancient forests, kayaking on pristine rivers, or simply taking leisurely walks. And in the evenings, you can unwind by a crackling campfire under a starlit sky, toasting marshmallows and sharing stories.
Alaska
Alaska is a land of pure wilderness where you can embrace the rugged beauty of towering mountains and massive glaciers. Picture this: you and your partner snuggled up in remote lodges, going on thrilling adventures like dog sledding or whale watching. And when night falls, you might be lucky enough to witness the enchanting Northern Lights dancing across the Arctic skies.
Costa Rica
Embark on a thrilling honeymoon amid Costa Rica’s lush rainforests. Zip-line through the treetops, go wildlife spotting in national parks and cloud forests, hike to the top of volcanoes and stay in eco-friendly lodges surrounded by the jungle.
Kenya, Africa
What could be more romantic than soaring above the Masai Mara in a hot air balloon, with one million wildebeest roaming far below? All this and more is possible in Kenya, a stunning honeymoon destination in East Africa that’s known for its friendly people, luxury tented resorts and safari tours. You also get full bragging rights if you spot the ‘Big Five’ (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and African buffalo).
Sante Fe, New Mexico
Art lovers will love Sante Fe, known for its rich history and artistic spirit. Honeymooners can spend their days visiting art galleries, savouring Southwestern cuisine, and relaxing in adobe-style accommodations.
Iceland
Cool-weather honeymoon destinations offer just as much to offer than sun-soaked ones. Take, for example, Iceland, which has such thrilling activities as volcano spelunking, glacier hiking, and refreshing soaks in natural hot springs, including the world famous Blue Lagoon. Consider booking your post-wedding retreat between October and March when the dazzling and elusive northern lights fill the night sky with a rainbow of hues.
Santorini, Greece
A honeymoon in Santorini is like stepping into a dream. Known for its charming white-washed villas with blue tops, Santorini offers romance at every turn. You’ll spend your days exploring picturesque villages, lying on red rock beaches, indulging in fresh Mediterranean cuisine, and watching breathtaking sunsets.
Arizona
If you’re looking to have your breath taken away, no other place will do it better than the Grand Canyon in Arizona. Its sheer vastness will stun you into silence, especially when the rocks are painted in shades of fiery red at sunset. For some added thrills, embark on a hike or jeep tour, followed by a romantic couple’s massage at a luxury desert resort.
Scottish Highlands, Scotland
With its ancient castles, lochs and dramatic landscapes, the Scottish Highlands are, quite literally, a fairytale wonderland. Hike the West Highland Way, enjoy cozy evenings in traditional Scottish inns, and check out the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the world’s largest performance arts festival that takes place every August.
Baja California Wine Country
Toast to your new marriage with a glass of wine in Baja California’s wine country. Located in the northern half of Baja California Peninsula, a Mexican state just south of Tijuana, the region is known for its full-bodied wines, particularly reds that have been aged for at least two years in French and American oak barrels. Spend your days sampling varieties, visiting wineries and wine-pairing with gourmet cuisine at boutique restaurants and hotels.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
As a honeymoon destination, Dubrovnik is unrivalled. Known for its picturesque Old Town, which is encircled with massive 16th-century stone walls, the city is home to incredibly well-preserved buildings, azure-coloured waters, and a stunning pedestrian street paved with limestone and lined by high-end shops and restaurants. And for all you television buffs, it’s also one of the primary filming locations for King’s Landing in the high ‘Game of Thrones’ series.
Marrakech, Morocco
If you’re looking for an exotic honeymoon destination, Marrakech hits all the high notes. Boasting a beautiful tapestry of mosques, palaces and gardens, Morocco’s fourth largest city is the perfect place for couples to simply wander through maze-like alleys and bustling souks. You’ll love shopping for souvenirs and sampling local cuisine at Jemaa el-Fnaa, a sprawling open-air square in the heart of the old city.
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