Ultimate Romantic Escapes and Special Honeymoons
February 2, 2022 by Perrie Hartz
Photo Courtesy of The Brando via Jeremy Austin and Angie Villa
Whether you’re making up for lost time or starting fresh in 2022, we think a romantic escape or an extra-special honeymoon is very much deserved. To help get you inspired, Hidden Doorways has assembled some of the most luxurious properties worldwide that offer memorable experiences for all types of couples. Whether you’re looking to sunbathe by a private plunge pool, take adventure to a new level on safari, wander around historic cities and contemplate art, or splash out on a private island (why not?), the perfect trip awaits.
Culture Lovers:
Photo Courtesy of Ellerman House
Ellerman House
Cape Town, South Africa
Set inside a beautifully restored Cape Edwardian mansion, Ellerman House is a boutique gem perched high above the Atlantic. In addition to those sweeping views, it’s home to a spectacular art collection. The works in the house span two centuries of South African history, with more to see in the Ellerman House Contemporary Art Gallery. Arrange a private tour of the property’s gallery with the in-house guides, then let them take you to the best galleries in the city. If you’re looking to go further afield – and we mean much further – Ellerman House can arrange trips to Antarctica by private jet (the flight is five hours). Once you touch down, you can visit an Emperor Penguin colon, trek through blue caves, and stay in a luxury base camp. Couples and newlyweds can hop on a private jet to the Benguela Diamonds ocean concession to dive for the perfect diamond. Choose a rough diamond to be cut, polished and set in jewelry.
Photo Courtesy of Casa Palopó
Casa Palopó
Lake Atitlán, Guatemala
Perched on a hill in the lush Guatemalan highlands and overlooking the picturesque Lake Atitlán, Casa Palopó is a rustic tropical hideaway. The hotel, once a private residence, retains a sense of warmth and intimacy and has only 15 luxurious suites, making it the perfect spot for couples seeking a romantic and secluded refuge. Whether looking to relax on the beach or explore the lush landscape and historic Mayan traditions, Casa Palopó offers a myriad of experiences—from scuba diving to candlelit terrace dinners to horseback riding through the hills at sunset—that are sure to appeal to couples and honeymooners looking to make extra special memories.
Photo Courtesy of Six Senses Shaharut
Six Senses Shaharut
Shaharut, Negev Desert, Israel
A chic, minimalist desert retreat less than an hour by air from Tel Aviv, Six Senses Shaharut is an enchanting oasis of tranquility nestled into a dramatic cliffside and looking out over the vast horizon. A truly off-the-beaten-path escape where couples and honeymooners can enjoy the utmost privacy and exclusivity, the property boasts incredible amenities and experiences like rooms and suites with private swimming pools and panoramic desert views, a luxurious spa, camel rides through the desert at sunset, and private candlelit picnic dinners on the dunes set against the boundless sea of inky black and twinkling stars. For the best of both worlds, couples can book a few nights at the Norman in Tel Aviv and then escape to this tranquil retreat.
Photo Courtesy of The Norman
The Norman
Tel Aviv, Israel
The only luxury boutique hotel in Tel Aviv, The Norman is comprised of two splendidly restored 1920’s residences set on King Albert Square. An impressive modern art collection, a gorgeous rooftop with panoramic city views and an infinity pool, two gourmet restaurants, and exquisite penthouse suites with fabulous private terraces make for a perfect city escape for two. Perfectly situated in the heart of the city yet secluded amid lush private gardens, The Norman is the perfect luxurious home base from which to explore the incredibly vibrant city of Tel Aviv.
Beach Lovers:
Photo Courtesy of The Brando via Jeremy Austin and Angie Villa
The Brando
Tetiaroa, French Polynesia
If you’re looking to get off the grid, a private island in French Polynesia should do the trick. Set on Marlon Brando’s former island in the South Pacific, The Brando is totally luxurious and eco-friendly, with seawater-powered cooling, solar power and generators that run on coconut oil. The 35 villas each have their own private beach area, plunge pool and a rocking chair for two. When you do decide to leave your villa, there’s snorkeling over the reefs, exploring the lagoon by Polynesian outrigger canoe or soaking in the spa. Splurge on the Fare Manu spa experience, where you’ll be pampered in a private bird’s nest above the treetops, ending with a soak in the sacred bath.
Photo Courtesy of Kokomo Private Island Resort Fiji
Kokomo Private Island Resort
Kadavu Islands, Fiji
Located within Fiji’s awe-inspiring Great Astrolabe Reef, this luxurious all-inclusive property boasts lush rainforests, crystalline waters, and spectacular white sand beaches, setting the scene for a truly unforgettable romantic escape or honeymoon. Along with pristine surroundings and luxurious accommodations, Kokomo Private Island Fiji also offers a myriad of exclusive amenities and experiences that couples will love, like private sunset sails, romantic candle-lit picnics on the beach, couples massages, incredible scuba diving opportunities, and much more. The island is perfectly secluded but also easily accessible by seaplane or helicopter, and is just a short flight from Nadi International Airport.
Photo Courtesy of Gili Lankanfushi
Gili Lankanfushi
North Malé Atoll, The Maldives
Set in the Indian Ocean, Gili Lankanfushi is a sleek and exclusive hideaway surrounded by gin-clear waters and powdery white sand. Ideal for true water lovers, the overwater villas each have their own sun terrace, water hammocks, outdoor showers and a private butler, so your every wish will be taken care of. For a truly decadent experience, book the Private Reserve, only accessible by boat, with its own gym, cinema, bar and water slide. Couples will love sailing on a traditional Dhoni at sunset, with a glass of Champagne in hand, of course.
Photo Courtesy of Six Senses Zil Pasyon
Six Senses Zil Pasyon
Félicité Island, Seychelles
On its own island in the Seychelles, Six Senses Zil Pasyon is all tropical paradise, with lush jungle, dramatic boulders and gorgeous villas with private infinity pools that overlook the sea. “Pasyon” means passion in Creole, and it’s true – the Six Senses soul can be felt in the design, the locally-inspired experiences and the thoughtful staff. While days can be spent in your private pool, there’s also adventure to be had, like swimming with turtles, hiking the island and spectacular snorkeling. As with all Six Senses properties, Zil Pasyon is dedicated to protecting its stunning natural environment. They are currently working on eradicating invasive plants so the endemic species can thrive. Honeymooners will love the beautiful morning hike to the top of Félicité island. Once you get to the top, enjoy a private breakfast picnic of chef-prepared pastries and fresh fruit as you look over your kingdom.
Photo Courtesy of Silversands Grenada
Silversands Grenada
Grand Anse Beach, Grenada
For those seeking some island time without the long-haul flight, there’s the sleek Silversands Grenada on Grenada’s famous Grande Anse Beach. Home to gorgeous contemporary suites and villas, a stunning infinity pool (the longest in the Caribbean) and a sprawling spa, it’s a carefree place to relax after all that wedding planning. And if relaxing isn’t your thing, head down to the pool on Friday night for the iconic poolside rosé party. After a delicious dinner of fresh-caught seafood at Grenadian Grill, walk along Grand Anse Beach to a local beach bar for some live music and a rum cocktail.
Spiritual Awakenings:
Photo Courtesy of Kasiiya Papagayo
Kasiiya Papagayo
Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica
Surrounded by a vast expanse of forest and coast on the Papagayo Peninsula (123 acres, to be exact), Kasiiya is a lush hideaway for nature-loving newlyweds. With two pristine beaches and just seven tented suites, there’s ample space to spread out, explore and create your own experience. A strong spiritual element is at the core of the Kasiiya experience with yoga, meditation and healing sessions, on offer. There are plenty of outdoor adventures, too, like hiking, wildlife treks, paddle boarding and surfing.
Photo Courtesy of Six Senses Ibiza
Six Senses Ibiza
Ibiza, Spain
Tucked away on the northern tip of Ibiza’s glistening Xarraca Bay, Six Senses Ibiza is a chic, minimalist haven of tranquility set on 20 acres of beautifully secluded land. Perfect for a romantic escape for two or for a sun-baked honeymoon, the property boasts spacious rooms with stunning panoramic sunset views, a sleek infinity pool, private boat charters, a 400-year old olive press and historic agricultural estate, and a Six Senses Spa and Wellness Center. Remote enough to imbue a sense of peace and calm and promote relaxation, yet easily accessible and conveniently located on one of Spain’s most lively island paradises, Six Senses Ibiza truly is the perfect sun-soaked romantic escape.
Greece Lovers:
Photo Courtesy of Daios Cove Luxury Resort & Villas
Daios Cove Luxury Resort & Villas
Crete, Greece
Set in an intimate bay on the northern coast of Crete, Daios Cove is a luxurious resort with its own private beach. The property has plenty to keep you busy, with an expansive spa, four restaurants and a full-service gym. If you prefer to cozy up just the two of you, you can absolutely make it happen. Guests in a suite or villa – which boast private pools that overlook the Aegean Sea – have all-inclusive benefits, with unlimited drinks, daily meals and free 24-hour room service. Honeymooners will love the privately chartered catamarans to explore the many stunning beaches and coves of Crete and splash around wherever you wish.
Photo Courtesy of Kālesma Mykonos
Kālesma
Mykonos, Greece
Kālesma means “inviting” in Greek, and it’s a truly fitting name for this intimate, whitewashed Mediterranean hideaway in the hilltops of Ornos Bay in Mykonos. The 25 spacious one-bedroom suites and two villas are set in iconically Cycladic buildings with views of the Aegean Sea. Each suite opens up to a terrace with a private pool. (In fact, it’s the only property in Mykonos with private pools for each suite.) Kālesma is just 10 minutes from Mykonos town for easy access to the island’s shops, restaurants and beach clubs. Or, stay in and soak up the view: each suite delivers both sunrise and sunset views. Kālesma Mykonos is delighted to introduce new one-bedroom villas featuring a private courtyard. These elegant villas offer an outdoor bbq and a private butler, chef, and waiter upon request for an additional charge. Enjoy a romantic candlelit dinner on your suite’s terrace, starting with aperitifs at sunset, then dine under the stars on a meal specially prepared for the two of you.
Photo Courtesy of Andronis
Andronis
Santorini, Greece
The award-winning Andronis collection brings to life the beauty and mystique of Santorini. Where romance meets luxury, Andronis is a Greek oasis where the views of the Aegean Sea and caldera are remarkable, especially at sunset. There is something special awaiting every couple at their atmospheric and intimate boutique hotel. Sunsets here are truly remarkable, and you must also experience an unforgettable dinner at Lycabettus, an elegant restaurant set on a protruding peninsular cliff overlooking the Aegean.
Photo Courtesy of Lesante Blu
Lesante Cape and Lesante Blue
Zakynthos, Greece
Perched along the eastern coast of Zakynthos, the southernmost of the Ionian Islands in Greece, is Lesante Cape, a stunning new resort poised to open its doors in May 2022. The sister property of the much-lauded Lesante Blu, Lesante Cape is perfectly located amidst acres of verdant fruit trees and is offered natural privacy by the surrounding olive groves. With luxury villas that cater to privacy and an abundance of exclusive amenities and activities, Lesante Cape is the perfect spot for a romantic Grecian getaway or honeymoon.
Photo Courtesy of Lesante Blu
While Lesante Cape has a laid-back charm and relaxed island style, Lesante Blu, its smaller sister property on the island, offers an even more exclusive experience. With 92 private suites all overlooking the stunning Ionian Sea and an adults-only policy, Lesante Blu resort is ideal for honeymooners or couples seeking an exceptionally quiet and romantic Grecian getaway. Both properties are perfectly situated near charming towns, glorious Grecian beaches, and are surrounded by the beautifully unique topography that makes Zykanthos one of the Greek isles’ most-loved hidden gems.
Adventure Lovers:
Photo Courtesy of Brush Creek Luxury Ranch Collection
Brush Creek Luxury Ranch Collection
Saratoga, Wyoming
Love is in the air in Wyoming! Couples can escape to the award-winning Brush Creek Ranch for an unforgettable romantic experience. A 30,000 acre luxury ranch in the wilds of Wyoming, Brush Creek is renown for its stunning natural settings and cozy yet Uber-chic rooms and private cabins. Set against the backdrop of the Sierra Madre mountains, the ranch offers special Valentine’s Day packages throughout the month of February that include romantic activities like couples’ massages, candlelit dinners, s’mores nights, and all the powdery snow adventures you can think of on their private Green Mountain.
Photo Courtesy of Nordic Luxury
Nordic Luxury
Iceland
Nordic Luxury, a small boutique DMC, specializes in the bespoke exploration of Iceland. Couples and honeymooners after a bit of adventure will love the highly curated custom itineraries with innovative ideas and activities that are outdone only by the ethereal beauty of Iceland itself. From chasing the majestic northern lights to unforgettable hikes and off-roading adventures to exploring the foodie and design city of Reykjavik, their are endless possibilities for an unforgettable experience.
Photo Courtesy of Vik Retreats
Estancia Vik
José Ignacio, Uruguay
A traditional, sprawling colonial-style estancia, Estancia Vik is a romantic, rustic property steeped in history and culture situated on 4,000 acres of rolling countryside in Uruguay, just a mile from the southern Atlantic. Within its white-washed adobe walls there are over 50,000 square feet of stunning indoor and outdoor spaces like private courtyards, pristine gardens, and 12 luxurious private suites, all of which have a unique design, private terrace access and original art by leading contemporary Uruguayan artists. Couples and honeymooners looking for an off-the-beaten path experience will love this property for its incredible array of activities including horseback riding across the open pampas, private polo lessons, a myriad of outdoor adventures, a luxury spa, and more.
Photo Courtesy of Six Senses Zighy Bay
Six Senses Zighy Bay
Zighy Bay, Oman
For those seeking dramatic landscapes and something unexpected, Six Senses Zighy Bay is sure to surprise and delight. The scenery says it all: dramatic mountains and dusty desert juxtaposed with sandy beaches and bright emerald waters. If you’re in the mood for adventure, you can snorkel over the reefs, hike through the mountains or explore the coastline by boat. After a day of action, head to the gorgeous spa for a massage and a scrub in the hammam. By night, sip Champagne and lazily swim in your villa’s private pool, or settle in to watch a movie under the stars.
Safari Lovers:
Photo Courtesy of Great Plains Conservation
Great Plains Conservation
Botswana and Kenya Camps
Few travel experiences can top the majesty of safari. Great Plains Conservation’s collection of beautiful safari camps are scattered across Botswana, and Kenya. With their focus on luxury, authenticity and conservation, they stir the soul even more. A day on your honeymoon may look like this: spotting elephants on your early morning game drive, an indulgent brunch back at camp, a bush walk with your guide, an afternoon massage, then drinking sundowners overlooking the plains before your gourmet dinner.
Contact:
Hidden Doorways Travel
