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7 Top Alternative Honeymoon Destinations

7 Top Alternative Honeymoon Destinations


Cat Arnott
Cat Arnott Updated:
8th of March 2023

A honeymoon marks your new identity as a married couple, a time to fuel your new relationship. But it’s not only about spending intimate moments together. It is also a chance to reflect, calm down, and relax after a stressful task of planning a wedding

Whether you plan to bask in the sun on an exotic island, cuddle under the stars at a remote camp, or dance the night away in a lively bar, your honeymoon should set your marriage on a happy and positive course. Remember that the destination plays a part in making your honeymoon truly successful. We are not only talking about clichéd honeymoon staples, such as Paris or Venice! Below are 6 alternative honeymoon destinations that will guarantee to give you and your spouse a spectacular experience.

The Highlands Honeymoon

The Highlands 

From medieval ruins to enchanting crystal-clear lakes and stunning sceneries that exude romance, the Highlands is undoubtedly a perfect honeymoon destination. Especially for those who want to get away from the noisy flurry of the city! Yet, there’s more to The Highlands than its magical landscape and intriguing history. 

The Highlands is teeming with activities for adventurous couples. Cycle along rugged paths as you take in a breathtaking panorama of valleys and waterfalls, or learn about the mysteries and myths of Loch Ness as you cruise its glistening waters. Trek through charming, fairy tale villages, camp on a hilltop under a blanket of stars, or lie on an idyllic sandy beach on the region’s pristine coastline. Whatever you choose to do, The Highlands' undeniable romantic atmosphere is guaranteed to bring you closer together.

Havana, Cuba Honeymoon

Havana, Cuba 

Havana is an explosion of colours and flavours that are characteristic of the Caribbean, yet also uniquely it's own. It has all the ingredients of an ideal Cuban honeymoon destination. From its enticing music to sultry dances to a hearty cuisine, untouched beaches, and fascinating heritage. This city permeates the air with romance that is impossible to miss. 

Dance the night away to the beguiling rhythms of salsa and rumba or loosen up to the sophisticated tunes of jazz. Sip the famous Cuban rum as you relax in on the beaches in Playas del Este. Watch a ballet performance, visit galleries and museums, or hunt for unusual souvenirs at its numerous markets. Havana is also home to massive stone fortresses, magnificent churches, lavish homes, historic government buildings, and colourful squares. Indeed, Havana is guaranteed to foster your relationship with its infectious romantic culture.

St. Anton, Austria Honeymoon

St. Anton, Austria

What ignites passion more than going on an adventure together? St. Anton offers the solace of the mountains, combined with challenging exploits such as skiing. Here, you can indulge both the nature lover and adventure seeker in you.

St. Anton is located in the Tyrolean Alps and has earned a reputation for being the cradle of alpine skiing. St. Antoine is best known for its rough terrain, steeps, thrilling cliffs, and challenging ascents drawing hundreds of experienced skiers. It also offers a variety of runs for every level, from beginner to intermediate.  

There is more than just skiing though! The village’s fascinating historical gems, such as its timber and stone farmhouses and churches laden with Baroque frescoes will surely lure you.  Stay in a cosy log cabin for the ultimate romantic experience and delight in the panoramic view.

Coron Island, Philippines Honeymoon

Coron Island, Philippines

If the mountains bring deep solace, the beach offers laid-back relaxation that is ripe for romance. What is more romantic than frolicking under the sun on a secluded shore with sugary white sand and glistening turquoise waters? Coron Island in the province of Palawan in the Philippines is your quintessential tropical island getaway.

There is so much to do in Coron than just luxuriating on the beach all day. Charter a boat and explore the island’s breathtaking limestone cliffs. Go for a shipwreck dive to discover a startling underwater historical site that dates back to World War II.  The swarms of fish and other sea life will amaze you as much as the sunken remains of the battleships. For an immersive experience, embark on an African-style safari including giraffes and zebras at the nearby Calauit Wildlife Park.

Lake District, England Honeymoon

The Lake District, England

Mystical, surreal, dreamy, and stunningly beautiful, the Lake District indisputably is one of the top holiday destinations in England. Home to glacial ribbon lakes, rough mountains, pastoral villages, verdant forests, and incredible national parks, this stunning piece of paradise has inspired poets, writers, and artists. Its striking natural beauty unleashes the romantic side of every person, making it an excellent honeymoon or mini moon destination.

Explore the quaint towns of Kendal, Ambleside, and Keswick, to discover bustling markets, traditional inns, curiosity shops, and local art galleries. To fully experience the charm of the district, stay in one of the many beautiful independent cottages by the lakes, where you can enjoy not only a stunning view but also calm and serenity. Cruise the pristine waters of the Windermere, wander the trails at Whinlatter Forest Park, stroll along the shores of Lake Buttermere, or visit the historic Muncaster Castle.  Then sample the region’s cuisine and its famous speciality, the Grasmere gingerbread. 

Cape Town South Africa Honeymoon

Cape Town, South Africa

At first glance, Cape Town may not seem an idyllic honeymoon destination. However, the city has an abundance of picturesque landscapes and incredible natural attractions that will make you fall in love over again. Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and Table Mountain, one of the Seven Wonders of Nature, Cape Town offers a host of activities for everyone all year round. 

Take a dip in the warm waters of the Boulders Beach, hike the Table Mountain National Park, explore the scenic beauty of the Cape of Good Hope, or appreciate the lushness of a botanical garden. If you’re looking for an enriching cultural experience, visit the Robben Island, the notorious prison that once held Nelson Mandela or drop-by the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary African Art. Venture into the countryside for vineyard excursion and wine tasting, then stroll along Victoria and Alfred Waterfront to enjoy its Ferris wheel, food market, aquarium, and boat rides.

La Rioja, Spain Honeymoon

La Rioja, Spain

Majesty, splendour, peace and class. Sitting quaintly in the north of Spain, La Rioja has a plethora of little-known diamonds ready to dazzle and mesmerise anyone willing to venture just a little from the norm. The least-populated region in Spain, the area has a fascinating history, thrilling cultural experiences and unfathomable beauty in its scenery. From dramatic mountains, rolling hills and meandering rivers, to the birthplace of written Spanish, spectacular religious architecture and medieval castles, Rioja has the adventurous, the curious and the peace-seeker covered.

Delve into the regions signature with an unmissable private Rioja wine tour. Sample world-class wines learn the engrossing history and process of producing the region’s greatest asset and explore vast and stunning vineyards. Indulge in mouth-watering tapas (La Rioja has its own unique and delectable style), or hire a car and explore untouched, unspoiled local towns and villages. End your day in style with a horseback ride through the countryside at sunset, or for a most luxurious experience, book a hot air balloon ride and bask in a bird’s eye view of the captivating region.

Still searching for honeymoon ideas? Find more honeymoon inspiration here.

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Cat Arnott

About the author


Cat Arnott

With a Masters degree in History, Cat is the best person to consult if you need wedding facts and information fast. Her passion for weddings has led to her having a broad and up to date knowledge of trends and traditions and she is here to research on your behalf to find the answer to any wedding related problem.

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