Photo via Flickr/Chris Ford
Planning a honeymoon in the winter DOES NOT mean less options! While many couples envision a tropical paradise for their first newlywed vacation, a winter honeymoon can offer SO much more. Whether your dream winter honeymoon includes white sandy beaches or chic ski lodges, mountain hikes or tango lessons, endless vineyards or casino strips – it can all be found on our list of the top ten winter honeymoon destinations.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Northern lights, hot springs, glaciers… when it comes to nature, it doesn’t get much more epic that Iceland. As a honeymoon destination, Reykjavik is the perfect home base to explore more of the country’s attractions like the Blue Lagoon (pictured above), a geothermal spa, Thingvellir National Park, and a UNESCO Heritage Site where you can witness the phenomenal Northern Lights. Be sure to check out City Hall, which was built right on a scenic pond to look like it’s floating, and catch a show at the recently completed Harpa Concert Hall, which is made entirely of glass.
Aspen, Colorado
If you’re snow bunnies looking for a mix of relaxation and adventure, spend your winter getaway in the creme de la creme of ski towns. The notoriously luxurious town of Aspen is known for their beautiful winter slopes, fancy candlelit dinners, and world-class spa resorts – a long time honeymoon favorite for a good reason.
Photo via Flickr/Moyan Brenn
Prague, Czech Republic
Eastern Europe is magical in the wintertime, and Prague is a picture perfect destination for a quiet and charming winter getaway. The colorful, historic buildings pop against dustings of snow, and you can spend hours walking aimlessly on cobblestone roads and into unique shops, cathedrals, galleries, pubs, and cafes. Be sure to snap a picture on the Charles Bridge, visit the Astronomical Clock right at noon, and take a tour of the Prague Castle. Finally, rest your feet for a romantic dinner at Allegro, the city’s first restaurant to win a Michelin star.
Lake Tahoe, Nevada
Extraordinary, majestic, awe inspiring… you’ll have difficulty finding words that do justice to the sheer beauty of Lake Tahoe. Drawn by the crystal clear waters and luxurious mountain retreats, Lake Tahoe has long been a choice honeymoon destination for the outdoor lover. The surrounding area boasts miles of hiking trails and world class skiing, and in the evening you can head to Carson City or Reno (both within an hour drive) where casinos and exciting nightlife activities abound.
Photo via Flickr/James Daisa
Napa Valley, California
If you and your new spouse are major foodies or big time winos, you’ll find a lot to love in Napa. In between leisurely picnics and wine tastings, couples will find an endless amount of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, golfing and horseback riding. The luxurious spa resorts, amazing restaurants and perfect sunset views are just added bonuses.
Photo by Vasilia Lagios Photography
Santorini, Greece
Known for its brilliant sunsets, rich Greek food and romantic hotels, Santorini is almost tailor-made for those who’ve just said “I do.” This classic Greek island sits in the southern Aegean Sea and bears the same name as the volcano which breathed life into its existence. Though the weather isn’t as steamy in the winter months, honeymooners can lounge on red and black sand beaches, visit the island’s wineries, or indulge in what many have called the best seafood in the world. Without the summer’s tourist crowds the island is even more idyllic, and you’ll get to experience authentic, laid back Greek culture at its finest.
Photo via Flickr/Joe Parks
Maui, Hawaii
With jungles to explore, volcanoes to tour, trails to hike, and beaches galore, Maui makes a great place to relax or adventure, especially if you’re looking for somewhere warm to escape the winter months. Couples can sprawl across miles of shoreline or venture on the Road to Hana for breathtaking views. In the winter months, the Aloha State is not only blessed with near-perfect weather, but also amazing whale-watching opportunities and the best surfing conditions.
Bora Bora, French Polynesia
The pristine Pacific waters and nearly untouched landscape surrounding Bora Bora are for more than just admiring from your overwater villa. You can also feed manta rays, go on a 4X4 jeep safari, or take a helicopter tour of the islands. Many have described Bora Bora as being one of the greatest honeymoon destinations for admirers of natural beauty, as they are known for being “not too luxurious” and attract fewer tourists than the more popular island getaways.
Photo via Flickr/David Berkowitz
Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
For an adventurous couple seeking a “once-in-a-lifetime experience,” a safari in the Serengeti makes for the ultimate honeymoon getaway. Wake up to giraffes or elephants grazing outside your window, and enjoy all the luxurious amenities at the Four Seasons Safari Lodge. To top it all off, your travels will also contribute to the region’s ability to keep up its conservation efforts, which are largely funded by tourism revenue.
Photo via Flickr/ilkerender
Buenos Aires, Argentina
The city of Buenos Aires seems hand-crafted for romance, and perhaps that’s why it was nicknamed the “Paris of South America.” Often a fraction of the cost of a European vacation, honeymooners in Buenos Aires can enjoy an urban oasis, complete with a rich history, all the perks of a warm climate, cultural enthusiasm, and for those visiting from the U.S., less jet lag. Urban dwellers will thrive in this destination, which is filled with cultural gems, top-notch cuisine, cozy brunch spots, and an exciting nightlife.
