We hope you all enjoyed our destination wedding week here at On the Go Bride! We are finishing off Friday with an amazing guest post from Naoise over at One Fab Day. One Fab Day is Ireland’s online wedding magazine and it is full of gorgeous inspiration! Be sure to hop on over and give One Fab Day some love too!
7 Super Honeymoon Escapes in Europe
As part of destination wedding week, I’m delighted to share some super honeymoon options for those of you thinking of a European escape after your wedding. Europe has such a variety of places that the options are endless at any time of year. I’ve put together some less well-known places and suggested times of the year to go so you might be surprised at the fun you could have over this side of the Atlantic…
France
If you want the true French experience, then there’s one area that is an absolute must-visit: Provence. Think sunflowers, Monet, lavender, sipping white wine on a balmy day, think ultimate in joie de vivre. Go in summer – from May to September the temperatures are high and the pace of living is slow.
Stay: Hotel Particulier, Arles
A graceful small chateau in the centre of Arles, the cultural and historic heart of Provence, this 18th-century house overflows with elegance and style. With secluded garden where you can lie under lemon trees and relax by the pool, and a small but cool spa in the vaulted cellar for massage, sauna or hammam, you’ll be spoiled every moment of your stay.
Finland
Finland is an oft-overlooked holiday destination, it doesn’t quite have the glamour of Paris or the lure of Mediterranean skies, but it has a charm all its own, particularly in the best time of year to visit: winter. A snowy landscape where you can indulge in all manner of winter sports and cold weather pursuits from skiing to dog-sledging.
Stay: Igloo Village Kakslauttanen
An unforgettable experience – imagine sleeping in a snow igloo, or laying back watching the northern lights/aurora from the comfort of your bed under a glass domed igloo? The snow igloo gets pretty cold but all of the glass igloos are equipped with a toilet and luxury beds. On every evening a hot sauna and a refreshing ice hole are waiting for you.
Austria
Another unusual spot for a honeymoon is Austria. But this landlocked Central European country has a myriad of delights for all kinds of honeymooners, from hiking in the Austrian alps for the outdoor types, to the delights of elegant Vienna for those who like a little more city-based culture.
Stay: Gross Arler Hof
A yodel-enthusiasts dream, this newly built Austrian chalet offers 5 star service in the heart of the alps. An ideal base for all kinds of activities from hiking and skiing to simply walking through the estate observing all the local fauna. And after all that exertion, the in-house spa will ease all your aches and get you ready for a sumptuous meal.
Scotland
For a honeymoon with a difference, how about an escape to luxury in the heart of the Highlands of Scotland. The best time of year in Scotland is Autumn or Fall, the leaves turn golden, the hunting season begins, the heather blooms and the views are spectacular.
Stay: Fonab Castle
The newest addition to luxury hospitality in the Fonab Castle Hotel, a truly special, luxury Scottish experience. Located on the banks of Loch Faskally, enjoying fabulous views across the water, Fonab Castle is only a short walk from the heart of the historic town of Pitlochry and minutes from some of the best walks in the Highlands.
London
Get right in the swing of London by basing yourself in trendy Soho, the beating heart of media and fashion in the capital of cool. Right by the West End for catching a musical or play, the markets of Covent Garden and South Bank and the art galleries and museums all along the river Thames, not to mention a spot of royal-watching at Buckingham Palace.
Stay: Hazlitt’s Guesthouse
Right at the heart of Soho is one of London’s real treasures – Hazlitt’s is a set of 4 historic Georgian townhouses including the former home of the famous essayist William Hazlitt. The buildings date from 1718 and retain all the charm of their Georgian architecture with the addition of whimsical and curious interior décor, making it a quintessentially English experience.
Ireland
So you may not come to Ireland for the weather, but the little country with the big heart more than makes up for it in other ways – the warm hospitality of the people, the fabulous food, the brilliant banter, great music and endless sights to take in. Come in the summer or early Autumn to see the Emerald isle in all its glorious greenery.
Stay: Ballyvolane
Live the Downton Abbey dream in 21st century style at Ballyvolane. An old school country house run by master hotelier, and son of the family, Justin Greene, this is luxury living the Irish country aristocrat way. Beyond the beautiful dining and drawing rooms, luscious gardens and sumptuous bedrooms, activities abound, so you’ll never be bored on your Irish honeymoon. We couldn’t pick just one place so here’s lots more ideas for honeymoons in Ireland
Greece
If you’re more of a sun worshipper, then a honeymoon island hopping around Greece in the Adriatic sea might be more the thing for you in Europe. Crystal clear waters, golden sands and historic sights create a unique landscape for an escape to paradise. Top that off with evenings of greek food and oodles of ouzo and you’re onto a winner of a vacation.
Stay: Astra Suites
A boutique hotel hugging the cliffs of Santorini, the biggest island in the Cyclades, Astra Suites is the perfect Greek island hideaway. With views across the Mediterranean and terraces where you can sip a cocktail in peace and tranquility this is a hidden gem for any honeymooner.