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While popular honeymoon destinations like Paris, the Maldives, or Santorini remain classic choices, something is enchanting about exploring hidden gems that offer romance, adventure, and serenity in unique ways. If you're looking for an offbeat honeymoon experience, here are five destinations that combine beauty, charm, and intimacy for a truly unforgettable escape.
La Rioja in Spain offers the perfect honeymoon setting for wine lovers and those who enjoy a slow-paced, intimate escape. Nestled in northern Spain, this lesser-known gem is renowned for its world-class vineyards, rustic charm, and rolling landscapes.
Spend your days tasting some of Spain's finest wines at historic wineries like Marqués de Riscal, and indulge in wine tours that take you through the picturesque countryside. The region is also known for its medieval villages, such as Laguardia and Briones, which are filled with narrow streets, ancient architecture, and romantic squares. Couples can explore the region's rich history, visit monasteries, or hike in the Sierra de la Demanda mountains. End your day with a sunset walk through the vineyards or enjoy a cosy dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant serving authentic Spanish cuisine.
For those seeking a peaceful honeymoon in Greece away from the crowds of Santorini and Mykonos, Antiparos is an idyllic alternative. This tiny, unspoiled island in the Aegean Sea offers secluded beaches, charming villages, and an authentic Greek island atmosphere.
Antiparos is perfect for couples who want to relax by crystal-clear waters and explore quaint fishing villages without the rush of tourists. The island's main town, Chora, is a picture-perfect labyrinth of white-washed buildings, bougainvillaea, and serene streets with cafes and boutiques. Explore hidden coves, swim in the turquoise waters of Soros Beach, or take a boat trip to the nearby uninhabited islets for a private beach day.
Hiking through the island's scenic trails, visiting the Antiparos Cave with its stalactites, or enjoying an intimate candlelit dinner by the sea under a canopy of stars can make for unforgettable moments with your partner.
Located in the Bay of Naples, Ischia offers the charm of an Italian island with fewer tourists than its more famous neighbour, Capri. Ischia is known for its natural hot springs, therapeutic mud baths, and lush landscapes, making it an ideal destination for couples looking to combine relaxation with adventure.
Spend your honeymoon soaking in the thermal baths of Negombo or Poseidon Gardens, where you can enjoy spa treatments against the backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea. The island also has secluded beaches like Maronti and San Montano, where you can unwind peacefully. For a touch of history and culture, visit the Castello Aragonese, a medieval castle perched on a volcanic rock offering beautiful coastline views.
Ischia also offers plenty of hiking opportunities for nature-loving couples. Trek through Mount Epomeo for panoramic views or explore the island's verdant vineyards, which produce some of Italy's best wines.
Chile's diverse landscapes offer an unparalleled honeymoon experience for couples with a thirst for adventure. From the otherworldly Atacama Desert to the rugged beauty of Patagonia, this South American country combines natural scenery with a sense of exploration.
Start your journey in the Atacama Desert, the driest place on earth. Explore the vast salt flats, geysers, and Mars-like landscapes while watching the transformation of colours during the sunset at Valle de la Luna. Stargazing in the Atacama Desert is one of the most magical experiences, as the region is renowned for its clear skies and astronomical observatories.
Next, head south to Patagonia, where the towering peaks of Torres del Paine National Park and the glaciers of the Southern Ice Field will leave you in awe. The region offers many opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, and exploring the wilderness. Stay in an eco-lodge or a luxury camp to experience the beauty of Patagonia while still enjoying modern comforts.
If you're seeking a honeymoon that combines wildlife, luxury, and unparalleled natural beauty, Mara Naboisho in Kenya offers an offbeat, intimate, exclusive safari experience. Situated adjacent to the Maasai Mara, Mara Naboisho Conservancy is a private reserve that limits the number of visitors, ensuring a more secluded and personalised experience.
Couples can embark on game drives to witness the iconic Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros—in their natural habitat. The conservancy is also home to vast herds of wildebeest, giraffes, and zebras and provides excellent bird-watching opportunities. For a truly unforgettable experience, opt for a hot air balloon ride at sunrise to witness the sprawling savannahs from above.
What sets Mara Naboisho apart is the combination of wildlife adventure and cultural immersion. Couples can visit Maasai villages, learn about local traditions, and even enjoy a bush dinner under the stars. Many of the lodges in the conservancy are eco-friendly, offering luxurious tents that blend comfort and wilderness.
