12 Romantic Minimoon Ideas

travel

Super romantic minimoon ideas for an idyllic post-wedding getaway!

Are you reluctant to book a big honeymoon right now? Or are you a little strapped for cash after the celebrations and looking to save for a travel splurge later down the line? A romantic mini-moon could be the answer – whether you’re a home-loving couple who fancy a UK-stay or want to take a micro-honeymoon before planning a dream trip in the future, here are some of our picks of honeymoon hotspots for a quick getaway.

A mini-moon, or micro-moon, is a honeymoon closer to home that’s shorter than the typical fortnight-long, exotic holiday that newlyweds take after their wedding. A mini-moon can last up to five days or simply take place over a long weekend, making them ideal for couples with demanding schedules, too.

Can Auli, Mallorca
Boutique luxury retreat, Can Auli, is located in the heart of Pollenca, a picturesque town that offers the perfect hideaway for travellers seeking culture, sandy beaches with crystalline waters, local delicacies, and above all – peace, quiet, and relaxation. Housed in a 17th-century mansion, five-star Can Auli is a luxurious adults-only retreat oozing with historical design details. Can Auli has 21 inviting rooms spread across three floors and is home to a unique open kitchen which offers indoor and outdoor dining and most exciting of all, a 1-km food menu. Couples can also enjoy massages, spa treatments, hammam and a sensation shower in the hotel’s wellness area.
www.canauliluxuryretreat.com

Hotel de Cap-Eden-Roc, France
Hidden away at the southernmost tip of Cap d’Antibes, Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, part of the prestigious Oetker Collection, has been the setting for deeply glamorous tête-à-têtes and soirées over the past 153 years, playing host to the great and the good in the worlds of art, film, literature, politics, fashion and, of course, royalty. Days at Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc are best spent relaxing by the iconic saltwater infinity pool or in one of the hotel’s private seaside cabanas. This year, Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc reopened its doors for the 2023 season to 46 reimagined suites, as well as delectable new Italian restaurant, Giovanni’s – set under a verdant pergola in the shade of maritime pines – as well as an ultra-chic, brand-new Dior Spa. United by a shared spirit and vision of discreet and authentic luxury.
oetkercollection.com/hotels/hotel-du-cap-eden-roc

Gleneagles, Scotland
Since opening its doors in June 1924, Gleneagles has been one of Scotland’s most iconic hotels and sporting estates. From hosting legendary parties for the stars of stage and screen, welcoming the biggest names in fashion and design, to historic meetings for innovators and big thinkers, the hotel has been the place to see and be seen for almost a century. A place where guests walk in the footsteps of a roll call of modern history’s greatest names; from presidents and prime ministers to princes and princesses, Gleneagles unites the majestic proportions and timeless elegance of the quintessential British stately home with the comfort and luxury of the world’s finest hospitality.
www.gleneagles.com

Ashford Castle, Ireland
Ashford Castle is the epitome of Irish hospitality, heritage and glamour. Once home to the Guinness family and host to countless notables over the years, this remarkable 800-year-old castle holds national significance, making it one of the most magical places in the world to stay. The 350-acre estate lends itself perfectly to a number of exhilarating activities and outdoor pursuits, including classic country pastimes like horse-riding, clay-pigeon shooting, archery, fishing, falconry and boating. Evenings at Ashford Castle remain the most special. Preceding dinner, guests have the option to visit the castle’s state-of-the-art wine cellar followed by a luxury eight-course tasting menu in the elegant George V dining room beneath eleven beautiful Waterford crystal chandeliers. Following dinner, guests can retreat to the Billiards Room to enjoy a game of billiards or delight in the hotel’s magnificent cigar selection to be enjoyed on the adjoining Cigar Terrace which overlooks the River Cong.
ashfordcastle.com

Intercontinental Cascais-Estoril, Portugal
Situated in an unrivalled location, InterContinental Cascais-Estoril is an idyllic meeting point of the freedom of the ocean and the rustic charm of the natural surroundings. In a celebration of the rich Portuguese culture and extraordinary gastronomy, the Bago du Vin Gourmet Bar and Terrace restaurant offers a delightful selection of authentic and traditional dishes. With 55 stunning rooms and suites, an outdoor pool, an indoor pool, sauna, waterfall, and steam bath, InterContinental Cascais-Estoril is a haven of laid-back elegance.
www.estorilintercontinental.com

The Balmoral, Edinburgh
With views out over the stunning, historic vista of the Scott Monument, the Old Town, and Edinburgh Castle, The Balmoral is the ideal location for newlyweds looking to escape and relax. With a range of experiences, from a whisky experience at Scotch to a scent butler experience, couples can spend time together enjoying the best that Scotland has to offer, surrounded by luxury. Fun fact: The Balmoral’s Poet-in-Residence, Marcas Mac an Tuairneir, can be pre-booked by guests staying at the hotel for a celebration or to commemorate a special occasion. Guests can select a pre-written Gaelic poem or develop a bespoke poem with Marcas, making for the perfect memento of your wedding vows.
www.roccofortehotels.com/hotels-and-resorts/the-balmoral-hotel/

Hotel Royal Savoy, Lausanne, Switzerland
Hotel Royal Savoy is a stunning art deco 5* hotel with a spa, exquisite dining opportunities and beautiful city and lake views, especially from the rooftop SkyLounge bar. Lausanne, located on the shores of Lake Geneva, Switzerland, is an idyllic destination for a minimoon – combining the best of a cultural city break with an outdoors adventure. The opportunities for outdoor activities on and next to Lake Geneva are almost endless, with temperatures reaching a comfortable 25°C by Lausanne in the summer. Vidy beach is the largest beach and green space on Lake Geneva. Several small coves dot the shoreline, while the main beach features over 500 metres of sand. Located in the Ouchy Old Port, Ouchy Beach is a welcome haven for swimmers taking to the glistening waters of Lake Geneva. With a sizeable 2,000 m2 bathing area, the beach is accessible all year round. Lausanne offers a choice of around 100 beaches, including a wide range of amenities.
https://royalsavoylausanne.com/en

The Newt, Somerset
Set in a hidden valley just beyond the cyder orchards, the Farmyard and former dairy of The Newt’s 800-acre estate is home to 17 rooms – offering a relaxed, rustic and playful affair for couples looking for a slice of the Somerset countryside. Set across the original farmhouse and working barns, the Farmyard is a 20-minute amble, cycle or buggy ride from Hadspen House. The collection of 18th-century farmstead buildings have been transformed by architect Richard Parr, working in close collaboration with owner and designer Karen Roos to create a stylish sanctuary for guests to unwind. The former barn houses a large swimming pool and jacuzzi for the ultimate relaxation, and a snug – complete with an outdoor fire pit – is the perfect spot for those looking to cosy up. The Farmyard Kitchen offers a simple menu, centred on the same garden-to-table philosophy that is at the root of The Newt’s culinary approach. In contrast, the Garner Bar offers space to celebrate and converse. Guests at the Farmyard have full access to all that the wider estate has to offer: explore the acres of gardens, stop off at the Cyder press, discover the Story of Gardening experience centre, feast in the two restaurants and indulge in the state of the art Spa.
www.thenewtinsomerset.com

Finca Cortesin, Spain
The independently-owned Finca Cortesin is one of the finest, intimate luxury resorts in Europe, located in one of the most tranquil and sought-after enclaves of the Andalusian coast, not far from the picturesque village and tranquil hills of Casares, as well as Sotogrande, Marbella and Málaga – ideal for a honeymoon retreat. Spanning a total of 532 acres, it comprises an award-winning all-suite hotel; stunning contemporary-designed villas for purchase and rental; one of the best championship golf courses in the world; an outstanding spa and sports facilities; some of the best Japanese raw cuisine outside of Japan; exclusive shopping area and a Beach Club. It was designed in the style of a traditional Spanish ‘finca’ by renowned architects Roger Torras and Ignacio Sierra with exceptional interiors – think antique terracotta floors, wooden doors salvaged from ancient castles, hand-painted de Gournay wall coverings in soft pastel tones, and exquisite furnishings to create an air of understated refinery and is built around two palatial courtyards.
www.fincacortesin.com

Bingham Riverhouse, Richmond, Surrey
Bingham Riverhouse – located on the banks of the River Thames in Richmond, this recently refurbished hotel offers a taste of the countryside on the edge of London. Downstream westward from central London, The Bingham Riverhouse is positioned right on the banks of the River Thames between Richmond and Petersham. It’s a blissful escape from the city bustle This property offers draw-dropping weddings with menus created by their award-winning kitchen in the riverside garden or 18th century hotel.
www.binghamriverhouse.com

The Rooster, Antiparos, Greece
The Rooster is an idyllic destination for the ultra-discerning traveller on the under-the-radar Greek island of Antiparos – a place that embraces ‘slow living’ through sustainability, organic food, wellness, learning and fun. Thanks to its unparalleled location, tucked between the sandy, unspoilt beaches of the Cycladic coastline, The Rooster makes for the perfect romantic retreat for honeymooners. The whole property is about space and privacy with just 16 individual ‘houses’ of differing size, each offering stunning views of the Aegean Sea and private gardens. This is a place couples can arrive, completely relax away from the stresses of everyday life, and leave rejuvenated and renewed, and where guests will delight in a variety of experiences to up the romance of their stay. The Rooster can arrange the likes of private dinners on the beach, lit by candlelight with the gentle sounds of the sea in the background and a menu curated specially by Executive Chef, Andreas Nikolakopoulos.
theroosterantiparos.com

The Ro Hotel, The Lake District
The Ro Hotel – one of the original Victorian spa hotels in the Lake District, the property recently underwent a multimillion-pound makeover restoring the grandeur of its past. Located in Bowness on Windermere it sits just above the town and offers unrivalled views of world-famous Lake Windermere with its lake cruises… Family-favourite The World of Beatrix Potter, plus a brilliant selection of shops and cafés are all within 10 minutes’ walk.
www.therohotel.co