Image via Visit Scotland
Honeymoons in July provide newlyweds the opportunity to escape the cold in Australia to enjoy a sun-filled trip of their lives. From Europe to Africa, there are many stellar spots where you and your sweetie pie can enjoy marital bliss under a summer sky.
1. Provence, France
France is the country of love and Provence is the perfect backdrop for romance (and epic road trip selfies!) Zip by endless fields of lavender and sunflowers and stop for tastings at vineyards or simply bask in the July sun.
Where to Stay
The idyllic Villa Gallici in Aix-en-Provence is the epitome of French country chic. Velvets, damask fabrics, elegant wing chairs and filtered lighting sets the scene for an enchanting getaway. Ask for a suite which offers a private garden or terrace overlooking the large grounds surrounding the villa.
Image via Villa Gallici
What to Do
Provence region is best explored behind the wheel, so rent a car and take in the marvellous rolling fields of lavender and poppies. For the francophiles amongst us, Provence’s many quaint hilltop villages are a sure delight.
Image by Winerist
2. Tahiti, French Polynesia
Although the temperature in Tahiti is balmy all-year around, July is one of the best months to visit with plenty of sunshine and minimum humidity.
Where to Stay
St.Regis Bora Bora brings the clear, turquiose water of the French Polynesian right to your doorstep. The over-water villas offers ultimate privacy and relaxation. The villas also come with a private water-edge dining gazebos.
Image via St. Regis Bora Bora
What to Do
Tahiti is a beach lover’s paradise. But the islands have more to offer for visitors. The annual Heiva i Tahiti festivals in July are a chance to see a traditional dance performance by the most famed professional dance troupes and schools.
Every year from July to November, Rurutu, in the Austral Islands, becomes a prime observation platform for watching whales which come to calve just off the coast. It is a unique once-in-a-lifetime spectacle.
Image via Tahiti Travel Connection
3. Capri, Italy
What could be more romantic than a honeymoon in Italy? The ever so popular Mediterranean coasts of Italy are gorgeous, especially for newlyweds hoping to savour a spectacular art and food as well as stunning landscapes and historic treasures that are as diverse as they are seductive.
Where to Stay
Honeymoon like the celebrities in Capri Palace Hotel & Spa, the ultimate accommodation of choice for celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow. The luxury hotel is a vision of glamour. White furniture dominates all the surroundings enhancing the architectural forms inspired by the Mediterranean; admire the fine selection of contemporary art too – a true hallmark of this hotel.
Image via Capri Palace Hotel & Spa
What to Do
Capri’s single most famous attraction is the Grotta Azzurra, a stunning sea cave illuminated by an out of this world blue light. Reach the peak of Capri via Anacapri’s Seggiovia del Monte Solaro chairlift that whisks you to the top of the mountain in a tranquil, beautiful ride of just 13 minutes. The views from the top are outstanding – on a clear day, you can see the entire Bay of Naples, the Amalfi Coast and the islands of Ischia and Procida.
Image via Capri
4. Edinburgh, Scotland
July is a glorious time to explore the beautiful country sides of Scotland. The capital city, Edinburgh, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting towering castles and medieval lanes that sit alongside modern galleries and clubs.
Where to Stay
21212 Hotel is a regal and refined restaurant with rooms in Edinburgh, where Georgian design meets its match in the kitchen. Awarded a Michelin star within eight months of opening, the restaurant’s chefs cook up a storm behind a perspex screen. Interiors are spacious and serene – perfect to return to after your indulgence in the dining room.
Image via 21212
What to Do
Not many cities can boast an extinct volcano at their centre – and Edinburgh manages to squeeze in two. Arthur’s Seat, visible from much of the city centre, is a relatively easy hike that offers unmatched views of the city skyline. Scale the Scott Monument, a sooty spire that serves as a throw back to Auld Reekie’s polluted past. The monument (dedicated to the memory of Sir Walter Scott) is a gothic marvel. Squeeze your way up its narrow, spiral staircase for an unmatched, breathtaking view of the city.
Image via Photoeverywhere.co.uk
5. Kenya
If you’ve always dreamed of a safari honeymoon adventure, July is the time to do it. Head on over to Kenya, the location where the world’s largest animal movement began.
Where to Stay
With four poster beds, airy tents, zebra-skin rugs and decadent furniture, Cottars 1920s provides an authentic safari atmosphere – and is ideal for those seeking an introduction to safari holiday in Africa. As the oldest established safari outfitters in Africa, your privacy is guaranteed with a secluded location of 20,000 acres with only ten tents available.
Image via Cottars 1920s
What to Do
Stare in awe at zebras, gazelles, giraffes, elephants and wildebeests galore as they migrate across almost one thousand square miles of open plains and acacia woodlands. Hit up the beach at Zanzibar, which offers an exotic blend of Arabic and African culture along with nice sandy shores, clean dive-worthy waters and a vibrant city centre in the bustling capital of Stone Town.
Image via Magical Kenya
Ms Chinoiserie Says: I have a soft spot for Edinburgh as we honeymooned there – but how fabulous is Provence?? And Capri??? Now, I can’t choose!
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