When we think of honeymoons, our minds often picture soft white sands, crystal-clear waters and gorgeous sunsets. But what if you want to break the romantic mould? There are so many other incredible honeymoon destinations aside from the typical beach getaway.
From ryokan retreats in Japan to safari tours in Tanzania and canal boat trips in the UK, there are plenty of options for couples to choose from. To help you plan your unique honeymoon, here are 5 destinations to consider if you want to go against the grain and explore somewhere a little different!
Ryokan Retreat in Japan
A ryokan retreat in Japan is one of the most serene and culturally enriching honeymoon experiences for couples. These traditional Japanese inns are typically found in scenic rural areas, like Hakone or Kyoto, and offer an intimate, cosy atmosphere where you can relax, unwind and soak in the beauty of nature.
When you arrive, you’ll be greeted with tea and a warm towel, and provided with a cotton kimono that you can wear around the hotel. Onsens are one of the main attractions that draw couples to ryokans, which are mineral-rich natural hot springs known to help ease muscle tension and promote a sense of peace.
Enjoy a delicious meal in your private room of seasonal kaiseki, which is multi-course Japanese haute cuisine. From your ryokan, venture into nearby towns, such as Kyoto’s Arashiyama District, which is famous for its bamboo groves, riverboats and temples, reflecting the charm of ancient Japan.
Hiking in Patagonia
Patagonia is a region that stretches across Chile and Argentina in South America. This diverse landscape is a playground for adventure enthusiasts, with various mountains and valleys offering the ideal setting for world-class hikes.
In Chilean Patagonia, you will find jagged granite peaks in the infamous Torres del Paine National Park. Choose from a variety of hikes, taking anywhere between 4 to 10 days, making your way through breathtaking landscapes, including deep valleys and vast glaciers.
Not only can you spot magnificent wildlife on the way, including the elusive puma, guanacos and the Andean condor, but there are so many other fantastic adventure experiences on offer. From swimming in glacial lakes to canoeing and even horseback riding on the pampas lands, Patagonia is the dream destination for couples seeking an adventure-packed honeymoon.
Safari in Tanzania
Tanzania is a beautiful country in Eastern Africa, home to some of the most biodiverse national parklands on earth. Teeming with incredible species, including the Big Five, Tanzania is the perfect destination for wildlife enthusiasts eager to experience the raw beauty of the wild.
The Serengeti National Park is an iconic safari destination, famed for hosting the Great Migration of wildebeests. There are some incredible Tanzania safari tours on offer in the Serengeti, with experts guiding you through the savannah to spot lions, elephants and rhinos in their natural habitat. Alongside the Serengeti, there are several other safari destinations in Tanzania, including the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and Lake Manyara.
From hot air balloon rides to admiring the starry night sky from a private hot tub, couples can enjoy a range of romantic activities together during a safari in Tanzania, promising a unique getaway in the heart of the wild.
Canal Boat Trip in Cambridgeshire
For couples who love a slower pace of life, a canal boat trip in Cambridgeshire might be the perfect choice for a honeymoon. This county in the East of England boasts some of the most scenic waterways in the UK, meandering through quaint cobbled villages and lush countryside.
Ely is a historical city in East Cambridgeshire and is the perfect starting point for your canal boat trip. During Ely boat trips, guests can choose from as little as 4 nights to two-week escapes, sailing through charming regions like St. Neots, Huntingdon and Bedford.
Couples can enjoy the exclusivity of a private narrowboat, where you can set your own itinerary and wake up to an inspiring view every morning. Equipped with flat screen TVS, plush bedding and rustic decor with Eva Timber Bed Frame, these canal boats are perfect for an intimate honeymoon experience.
Train Journey Through Europe
If you dream of visiting multiple destinations on your honeymoon but don’t want the hassle of various flights, why not try an interrailing tour around Europe? Board a luxury train like the Venice Simplon Orient Express or the Danube Golden Eagle, which connects major cities like Venice, Paris, Prague and Kraków.
Enjoy the finery onboard these decadent trains, including art deco suites, gourmet dining and premier champagne. In the morning, soak in exceptional views from your private carriage window, and venture into various towns and cities along the way.
Make your way from Venice to Milan, Geneva and Paris, admiring lakes and alpine villages, or even enjoy a guided tour of the Louvre. Or perhaps you’d prefer Vienna to Prague, Dresden and Berlin, passing forested hills and castles and exploring Gothic cathedrals, baroque neighbourhoods and attending classical concerts.
Summary
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation or pure romance, there are so many amazing and unconventional honeymoon destinations out there. From safaris in Tanzania to Cambridge’s canal boat trips and Japanese ryokans, there’s something for every couple to explore and enjoy. We hope this article has given you some inspiration for your next romantic escape, guaranteed to help you make lifelong memories with your loved one.
Written by: Alice Page
