“Winter” and “honeymoon” don’t often appear in the same sentence, but before you recoil at the mere thought of the most romantic trip of your life taking place at this time of year, hear us out. Summer voyages often come with touristy crowds and correlating high prices. However, a winter trip not only brings with it the chance of an off-season deal, but also idyllic options for snow-lovers and snowbirds alike. Below, thirteen of our favorite winter honeymoon hotels.
Rugged and Cozy
The Retreat at Blue Lagoon, Iceland
Touted as Iceland’s first true luxury destination, The Retreat at Blue Lagoon was one of the most closely anticipated hotel openings of 2018. And while Iceland has been a popular travel destination for a couple years now, the sleek modern structure of this new building is bound to bring its reputation to even greater heights. Consider booking if you’re looking to unplug and explore the nature around you.
Adare Manor describes itself as a “castle hotel,” which is honestly not an exaggeration. The historic structure is located on 840 acres of parkland, and is one of the best rated hotels in Ireland. And while inclement weather may prevent you from using the affiliated golf course, you’ll have more than enough to explore inside the manor’s cozy interior.
The Equinox Resort and Spa, Vermont
No, this Equinox is not related to the well-known chain of gyms. Instead, it is arguably the premier luxury hospitality destination in the state of Vermont. The hotel is no stranger to winter sports enthusiasts, but for those who would prefer to opt out of riding down any nearby slopes, there’s also an extensive spa,. Worried about becoming stir-crazy? Fear not—The Equinox is located in the adorable small town of Manchester.
Does your ideal honeymoon involve feeling like Queen Elizabeth (or Kate Middleton) for a day? If so, look no further than this retreat located in Hampshire, England. After a series of delays, Heckfield Place opened earlier this year to great acclaim. But thanks to its thoughtful renovation, it’s clear that it was well worth the wait.
A focus on snow and fireplaces doesn’t mean that you have to be isolated in the great outdoors. For the best of both worlds, consider Hotel Nelligan in Montreal. The building itself dates back to the 1850s, while its convenient location makes it the perfect home base from which to explore this French-infused city. Poutine et pommes frites, here you come!
For Snow Birds
If you haven’t heard of Hotel Esencia, you’ve probably seen pictures of it since the Tulum resort is a favorite of celebrities such as Lupita Nyong’o andBella Hadid. If its pristine beaches and enticing pools aren’t enough to draw you in, design enthusiasts will be glad to learn the hotel itself is teeming with bright and beautiful elements of decor.
You’ve heard of Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, located in the South of France, but have you heard of Jumby Bay? This resort, located on a private island near Antigua, is owned and operated by the same hotel family, Oetker Collection. In other words, it’s a tropical paradise you can enjoy during the winter months when Europe is still too chilly.
If a cookie-cutter experience is anathema to you and your significant other, than Korakia may be the answer to your honeymoon prayers. Located in Palm Springs, this small boutique hotel brings a dose of Moroccan style to the California desert. Alternate pool days with explorations of the local mid-century modern architecture, and be sure to get an Instagram in its highly photogenic courtyard fountain, which is usually filled with flowers.
Cavas Wine Lodge Mendoza, Argentina
You’ve considered Napa and Tuscany, but have you thought of Mendoza, the wine region of Argentina? Unlike Northern California and Italy, this location will be in the throes of warm weather, thanks to its Southern Hemisphere location. A member of Relais & Chateaux, this lodge and spa is the first of its kind in the region. And with less than twenty private villas and rooms available, it’s best to book early!
Potential Off-Season Deals
If you pay attention to travel news, you’ll know that Paris’ most famous hotels have had a series of high-profile renovations in recent years. (First there was the Ritz, then the Crillion.) And while you may have thought that this phase in the City of Light’s modern architecture history was through after this initial one-two punch, you’d be wrong. The Lutetia Rive Gauche is the newest remodel on the block, and thanks to the fact that it’s located in arguably the world’s most romantic city, it should make for a truly ideal choice.
Picture yourself wandering around the canals of Venice, a light snowdrift wafting down and landing on the nearby water. You’ll have plenty of art to see and great Italian food to eat. Now, the only question is, where should you stay? Why, the famed Gritti Palace, of course. As Venice is packed each summer thanks to its alternating biennales, winter makes for an ideal, and far less crowded, time to go.
Portugal has become quite the popular travel destination in recent years. If you’re looking for an opportunity to go, there may be no better time than during your European honeymoon. Explore Lisbon’s cuisine and beautiful blue and white azulejos tile-work while staying at the local Four Seasons. The hotel is centrally located and features an Insta-worthy spiral staircase.
Amanzoe is Amangiri’s Greek outpost, and the only thing more beautiful than its water views and local landscape are the destination’s minimalist interiors. Since it’s your honeymoon, consider booking the hotel’s one bedroom villa, for the travel treat of a lifetime.
