After the excitement and emotion of your wedding, it is essential that you organise the perfect honeymoon escape. Whether you want a romantic hideaway, a glitzy city destination or an action packed adventure, we have it covered. Our guide gives you the insider information on the finest resorts and tips of what not to miss when you are there, together with the best time of year to visit.
RELAX AND RECHARGE
Check in to one of these boltholes for sun, sea and sand – then sit back and unwind.
Constance Halaveli, Maldives
Best between: November – April
Flight time: 5hrs
Powdery white sands, endless blue skies and crystal clear waters make the Maldives one of the most beautiful and sought after destinations in the world. Constance Halaveli is a floating dreamscape of a hotel that is shaped like the a dhoni, the traditional Maldivian boat, and is located in a sparkling lagoon in the North Ari Atoll.
The hotel itself consists of 86 villas dotted across the tiny private island, 57 of which are over water and the rest nestled on the sands of the beach, each with their own plunge pool.
The Maldives is known for its rich marine life and the hotel dive centre runs tuition and dive trips to the incredible nearby reefs, together with manta ray and shark awareness courses. There are plenty of other watersports on offer, from snorkelling and kayaking to catamaran lessons and windsurfing. Although if you fancy something a little more relaxed, then we recommend getting slathered in fragrant Ila and Valmont products at the blissful overwater spa.
Six Senses Con Dao, Vietnam
Best between: Feb – April & Aug – Oct
Flight time: 7hrs
If you are craving a relaxing retreat for your first trip of wedded bliss, this is just the place. Located on one of the world’s most idyllic beaches, the resort is nestled between lush fauna and flora on an island south of mainland Vietnam.
The private villas, of which there are 53 in total, are crafted from locally sourced materials with a contemporary and sleek finish, including colossal bathrooms and outdoor monsoon showers. The best part about the design are the giant glass walls that open onto your personal infinity pool.
It’s all about the spa and wellness concept here at Con Dao, with personalised detox programmes, wraps and Vietnamese facials.
When you are feeling fully rejuvenated either go scuba diving where there is astonishing visibility, or experience Green and Hawksbill turtles nesting and laying their eggs.
The Brando, French Polynesia
Best between: May – Oct
Flight time: 22hrs
Thirty miles north of Tahiti is an enchanting necklace of 12 beach fringed islets that was once the private atoll of Hollywood legend Marlon Brando. Now it’s home to a very exclusive escape which you can only reach by the resort’s own plane.
The mood here is luxury unplugged, with 35 majestic, thatched roof, beachfront villas, each with an outdoor bath, plunge pool, rocking chair for two, and a pair of chic vintage-style bicycles for freewheeling through the coconut palms. Everything here is included in your booking, from dreamy Polynesian spa treatments, lagoon cruises, and delicious French cuisine created by two Michelin star chef Guy Martin.
This idyllic spot is best known for its castaway feel, whether you are snorkelling in the crystal clear South Pacific waters or eating fresh fruit whilst lounging on the white sands. However, the highlight has to be the whale watching, and it’s a location which is hard to beat. Watch humpback whales from your villa if you visit between August and October.
Gili Lankanfushi, Maldives
Best between: Nov – April
Flight time: 5hrs
‘No news, no shoes’ is the only rule at Gili Lankfanfushi, where the one thing you’ll fret about is whether or not the dolphins show up when you go diving. From the moment your feet hit the sand, you are encouraged to embrace island life at this tropical hideaway.
Breath-taking villas are built from reclaimed wood and are accessed via a rickety jetty stand on stilts over a turquoise lagoon. These are among the largest villas in the Maldives, with giant bathrooms, open air sitting rooms, private sundecks and steps directly into the sea. The hotel prides itself on preserving the environment, from having a marine biologist in residence, an organic garden and all of the bathroom goodies from insect repellent to after-sun lotion stocked in eco-friendly ceramic containers.
But don’t be fooled by this hippy feel, luxury is key and each villa has its own butler to assist you, meaning you can focus on completely unwinding. There is little need to move, although we recommend you hop on your bamboo bicycle and head over to say hello to the resident octopus lurking in the lagoon by the overwater bar. Or for movie night, hire the jungle cinema and enjoy a three course dinner while watching your favourite film.
North Island, Seychelles
Best between: March – May & Sept – Dec
Flight time: 4.5hrs
North Island Lodge is a colonial chic sanctuary for both wildlife and guests. Just a short helicopter journey from the main island of Mahé, the privately run island is lapped by the tropical waters of the Seychelles.
The 11 handcrafted villas, which are all bare wood and billowing cotton, have a quintessential rustic Robinson Crusoe feel, together with all the modern conveniences. Raised off the ground to catch the cooling Indian Ocean breezes, the villas, which are complete with plunge pools and outdoor showers, open up onto your private garden and the beach.
After a day soaking up the sun, take in the Island’s scenery as you walk over to the Sunset Beach Bar for cocktails. Although, keep an eye out for Brutus, the island’s 160-year-old tortoise. To add to the feeling of desert island life, you won’t be finding a menu at meal times, the chef prepares seasonal fresh food to your taste with a plentiful supply of fish caught offshore.
COOL AND CHIC
Looking for a contemporary and chic destination? These hotels come with culture and beautiful architecture.
Ceylon Tea Trails, Sri Lanka
Best between: September – April
Flight time: 5hrs
The interior of Sri Lanka has a mountainous and cultural beauty. Rising 2243 metres above this lush landscape is the sacred Adam’s Peak, which attract pilgrims who climb it’s 5500 steps at night.
However, on a clear day you can enjoy these views from the comfort of Tea Trails, a quartet of elegant boutique villas in lakeside Bogawantalawa Valley. Each boasting a distinctive character, these restored planters’ bungalows befit a Somerset Maugham lifestyle, with timbered ceilings, panelled libraries, claw-foot baths and bay windows. They are surrounded by gardens where, in the evening, you can hear the chanting from temples across the valley.
Feast on tea-inspired cuisine, think asparagus soup infused with green tea and blueberry cheesecake with hibiscus flower tea sauce, before exploring the surrounding tea estates, ravines and waterfalls.
Iniala, Thailand
Best between: September – May
Flight time: 6.5hrs
Iniala Beach House is quite unlike any other hotel, with an enviable location right on the golden sands of Natai Beach, and just a 20 minutes’ drive from the airport, this unique boutique hotel not only boasts breath-taking views but is a masterpiece of both architectural and interior design.
With just ten suites at the property contained in three distinct villas and one spectacular penthouse, Iniala Beach House is the epitome of luxury living. Each villa houses three suites, their own individual spa and personal outdoor pool.
From the eclectic extravagance of the Collector’s Villa with its aquatic colour scheme to the spiritual space of Villa Siam, and the beautiful fusion of Eastern and Western design in Villa Bianca, the suites are the inspiration of 10 world class designers who wanted to create an ‘out of the ordinary’ property. Of course, for couples the one-bedroom suite that makes up the penthouse is the perfect romantic retreat, with its futuristic design and holistic environment.
You will be in for a culinary treat at the property’s signature restaurant, Aziamendi, which is considered a top gastronomic venue in Southern Thailand. Feast on a menu overseen by Chef Eneko Atxa who received his stars in Spain and who is the mastermind behind the Basque and Thai cuisine.
Urso Hotel and Spa, Madrid
Best between: March – November
Flight time: 7.5hrs
Madrid is a city that is buzzing with life, from gourmet restaurants to a vibrant art scene. Located between the super trendy Malasana and Chueca districts is the elegant Scandi-style Urso Hotel and Spa.
This lovingly restored 20th century neo-classical palace is walking distance from some of the city’s best sights, museums and galleries. But with so many options to choose from, we suggest visiting the picturesque Palacio de Cristal in Buen Retiro Park and the iconic Plaza de Cibeles, a square full of fountains that’s synonymous with the city itself. The cultural centre Círculo de Bellas Artes, with its calendar packed with shows, films, exhibitions and events, is also worth a visit.
The city is simply too much fun, so you are better off heading out and exploring. But before you leave you must experience the Natura Bisse spa, with its extensive list of boutique treatments. Also, be sure to visit The Table, the hotel’s inventive pop up restaurant where a guest chef takes charge each month.
The Arch, London
Best between: May – September
Flight time: 7hrs
Tucked behind the glorious marble arches of Hyde Park’s sturdiest landmark, The Arch London hotel is a grand Georgian pad, spread over seven former townhouses and two old mews houses. Walls are covered in hand-made Italian wallpaper and artwork by rising British talents, and bedrooms are kitted out with all the technology you could wish for.
Pop down Park Lane to the Dorchester, for some fine dining at a British institution. You can pick from several options, the Promenade for afternoon tea, the Grill for British classics, Alain Ducasse for some fancy French and China Tang for Chinese food and celebrity spotting. Also, on the same street as the Arch, you’ll find Rhodes W1 behind a huge black door. The menu features French and Italian influences, as well as London favourite, smoked eel.
If serious sightseeing is on your agenda, book one of the hotel’s London Pass packages, which offers access to the city’s notable attractions. Follow this up with a visit to traditional pub Windsor Castle in Marylebone, and while you are there you can admire the shrine to George Best and curious collection of commemorative plates, they’re even on the ceiling.
ADVENTURE
From skiing to safari, these places were meant for intrepid travellers.
Awasi, Patagonia
Best between: November – March
Flight time: 14.5hrs
Torn between safari and South America, this destination has the solution. Awasi combines safari style excursions, luxury standalone lodges and breath-taking views of the Torre del Paine mountains.
Opened on the former campground of adventurer Florence Dixie, who pitched her tent beneath the iconic peaks in 1878, the hotel is spread out like a classic estancia, with the stylish restaurant and guest lounge just a 5-minute stroll or a short golf-buggy ride from the furthest-flung villa.
Spend the day traversing rivers, kayaking around icebergs, horse riding with gauchos and even puma spotting. Then it’s back to your lodge, one of the twelve secluded log houses, for a soak in your hot tub with awe inspiring views.
Spend you evenings alongside wood burning stoves dining on mouth-watering food, from Patagonian lamb, organic vegetables from the garden and slow-cooked Wagu beef.
Aqua Mekong, Cambodia and Vietnam
Best between: Feb – April & Aug – Oct
Flight time: 7hrs
This a very glamorous and luxury cross between a cruise and back packing, with just 20 suites, all clad in teak with floor to ceiling windows. The floating five-star boutique hotel snakes its way from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh, providing amazing views that you can enjoy from the comfort of your king size bed.
Take an excursion on a skiff with your expert guides down narrow waterways lined with lush paddy fields, visiting the most off the radar villages. You will sample mangosteen, sugar cane and pineapple at a local market, receive blessings from Buddhist monks in their secret sanctuaries and float through ancient flooded forests. On your return you can cool off in the pool at the back of the boat and continue watching the sights.
Cheval Blanc, Courchevel
Best between: December – March
Flight time: 6.5hrs
In the Alps’ most exclusive ski resort, Courchevel, is the Cheval Blanc, an haute-couture property in the fashionable Jardin Alpin area above the resort.
The 34 rooms and suites are decorated with rich velvet, deep faux-fur rugs and throws, sleek animal hide and photographs commissioned by Karl Lagerfeld. With bathrooms stacked with Guerlain goodies and your boots warmed for you in advance, this is as close to alpine ski heaven as a hotel can get.
For the experienced skiers you can be picked up by helicopter and whisked off for some thrilling skiing on untouched off-piste slopes.
Ulusaba, South Africa
Best between: October – May
Flight time: 8.5hrs
There is so much to see and do at Sir Richard Branson’s private game reserve that you won’t want to sit back and relax. Situated near Kruger National Park, Ulusaba has just 21 rooms that are split between three lodges. Both Rock Lodge and Cliff Lodge are perched on the summit of the reserve with views for miles, and Safari Lodge is 500 metres away on the plain of a dry riverbed, amongst the wildlife.
The highlight here is the twice daily game drives, together with the option of requesting a romantic picnic in the bush. For a more exhilarating excursion you can take a helicopter flight through the lush valleys, deep canyons and over waterfalls, or otherwise a ride on an African elephant.
We recommend you finish your day of outdoor activities with a relaxing couples massage at the Aroma Boma Spa, you even get to take away the scented candle from your treatment as a memento.
CLOSE TO HOME
Whether you’re taking a mini-moon or just don’t fancy travelling far, you will still feel miles away in these resorts.
Alila, Jabal Akhdar
Best between: Jan – April & July – Oct
Journey time: 2.5hr drive from Muscat airport
Cradled by soaring mountains and dramatic canyons, Alila’s infinity pool and stone-clad clusters of luxurious suites are scattered on the edge of a clifftop, blending seamlessly into the rugged desert beyond.
The eco-friendly resort comprises of 78 suites and two Jabal Villas with private pools, constructed using local building materials and traditional techniques. Inside you will find a mix of contemporary decor coupled with authentic Omani style, there are earthy tones of wood and stone, accented with bold rugs and furnishings.
If you aren’t feeling zen enough from the breathtaking views and secluded location, then a soothing therapy in Spa Alila will do the trick. Sourced from villages in East Bali, unrefined coconut oil is mixed with sweet almond, kukui nut and wheatgerm oils for an out-of-this world massage.
Al Maha
Best between: Jan – April & July – Oct
Journey time: 1hr drive from Dubai
Al Maha Resort is nestled in a verdant palm oasis, deep within Dubai’s desert and dune landscape, showcasing the heritage and architecture of the Bedouins alongside a sense of desert adventure.
The Arabian Oryx & the Gazelles are the star attractions in the reserve, and can be viewed as you take a dip in the infinity pool.
Stand-alone ‘tents’ are decked out with wooden chests, Arabian antiques, and Oriental carpets, making up the luxury desert camp. The ‘old Arabia’ theme carries on to the communal areas with billowing curtains, low banquette seating, decorative brass tray tables, traditional carpets on the floor, and old Bedouin artefacts on display, from antique rifles to copper coffee pots.
When you return from wildlife drives or the sunset camel ride you can savour views of the vast expanse of desert as you sip sundowners on the Terrace Bar, there’s even a telescope if you’re not quite done with wildlife spotting, before feasting on Arabic cuisine prepared from organic produce on the alfresco deck of Al Diwaan.
Anantara, Sir Bani Yas Island
Best between: Jan – April & July – Oct
Journey time: 45min flight from Abu Dhabi
Sir Bani Yas Island is a nature-based destination alive with wildlife and adventure activities. Set on a remote and beautiful island just off the coast of Abu Dhabi, the natural island houses the once private Royal Nature Reserve of HH Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan. We recommend that you split your time between two of the Anantara resorts, Al Yamm and Al Saheel, for a taste of everything the island has to offer.
Enjoy the natural beauty of the savannah from your luxury rustic lodge in the heart of the island’s vast Arabian nature park at Al Sahel Villa Resort. It is a small collection of villas in a section of the 4,200-hectare Arabian Wildlife Park, which is home to thousands of free-roaming animals including Arabian oryx and sand gazelle, as well as cheetahs and giraffes. Either take a nature and wildlife tour, where your expert guide drives you up close to the animals, or just sit back and spot the oryx and gazelle from the privacy of your private plunge pool.
Over on the eastern shores is tranquil beach front seclusion at Al Yamm. The villas, which have touches of local flair inspired by the barasti of the early fishermen who inhabited the island, open up to a stretch of wild beach strewn with shells, sponges and corals. At night you can leave your doors open so you sleep to the sound of the lapping waves.
Six Senses Zighy Bay, Oman
Best between: Jan – April & July – Oct
Journey time: 2hrs drive from Dubai
There are views and there is the view from Zighy Bay. Cradled by dramatic mountains on the Northern Peninsula of Oman and dipping into the opal blue waters of the Musandam’s fjords, the remote resort can be reached by speedboat, 4×4 or paraglider.
Laid out like a traditional Omani village, individual stone-walled dwellings house standalone villas and suites. Every villa has a private plunge pool and our pick of them all are the sunrise-facing beachfront villas, with uninterrupted sea views and only a few sandy footsteps between you and the water.
During the day you can relax at the freeform infinity-edged pool, which winds down towards the sea, with plenty of palm-shaded loungers, and the occasional mountain goat. There’s also a saltwater swimming pool with Roman steps and a swim-round island.
There are a few options for dining, but we recommend Sense on the Edge, Zighy Bay’s mountaintop fine-dining showcase, which is 293m above sea level. Expect twice-cooked deliciousness presented three ways, with interesting reductions and lashings of jus.
