Some people dream of a picture-perfect, traditional honeymoon with resorts, cruise ships, beaches, and epic sunsets. But not all couples have the same picture of a marriage, weddings, and honeymoons in their minds. Some couples crave unique experiences that are unlike anything they’ve ever seen or done and have an unbridled spirit of adventure. When restless spirits, wanderers, and nomads-at heart find true love, they want to celebrate it in their own way that reflects their personalities perfectly.
Not everyone wants a cookie-cutter honeymoon, but you don’t have to sacrifice romance to march to the beat of your own drummer. These are some of the most unique and off-the-beaten-path honeymoon destinations to consider if you and your partner are looking for a truly unforgettable first vacation as a married couple.
Hvar, Croatia
Croatia is one of the most affordable and off-the-beaten-path European getaways. If you’re looking for a sun-soaked honeymoon destination, Hvar is an awesome place to stay. This island is known as a great place to let loose and party, so if that’s your idea of a fun post-wedding celebration, then start packing your bags! Situated along the Adriatic Sea, this is also an ideal spot for beach lovers who want a little relaxation and romance on their special trip. One recommended place to stay here if you’re looking for luxury is Adriana Hvar Spa Hotel, which has a spa, rooftop bar, and romantic couple’s packages. For adventure and fun, go for a swim along the coast and dine on fresh seafood caught from the sea, and explore the hidden coves for a little privacy.
Lapland, Finland
Finland is a niche travel destination that appeals very much to some couples and perhaps not so much for others. However, there’s truly nothing like seeing the spectacular Aurora Borealis light up the night’s sky to celebrate your new life together. This is a place to experience otherworldly beauty and peaceful seclusion to fully enjoy each other’s company. Although winters in Lapland are chilly, the best time to visit to see the Northern Lights is between November and March. Just pack plenty of layers and plan for a lot of cuddle time!
Pucon, Chile
If the idea of sitting around doing nothing on your honeymoon sounds less than appealing, consider taking a trip with your lover to Pucon, Chile. This is an ideal spot for active adventurers who love going hiking and skiing together. Depending on what season you plan your honeymoon, you can ski down the slopes and spend time warming up in the lodge. Or climb an active volcano for an exhilarating day in nature. For a little romance and relaxation at the end of active days, take a dip in the soothing hot springs and enjoy the beautiful views all around.
Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
Couples who love animals, nature, and eco-friendly destinations will enjoy a honeymoon to the Galapagos Islands, which is the place where Charles Darwin is said to have discovered the mysteries of evolution. This archipelago is a haven for birds, animals, and plants and a must-see bucket-list spot for any nature lover. So where better than to celebrate your marriage than in one of the most unbelievable natural spots on earth? The best of time of year to visit depends on what you want to see and do, as the seasons are split into dry and wet. This is a wonderful destination for active couples who want to spend a lot of time in the water scuba diving and snorkeling to see all the underwater creatures.
Tanzania, Africa
If you’re an animal-loving couple, Tanzania might appeal to you for a unique honeymoon getaway. Tanzania is one of the oldest inhabited places on earth, and it is home to one of the most fascinating balances of wildlife, people, and land. Visiting Tanzania is a top bucket list-worthy experience in Africa where you can see wildlife roam freely. Sightings of leopards, lions, elephants and birds are commonplace, but the annual migration the Serengeti is the region’s biggest highlight. Experience the largest migration of animals in the world with one of the tour operators that can bring you to experience it.
Papua New Guinea
Papua New Guinea looks and feels off-the-beaten-track more than pretty much any place else on the planet. This is an ideal spot for curious travelers who love learning about other cultures and immersing themselves in totally new and fascinating environments. There are hundreds of indigenous societies and languages spoken here, and much of the country has yet to be fully explored by outsiders. Although this area has become more popular with tourists and there are now flights and tour operators here, it still isn’t overrun by the commercial industry and still provides a wonderfully authentic honeymoon experience.
Quebec, Canada
If you want a city-style honeymoon but don’t want to splurge on a trip to Europe, then Quebec is a great alternative honeymoon destination. Start your journey in Montreal and enjoy the European vibe of this French-speaking region. Summers are pleasant and mild in Quebec, and Montreal is the ultimate spot for museum lovers and couples who enjoy cultural performances. If you take your honeymoon here in the winter, plan to ski or snowboard at Mont-Tremblant, the famous resort in the area. Quebec City is a beautiful and historic place to stay as well. It’s easy to stay warm and toasty despite the cold Canadian air with the casinos, bars, and live shows you can catch nearby.
Woodstock, Vermont, USA
However, you don’t even need to leave the United States to find off-the-beaten-track honeymoon destinations that are incredibly romantic and even budget-friendly. Woodstock, Vermont is a wonderful place to spend a winter honeymoon if you enjoy quaint inns, ski resorts, and delicious locally-sourced food. Killington Resort is a top spot to go skiing and snowboarding, and you can also go ice climbing and snowshoeing here. One of the most romantic places to stay here is the Woodstock Inn & Resort, which has a spa where you can soothe your sore muscles at the end of long days on the slopes.
Belize
The Central American country of Belize is a fun and affordable travel destination that’s less crowded than so many of the Caribbean islands nearby. This is a tropical honeymoon, but a less common one, which makes it perfect for couples looking for something different…but not too different. Spend your time with your sweetheart here scuba diving along the coral reef, hiking among the Mayan ruins and waterfalls, exploring the caves, and zip-lining through the jungle. You can be as active or as lazy as you like in Belize because there are also beaches here that are perfectly suited for sipping cocktails and relaxing too.
Mongolia
Many people don’t think of Mongolia when they’re starting to plan their honeymoons, but this is a very unique destination that has lots to offer newly married couples. To add a bit of history and nostalgia into your honeymoon, take the Trans-Siberian Railway from Moscow through Siberia and onto Mongolia. This is a honeymoon for true adventurers who want to spend time alone together in the remote wilderness and love the idea of meeting friendly locals along the way. Plan to see the infamous Gobi Desert and perhaps even go horseback riding through some of the country’s national parks. Other amazing things to do on this honeymoon include kayaking, monasteries, and museums, and the capital city of Ulaanbaatar makes a great home base.
