Here are my favourite honeymoon destinations for three very different types of newly-weds — foodies, lovers of culture, and sun-worshippers…
Gourmet Globe-Trotters
Perfect for food lovers, Hôtel Crillion le Brave is a charming boutique bolthole in France, nestled amongst the rolling vineyards and peaceful villages of Avignon.
Hôtel Crillion le Brave has two delicious restaurants serving fresh local produce, a chef with a Michelin star on his resume, and, of course, some beautiful, stylish suites. There’s also a tempting outdoor pool among the cool terraces, perfect for enjoying fine fromage et vin as the sun sets over the hills.
Doubles from £224 per night*, including breakfast
Culture Lovers
Colonial-chic Clingendael in jungle-lined Kandy, Sri Lanka, is a tranquil paradise with plush lawns, soothing infinity pools and stunning views of the Knuckles Range.
Soak up the rich Sri Lankan culture and go temple hopping. Visit the revered Temple of the Tooth, take a sunny stroll through the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, or simply kick back in the hotel’s Jacuzzi after a round of golf on Sri Lanka’s best course (which just happens to be within the grounds of the hotel).
Doubles from £352 per night*, including breakfast, soft drinks and beer
Sun-Worshippers
Parrot Cay by Como, Turks and Caicos, is the ultimate A-list honeymoon destination. There’s miles of unspoilt ivory-sand beach, aquamarine ocean and an out-of-this-world Como Shambhala spa. For the full experience book a private villa with your own butler.
There’s also a top-notch scuba-diving site nearby, outdoor Jacuzzis for two, and a breathtaking infinity pool. With views of the harbour, it’s perfect for people watching as you sip Parrot Cay’s signature lemon cocktail.
Doubles from £426 per night*, including breakfast and yoga classes
*Prices correct June 2015
Guest post by Claire Wilson of Mr & Mrs Smith
Images from Mr & Mrs Smith