2025’s most romantic honeymoon destinations

20 Jan 2025 | Updated on: 23 Jan 2025 | By Annie Lewis

Tying the knot this year? Celebrate your love at the most exclusive destinations and hotels money can buy

There are luxury destinations – and then there are honeymoon-worthy destinations. It’s not uncommon for newlyweds to want to push the boat out when it comes to their first holiday as a married couple and, in that spirit, we’ve scoured the globe for the most romantic stays money can buy. Ranging from safari hotspots in Africa to exclusive private islands in Panama, here are the best honeymoon destinations for flying, flopping and detoxing from wedding stress – while also putting your plethora of annual leave to good use by seeing a different side of the world, too. 

The ultimate safari: Zambia

victoria falls

Zambia is a beautiful country in southern Africa and home to one of the seven natural wonders of the world: Victoria Falls. The falls, which are more than a kilometre wide, create a misty fog visible from miles away and give the nearby Mosi oa Tunya (‘the smoke that thunders’) National Park its name. Offering natural experiences with unspoilt wildlife across 20 national parks, 36 game management areas and populated by 73 ethnic groups, Zambia also sees the world’s largest annual mammal migration while being home to the world’s biggest hippo population, man-made lake and Africa’s second largest wildebeest migration. While on safari, keep an eye out for the endangered white rhinoceros, which is closely monitored and protected within the park, making it one of the few places in Zambia – and the world – where wildlife watchers can catch a glimpse. 

Where to stay: Tena Tena Camp

Tena Tena Camp, situated in the exclusive Nsefu sector of South Luangwa National Park, offers couples an intimate escape in a wild, remote location. Surrounded by mahogany trees and overlooking the Luangwa River, each of the six private tents, including a luxurious honeymoon suite, is carefully positioned to ensure complete privacy and uninterrupted views of the wildlife-rich riverbank. Open air en-suite bathrooms, designed to blend with nature, and private verandahs invite couples to unwind and connect with their surroundings. Romantic highlights include candlelit dinners under the stars and sunset game drives, offering unforgettable opportunities to spot wildlife while soaking in the beauty of the African bush.

From £700 per night. 

The Scandinavian stay: Finland

finland
Image: Shutterstock

For an idyllic and relaxing coolcation honeymoon, head to Finnish Lapland. Situated in the heart of the Arctic region, it’s naturally a popular hotspot for families at Christmas, but those looking for a Scandi back-to-nature experience can visit throughout the year to immerse themselves in the unique landscape, home to an abundance of free-roaming reindeer and other wildlife. Go in the summer months for 24-hour sunlight, or head here in the winter for unrivalled skiing at Ylläs – the biggest resort in the country that boasts more than 500km of trails – and a chance to spot the Northern Lights between September and March. 

Where to stay: Invisible Forest Lodge

Invisible Forest Lodge

For couples seeking a romantic escape, Invisible Forest Lodge offers a secluded retreat in the heart of Lapland’s wilderness. This unique accommodation, located within the Arctic Circle in Rovaniemi, has become a bucket list destination for those wishing to combine modern comfort with breathtaking natural surroundings. Boasting 13 Invisible Suites with floor-to-ceiling mirrored glass windows, get up-close-and-personal with the wildlife outside while enjoying the walk-in shower and private sauna – perfect for warming up after a peaceful stroll through snow-dusted pines. Plus, head to the concierge desk to book bespoke Arctic experiences, including husky safaris, reindeer farm visits and aurora tours.

From £1,053 per night. 

The Stateside trip: Chicago

chicago city guide

While Chicago is famed for its deep dish pizza, vibrant jazz community and unwavering sports scene, there’s more to the third largest city in the US than meets the eye. Nicknamed the Windy City, Chicago occupies an interesting geographical intersection known for its extreme seasons and as the starting point of Route 66. It’s home to some of the world’s tallest buildings, such as Willis Tower and 360 Chicago, while culture vultures should head to the Art Institute of Chicago: one of the oldest and largest galleries in the world, frequently putting on major exhibitions featuring world-class artworks. For those not averse to splashing the cash, head to the Magnificent Mile and Michigan Avenue to browse boutiques from the major fashion houses and luxury department stores, while Colin Park, Armitage Avenue, Halsted Street and Wicker Park are home to a plethora of vintage stores. 

Where to stay: The Peninsula Chicago

Since its grand opening in 2001, The Peninsula Chicago has been consistently named one of the most romantic hotels in the city. Located at the heart of the Magnificent Mile and on the doorstep of Chicago’s business and shopping district, the 339-key hotel features a classical interior style that spans three restaurants and bars, a state-of-the-art spa and heated pool situated on the 20th floor of the hotel. Ideal for couples looking to enjoy a romantic getaway, The Peninsula offers a romance package which includes a suite of choice, a delicious breakfast for two, a bottle of champagne, chocolate-covered strawberries and in-room rose petals at turndown.

From £388 per night. 

The European bolthole: Loire Valley, France

loire valley

Perfect for old-fashioned romantics, the Loire Valley oozes French splendour and style as a former playground of France’s aristocratic elite, kings, queens, dukes and nobles. Exploring the cornucopia of châteaux in the Loire Valley will transport you to the Middle Ages and Renaissance periods while teaching you more about the country’s history – and no day in and out of turrets is complete without a moment in some of the adjacent working wine cellars and vineyards. Make a beeline for Domaine Fabien Duveau, Caves Ambacia, Cave de Vouvray and Domaine Thierry Cosme for some of the best sauvignon blanc in all the land. 

Where to stay: Hotel Chateau du Grand-Lucé

If you want to feel like you’re holidaying at the Palace of Versailles, this is the hotel for you. Just an hour outside of Paris, Hotel Château du Grand-Lucé dates back to the 18th century, when it was the home of Baron Jacques Pineau de Viennay. Today, it boasts just 19 individually-designed suites, alongside a boutique spa and signature restaurant and bar, amid 80 acres of landscaped gardens and white oak forest. Its crown jewel is the irreplicable Baron Suite, which features 17ft-tall ceilings, a marble-clad bathroom with garden views of its own, and the pièce de résistance, the Salon Chinois, aptly named for the canvas covered walls painted in the Chinoiserie style by the artist Jean-Baptiste Pillement, whose work can be found at the palace of Versailles and the Louvre. Couples can while away the day exploring the property and its artwork, taking a boat out on the lake or cycling around the grounds to truly switch off in a grand setting. 

From £475 per night. 

The tropical paradise: Grenada, Caribbean

grenada waterfalls

The tri-island state of Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique is an ideal romantic destination with its uncrowded soft-sand beaches, dreamy sunsets, and verdant mountain landscapes. Tucked away on this Spice Isle, couples can discover intimate retreats, lively coastal bars, and a serene ambience, making it the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway. Those with a thrill-seeking side should explore its diverse terrain via rainforest hikes, diving among vibrant coral reefs, or conquering challenging mountain trails. Grand Anse Beach is one of the island’s most famous tourist hotspots, and just a 30-minute drive away lies Grand Etang National Park, where you can chase waterfalls and admire the Grand Etang Lake: an extinct volcano crater now filled with water. Don’t miss the Mona monkeys swinging from the branches, too. 

Where to stay: Mount Cinnamon Hotel

mount cinnamon hotel grenada

Grenada’s Mount Cinnamon Hotel is one of the island’s most romantic hotels, perfect for couples looking for an intimate honeymoon escape with Caribbean charm. Fringing the aforementioned Grand Anse Beach, this seaside resort combines oceanview suites and villas with an array of exciting activities, from relaxing yoga sessions to rum tastings, and diving excursions to beach volleyball and tennis lessons. Complete with an intimate spa – perfect for couples' massages – and a newly-renovated restaurant featuring locally-sourced cuisine, those wishing to get an authentic taste of the Spice Isle should call on the hotel’s concierge to arrange romantic hikes through the rainforest, swimming in the waterfalls, sunset sailing cruises and a chocolate factory tour.

From £595 per night. 

The back-to-nature break: Islas Secas, Panama

For honeymooners in search of off-grid experiences, look no further than Islas Secas: a highly-exclusive, privately-owned archipelago situated in the Gulf of Chiriquí in Panama. Transformed into a luxury resort, the resort specialises in immersive marine experiences, from snorkeling and diving in vibrant aquatic ecosystems to exploring the biodiversity of Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. From April to October, Islas Secas sets the scene for an inimitable front-row view of the migration of two distinct populations of humpback whales, one from feeding areas off Antarctica and Chile and the other from the Northern Hemisphere. Expect to see large pods of whales from the resort’s shoreline, with best-practice boat trips also available to those desiring a closer look at this magnificent species in its natural habitat. The whales’ breaching, spy hopping, tail slapping and lob tailing will prove why Panama’s whale-watching is some of the best in the world. 

Where to stay: Casita Mirador

Tucked between the trees overlooking the rippling waves of the bay is the romantic hideaway Casita Mirador, enveloped by lush, tropical gardens. This one-bedroom villa is secluded and private, with three areas for languid lounging (think cloud-like daybeds shaded by a thatched cabana), and a plunge pool from which to gaze out to sea. With an airy indoor-outdoor Panamanian design, expect a king-sized bed and sleek en-suite to cater to all your needs, while social activities and fine dining can be found at the island’s hub, Terraza, where plates of seafood ceviche and banana-leaf steamed catch of the day are made fresh daily. 

From £2,312 per night. 

The barefoot luxury escape: Bali

kuta bali
Image: Shutterstock

You’d be forgiven for thinking Bali was more of a winter sun destination, like its Asian cousins, but the small Indonesian country actually boasts balmy temperatures throughout the summer months – perfect for post-summer nuptials. Ubud is a highlight for those looking to sample Bali’s famed wellness culture amid rice paddies, or venture to the more hip and trendy Canggu for bohemian vibes by the coast. If you have little ones in tow, we recommend Kuta and Legian – these neighbouring beaches are known for lively nightlife, surf beaches, and an array of family-friendly activities. 

Where to stay: Raffles Bali

Those looking for an intimate, peaceful island escape should book Raffles Bali: a luxury beachfront resort with just 32 villas complete with private infinity pools, set among 36 acres of lush botanical gardens. Boasting a private beach – a rare oasis of calm away from Bali’s tourist-packed main beaches – personal butler service, two restaurants and a bar, there’s plenty to do here. Don’t miss Raffles Bali’s fine dining restaurant, Rumari, and an exquisite spa, featuring two treatment suites, each with its own soaking tub and sliding doors that lead out to a hill-view terrace. Health and beauty programmes borrow inspiration from Balinese and south-east Asian traditional healing practices, while mindfulness classes include everything from yoga and meditation to Reiki and sound healing. Andddd, relax. 

From £840 per night. 

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