From a cosy Arctic honeymoon to a relaxing Grecian getaway, here are five unforgettable travel ideas for all types of couples
1. An arctic honeymoon: Stockholm and Swedish Lapland
It’s all about balance on this itinerary, whether it’s exploring the vibrant and trendy city of Stockholm or the beautiful Lappish wilderness in Sweden. It’s ideal for those looking to venture off the beaten track near the Arctic Circle before ending with a culture fix in the cobbled-street capital. A must-do for honeymooners is to embark on a night-time snowmobiling excursion to try and catch a glimpse of the elusive Northern Lights, before retreating to the privacy of a snug timber cabin.
2. Temples, treks and tropical beaches: Bhutan and Andaman Islands
Where better for couples to unwind than in the Happiest Country on Earth? The Kingdom of Bhutan offers endless options for exploring, with spectacular monasteries and iconic landmarks such as the Punakha Dzong and Taktsang Goemba, where one can soak in the positive energy from the people and learnings of Buddhism. Once in full relaxation mode, the golden shores of the very much unexplored Andaman Islands provide the perfect backdrop for the last leg of the trip, where one can spend days diving, snorkeling or lazing by the pool surrounded by lush green jungle and glistening white beaches.
3. Slopes to surf: Whistler and Hawaii
For honeymooners looking for a more adventurous getaway, look no further than Whistler and Hawaii – going from a hub for action-packed mountain activities to some of the world’s most pristine beaches and surf spots. Apart from the renowned world-class slopes and deep white powder for skiing, Whistler also offers unique experiences including dogsledding, moonlit snowshoe cookouts, gourmet dining and some of the best nightlife in Northern America. After a few days in the cold, travellers can soak up tropical sun on the idyllic Hualalai island in Hawaii. The options for outdoor activities are endless, from going on an ATV adventure through the Hawaiian jungle, to taking a helicopter flight over volcanos, swimming under waterfalls or even surfing or windsurfing in the world’s capital of surf sports – it’s the ideal holiday for an active couple looking to start married life.
4. Gondolas galore: Dolomites and Venice
For the ultimate Italian honeymoon, pair the exceptional ski regions of the Dolomites with the eternally beautiful city of love, Venice. With its ski pistes to suit all levels and array of Michelin star restaurants for romantic apres-ski evenings, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Dolomites is a dream come true for ski enthusiasts. For an extra memorable evening, take a ride on a horse-drawn carriage to explore picturesque views of the Hidden Valley and Sella Ronda circuit, where nature creates a stunning work of art as the sun moves across the sky to shift from orange, to red and purple – an optical phenomenon the locals call the “enrosadira”. End the trip in Venice, where lovers can wander the ancient city exploring beautifully restored buildings, or hop on a romantic gondola through the meandering canals before indulging in gourmet Italian cuisine.
5. Orangutans and beach bliss: Borneo and Bali
Ideal for couples who share a strong affinity with wildlife, this honeymoon itinerary has serious heart, pairing an immersion into rare wildlife in Borneo with the tropical beaches of Bali. Nestled deep within the mostly untouched Borneo rainforest is the Sepilok Nature Resort, a stone’s throw away from the renowned Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre where travellers can learn more about the ‘Old Man of The Forest’. The trip also includes a visit to the Kinabatangan River, which has the highest concentration of wildlife in Borneo. A romantic boat ride through the mangroves will offer the opportunity to spot proboscis monkeys, rare hornbills, pygmy elephants and possibly even wild orangutans. After a few days of being at one with nature, guests can soak in the sun with a drink in hand while relaxing on the stunning south coast beaches of Seminyak, Bali, for a peaceful end to a memorable, and meaningful, adventure.
- Luxury travel operator Scott Dunn offers itineraries to the above at scottdunn.com
- Photos for illustration purposes only
