VELAA QUINTESSENTIAL MALDIVES
Guests don’t have to wander far to experience a quintessential Maldivian experience. A private cruise by luxury yacht or traditional Batheli boat. Travel to different atolls, stop for lunch on a deserted island or an evening barbeque on a sand bank. Amazing.
Velaa Private Island Maldives | Reservations: +1 (703) 973.8082 info@honeymoonislands.com
BEYOND THE GARDENS OF BALLYFIN
The flower, herb and vegetable gardens (not to mention the endless grounds) of Ballyfin are stunning. And worth carving time to meander through at leisure. But the gentle rolling hills of the Slieve Bloom mountains nearby are worthy of a visit too. “Rarely explored” by first-time Ireland visitors, the mountains – made up of forests, hidden valleys and blanket bog unique to Ireland – are void of tour buses and souvenir shops. Making for a tranquil experience. Love.
Ballyfin County Laois Ireland | Reservations: +1 (703) 973.8082 info@honeymoonislands.com
SHEEN FALLS’ SKELLIG ISLAND
Visiting Skellig Island is a definite must-do during a stay at Sheen Falls Lodge. The final scene of Star Wars: The Force Awakens, was filmed here. But the UNESCO World Heritage site dates back to the 6th century when it was home to monks who prayed and slept in the beehive-shaped stone huts still seen today. There are 618 steps to the monastery at the top of the island – a challenging hike but worth it for the view.
Sheen Falls Lodge Co. Kerry, Ireland | Reservations: +1 (703) 973.8082 info@honeymoonislands.com
SPICING IT UP AT XANADU
Xanadu Villas are all about tranquility, exotic beauty and relax. But do spend one day exploring Stone Town, Zanzibar’s largest city and longtime shipping and trading port. A fusion of African, Arabic, Indian and European influences, Stone Town is known for its colorful and fragrant spice markets – savor the curries and saffron. Tour the old fort and Freddie Mercury’s former home. Stop to see the Jozani Forest on the way back to the hotel. Divine.
Xanadu Villas Zanzibar, Tanzania | Reservations: +1 (703) 973.8082 info@honeymoonislands.com
GOLDEN HOUR AT HOTEL LE TOINY
Guests love starting their day at Hotel Le Toiny with a fresh cup of coffee in the room and refreshing dip in their own private plunge pool. Then hike to a natural pool on the island (staff will provide directions). Later in the day, hop on a sail or speed boat to Columbier for a swim. Then it’s Shell Beach for champagne and sunset. Golden hour.
Hotel Le Toiny St. Barthelemy | Reservations: +1 (703) 973.8082 info@honeymoonislands.com
LAUCALA ISLAND’S OTHER WATERWORKS
Laucala Island is world famous for its show-stopping pool, complete with its glass-box pool within a pool. But more waterworks await. Tavoro waterfalls (aka Bouma) – a 30-minute boat ride from Laucala (followed by a taxi) brings guests to a series of three waterfalls, framed by thick, rich jungle. The first features a wide plunge pool popular for swimming; the middle, extraordinary beauty and height; while the third involves hiking along a muddy forest path to a secret snorkeling pool. Expect to see hundreds of prawns
Laucala Island Fiji | Reservations: +1 (703) 973.8082 info@honeymoonislands.com
GRANTLEY HALL’S STUNNING NEIGHBORHOOD
It is hard to leave this lush retreat. If only for a moment. But only three miles from the hotel lies the amazing Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal featuring impressive ruins from a 12th century abbey, a stunning water garden and two cafes. An easy walk across fields from the hotel (maps provided). Or less-than-five-minute drive. A definite must do.
Grantley Hall North Yorkshire, United Kingdom | Reservations: +1 (703) 973.8082 info@honeymoonislands.com
KATIKIES’ COMBO LAND-SEA EXCURSION
What is Greece if not azure waters. Making time on the sea is a must. And why we love Katikies’ combo sailing excursion. Spend two stunning days sailing in the Aegean Sea. Discover Koufonisia, Mykonos and the legendary Delos. Then tuck into the cosmopolitan Katikies Mykonos for a luxurious land stay. Pack your blues and whites.
Katikies Garden Santorini, Greece | Reservations: +1 (703) 973.8082 info@honeymoonislands.com
GLENAPP CASTLE AND AILSA CRAIG
On the must-do list during a stay at Glenapp Castle: a boat ride to iconic Ailsa Craig, off the Ayrshire coast. And now a wildlife sanctuary – home to more than 40,000 sea birds, including puffins, guillemots, gannets and razorbills. The summit, at 1100 feet, offers panoramic views. Combine the trip with a luxury picnic from the chefs at Glenapp.
Glenapp Castle South Ayrshire, Scotland | Reservations: +1 (703) 973.8082 info@honeymoonislands.com