Now we are into September I thought it would be a good time to highlight a few popular Autumn honeymoon destinations. Whether you are looking to spend time on a beach, go on an adventure, or a mix of the two, going away at this time of year avoids the crowds and gives you more choice at lower prices.
Listed below are five popular destinations and some of my favourite resorts.
The Seychelles
Not surprisingly this beautiful cluster of islands situated off East Africa, in the heart of the Indian Ocean, is popular with couples looking for a special and romantic place to go on honeymoon. Part of the Seychelles appeal is their beautiful pristine white beaches, sparkling clear blue sea and lush tropical vegetation. They are also known for their warm and welcoming culture, delicious Creole cuisine and abundant wildlife. A true paradise, offering the perfect blend of privacy and opportunity for adventure. Couples can snorkel, sail, discover unique wildlife like the giant tortoises that roam the islands, or simply spend their time relaxing on a beach.
The archipelago consists of 115 islands, making this destination a great place to island hop. However, if you’d rather stay in one place I would highly recommend The Mango House. This hotel is situated on the southern tip of Mahe, right on the beach with direct access to Anse Aux Poules Bleues. This intimate resort, once the home of Gian Paolo, the world famous fashion-turned-travel photographer, has 41 super comfortable bedrooms and suites all with sea views and balconies.
The five restaurants serve a variety of cuisines form around the world. These range from a Japanese sushi seafood brasserie to Mouya which specialises in sustainable barbecuing over steamed husks and charcoal coconut shells.
There is also a wellness spa and lots of activities including yoga, cooking classes, traditional rock fishing or hiking along the stunning coastal trails. The staff are always happy to organise special excursions whether you wish to explore the island by foot, boat, car or even helicopter.
French Polynesia
Since the 1960s, French Polynesia with it’s attractive over-water bungalows, turquoise sea, white sands, stunning scenery and exotic flora and fauna, has deservedly earned a reputation as the ultimate place to spend a honeymoon. It is certainly one of the best places in the world to island hop and here is my recommendation for a 3 island stay.
First stop, Tahiti, staying at the Pearl Resorts hotel, Le Tahiti. The hotel is right on Lafayette Beach in the famous Matavai Bay and has 121 rooms and suites. Dining in their fabulous, alfresco restaurant overlooking the bay you’ll be treated to a mix of local Tahitian dishes, South Asian and Mediterranean cuisine using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. And, in between enjoying the many activities on offer you can indulge in a relaxing treatment at the hotel’s Tavai Spa.
Next stop, the island of Moorea, staying at the Sofitel Kia Ora Hotel where the accommodation is a mix of super luxurious and comfortable bungalows in the gardens, overlooking the beach or perched over the water. The hotel is next to the island’s largest sandy beach and surrounded by beautiful lagoon waters. There is a good choice of restaurants or you can opt for dinner “a-deux” delivered to your room or served on their pontoon. What could be more romantic!
And, the last stop; Bora Bora staying at The Conrad. The resort is located on the southwest end of Motu To’opua, a small islet between the coral reef and the mainland which is a 10 minute boat ride away. Another fabulous, luxury hotel with accommodation in two storey over-water villas or hillside suites with breath-taking views and featuring a mix of traditional Polynesian and modern decor.
Nothing is too much trouble at The Conrad. Whether you fancy a romantic picnic in a remote location, a special breakfast or dinner on the beach or up the hill overlooking Mount Otemanu the friendly staff at the resort will be happy to arrange it. Also, there are plenty of activities to enjoy both on and under the water. For example, Motu Tapu, the most photographed islet in the South Pacific, is just a 5 minute boat ride away and is definitely worth visiting. To relax and unwind head to the Hina Spa.
Japan
Touring Japan is becoming increasingly popular with honeymooners, especially for those who love culture, history and food. Autumn is a special time to visit as it’s when the leaves are changing colour and look spectacular, totally transforming the countryside.
To get around visitors tend to use the country’s excellent train network rather than hire a car. There are many fascinating places and cities to visit. Tokyo is always a highlight, not to be missed. Other stops I’d recommend include Hakone and Mount Fuji. This iconic mountain is surrounded by stunning lakes and pretty villages that are well worth visiting.
If you want to see the Japanese Alps hop off the train at Nagano which is in the middle of Honsho. While in the area it is worth visiting Yudanaka, a hot springs town and home to the snow monkey. And, if you like walking, Kamicochi has some great trails that lead you through some amazing scenery and lovely rivers.
Kyoto is the cultural heart of Japan with lots of temples, traditional houses and restaurants. For foodies, Osaka which isn’t far from Kyoto, is a real culinary gem.
For couples wishing to include some time relaxing away from the cities, Okinawa, a group of 160 islands in the south, has a sub-tropical climate and lots of lovely beaches. The coral reefs there are teaming with marine life, making it a great spot to snorkel and scuba-dive.
South Africa
An adventure tour of South Africa in the Autumn always makes a fun and memorable honeymoon. It is the start of their Spring which brings warm weather and lots of pretty flowers.
Starting in Cape Town, The One-&-Only Hotel is a great place to stay as it is centrally located, overlooking the marina at the bustling V&A waterfront. This luxurious hotel has wonderful panoramic views of Table Mountain and with its’ comfortable rooms, spa and pool is the perfect place to relax at the beginning of your honeymoon.
You can’t visit this part of South Africa without spending time in the their famous winelands. I’d recommend staying at Mont Rochelle in Franschoek. This hotel has it’s own vineyard and winery, set in lovely grounds with a swimming pool and tennis court. To explore the other vineyards in the area you can hop on-board the “wine tram”. And, to do something active you can cycle, play golf or go hiking in the hills. Needless to say, dining at this hotel is a gourmet treat and you will be offered their award winning Mont Rochelle wines to enjoy with your meal.
From Franschoek I’d suggest heading east to the Abalone Guest Lodge in Hermanus. It’s a 90 minute drive and the lodge is situated at Sievers Point which is considered to be the best land based place to whale watch. The Southern Right Whales arrive in June and stay until December, so you will have a good chance of seeing them. There are also plenty of boat trips taking visitors to the see the whales close up and, if you’re lucky, you will also get to see dolphins.
A little further up the coast at Gaansbai you can see the Great White Sharks in action. And, if you are feeling particularly brave you can dive in a shark cage and to watch them underwater. Just one of the many thrilling, once in-a-lifetime experiences on offer that will make your honeymoon that little bit extra special and memorable.
photo by Jeanvdmeulen
Mykonos, Greece
Early Autumn is a lovely time of year to honeymoon in Greece. It is much quieter yet still sunny and warm. On the list of Greek islands Mykonos rates as one of the favourite honeymoon destinations for newly-weds. Famous for its iconic windmills, pretty villages with narrow, winding streets and whitewashed houses, lovely sandy beaches, amazing sunsets and exciting nightlife.
There is great choice of places to stay and one I particularly like is Cavoo Tagoo, a luxury hotel close to Chora with uninterrupted views of Mykonos old town and Dilos Island. This award winning hotel has a 40 metre aquarium bar and in the evening you can enjoy the spectacular sunsets sipping cocktails while reclining on loungers laid out on floating wooden platforms on the pool. It also has a well equipped gym, an indoor pool and spa.
The spacious, comfortable bedrooms mostly have sea views with some featuring a spa bath or private pool.
Dining at the hotel’s alfresco Meraki Restaurant is a treat. It is renowned for its delicious contemporary Greek and Mediterranean dishes made using fresh, locally source ingredients.
The excellent concierge team enjoy making their customers stay extra special. Whether you wish to take a sunset cruise, explore the island on a private yacht or take a helicopter trip the team at Cavoo Tagoo will make it happen.
I hope you have found my suggestions helpful and if you like to find out more about any of the destinations listed, special discounts or to discuss your plans I am here to help. You can get in touch with me either by email [email protected], telephone 07830142903 or submit your questions via the enquiry form.
