Europe’s hidden honeymoon gems are full of storybook charm and one-of-a-kind experiences: candlelit dinners by alpine lakes, sunrise strolls through lavender fields, and centuries-old villages where time seems to pause just for two. I’ve spent decades uncovering places like these, and believe me—this is where the magic happens. It’s not about checking off sights. It’s about finding those quiet, golden moments where it’s just the two of you and the world feels like it’s holding its breath.
One evening, we were sipping wine on a cliffside terrace in Cinque Terre, the waves crashing below, pastel buildings glowing in the golden hour—and I thought, this is it. This is Europe, made intimate and unforgettable. Who knew love could be wrapped in such beauty, with every alley, arch, and view whispering something romantic?
We began our journey in Hallstatt, Austria, where fairytale houses cling to a mirror-like lake and the Alps rise like a dream. I’ve been there in spring, when flowers spill over windowsills and everything feels soft and still. For sun-drenched peace, Menorca, Spain won my heart. It’s quieter than Ibiza or Mallorca—no crowds, just turquoise coves, quiet beaches, and sunsets that feel like a private performance.
Then there’s Sintra, Portugal, a place I always describe as a living fairytale. We wandered misty forests and candy-colored palaces, never quite sure if we were in a dream. If you’re craving crisp air and cozy mountain lodges, the Dolomites deliver—think spa days, alpine trails, and starry nights tucked under a warm blanket.
And finally, Lake Bled, Slovenia—I rowed across the lake once as mist rose around the island chapel, and it felt like we’d slipped into another world. Castles, forests, and that still, storybook lake made it one of the most romantic places I’ve ever been. If you’re ready to trade the ordinary for the unforgettable, these places are waiting for you.
Unique European Honeymoon Vacations:
Unwind With Coastal Elegance and Sea Breezes at Boskerris Hotel
Explore Cornwall's Roseland peninsula while staying at the romantic Boskerris Hotel which offers spectacular ocean views and Mediterranean-style decor. The hotel has 15 contemporary guest rooms, most with a view of the Cornish coastline. Take romantic walks along Carbis Bay beach and explore St Ives Bay on your honeymoon. Couples can request an in-room massage to relax after a day of beach combing. The hotel serves breakfast featuring locally sourced produce, and a simple dinner menu. Afternoon tea is served in the lounge, bar or outdoors on the scenic terrace. The nearby town offers diverse restaurants, shops and cafes.
Honeymooners should book the Celebration Room at the Boskerris Hotel which offers stunning views of St Ives Bay. The room has plenty of natural light, a sunken bath in the corner of the room, and a bathroom with a large rain shower. Luxury guest amenities include bath robes, slippers, iPod dock, complimentary Wi-Fi, goose down duvets and a large collection of free movies. (+44 (0)1736 795295).
Soak Up Cliffside Views and Timeless Romance at Iconic Santorini
Iconic Santorini is a romantic hideaway carved into the cliffs of Santorini island in Greece. The stylish hotel has an infinity pool where you can take a dip with a view of the spectacular panorama below. Each room has a private terrace where honeymooners can enjoy outdoor breakfast and drinks with a view.
The hotel restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and offers private dining areas for couples who want to dine undisturbed. Iconic Santorini has a serene spa with an indoor pool and a gym where you can work out on Cybex machines and get couples massages.
The hotel is open from May to October. The hotel concierge can recommend top things to see and do in the area, including archaeological sites, wine tours, boat trips, scenic hikes, museums and shopping. Phone: +30 2286 028950
If Countryside Luxury and Andalusian Charm Call You, Stay at Barceló La Bobadilla
Rejuvenate in a unique country setting at the five star Barcelo La Bobadilla.
Ski, Hike, and Relax in Alpine Style at Hotel Gotthard
Standing since 1931, the Hotel Gotthard in Lech is one of the most historic hotels in Lech am Arlberg. Hotel Gotthard offers friendly hospitality, luxury accommodation, and a true 'home away from home' vibe that really helps to make every stay magical and unforgettable. If you’re looking for a hotel where you’ll be made to feel exceptionally welcome for every second of your stay, Hotel Gotthard is the right option.
Each room is beautifully decorated with luxury furnishings and warm tones to create a very cozy and comfortable feeling for all to enjoy. Meals and refreshments are served all through the day at various locations around the hotel.
There's also a beautiful indoor swimming pool and sauna area to relax and soothe your muscles after a long day on the slopes. Massages and spa treatments are provided to make your stay even more relaxing and invigorating.
Omesberg 119, 6764 Lech, Austria, Phone: +43 5583 35600
Indulge in Irish Hospitality and Riverside Serenity at Bellinter House
About an hour from Dublin, Bellinter House is a relaxing country estate with diverse accommodations, a gourmet restaurant and a plush spa. Accommodation options include five bedrooms in the Main House which have large plasma TVs and mood lighting, 16 smaller rooms in the East & West Pavilions, five duplex rooms in the Stables and six bedrooms in the same building as the spa.
The furniture in the guest rooms and in the common areas of the hotel is either vintage or home made. Relax in front of the grand fireplace in the Drawing Room, play billiards or board games in the Games Room, or read a book in the Library.
The Bathhouse Spa offers signature seaweed baths, facials, wraps and other relaxing treatments. Spa facilities include a steam room, sauna, and an outdoor hot tub with a view of the Boyne Valley. Bellinter House offers great fishing in the river Boyne, complete with gourmet picnics. Other activities in the area include golf, horseback riding, hot air ballooning and clay pigeon shooting.
Affordable Honeymoon Vacations:
Experience Scottish Grandeur and Garden Beauty at The Cromlix
The Cromlix is a five star hotel in Scotland, located on 34 acres of beautiful countryside. The property has just five romantic suites and ten bedrooms furnished with Scottish antique furniture. The rooms are filled with natural sunlight and have freestanding baths, 400-thread-count Egyptian cotton bed linen, and luxurious Arran Aromatics toiletries. All rooms are beautifully decorated and feature views of the manicured grounds. For leisure and relaxation, The Cromlix provides a tennis court and tennis practice wall, fishing on the loch, archery, falconry, board games, outdoor garden games, and in-room spa treatments. Chez Roux restaurant is located in the glass-walled conservatory and is run by award-winning chef Darin Campbell. Phone: +44 1786 822125
If Sky-High Spas and Mountain Dreams Tempt You, Escape to Miramonti Boutique Hotel
Miramonti Boutique Hotel is a romantic getaway in the Italian Alps with a full-service spa and a gourmet restaurant. The resort offers a variety of accommodations, including lofts, rooms and suites with heavenly views of the Alps. Relax at the full service spa which has an indoor heated pool with views of nature, a rock-bio sauna, a Finnish sauna, steam baths, and fitness rooms with private trainers. Guests receive free access to the Merano Thermal Baths, ten minutes away.
The Panorama Restaurant is a fine dining restaurant with Italian décor. Miramonti Stube serves South Tyrolean cuisine, while Miramonti Klassik offers 4-course dinners with a la carte choices. Nearby activities include horseback riding at the Sulfner riding school, and an 18-hole course with seven ponds at Golf Club Passeier Meran which, 25 minutes from the hotel.
Tamuntana Hotel, Spain
Situated in the center of historic Cadaques, the adults-only Tramuntana Hotel is an ideal accommodation for your next Costa Brava vacation.
The hotel is a couple of minutes away from the beach and sea by foot, with plenty of great restaurants in the neighboring streets as well. The hotel itself is situated in an attractive, quiet street in the old quarter, offering a truly authentic place to stay in Cadaques while also being mere minutes from top attractions and landmarks like the Museu de Cadaques.
Carrer de la Torre, 9, 17488 Cadaqués, Girona, Spain, Phone: +34 972 25 92 7
Blend Old-World Charm and Chic Luxury at Bairro Alto Hotel
Bairro Alto Hotel in Lisbon is one of Portugal's stylish romantic getaways located near designer shops and Lisbon Theatre in the heart of historic downtown. The hotel offers 24-hour room service, a 24-hour concierge and a fitness center. The hotel has 55 romantic rooms and suites on five floors. All accommodations feature double-glazed windows, providing guests with a quiet, restful ambiance. The hotel restaurant serves contemporary Portuguese cuisine with outdoor seating in the summer months, perfect for a romantic getaway. +351-21-340-8288
Jump to a Spot...
- • Unwind With Coastal Elegance and Sea Breezes at Boskerris Hotel
- • Soak Up Cliffside Views and Timeless Romance at Iconic Santorini
- • If Countryside Luxury and Andalusian Charm Call You, Stay at Barceló La Bobadilla
- • Ski, Hike, and Relax in Alpine Style at Hotel Gotthard
- • Indulge in Irish Hospitality and Riverside Serenity at Bellinter House
- • Experience Scottish Grandeur and Garden Beauty at The Cromlix
- • If Sky-High Spas and Mountain Dreams Tempt You, Escape to Miramonti Boutique Hotel
- • Tamuntana Hotel, Spain
- • Blend Old-World Charm and Chic Luxury at Bairro Alto Hotel