Top 10 Non-Beachy Honeymoon Destinations
All-inclusive resorts on pristine Caribbean beaches are perfection... for some people. Others prefer to leave the beach behind for a very different kind of dream honeymoon.
When my friend Kat started looking into places to honeymoon, they were met with an overwhelming list of options. There was one thing, they knew right off the bat: They weren’t interested in spending their entire trip on the beach. They loved adventure, mountains, kayaking, hiking and exploring random street markets, interacting with locals, and maybe seeing some cool animals along the way. This lead us to put our brains together to come up with ten non-beachy honeymoon destinations for when 24/7 sun and sand just isn't your thing. Keep reading below!!!
Top 10 Non-Beachy Honeymoon Destinations
Top 10 Non-Beachy Honeymoon Destinations
Banff National Park/Lake Louise
Love mountains and picturesque alpine lakes? If so, this gem located in Alberta, Canada has cozy hotels and spas, mountains galore, and all that classic Canadian friendliness. If you’re looking to ski, relax by the fire, or hike to your heart’s content, this might be your dream spot.
Where to stay
The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel is where you can wake up to mountains and lakes while also getting pampered like royalty.
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Looking for culture, amazing food, and time with wildlife? Look no further than Northern Thailand. Take a cooking class to explore the wonders of Thai cuisine, wander around the temples in the Old City, or volunteer with elephants at Elephant Nature Park.
Where to stay
Akyra Manor Chiang Mai is in the heart of the city and full of luxurious touches, from the giant bowl bathtub to the sweeping views outside your window.
Iceland
From the exotic Blue Lagoon to the stunning waterfalls of Skógafoss, a road trip around the lush and lovely country of Iceland is a nature lover’s dream. There really isn’t a bad place to hike on this island. Go during the winter for a better chance of witnessing the northern lights!
Where to stay
The Retreat at Blue Lagoon is the way to go. It is modern, includes admission to the famous Blue Lagoon and the Lagoon Suite is a MUST splurge. It was ranked by Conde Nast Traveler and gets rave reviews. You can’t leave without visiting the spa. ( wink wink)
Queenstown, New Zealand
For the true adrenaline junkies, the adventure capital of the world is calling! From helicoptering in on a glacier and hiking around to bungee jumping off of bridges, hiking one of New Zealand’s famous tracks, or even black water rafting in a cave with glowworms, this place has no shortage of things to keep your adventurous heart racing. Just be sure to slow down and enjoy that delicious New Zealand wine after.
Where to stay
Azur Luxury Lodge, located right by Lake Wakatipu, not only offers 360 views of the amazingly beautiful lake but also serves locally-sourced and delicious food.
Ireland
A road trip around Ireland is a must for anyone but is especially perfect for a honeymoon getaway. Explore Giant’s Causeway and Belfast in Northern Ireland, witness the greenest scenery you'll ever lay eyes on along the Dingle Peninsula, and drive your way down to the Cliffs of Moher before stopping for a pint at Temple Bar in Dublin.
Where to stay
While there are adorable bed and breakfasts all over, nothing quite beats staying in an actual castle. Live your Game of Thrones or Disney fairytale fantasy at Dromoland Castle.
South Africa
A safari in South Africa will be one of the most amazing, unforgettable experiences you'll ever have. Picture waking up bright and early to the calls of wildlife, the excitement of that first glimpse of lions lounging in the morning sun, romantic evenings spent dining under the stars—if this place isn’t on your bucket list, I can’t imagine what is! Once you’re finished your safari, be sure to check out the beauty of Cape Town and explore the wineries of Stellenbosch, Paarl, and Franschoek.
Where to stay
Courtnie’s favorite is Thorntree River Lodge in Zambia. We would agree. It’s more modern and right on the river. We wouldn’t recommend doing Game Drives here but activities such as cruising, kayaking, rhino sites and a visit to the Falls is a must.
Austria
"The hills are alive with the sound of music" is a sentiment that holds true throughout the entire country of Austria. Whether you’re into classical music or love a good chocolate cake, Vienna is a must. Next, take the train to the scenic towns of Hallstatt and Innsbruck, where you will be greeted with glassy alpine lakes, striking mountains, and beautiful architecture. Come to Austria during the Christmas season for some of Europe’s best Christmas markets.
Where to stay
The Guesthouse Vienna is sleek and modern with gorgeous views of the Austrian capital. Use it as your home base for exploring this lovely town.
New York, NY
I don't know about you, but I'd take getting lost in a big city over the beach any day. You’ll find no shortage of ways to have fun in New York. Visit the Met for all of the classic art you can handle, then take a romantic stroll with your sweetheart through Central Park. If you want to taste some of the best New York has to offer, check out Per Se, one of NYC’s five Michelin 3-star restaurants and 100% one of the best meals we’ve ever had.
Where to stay
The High Line Hotel is located in ever-popular Chelsea where you can check out plenty of galleries, walk on the High Line, and sample delicious food at the Chelsea market.
Peru
From the Amazon to ancient ruins, there are countless reasons to make Peru your dream honeymoon destination. Whether you’re looking forward to hiking up to Machu Picchu or you’re dreaming of seeing the famous floating islands of Lake Titicaca, this place is too beautiful for words. I guarantee you'll fall head over heels for this stunning South American gem.
Where to stay
Hotel Sol Y Luna is located in the Sacred Valley in Urubamba, surrounded by the Andes mountains. A perfect place to stop and rest on the way to Machu Picchu, you can stay in a luxurious casita with heated floors, a fireplace, and a private terrace with incredible views.
Morocco
Morocco is stuffed to the brim with colour and culture. Hit the streets of Marrakech and explore the bazaars for spices, carpets, and more, then venture to the blue city of Chefchaouen to snap some envy-inducing Instagram pics. Be sure to budget some time in your trip for a night or two in the Sahara desert, where you can ride camels and stay in luxurious tents.
Where to stay
Peacock Pavillion is where I first fell in love. Yes, they are great for groups but I do not know one honeymoon couple who would past this place up. Maryam the owner is the sweetest person you will ever meet. This place is the perfect alternative to the traditional riad, a boutique hotel in an olive grove, pictures does not do this place justice. The bonus: you staying here helps empower girls to become leaders for the future.
Beaches aren’t the only dream honeymoon locale, especially when all of these beauties are an option! Whether you end up exploring the Andes or watching wildlife on safari, you and your partner will be guaranteed a romantic and life-changing adventure like no other. If you’re ready to start planning that dream honeymoon, send us a message!
Courtnie is the founder & CEO of TravelBash. After years as an ambitious fundraiser, she took her passion for travel full-time. She has lived all over the U.S. and abroad and after planning her own destination wedding, she decided to help other couples plan their big day abroad too. She has written “Passport to Paradise: The Complete Destination Wedding Guide,” a top seller on Amazon. She has also been featured in Travel + Leisure, Destination I Do and The Washington Post. As a certified travel advisor, expert event planner and natural connector, she uses her powers to create VIP travel experiences.
