5 romantic winter honeymoon experiences
For some, the dream honeymoon is white sandy beaches, snorkelling in turquoise seas and watching the sun go down together, cocktail in hand. For others, there’s nothing more romantic than a magical winter honeymoon full of cosy moments by roaring log fires.
Evoking images of snow-covered landscapes, frozen lakes, starry skies and steaming mugs of spiked hot chocolate, a winter honeymoon is the ultimate romantic escape. What’s more, if you love outdoor adventures like skiing, tobogganing and hiking, many winter destinations cater well for cold-weather pursuits, as well as more relaxing wellness activities and indulgent gastronomic delights. Considering a winter honeymoon? Here's our pick of the top experiences for an unforgettable winter honeymoon in the snow.
1. Geothermal spa in Iceland
From soaking in hot springs to exploring some of the world's most awe-inspiring natural landscapes, Iceland is an idyllic destination for couples who want to travel somewhere beautiful and full of adventure. And even if you're not the adventurous type, there is still plenty to do, with incredible local cuisine, charming hotels, and of course, the spectacular Northern Lights.
A must visit is The Blue Lagoon at the Retreat Hotel. This geothermal spa is famous for its warm milky-blue mineral-rich waters (temperatures are around 98° to 104°F) bounded by centuries-old lava canyons. Thousands of people every year venture to the Blue Lagoon to bathe in its tranquil waters so if you want to avoid the crowds of the public pools, book into the Retreat Spa for a secluded subsection that is reserved for hotel guests and spa patrons only. There is even a float-up bar where you can toast your new marriage with a glass of champagne while soaking in the warm waters.
2. Ice dining in Lapland
In Swedish Lapland, why not try ice dining in a cosy one-of-a-kind experience way up north in the Arctic Circle? Taking place at the Treehotel, you’ll be transferred by snowmobile to a glittering icy lake, where a heated tipi on top of the ice awaits. Sat on reindeer hides, you'll be served an incredible three-course meal by candlelight, and may even get a glimpse of the Northern Lights. What could be more romantic than that on your honeymoon?!
The next day, you can experience the Narnia-like landscape with a wide-range of fun activities, such as horse riding, snowshoeing or a husky tour, or more relaxing experiences like yoga, meditation or hanging out in the Tree Sauna or Forest Spa.
Heli-skiing in British Columbia
If you and your partner are passionate skiers or snowboarders, turn your winter honeymoon experience up a notch with an exhilarating heli-skiing experience. Heli-skiing involves an expert guiding you to the most secluded, untouched spots on the mountain to enjoy spectacular glaciers and breathtaking landscapes, all while practising your turns. Whether you wish to experience the Austrian Alps, Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia or the pristine slopes of Mount Olympus in New Zealand, heli-skiing is definitely one for the bucket list and what better time to do it than your honeymoon.
3. Heli-skiing in British Columbia
If you and your partner are passionate skiers or snowboarders, turn your winter honeymoon experience up a notch with an exhilarating heli-skiing experience. Heli-skiing involves an expert guiding you to the most secluded, untouched spots on the mountain to enjoy spectacular glaciers and breathtaking landscapes, all while practising your turns. Whether you wish to experience the Austrian Alps, Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia or the pristine slopes of Mount Olympus in New Zealand, heli-skiing is definitely one for the bucket list and what better time to do it than your honeymoon.
4. Stay in a mountain rifugio in the Dolomites
The ultimate way to immerse yourself deep in a winter landscape, rifugios are alpine inns located throughout the Dolomites mountain range in northeastern Italy. The classic accommodation for climbers, skiers or mountaineers, they offer a truly magical honeymoon experience for lovers of the great outdoors. You can ski to another rifugio for dinner, enjoy the famous pink Enrosadira (or alpenglow) as the sun sets and wake to enjoy the stunning sunrise.
Staying in a rifugio is an incredible experience, and one of the best ways to enjoy the Dolomites. However, don't expect a luxurious experience. You can expect the huts to be cozy, with a German-Austrian influence in both the decor and cooking. But bear in mind that you may need to share bathrooms with other guests and hot water might not always be available. Facilities vary widely between rifugios so be sure to check when booking.
5. Share Swiss fondue under the stars
Who doesn’t like stargazing…and cheese?! Head to the Swiss Alps for the ultimate luxury cosy honeymoon and indulge in delicious fondue under-the-stars. The five-star Chedi Andermatt offers an authentic fondue experience where you’ll snowshoe through a wintery wonderland to a cosy alpine cabin. There, you’ll be greeted with an aperitif and served an authentic Swiss cheese fondue.
You can also explore the surrounding snow-covered landscape on a romantic horse-drawn sleigh ride or go on an exhilarating helicopter trip to see the picturesque mountain scenery of Andermatt from above.
