The 7 most underrated honeymoon destinations
Listen, we love Paris as much as the next sane person. Yes, the locals are grouchy, but watching the Eiffel Tower sparkling against a pink and orange sunset with an €8 baguette and €3 bottle of wine? Sign us up.
Paris isn't the only magical place on Earth, though, and we can prove it. From gorgeous waterfront views (in the summer and the winter) to the finest of fine dining and the world's most gorgeous mountainscape, all for you to climb, there are some seriously underrated but insanely dazzling honeymoon spots both near and far.
These are our favourite, along with our best recommendations. Have one to add? Let us know below!
Photos from Hand Luggage Only, Pinterest, and the Outside Bride.
The Lake District (UK)
If you're a huge fan of London's cozy pubs but need a serious break from the city, honeymoon at the Lake District. This region is full of sweet, sleepy towns with equally sweet, sleepy pubs, and the most beautiful vistas you can imagine. Ribbon lakes—named for their long, narrow shape—wrap between sprawling mountains and knolls, and make for perfect picnic spots. Even in winter, when the ample water sports aren't up and running, this spot is a beautiful place to relax. We recommend Another Place, a gorgeous and luxurious hotel with a super modern indoor pool and delicious food to boot.
Photos from Kayl Chip and Pinterest.
Kelowna
Kelowna was once known as a sleepy retirement town about four hours east of Vancouver. Today, the perception is much different: if you love fine wine and relaxing by luxurious pools in the sun, check out Kelowna. Swing by Quail's Gate for a buttery, fruity chardonnay or spicy viognier, or relax amongst Tantalus' vines all afternoon, and you'll never want to leave.
Photos from Sunday Spritz, Inspiration de la Vie, and SS Life + Style.
San Sebastian
San Sebastian is the new Amalfi Coast, or something like that. For those travelling for their honeymoon, or those lucky enough to live nearby, San Sebastian is the perfect spot for beach lovers, wine lovers, and newly married lovers. Snack on delicious anchovies with oil and bread at a seaside cafe and wander the winding streets until it gets dark, before wandering to Arzak for your dinner reservations. We recommend you stay at an Airbnb in this region to save on accommodations.
Photos from MTL.org, Hand Luggage Only, and Pinterest.
Montreal
Montreal is for art lovers, food lovers, and architecture nerds. You heard it here first: it's not all poutine (although, the hype is for good reason). With super affordable accommodations and a French and English speaking populace, Montreal has all of the old world charm of cities like Paris for much less money and far less travel. Rent a car and drive out of the city to explore the amazing Quebec countryside—especially in the fall.
Photos from For Two, Please, and Madeline Lu.
Banff
There's a reason Banff is so popular. Its proximity to the Rockies, its world class food and views, and the history-filled corridors of hotels like the Banff Springs. This is a super romantic honeymoon destination for folks that love the great outdoors, love to relax in beautiful architectural spaces, and dare we say it, folks that aren't afraid of ghosts. Spooky, but romantic too, we swear. Be sure to adventure to Lake Louise, and stop at The Bison for dinner.
Photos from HBGoodie and Away We Went.
Azores
Way off the coast of Morocco lay the Azores, a series of tiny islands sometimes referred to as "the other Eden." They're that beautiful. Made of the very mountaintops of undersea ranges, the Azores have been recognized for their natural beauty and rarity by organizations such as UNESCO—and if that weren't enticing enough, it's also one of the best spots in the world to go diving and whale watching. Bring your hiking boots, and enjoy!
Where are you planning your honeymoon? Tell us below!
xo D&C
