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9 Relaxing Vacations Throughout Europe

Written by Iulian Milcomete on . Posted in Inspiration.

 

By its nature, travel whisks you away from the stressors of everyday life. However, some vacations are certainly more relaxing than others. While waking up bright and early to tour the Vatican before the crowds flood through the doors in Rome or hopping from sight to sight in Paris are enriching and unmissable experiences, those destinations aren’t the best fit for when all you want to do is unwind with the bliss that is a clear schedule for the day. These relaxing vacations throughout Europe provide you with everything you need to destress, from top-notch spas to impeccable dining amidst whatever landscape brings you the most serenity, be it snowy mountains or sparkling blue ocean.

 

Sprawling view of green hills and cypress trees surrounding a stone villa in Tuscany, one of the most relaxing vacations throughout Europe

 

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1) Tuscany, Italy

 

Step out onto the balcony of your old stone villa hotel with a glass of some of the finest wine in the world in hand, and drink in the endless expanse of green hills and cypress trees of Italy’s countryside. In Tuscany, pure relaxation goes hand-in-hand with unforgettable cuisine. By day you can lounge poolside or get that massage your back has been begging you for, and by night you can dig into homemade pasta or Florentine steak. Whether you stay in the Chianti or Val d’Orcia regions, there will be plenty of easily accessible vineyards and charming villages.

 

Golden sandy beach on Naxos, Greece with crystal clear water and a boat a rugged land in the distance, perfect for relaxing vacations © Lukaszimilena | Dreamstime.com

 

2) Naxos, Greece

 

With sandier beaches than Santorini and an absence of the roaring nightlife found on Mykonos, Naxos is the serene jewel of Greece’s Cyclades island chain. Meander through white-washed villages, take a dip in crystal clear ocean or charter a yacht for the day and let the waves gently rock you. End each day with a stunning sunset overlooking a harbor and a divine seafood dinner.

 

Stone wall in the foreground with rolling green hills, fall foliage and quaint stone buildings of the Cotswolds in the background

 

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3) The Cotswolds, United Kingdom

 

With rolling hills and quaint stone towns that epitomize rural England, the Cotswolds are the countryside gem of the United Kingdom. The quiet and stillness of the region alone is enough ease the tension from your shoulders. Your accommodations here a less likely to be an extravagant resort, and more likely to be a cozy cottage with a roaring fireplace and vibrant outdoor garden. As a region full of thriving farm land, most of the cuisine unbelievably fresh, and a pint in a charismatic pub is the perfect capstone to any day in the Cotswolds.

 

Sandy beach and crystal blue waters with greenery and a colorful town perched on cliffs in the background on Spain’s Costa Brava, one of the most relaxing vacations throughout Europe © Oleh Panasenko | Dreamstime.com

 

4) Costa Brava, Spain

 

If you’re yet to check Barcelona off of your travel bucket list, you may choose to spend a couple days familiarizing yourself with the larger-than-life monuments Antoni Gaudi imagined before setting off for the nearby Costa Brava. Once you’ve fled the bustle of the Catalonian capital, inhale the crisp sea breeze flowing in off the Mediterranean. There are no shortage of hidden gems to be uncovered along this stretch of coast that extends to Spain’s border with France, from sandy coves to tiny fishing villages.

 

Bright blue lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains with green grass and a wooden cabin leading up to it in Switzerland’s Bernese Oberland

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5) Bernese Oberland, Switzerland

 

You don’t have to wait for sunny summer weather for relaxing vacations. Switzerland thrives in the winter as its mesmerizing landscapes of castles, medieval towns and iconic mountaintops become dusted with snow. To help keep you warm, there are no shortage of cabin-cozy mountain resorts throughout the Bernese Oberland with an abundance of wellness offerings such as yoga, massages, saunas and hot tubs. There’s no need to rush around as you’re never far from glistening lakes or roaring waterfalls, perfect for a scenic stroll.

 

Sunrise on Portugal’s jagged Algarve coast, one of the most relaxing vacations throughout Europe

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6) Algarve, Portugal

 

From the Douro Valley to Madeira, Portugal as a whole is synonymous with relaxing vacations, but its Algarve region takes the prize in tranquility for its golden coastlines and array of resorts equipped to pamper you to your heart’s content. It’s also one of the top golf destinations Europe, if you like to unwind by teeing off to the soft beat of ocean waves. You may wish to sleep in as much as possible, but even if you’re not an early riser, it’s well worth it to wake up before dawn at least one morning and watch the sun creep up from the horizon and bathe the Algarve’s emblematic rock formations in soft orange hues.

 

Rear view of a woman in a white sundress and hat strolling through the lavender fields of Provence with her arms outstretched from her sides

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7) Provence, France

 

The calming scent of lavender wafting from the rows of purple surrounding you in Provence’s emblematic fields is a treasure for your senses. While Provence is most known for its lavender fields, there is plenty more to this region that make it one of the most relaxing vacations throughout France. The small stone towns will enchant you, the bouillabaisse will delight your palette and the local rosé will relieve you of any stress you could possibly have left. Provence is also the perfect place to brush up on your art history, with former studios of Cezanne and Vincent Van Gogh found in Aix-en-Provence and Arles, respectively.

 

Boats in a harbor with a stone town in Croatia’s Dalmatian Islands in the background

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8) Dalmatian Islands, Croatia

 

While Croatia’s mainland is perfect for trails bursting with waterfalls and adventures inspired by Game of Thrones through fortress cities, the Dalmatian Islands are the ideal place to prop your feet up and put all your cares in the world aside. Electric blue waters are always well within reach, ensuring you’ll have a fantastic backdrop no matter what sandy spot you choose to lay out a towel on. And if relaxing to you means letting loose in pulsing clubs, Hvar’s nightlife has got you covered.

 

Green grass and fall foliage in the foreground with a lake and mountains in the background in Austria’s Lake District

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9) Lake District, Austria

 

The backdrop to some of The Sound of Music’s most memorable scenes really is as majestic as the film would lead you to believe. Austria’s Lake District is full of awe-inspiring mountains, lakes, castles and flower-speckled fields that are easy to explore at your leisure. You may choose to stay in the cultural hub of Salzburg and simply take day trips into the region, or you may choose to embed yourself deeper by staying somewhere like the lakeside fairytale town of Hallstatt.

 

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View across a green pond of Borgo Medievale Turin, a small medieval village of stone walls and towers

Borgo Medievale Turin, Italy: Off The Beaten Path

Written by Iulian Milcomete on . Posted in Adventure, Inspiration, Italy.

 

On the banks of the Po River, Borgo Medievale Turin transports visitors to the days in Piedmont of drawbridges, courtyards, and knights in shining armor. As an open-air museum, and nestled within the Valentino park, families can wander through the gardens, along the decorated alleyways, and into a world not far from a fairytale.

 

The Medieval Village was originally created for the Italian general exhibition in 1884; it sought to recreate the atmosphere of a Piedmontese town in the 15th century. Within the fortified walls, the narrow streets are lined with artisan shops and the occasional restaurant to explore; both have animated workers ready to explain their craft and its relevance to the history of the region. From the paper mill to the farrier’s laboratory, from the bakery to the church, there are so many nooks to find!

 

An old wooden crucifix with a medieval gate in a stone wall in the background

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The focal point and main attraction of Valentino park and Borgo Medievale Turin is the grand fortress. With a paid ticket, you can head up the hill, and into the castle to view the armor, weapons, and furnishings that were common of the Medieval times in Italy. From there, head to the “Garden of Delights,” where you will find lush flowering plants, medicinal herbs, and aromatics that will make your senses swirl with delight!

 

Depending on your pace and how much time you like to spend in noticing the fine details and craftsmanship of the quaint village, families could easily spend a full day within Valentino park. With so much to do within the incredible architecture, don’t forget to meander down to the Po for a restful retreat with a riverside view.

 

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Young couple holding hands crossing the street with the Vatican in the background

7 Italy Honeymoon Destinations

Written by Iulian Milcomete on . Posted in Inspiration, Italy.

 

From glowing sunsets over the undulating vineyards of Tuscany to candlelit dinners serenaded by the gentle waves brushing the Amalfi Coast, everything about Italy screams romance. Every step through cobblestone streets of grand cities like Rome and quaint towns like Bellagio will open journeys that leave you more and more enamored with not only Italy, but also with your new spouse. While any trip to this land is nothing short of magical, these Italy honeymoon destinations highlight some of the country’s greatest offerings for all different types of newlyweds.

 

Trevi Fountain lit up at sunset in Rome, one of the most popular Italy honeymoon destinations

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1) The Big Three

 

It’s not without reason that Rome, Florence and Venice make up Italy’s famous “Big Three” of hotspots. Rome is a historical wonder hailing from one of the most powerful empires of all time, with evidence of this found in massive stone monuments around every corners. Florence captures the essence of the Italian Renaissance as home to some of the most known art pieces in the entire world. And Venice’s network of canals navigated by elegantly crafted gondolas never ceases to amaze.

 

Visited in tandem, these three cities not only act as the perfect introduction to Italy but to Europe as a whole. The Colosseum, the Duomo and the Grand Canal are some of the biggest bucket list sights to see across the entire continent and you can witness them all over number of days. And you certainly won’t be short on amazing dining experiences. The allure of these cities not only pulls in travelers, but also some of the top culinary talent in the world.

 

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2) Amalfi Coast

 

While most Amalfi Coast visitors spend only a few nights in Positano before rushing off to somewhere else in Italy, you could easily spend your entire honeymoon here. And there are definitely advantages to a slow journey through this region. You could take the time to stay for a few nights onthe island of Capri, and enjoy its serene evenings once the day-trippers have departed. You could spend some time in the less active but incredibly scenic village of Atrani, or you could take in the world-class cuisine and sweeping views from the clifftop town of Ravello. Whichever vibrant towns you choose, find yourself a beach chair and a bottle of limoncello to enjoy your endless days in the sun to their fullest.

 

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3) Tuscany

 

Tuscany is one of the best Italy honeymoon destinations for newlyweds who want a very leisurely vacation. This region isn’t about flittering from one monument to the next; it’s about taking in everything around you at any given moment, whether that’s the cuisine or the beautiful scenery. No matter where you decide to stay in Tuscany, you’ll be ensured plenty of romantic and delicious dinners paired with some of the best wine in the world and stays spent laid out by the pool or strolling through vineyards together.

 

Maybe one or both of you have been to Tuscany and loved everything about it, but are looking to journey somewhere new. In that case, consider Piedmont. It has delectable food, renowned wine and stunning countryside, yet rests a little further off the beaten path for truly unique experiences.

 

The town of Tremezzo on Lake Como, in the Lombardy region, one of the most relaxing Italy honeymoon destinations

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4) Lombardy

 

Milan, the fashion capital of the world, also serves as the capital city of Lombardy. Each year, it draws visitors with its high-end shopping, refreshing aperitivos and intricate architecture. But those who aren’t into the posh essence of Milan will still find more than enough in this region to fall in love with. Lombardy is equally famous for its myriad of glistening lakes lined with colorful towns, the most popular being Lake Como. When you feel you’ve gotten your fix of Lake Como, you could easily continue to lounge lakeside by skipping over to the even more laidback Lake Maggiore or Lake Garda.

 

If you’re looking to throw some adventure into the mix, the Lombardy region serves as a perfect gateway for the Italian Alps. This also makes Lombardy one of the ideal Italy honeymoon destinations to round out a winter wedding, whether you wish to ski your way down the mountains or snowshoe through them.

 

Jagged portion of the Dolomites in the background reflected in the turquoise Lake Carezza

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5) The Dolomites

 

For the couple who has spent countless hours together in the mountains, look no further than the Dolomites for a thrilling honeymoon. This range encompasses the most popular part of the Italian Alps, known for its jagged peaks and turquoise lakes. There are a wide variety of hiking trails and ski slopes available for adventurers of all skill levels. If you’re really looking to get your hearts pounding, consider taking advantage of the scenic rafting, climbing or even paragliding opportunities. And when you’re ready to let your heart rate come back down, you will be able to retreat to one of the many mountain resorts where you can unwind with massages at the spa or a drink by the pool.

 

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6) Sicily

 

Those who have never been to Sicily are still very familiar with its distinct Italian cuisine. They say that the easiest way to someone’s heart is through their stomach, and if you and your spouse share this sentiment you should definitely consider making Sicily one of your Italy honeymoon destinations. Sample Italian favorites like Sicilian-style pizza, arancini, and cannolis in the land where they originated, all while being spoiled by luxurious coastlines and awe-inspiring ruins. While Sicily may not be as well known for its wine as Tuscany, you could choose to spend a day tasting varietals born from the volcanic soil of Mt. Etna.

 

Bright blue water on the left with golden sands on the right and rocky greenery in the background at a beach in Sardinia, one of the most luxurious Italy honeymoon destinations

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7) Sardinia

 

Sardinia, Italy’s lesser-known island region, is a beach paradise with golden sands and crystalline waters everywhere you go. Not nearly as heavily trafficked as Sicily or the mainland, Sardinia is where the two of you can retreat for the utmost tranquility and pampering before returning to your regular lives. One of the best ways to experience Sardinia is by taking to the sea surrounding it. In a single day you could hop off and snorkel, sail to some smaller islands just off the coast or even reach Corsica, a French island known for its cliffside towns and fabulous beaches.

 

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Stone archways lining blue water leading into the Venetian Arsenal

Venetian Arsenal, Italy: Off The Beaten Path

Written by Iulian Milcomete on . Posted in Adventure, Inspiration, Italy.

 

Existing in part as early as the 8th century, the Venetian Arsenal is a vast complex of shipyards and armories now open to the public for exploration. Featuring outdoor spaces and a walking bridge, possibly the most interesting feature on the grounds is the Piraeus Lion statue at the main gate. With a perplexing inscription and intimidating 9-foot stature, this lion demands the attention of all who question the naval power of the republic of Venice.

 

Spanning about 110 acres (or about 15% of Venice), the Venetian Arsenal was the largest industrial complex in not only Italy, but the entirety of Europe before the Industrial Revolution. The trading vessels built here generated a large portion of Venice’s wealth and power throughout the centuries. The main gate “Porta Magna” was created around 1460 as one of the first works of Venetian Renaissance architecture.

 

Two marble lion statues in from of the ornate gate of a reddish stone building

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Later in 1687, two white marble lions were plundered in Athens and brought to Venice to stand guard next to the main gate, giving the name “Porto Leone” or Lion Port. One of the sculptures, known as the Piraeus Lion, was displayed as a symbol of Saint Mark, Venice’s patron saint. Originally created around 360 BC, the lion was defaced by Scandinavian mercenaries in the 11th century. With runes carved in a dragon-like scroll on the shoulders of the lion, many have tried to decipher the meaning. Take a look for yourself; what is the Lion of Saint Mark telling you?

 

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3 Austria Honeymoon Destinations

Written by Iulian Milcomete on . Posted in Austria, Inspiration.

 

Notorious as one of the most expensive countries to visit in Europe, Switzerland’s hefty price tag often wards off couples just starting their lives together and looking to celebrate. However, its next-door neighbor offers a lot of its most beloved qualities at a fraction of the cost: sweeping views of alpine mountains, shimmering blue lakes, magnificent stone castles, medieval cities and hearty cuisine. These Austria honeymoon destinations showcase the best of the country and will leave you will feeling both exhilarated and refreshed by the time you return to your regular lives.

 

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1) Vienna

 

Vienna not only serves as the governmental capital of Austria, it’s also frequently dubbed its cultural capital for its encompassment of history, music and architecture. Start your days by fueling up at one of the many coffee houses, before strolling through the scenic streets together. From churches and museums to palaces and administrative buildings, the city is home to a number of architectural marvels spanning different eras.

 

Even those who cringe at the thought of seeing an opera production might consider making a romantic night of it by grabbing dinner before heading to one of the city’s world-renowned opera halls. If opera is still too much of a stretch for you, consider the Vienna Mozart Orchestra. These musicians thoroughly dedicate themselves to Mozart’s craft, mastering his pieces and even dressing in historical costumes for the performances.

 

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2) Salzburg

 

Hohensalzburg Fortress, perched on a hilltop in the middle of Salzburg, sets the tone for any time spent there. It’s a shining example of the history and architecture that make the city so alluring. And for Sound of Music fans, a lot of the most delightful sights will seem familiar to you, like Mirabell Gardens and Schloss Hellbrunn, which were used as filming locations.

 

It must be noted that one of qualities that makes Salzburg one of the best Austria honeymoon destinations is its variety of easily accessible day trips. Whether you’re the kind of couple who likes to journey into ice caves and scale mountains or lounge lakeside and meander through fairy-tale towns, somewhere to suit your needs is well within reach. You could even hop the border into Germany and be in Munich in just ninety minutes.

 

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3) Innsbruck

 

If hitting the slopes is a big part of your relationship, Innsbruck is one of the ideal Austria honeymoon destinations for capping off a winter wedding. Host of both the 1964 and 1976 Winter Olympics, it’s no surprise that Innsbruck is perfect hub for winter sports enthusiasts. Whether you’ve been skiing or snowboarding for years or you’ve never tried it in your life, there a plenty of adventures to be had in the surrounding mountains. You may even be lucky enough to climb in a bobsled and rush down the track or witness pros taking practice runs off the Bergisel Ski Jump. If you visit in the warmer months, you can still enjoy the mountainous landscape by hiking along the far-reaching network of trails.

 

In addition to those highlights, Innsbruck is also suitable for those looking for a more leisurely honeymoon. The colorful Old Town is thriving with quaint shops and restaurants and cable cars can ease the task of reaching mountain tops. And while the bling in your new wedding rings is to be treasured the most, you could also check out lots of other sparkly gems at the very unique Swarovski Kristellwelten, a nearby museum highlighting the famous crystal company. No matter how you choose to spend your days, you can spend each night curled up together by a fireplace with breathtaking mountain views surrounding you.

 

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Colorful lines painted on the side of a building in Las Letras, Madrid

Las Letras, Spain: Off The Beaten Path

Written by Iulian Milcomete on . Posted in Adventure, Inspiration, Spain.

 

Located near Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol, Madrid’s Las Letras neighborhood is easy to wander into on accident, but is also well worth spending some intentional time in. As largely pedestrianized area, you can meander down the streets and weave your way in and out of delightful shops and eateries. Calle de las Huertas is particularly known throughout the city for its trendy shopping scene. When the sun goes down, the clubs and theaters come to life and Plaza de Santa Ana sits at the center of it all with numerous outdoor dining spots with great ambience.

 

Decorations of a bird, a bird cage, and pink flowers hang from balconies of the same building in Las Letras, Madrid

 

But what truly makes Las Letras unique is what made it the Literary Quarter in the first place. It was once home to some of Spain’s most famous writers, from Tirso de Molina to Miguel de Cervantes. Tribute is paid to its artistic history through the pieces decorating the neighborhood. Cobblestone streets are inscribed with excerpts from those writers. Bicycles and large plastic flowers hang from balconies. Flat sides of buildings are used as canvases for paintings ranging in style from classical to modern. And while artistic giants of the Prado and Reina Sofia museums sit nearby, Las Letras has several small galleries of its own.

 

Young couple holding hands walking with the Palace of Westminster in London in the background

3 United Kingdom Honeymoon Destinations

Written by Iulian Milcomete on . Posted in Inspiration, UK.

 

 

Not well known for a sunny climate and luxurious beaches, the United Kingdom often goes overlooked as a honeymoon destination, but history buffs and charming countryside enthusiasts would be hard-pressed to find somewhere better-suited for celebrating their new marriage. These United Kingdom honeymoon destinations provide everything from landmark buildings and unforgettable entertainment to rollings hills and jagged mountains.

 

Three red telephone booths on a beige stone road in Edinburgh, one of the best United Kingdom honeymoon destinations

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1) London and Edinburgh

 

The capital of both England and the United Kingdom as a whole, London has been a powerhouse since the early days of the British Empire, a history that is thoroughly demonstrated throughout the countless museums across the city. In addition to countless artifacts on display in those museums, there are a number of crucial historical buildings like Buckingham Palace, as well as modern marvels like the London Eye. At night, London continues to impress. Catch a show at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, cheer on a soccer game at one of the many stadiums, or simply hop from pub to pub and toast your relationship with a pint or a few.

 

When you want to slow your trip down little, head to Edinburgh. Despite being the capital city of Scotland, it has a lot less hustle and bustle than London. Instead of bouncing from place to place to try and cover as much ground as possible, you can meander down the Royal Mile together and have a romantic picnic overlooking the city on Calton Hill. All the while, you’ll still be spoiled with a variety of intricate historical monuments and lively pubs to discover.

 

Road over a bridge leading into a street lined with stone cottages in the Cotswolds, one of the most charming United Kingdom honeymoon destinations

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2) The Cotswolds

 

The Cotswolds embody the allure of the English countryside with precious stone houses and lush greenery. It’s been established by the government as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and with good reason. After watching the sun set over the jaw-dropping landscapes, enjoy romantic dinners of some of the country’s finest cuisine before curling up in your secluded cottage for the night. The quiet tranquility of the area makes it one of the most relaxing United Kingdom honeymoon destinations. It’s less about checking off sights to see and more about drinking in the views around you over a cup of tea or a delicately crafted cocktail.

 

That being said, the Cotswolds also act as a fantastic base to see some popular nearby attractions like Bath or Stonehenge. Day trips to Bristol and Oxford are also possible for adding a little more historical flair to your honeymoon.

 

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3) Scottish Highlands

 

The Scottish Highlands should be on the bucket list of any adventurous couple, making it one of the best United Kingdom honeymoon destinations for the outdoors-inclined. Hikers in particular will be delighted as they make their way around lochs with stone castles perched on the shores or along craggy ridge lines with sprawling valleys down below.

 

Other outdoor pursuits include kayaking, rock climbing, cycling, golfing, canyoning, and the list goes on. No matter which activity you choose, you’re sure to be spoiled with breathtaking scenery along the way. End a long day of activity with a stiff drink at one of the region’s numerous whiskey distilleries to celebrate, then retreat to your reformed-castle hotel for a couples’ massage. Before settling in for a good night’s rest be sure to take a romantic stargazing outing, which could be as simple as stepping away from your hotel and lying out under the Milky Way for a bit.

 

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Bright night sky with the Milky Way visible over a desert landscape

4 Dazzling Stargazing Spots Across Europe

Written by Iulian Milcomete on . Posted in Inspiration.

 

With a rise of interest in remote outdoor excursions, more travelers are becoming enchanted by the thought of spending nights away from cities to look up and see all the fascinating details the sky has to offer. There are a number of places closer to home where this is possible, but for those who want to tie in such an experience with a dream vacation to Italy or a beach getaway in Spain, these are the best stargazing spots in Europe.

 

Night sky of an abundance of stars and the Milky Way over a valley in Spain’s Canary Islands, one of the best spots for stargazing in Europe

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1) Canary Islands, Spain

 

The Canary Islands have long been a beloved beach destination in Spain, but as astrotourism continues to boom, travelers are beginning to discover what scientists have long known; that the skies with Starlight Reserve protection make for one of the best stargazing spots in Europe. Around the different islands you’ll have a front row seat to everything from meteor showers to the Milky Way. There are plenty of stargazing tours and observatories at the ready to help you navigate the sky, or you can journey out on your own and simply enjoy the view. You could build an entire vacation around hopping from island to island to sample the variety of experiences at night after days spent hiking desert landscapes or lounging on black sand beaches.

 

Bright starry sky with the Milky Way visible over snow-capped mountains, reflected in a lake in the foreground in the Pyrenees

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2) Pyrenees, France

 

Fairly remote in the south of France, the Pyrenees mountain range offers a rugged terrain accentuated by the countless stars lighting up the night sky. While the region as a whole offers no shortage of stargazing opportunities, the most notable spot lies atop Pic du Midi. Taking the cable car to the summit allows you to enter the observatory and try out the high-powered telescopes or gaze out at the snow-capped mountains glowing faintly from the astral activity above. It was here that NASA scientists took photographs of the moon’s surface in preparation for the Apollo missions, a testament to the astral clarity of the area.

 

Aurora Borealis glowing over a lake with hills in the distance in the Scottish Highlands, a great place for stargazing in Europe

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3) Scottish Highlands, United Kingdom

 

There are a few places throughout the United Kingdom that are great for stargazing, but the large expanses of unspoiled land in the Scottish Highlands allow you to have an incredible view from almost anywhere, whether you’re skirting along the Moray Coast or skipping across the different isles. And while Scotland definitely isn’t a hotspot for chasing down the Aurora Borealis like Iceland or Norway, it’s possible to see the Northern Lights from the Highlands if all the conditions happen to line up perfectly.

 

A small stone villa surrounded by cypress trees in Tuscany at night, with the sky lit up by the Milky Way

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4) Tuscany, Italy

 

Galileo Galilei is often considered the father of observational astronomy for his discoveries such as the rings of Saturn and a multitude of stars in the Milky Way. So it’s only fitting that his homeland, the rolling hills of Tuscany, remains one of the best stargazing spots in Europe. While you can see a fair number of stars from small cities like Siena or Pienza, you’re better off venturing to a more remote location for the clearest viewing opportunities. Not only will you be treated with amazing night sky, but you can enjoy it with a glass of some of the most acclaimed wine in the world in hand.

 

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Rear view of a young man and woman sitting on a river bank. The man is pointing towards a boat in the water with colorful buildings in the background

5 Portugal Honeymoon Destinations

Written by Iulian Milcomete on . Posted in Inspiration, Portugal.

 

In recent years, Portugal has rapidly been evolving from Spain’s often-overlooked neighbor to a travel hotspot. This is in large part because of its stunning beaches, fine wine, impeccable cuisine, charismatic cities, and countless other gems. This variety also makes this segment of the Iberian Peninsula a wonderful choice for punctuating a new marriage, and these Portugal honeymoon destinations only begin to uncover a myriad of possibilities.

 

Terraced vineyards along the Douro River

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1) Porto and the Douro Valley

 

Porto and the Douro Valley are the ideal Portugal honeymoon destinations for wine aficionados looking to start their marriage off by sampling varietals amid stunning scenery. Some days that scenery will be the monumental metal bridge and red roofs of Porto, and some days it will be the Douro River snaking its way through hills of terraced vineyards.

 

Port wine is a must-try while in Portugal, and this is absolutely the region for tastings above and beyond that popular export. You may not have many beaches at your disposal here, but when you’re sitting poolside and toasting to your new life together with some of the best wine in the world, you won’t even miss them. This area is also popular for wellness retreats, meaning it’s the perfect location to leave you feeling refreshed before returning to your regular lives.

 

Small red-and-white-striped house in between two small blue-and-white-striped houses with three seagulls flying above them on Portugal's Silver Coast

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2) Lisbon and the Silver Coast

 

As the capital city, Lisbon is a fantastic introduction to all that Portugal has to offer. Feel the breeze from the coast as you navigate the seven hills on foot or by its famous colorful trams, and end your day watching a delightful sunset over the city from the Alfama District. Once the sun has set, head to Bairro Alto y Chiado for a romantic seafood dinner followed by a thumping nightlife scene.

 

When you’re in need of some alone time spent sprawled out on the beach together, the Silver Coast is ready and waiting nearby. While the beaches of the Silver Coast may not be lined with glamorous clubs like you might find in other European countries, there are so many small villages with beaches that it’s easy to find somewhere to hunker down in private serenity. Or if you’re a more adventurous couple, Nazare is home to one of the top beaches in the world for surfing.

 

Inside view of the the Algarve’s golden Benagil Cave, with a hole in the ceiling shining light in and two more holes at the base allowing the ocean in

© Jacek Sopotnicki | Dreamstime.com

 

3) Algarve

 

If you’re all in on a beach honeymoon, look no further than the Algarve. Contrary to the Silver Coast, this is where you can find a plethora of resort-style hotels for pampering. Think easy access to golden sandy beaches with awe-inspiring rock formations during the day, afternoon couples’ massages, and evenings at the pool bar with refreshing cocktails in hand.

 

For a little adventure, you can set out on aquatic excursions like dolphin watching or join a cooking class to learn some local specialties. And if hitting the links is your favorite brand of unwinding, the Algarve is one of the best golf destinations in the world, as a home to plenty of gorgeous championship courses.

 

Trail leading out towards a green landscape of volcanic craters in the Azores, one of the best Portugal honeymoon destinations

© Dieniti | Dreamstime.com

 

4) The Azores

 

Once considered Portugal’s best-kept secret, the Azores, situated 900 miles away from the mainland, are slowly being uncovered. This island chain has everything you could hope to find in Portugal; craggy beaches, lovely architecture, rich local wine and delectable seafood. However, the most exciting parts of the islands are those unique to this region, such as the volcanic activity that has painted evergreen craters, geothermal hot springs, and black sand beaches across the land. Lounging in the hot springs together is sure to be a romantic honeymoon memory you’ll treasure for a long time.

 

While it’s easy to spend your time here simply relaxing amidst the gorgeous scenery, the Azores are also an amazing option for those with something a little more active in mind. The seafaring can take to the waters for whale watching or scuba diving, and those that feel more comfortable on their land legs can hike dormant volcanos or the rims of crater lakes.

 

Sunset over a cliffside town in Madeira, one of the best Portugal honeymoon destinations

© Fluffthecat | Dreamstime.com

 

5) Madeira

 

The island of Madeira shares a lot of similarities with the Azores, including endless greenery and mountainous terrain never far from the coast. Unlike the Azores, Madeira is somewhat more frequently traveled, meaning it’s home to a number of luxurious resorts where a spa or restaurant are only steps away from the pool or beach. This middle ground is what makes it one of the best Portugal honeymoon destinations. You can spend your day out walking behind waterfalls or around volcanoes with the knowledge you’ll be ending your day in a haven of pampering.

 

Some truly unique experiences include walking along the levadas (small channels that transport water throughout the island), perusing the painted doors of Funchal’s Old Town and even riding through city streets in a wicker basket on skis. Yes, you read that last part right. You and your new spouse winding down a curvy road in a wicker basket pushed by two men in straw hats is certainly a honeymoon memory you won’t forget anytime soon.

 

Featured image: © Natallia Haidutskaya | Dreamstime.com

 

View through a series of stone archways out toward mountains and green plants of the Villa Cimbrone Gardens

Villa Cimbrone Gardens, Italy: Off The Beaten Path

Written by Iulian Milcomete on . Posted in Adventure, Inspiration, Italy.

 

The Villa Cimbrone Gardens are a culmination of prestige, beauty, and the rich history of Ravello’s golden era. Earning its name from the jagged cliff on which it’s perched, the lush estate offers guests sweeping views over the Mediterranean sea as well as a peek into the ornate architecture, marbled statues, and flowering greenery of coast of Campania.

 

Originally belonging to the aristocratic Acconciajoco family in the 11th century, the property has passed hands several times over the centuries. It was extensively renovated in the early 20th century by British nobleman, Lord Grimthorpe, and is now a public historical sight.

 

Rear view of a statue of a woman on the left with a beige stone house, trees, and mountains in the background of the Villa Cimbrone Gardens

© Daniel M. Cisilino | Dreamstime.com

 

The botanical garden sits adjacent to an exclusive 5-star hotel that shares its name, and is often used for weddings and receptions due to its stunningly romantic atmosphere. The Terrace of Infinity is perhaps the most breathtaking spot on the premises; the long patio parallels the horizon and is dotted with marble busts along the rim. Where sculpture meets coastline, and water meets sky… that is where magic happens.

 

The Ally of Immensity is the main walkway through the estate and features a wisteria-covered pergola in summer. Within the gardens, visitors will find temples and statues, pottery and stonework, as well as a cloister and crypt: all pointing the the artistry that has been so meticulously preserved.

 

With its classical styling and aura of days gone by, the Villa Cimbrone Gardens are recognized as an important cultural heritage site that all who visit the Amalfi Coast shouldn’t miss.

 

Featured image: © Daniel M. Cisilino | Dreamstime.com