Booking your honeymoon is an extremely fun part of the wedding planning process. Researching luxurious, secluded spots to reset and recharge once the formailites are finalised for just you and your boo… HEAVEN. If you’re in need of a little honeymoon hotspot (or holiday) inspiration, we are here to help. We take travel research verryyyyy seriously here at Hello May, so we’ve curated a list of four exceptional hotels around the world, which we think are pretty damn special. And while they obvs make epic honeymoon locales, they are also wonderful pre-wedding getaways as well as fab spots for destination ‘I dos’.
From breathtaking villas overlooking the dramatic limestones of Phang Nga Bay in Thailand, to a seriously lush wellness retreat in Qatar, or closer to home, the beautiful Wineglass Bay in Tassie and an island paradise in the stunning Whitsundays, these luxe stays are worth a peek.
Need a little more inpso? You can check out our round-up of Destination Wedding Hotspots here, and more Honeymoon Hotspots here. This article first appeared in Issue 40 of Hello May – grab your copy via our online store.
Tasmania, Australia
Oh Tassie, you beautiful devil! There’s so much to love about The Apple Isle, and Freycinet Lodge, just minutes from the iconic Wineglass Bay, is the ultimate place to set up camp while exploring this special part of Australia.
Who says paradise has to be tropical? Tasmania’s Freycinet National Park has relaxation on tap, and stunning scenery to match. Whether you’re thinking of hosting your wedding here – they offer all-inclusive packages – reserving a room to recharge after the wedding rollercoaster is over, or perhaps you’re booking in for a quick weekender before saying ‘I do’, this elevated hotel stay is a romantic haven. Overlooking the bright blue Great Oyster Bay and with the Hazards mountain range as your backdrop, Freycinet Lodge’s accommodation ranges from nature-immersed coastal pavilions to luxe bush cabins. The dining options also feature the freshest local produce.
THE LOWDOWN Freycinet Lodge offers ultimate luxury with its waterfront location, modern eco-friendly design and exceptional service – ideal for honeymooners looking for a refresh.
THINGS TO DO Among the good food and great wine, Tassie has some incredible wilderness to explore. There’s world heritage hotspots, walks for days (sometimes literally) throughout the National Park, and coastlines, rivers and lakes which you can conquer via kayak.
Learn more and book your stay here.
Phuket, Thailand
The most ’grammable spot in Phuket, Como Point Yamu is as idyllic as it comes. Seriously, drop us in this picture above and we’ll be happy for the rest of our days. Perched on a cliff above the Andaman Sea overlooking the dramatic limestones of Phang Nga Bay, Como Point Yamu is part of a chain of lavish hotels around the world (all of which we are adding to our must-visit list. Stat).
When it comes to honeymooning, the grandest, most relaxing of all the travel types, which basically involves doing sweet f*ck all for two glorious weeks (you’ve earned it!), this is the place – cue relaxing by a plunge pool and enjoying daily massages, pausing only to enjoy some serious culinary delights and a spot of shopping nearby if your mood calls for it. Como Point Yamu can’t be beat when it comes to accommodation, too. They have everything from bayside rooms to private pool suites and their staff deserve a high-five for awesomeness.
In news we know will excite you guys, this lush resort also hosts epic weddings. Booking your nups here comes with a dedicated event planner to guide and support you in the build-up to your big day, helping with everything from developing a theme, to sourcing musicians and beautiful blooms. No request is too big or small.
THE LOWDOWN A heavenly five-star hotel where you can wed or host your honeymoon. Think romantic sunsets, private dining under the stars and spa treatments galore.
THINGS TO DO There’s a tonne to explore on the Thai island if you can pull yourself away from the pool. Check out Phuket’s nearby historic Old Town, or book in for a biking, hiking or kayaking trip for the best views of the beautiful bay.
Learn more and book your stay here.
Al Ruwais, Qatar
A literal oasis in the middle of Qatar’s desert dunes, Zulal Wellness Retreat by Chiva Som is like no other. This magical place in the Middle East is a full-immersion holistic hotel with world-class facilities, including a hydrotherapy pool, tea house and Himalayan salt room to name a few, as well as a 200-strong treatment list, and an array of international-inspired eateries catering to every dietary requirement.
If you’re feeling a little frazzled while prepping for your big day and in the market for a health-focused pre-wedding vacay, this is the place, people. Blending traditional Arabic and Islamic medicine with holistic wellbeing philosophy, Zulal can tailor an entire experience unique to you and your partner, where your daily itinerary includes movement, massages and mindfulness. You’ll be so zen come home time, you’ll essentially float down the aisle.
If after the fun and frivolity of the wedding day is over, you’re dreaming less of cocktails and more of cleansing, then Zulal also makes a damn-fine honeymoon destination. Just you and your love taking time to reset, reflect and rest… heaven.
THE LOWDOWN Enjoy private beach access, gourmet dining, and tailored wellness programs in an exclusive, serene environment. The blend of natural beauty and sophisticated amenities makes Zulal Wellness Resort a perfect romantic escape. This destination needs a spot on your ‘places to go’ map. THINGS TO DO There’s over 200 spa treatments to choose from (go nuts!). There’s also complimentary activities that run all day every day, which include scheduled exercise and outdoor adventures – talks, walks, craft and cooking classes are also all on the menu.
Learn more and book your stay here.
The Whitsundays, Australia
Surrounded by the world-heritage listed Great Barrier Reef, this piece of paradise in The Whitsundays is a postcard-perfect place to honeymoon – we’re talking sundowners at Lover’s Cove followed by lazy days spent lounging by the pool.
If a destination wedding is on the cards, and tropical is the vibe you’re lusting after, then Daydream Island can also host the whole shebang. Boasting several ceremony and reception locations, including The Chapel (with panoramic views over the Whitsunday Pass), a wedding here equals an epic holiday with all your people… lots to love about that!
THE LOWDOWN If you’re a sun lover, Daydream Island is a one-stop shop for your luxe getaway, with ample opportunity to explore Australia’s underwater scene. The resort is home to a man-made Living Reef, which is crazy cool – we’re talking 1.5million litres of lagoon here, people.
THINGS TO DO Swim with stingrays, snorkel with wild and wonderful underwater wildlife, jump on a jet ski, or board a helicopter for a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding Whitsundays.
Learn more and book your stay here.
