Exclusive Elopement Escapes: Top-notch Holidays for Newlyweds
Celebrating your recent nuptials? Why not escape the hustle and bustle with a luxurious honeymoon! Whether you're craving exotic flavors or longing for a peaceful beach vacation, there are numerous ways to make memories that'll last a lifetime. Let us guide you through some of our favorite destinations, hotels, and activities.
Long Haul Honeymoons: Bora Bora, French Polynesia
With swaying palm trees, crystal-clear waters, and soft white-sand beaches, Bora Bora is a honeymooner's paradise. Unwind at lavish hotels perched above the sapphire sea, or immerse yourself in snorkeling expeditions amongst vibrant coral reefs. Whether you're a beach bum or an adventurer, Bora Bora will enchant every type of couple.
What to Do
Bora Bora offers a variety of activities suitable for every honeymooner:
- Matira Beach: Relax on one of the world's best beaches, with pristine sands, tropical drinks, and underwater adventures.
- Coral Gardens: For those seeking a more active holiday, Coral Gardens is a breathtaking coral reef, teeming with marine life.
- Polynesian Spas: Experience traditional spa treatments infused with tropical fragrances and healing oils. Some spas even feature glass floors for underwater viewing!
Where to Stay
Bora Bora luxury resorts are renowned for their overwater bungalows, private balconies, on-site restaurants, and spas.
- Le Meridien: A stunning resort perched above a private bay, perfect for honeymooners. Enjoy the snorkeling, infinity pool, and on-site restaurants.
- Four Seasons Resort: Overlooking the azure sea, this five-star resort offers a full range of services, including a fitness center, private beach, day spa, and multiple restaurants.
- The St. Regis: Your escape to paradise awaits at The St. Regis, with overwater and beachfront bungalows, multiple swimming pools, four restaurants, a day spa, and guided snorkeling tours.
Best Time to Visit
As a tropical island near the equator, Bora Bora boasts a relatively consistent climate year-round. The slightly cooler months of December and January are an ideal time to visit as trade winds keep the humidity low.
Short Haul Honeymoons: Madeira
Also known as "the island of eternal springs," Madeira's exotic flora, fauna, and lush landscape make it an idyllic honeymoon destination. Spend your days lazing on beautiful beaches, taking a sunset boat ride, or exploring the underwater world via snorkeling or scuba diving. You'll feel the romance in the air in this picturesque location.
What to Do
Madeira's natural beauty makes it an ideal honeymoon for hikers, walkers, or nature enthusiasts. There are many relaxing activities, but most people come here for the outdoor adventures.
- Cabo Girao Viewpoint: Take in panoramic views of the island at this 580-meter high cliff, complete with a thrilling glass skywalk.
- Monte Palace Tropical Gardens: Explore this surreal botanical garden, featuring a stunning array of exotic plants and flowers. Stroll hand-in-hand through beautiful gardens and find a secluded spot for a kiss.
- Pico Ruivo: Accessible only by foot, this beautiful hike offers breathtaking views of the coast and nearby mountains. Bring a picnic and toast your nuptials with a glass of champagne.
Where to Stay
Madeira offers many outstanding, five-star hotels with panoramic views, all-inclusive facilities, and private beach access.
- The Cliff Bay: Located atop a natural peninsula, this five-star hotel provides stunning views of the nearby ocean and luxury amenities like private beach access, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, and two Michelin-starred restaurants.
- Albatroz Beach & Yacht Club: Situated on 450 yards of private coastline, the Albatroz offers luxurious amenities like private balconies with ocean views, multiple swimming pools, tennis courts, a golf course, and a fitness center.
- Belmond Reid's Palace: Step back in time at this elegant hotel set on a clifftop with sweeping views of the Atlantic. Enjoy all-inclusive services, three swimming pools, direct access to the ocean, and a luxurious spa.
When to Visit
Madeira enjoys pleasant weather year-round. Spring is particularly delightful, as the Monte Palace Tropical Gardens are in full bloom, and sunny days with temperatures in the low twenties are the norm. Winter brings colder temperatures, but still provides plenty of sunshine.
UK Honeymoons: Isle of Skye
Known for its dramatic landscapes, the Isle of Skye is perfect for honeymooners seeking to disconnect from the world and immerse themselves in nature. With jagged mountains, velvet moors, shimmering lochs, and imposing sea cliffs, you'll find plenty of romance on this captivating island.
What to Do
Skye offers a variety of activities suitable for every type of couple:
- Old Man of Storr: A short walk from the car park takes you to the iconic Old Man of Storr, offering amazing views of the surrounding landscape.
- Quiraing: Though it's the winding road leading up to the Scottish hills that's truly breathtaking, the view from the top is unforgettable.
- Dunvegan Castle: Visit the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland, owned by the MacLeod Clan for over 800 years.
Where to Stay
The Isle of Skye offers several charming accommodations.
- Skeabost House Hotel: Overlooking the nearby hills and Loch Snizort, Skeabost House Hotel is a stylish choice, offering private gardens, an on-site restaurant, and wellness center.
- Duisdale House Hotel: Located in a historic forest, Duisdale House Hotel offers romantic accommodations, direct access to woodland walking trails, luxurious hydro pools, and two on-site restaurants.
- Kinloch Lodge Hotel & Restaurant: This four-star lodge offers personalized service, stunning views, award-winning dishes in the elegant dining room, and luxurious spa treatments.
When to Visit
Many couples visit Skye during the summer months, from May to September, when they have the best chance of good weather and clear skies. However, winter provides the opportunity to see the Northern Lights, and the stunning landscapes are less crowded.
- In Bora Bora, honeymooners can unwind at luxury resorts perched above the sapphire sea, immerse themselves in snorkeling expeditions among vibrant coral reefs, or explore activities such as Matira Beach, Coral Gardens, or Polynesian spas.
- On Madeira, known as the "island of eternal springs", couples can relax on beautiful beaches, take a sunset boat ride, or hike to stunning viewpoints like Cabo Girao Viewpoint, Monte Palace Tropical Gardens, or Pico Ruivo. Luxury accommodations include The Cliff Bay, Albatroz Beach & Yacht Club, and Belmond Reid's Palace. Visits in spring offer the Monte Palace Tropical Gardens in full bloom.
