Honeymoons in Europe: our most romantic destinations

After the excitement of a wedding, what most couples want is a little peace and privacy to reflect on a wonderful day and look forward to many more amazing memories to be made. Hours on a plane and days of jet-lag are not the best way to wind down, which is why we recommend the quiet luxury of a honeymoon villa or boutique hotel in Europe, so you can spend your time enjoying each others' company instead of trying to work out when to sleep! Discover some our guests' top-rated honeymoon villas and romantic hotels below.


White Orchid Hotel, Sivota

‘Blissful’… ‘Wonderful’… ‘Totally relaxing’… The intimate White Orchid is an Adult Only Hotel that invites superlatives. On the edge of Sivota, this little gem boasts one of the most stunning views in our entire Greece portfolio, each of its eight suites overlooking the sparkling Ionian Sea, where dolphins bob up above the blue and Paxos and Corfu float like shadows in the distance.

Expanses of glass panelling maximise the light and make the most of those spectacular views, whilst the drifting scent of jasmine, bay and bougainvillea enhances the sense of calm that begins each morning in your sumptuous bedroom with its state-of-the-art shower. Just a five-minute drive takes you into the heart of spirited Sivota, where you can embark on a boating adventure or sample fresh fish in a taverna by the water’s edge. There are more delightful beaches all a short drive away and, for explorers and walkers, the mountains of Zagoria beckon you to venture into the unspoilt wilds of the stunning Epirus region.

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Masseria Le Torri, Puglia

Every honeymoon deserves a little passion and this unique Adult Only Hotel was literally built on it: a labour of love by its owners who spent ten years meticulously restoring the ancient building to its former glory. Walk into any of the nine suites and the simply elegant and slightly whimsical interiors ensure that time alone together is anything but ordinary.

And if it’s pleasure you’re seeking, Puglia rolls out the red carpet with consummate hospitality. As well as the choice of exclusive beach clubs nearby, the vibrant Old Towns of Conversano and Polignano a Mare lay on a feast of history, culture and very, very good food and wine.

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Villa Fiorella, Corsica

Nestled into a maquis-clad hillside that perfumes the air with Corsica’s signature scent of wild herbs and sunshine, this elegant villa combines all the best that southern Corsica has to offer. The views stretch across open land as far as the sea, with the distant lights of Porto Vecchio harbour offering a twinkling backdrop to your dinner on the terrace.

The décor is a stylish mix of contemporary and antique, with soft colours and textures and a boutique-hotel vibe that makes it very much worthy of a honeymoon or any celebratory occasion.

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Villa Manzana, Turkey

Nestled above Söğüt, two-bedroom Villa Manzana is stylish, romantic and seductively private, with arguably the best views anywhere on the entire Bozburun peninsula. The house looks directly out over the cobalt blue of the Aegean, dotted with fishing craft, ferries to Symi and the occasional sleek yacht making its way to Söğüt harbour for a meal in one of the renowned waterfront restaurants there.

The bay twinkles into life at dusk as restaurants light their tables for the evening’s visitors and the sun sinks slowly down in a blaze of pink and gold. Secluded but not isolated, this is a magical spot for a honeymoon, anniversary or just the simple pleasure of quality time in a beautiful place.

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Maison de Gordes, France

Nestled into spacious gardens just a 5-minute walk from the centre of Gordes, this charming, stone-built house delivers the perfect combination of a prime location and outstanding views across the green and gold countryside of the Luberon valley, plus enough wow factor to make it a great honeymoon option or special occasion splurge.

With Gordes on the doorstep, dinner out is easy to reach and hard to resist. If you’ve had a long day exploring however, it might be just as tempting to cook up something simple in the outdoor kitchen, and savour the glorious Luberon views along with your favourite ice cold tipple as the first stars of the evening appear.

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Villas in Islamlar & Uzumlu | Simpson Travel

Villa Sezin, Turkey

Villa Sezin sits in a cluster of village houses yet retains complete privacy on its beautiful pool terrace, complete with far-reaching views to the coast.

The house is luxuriously appointed for a wellness-themed break, with an outdoor Jacuzzi, heated swimming pool and a full Turkish bath as part of the en-suite to the master bedroom. The views from both guest rooms are exceptional, with sliding glass doors framing the brilliant blue of the sea, sky and pool. Sunsets are particularly impressive from this elevated position, the perfect prelude to dinner on the terrace or a leisurely stroll into Üzümlü.

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Purple Apricot Hotel, Paxos

Small, intimate and refreshingly unconventional, this is a gem of an adult hotel on a beautifully romantic island. Each suite is an eclectic one-off; bohemian, flamboyant and a touch exotic, with the emphasis on rich colours and textures both inside and out, a vibrant tapestry to fire all the senses. Breakfast is a daily treat and the setting is delightful – no wonder this is one of our most-booked hotels with a hugely loyal clientele.

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Mochlos Waterside, Crete

Mochlos is a natural beauty; prettily unpolished, with a blissfully unhurried pace and a warm welcome. Access to the sea is easy, yet the unique informality and appeal of the place perhaps stem from the fact that the beach is not the main event. Though the brilliant blue of the sea is just as lovely as it could be, Mochlos is about the people, the food and the quietly bohemian ambience that set it apart. And just across the little square from the church, our studio cottage enjoys a prime spot above the rocky shoreline, with mesmerizing views across the bay from its bijou private terrace. It’s a wonderfully romantic setting, promising all the home comforts that ensure a truly relaxing stay, with the pleasures of Greek village life on the doorstep.

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Villa Aetos, Crete 

Delightful Villa Aetos sits discreetly on a hillside, just a few minutes’ walk from the fine sands and aquamarine waters of the heavenly beaches around Xerokambos. 

This 1-bedroom villa has been designed with flair and imagination to ensure couples can enjoy a luxurious escape in this unspoilt and little known part of the island. Beautifully finished interiors are tastefully decorated using neutral shades and natural materials to complement the beauty and simplicity of the location, whilst outside space is generous, with comfy loungers perfectly angled by the pool to take in the magnificent panorama. There are plenty of shady spots for a long lunch or a quiet read and it's a ten-minute stroll down to the beach when the lure of the sea becomes irresistible. 

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