Honeymoons are meant to be romantic, serene, and even heavenly, perhaps spent admiring the turquoise waters of the Maldives, or savouring candlelight dinners under Moroccan lanterns, or even witnessing views of snowfall atop Alpine mountains. These luxury hotels promise such experiences and more, worthy of your first chapter of forever.
The most cherishable honeymoons are the ones spent doing absolutely nothing. No need to go museum-hopping or check off an extensive list of landmarks or become the next big destination expert. Just lazy brunches that turn into late lunches, sundowner cocktails that become dinners, and conversations which border on the ethereal. A dream honeymoon hotel is one that can make this happen, carrying you unpretentiously into a life of togetherness, presenting the perfect backdrop for magic to unfold. Read on to discover 10 such settings worthy of the occasion.
Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru, Maldives
The Maldives has always been unabashed about its “romance destination” tag, but Landaa Giraavaru truly owns it. Located within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, the resort consists of villas that perfectly blend with the surrounding nature. Activities include private sandbank picnics to couples’ wellness programs. The pace here is deliciously slow, inviting guests to resign to island life.
Make it special: Visit between May and November, when manta rays gather in plenty near Hanifaru Bay.
Badrutt’s Palace, St. Moritz, Switzerland
Overlooking St. Moritz lake and framed by the Engadin Alps, this grand dame of Swiss hospitality has been welcoming royalty, celebrities, and honeymoon couples for generations. The winters promise guests fireplace evenings and snow-covered landscapes reminiscent of movies. Meanwhile, the summers reveal alpine meadows, sailings, and mountain adventures. What is not to love about that?
Make it special: Experience the famous scenic route of the Bernina Express train, winding through mountains.
Amanwella, Sri Lanka
There is something delightfully understated about Amanwella. Instead of competing for attention, the beachfront retreat located in the south of Sri Lanka prefers a quiet confidence. The modern suites boast private plunge pools, palm trees sway in your mirrors, and the Indian Ocean presents a continuous orchestra. The atmosphere is intimate yet vast, and extremely relaxing.
Make it special: Discover Rekawa Beach which is one of the best places in Sri Lanka to observe nesting sea turtles.
Esperit Roca, Girona, Spain
Built by the world-famous Roca brothers and located amidst the Catalan countryside overlooking the city of Girona, the property may be contemporary but one could just as easily mistake it for a part of the city’s historical complex. Combining gastronomy and landscape, it is a great choice for couples who wish to revel in their shared love for the gourmet.
Make it special: Visit the old town of Girona where the famous cobbled streets of Game of Thrones have been filmed.
Wynn Las Vegas, USA
Las Vegas may not be the quintessential romantic getaway, but Wynn asks, “why not?”. Its luxurious rooms, grand restaurants, designer shopping and meticulously crafted landscape provide guests with an oasis in the centre of the excitement of the Strip, whether you prefer watching world-class shows or enjoying views of the city skyline from your suite.
Make it special: Don’t miss the Lake of Dreams show featuring a mesmerising melange of light and music.
La Mamounia, Marrakech, Morocco
Surrounded by centuries-old gardens, the legendary hotel is a fusion of Moroccan craftwork and the elegant style of Art Deco. Lantern-lit paths, mosaic-covered courtyards and fragrant olive groves give this property a truly magical atmosphere. Even a simple walk through its grounds seems like a movie scene, with you two as the leading couple of course.
Make it special: Get lost in the hustle and bustle of Marrakesh’s old town and souks.
The Peninsula London, United Kingdom
Honeymoon? London? Really? Well, The Peninsula easily changes this perspective. Located on one of the city’s most prestigious addresses overlooking Hyde Park Corner, the hotel marries the classic sophistication of the British hospitality with the luxury of today. The spacious rooms, impeccable service and impressive cityscape views create an experience that is both grand and intimate.
Make it special: Book a sunset tour on the London Eye for the panoramic view of the city’s skyline.
Soneva Jani, Maldives
Every honeymoon deserves at least one moment that makes you go, ‘wow’. At Soneva Jani, that moment usually corresponds with guests discovering a waterslide attached to their villa. Even so, Soneva Jani takes pride in promoting an essence of barefoot luxury, sustainability-first living, and a genuine connection with nature.
Make it special: The retraceable roof which allows guests to sleep under the starry sky is truly the stuff dreams are made of.
Parkroyal Collection Marina Bay, Singapore
It is rare for urban hotels to provide the feeling of tropical escape. But this Parkroyal Collection property successfully manages this with a hint of verdant magic. Described as the ‘garden-in-a-hotel’, the place integrates thousands of plants in its impressive design. As a result, one receives a refreshing oasis in the middle of the city.
Make it special: After dark, visit Gardens by the Bay where the Supertrees come alive with light and music.
Four Seasons Resort Dubai At Jumeirah Beach, UAE
Dubai likes to impress with scale, often that of the gargantuan kind. But this beachfront retreat achieves its success through balance. Situated between the Arabian Gulf and the skyline of the city, the resort provides private access to the beach, splendid dining options and a relaxed atmosphere. One can spend days by the sea and explore the city before returning to watch the sun going down behind the Gulf.
Make it special: Charter a traditional dhow cruise and admire the skyline of Dubai from the water.
