Archive for the ‘European Honeymoons’ Category

European Castle Honeymoons

For some people a fairy-tale honeymoon, like something out of a book they read long ago as a child, is what they desire.But just how possible is it to have a European Castle Honeymoon? Are they out of reach? For the scores of people who’ve wished they could live like royalty after their wedding, that dream doesn’t have to end, we promise! What follows is our list of real-life castles with the mystique, romance and fine dining to make your honeymoon, unforgettable.

Our picks for European Castle honeymoons

Dromoland Castle – Ireland:

This hotel and country estate is located in County Clare in Ireland. It is a prestigious 5 star honeymoon destinations complete with a spa and golf course. The castle itself is centuries old and rich in history.  With the staff waiting on you hand and foot, you will truly feel like royalty. Apart from the service, the castle has indulgent food and a challenging golf course. The pictures on the website have to be seen to be believed!

Parador de Alarcon – Alarcon, Spain

Does amedieval Arabian night in this historic 8th century Arab castle take your fancy? The castle is teeming with history of the Arab conquest of Spain and it is nestled on a  hillside, Parador de Alarcon. To heighten the effect of being transported to another age there is splendid period dining room and decorative touches. All in all it offers modern-day luxury in a well-preserved and striking castle.

Lapa Palace – Lisbon, Portugal

Luxury and indulgence are Lapa Palace’s trumpcards. If you even manage to leave your lavish room, bathe in Lisbon’s gorgeous sun on the tropical pool deck, you’ll find yourself pampered and in the mood. Customer reviews speak of ‘amazing service’ and ‘incredible hospitality’. The palace itself looks like something out of a Jane Austen novel.

Chateau D’Esclimont – St.-Symphorien-le-Chateau, France

Tucked away in the woods, a mere hour outside of Paris in the historic area of Versailles, Chateau D’Esclimont provides the ideal 4 star honeymoon getaway with its large, wooded grounds, fine dining and Baroque architecture, complete with turrets and  moats. Relax and enjoy a glass of the delicious vintage of the area in this authentic Renaissance chateau that was once the home of nobility.

Schloss Monchstein – Salzburg, Austria

France is not the only country with breath taking castles. For those seeking fresh air, idyllic scenery and classical music, Schloss Monchstein is a perfect honeymoon destination high in the wooded hills. Although rooms in this castle resemble hotel rooms more than other castles we have mentioned,all of the rooms are well appointed and opulent.

There are some of our recommendations for European castle honeymoons to inspire your honeymoon planning!

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Honeymoon spots in Spain

Spain is a perennially popular with tourists for its sunshine, exotic culture and outdoor lifestyle. Here we have a look at some of the best honeymoon spots in Spain. Spain is one of the largest countries in Western Europe so you are really spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing a honeymoon destination. Here are honeymoonguy’s pick of the best locations.

Honeymoon spots in Spain

Valencia – This is a somewhat sleepy city on the east coast of Spain. In fact it is the third-largest city in Spain after Madrid and Barcelona and has a laid-back, distinctly Mediterranean feel about it. The traditional Spanish dish, paella originated from this area. The City of Arts and Sciences is the most famous landmark of the area and an architectural masterpiece. Catalan is spoken in the area which means that sometimes you may feel that you are not even in Spain, but somewhere even more exotic!

Barcelona – Barcelona for many Spaniards is the more chic, elegant and cosmopolitan of the Spanish cities. Its proximity for France and therefore the rest of the continent means that it is a crossroads to Europe.

Madrid is the capital city of Spain and the historic city centre is teeming with ancient churches, cathedrals, plazas and intimate nooks and crannies. The best time to visit is in the spring, when it is not too hot.

Canary Islands  - The Canary Islands are off the coast of northern Africa and although they are part of the Spanish crown, they have an authentically Afro-European flavour. Lanzarote and Tenerife are two of the largest islands in the chain and offer much for honeymooners.

Those are just a taste of honeymoon spots in Spain. We hope that this has given you some general overview of an area you would like to focus on. If you are interested in more honeymoons in a Spanish speaking country have a look at Cuba honeymoons .

Italy Honeymoon Destinations

Known to be one of the most romantic countries, Italy has always been on top of the list when it comes to hot honeymoon destinations. The country offers a choice of marvelous and historic sights, first class romantic hotels, tempting Italian cuisine, and a lot more.

1. Venice. A perfect city to start a honeymoon. Italy take you to a memorable ride on a gondola along the Grand Canal with a love song sung by the gondola driver. Along the canal are the great landmarks of Venice like Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute, a wonderful site for honeymooners. A romantic dinner date in famous restaurants like Centrale will surely make lovers fall in love over and over again. Centrale reflects a trendy look and a romantic atmosphere which attracts not just locals but tourists and celebrities too.

2. Lake Como. A perfect honeymoon destination for nature lovers. The pearl of the lake is Bellegio, designed for sight seeing and relaxation. Great hotel or villa options await your way to make your honeymoon in Italy a very memorable one. Choose within the vast accommodation options available which will make your honeymoon more memorable. There are restored treasures located in the small village of Suira with extraordinary designs. Or you can opt to rent a villa with a wonderful blend of the modern designs and the ancient architectural charm.

3. Positano, Amalfi Coast. Add Positano at the Amalfi Coast to your honeymoon Italy itinerary. The town is built vertically giving you an eye-catching view of the ocean. And if you love seafood, then you’ll absolutely love it there! This place is like a perfect hub for a romantic dinner while you enjoy beautiful views. Take a mini-cruise along the coastline as you see the breathtaking views of the coastline. This is a perfect spot for a romantic reminiscing of lovely memories indeed.

4. Verona. The most romantic of them all. If you got fascinated with Romeo and Juliet’s love story, then your honeymoon Italy may just have to end here. You can visit Juliet’s house and rub your right breast on Juliet’s statue which is said to bring good luck! Get more romantic by watching an opera in a centuries-old open-air Roman arena.

Romantic Honeymoon Spots in France

Dreaming of a romantic honeymoon? It’s possible especially if your target destination is France.

When people think of France, what often comes to mind is romance. This country is, in fact, considered to be one of the romantic countries in the world and this is the reason why couples, whether married or still engaged, are attracted to go to this country.

France offers various places ideal for couples who wish to spend one of the best times of their lives. You have a choice between going around the cities or stay away from the busy urban centers and instead head off to some quiet place surrounded by nature.

 

Romantic Honeymoon Spots in France

Paris - This is a popular choice particularly for couples visiting France for the first time. Despite being a city, it has its own charm that attracts people all year round. It’s easy to be so in love here because you’re free to kiss or walk hand in hand anywhere making it an ideal spot for France honeymoons.

The Eiffel Tower, known as the famous French icon, is a great spot to visit and even dine. There’s a great restaurant atop the tower which is frequently visited by millions of people every year including couples on their France honeymoons.

Other romantic activities you can do are go on a boat cruise on the Seine River or visit museums such as the Louvre Museum where the famous Mona Lisa painting is displayed.

Loire Valley - If you love the countryside, this place known as the Garden of France is perfect. Part of this area, particularly those near the Loire River, has been declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you can stroll with your loved one, go biking or horseback riding.

Here you will find more than 300 breathtaking and luxurious castles or chateaux that have been well preserved and some converted into elegant hotels. Many of them date back from the 15th to 17th centuries. Those wanting to experience a royal setting should book at one of these castle-hotels and explore the great castles around. Surely, you will never get enough.

In terms of food, you can enjoy fine dishes as well as top quality wines to go along with your meals.

St. Paul de Vence - As a couple, sometimes it’s a great to be staying in an old fashioned village such as this one located on a hilltop in Provence. The area features sidewalk cafes, boutiques, art galleries, statues, beautiful fountains and winding streets. Nearby is a Matisse-designed church in Vence which is a must-see.

This place is well known for its contemporary art and friendly atmosphere. There are first class restaurants in place to cater to your discerning tastes.

Montsegur - For the adventurous couples looking for a unique France honeymoon, you can climb the Pog Mountain in Montsegur. At the peak you will find the ruins of a Cathar castle and its fortress walls plus you get fantastic views of the nearby mountains and valleys. The castle has been considered a historical monument by France’s Ministry of Culture since 1862.