Planning your honeymoon is a unique honeymooner’s journey that should reflect true love – not only for each other but also for wine!
Many wine regions around the world are peaceful and romantic, with spacious vineyards and delightful tasting rooms ideal for a romantic getaway for two.
Here are some pointers to help you plan an unforgettable wine country honeymoon trip from beginning to end.
Where do you even begin with many wine regions around the world?
Consider what you enjoy other than wine and build from there. If you want the beach, deem a South African wine retreat to visit the country’s hidden beaches on the west coast.
If you are a true wine and liquor lover and if the most frequently asked question of your search history is “liquor store near me“, then you would like these wine tour destinations.
If you’re looking for history and architecture, a trip to Spain’s wine regions can be merged with a visit to Barcelona or Madrid. If you enjoy shopping for genuine leather goods and luxuriating in steak while on a wine tour, Argentina is the right spot.
Pack well
With so many wine tastings planned, it’s critical to pack properly. To begin with, hues should be the default look; and besides, dribbling Chianti on one crisp white cloth pants would be a tragedy.
Consider packing layers because cellars and caves can be cold, regardless of the weather outside. Research the weather and temperatures that each season brings, as that can vary by wine region.
Don’t forget to bring white wipes to clean your teeth after savoring so they don’t get stained with wine. Keeping a pack of Ibuprofen on hand in case one wine indulgence goes too far could be a lifesaver.
Think different
Just as your wedding can indeed be traditional, so can your honeymoon – or not. Wine vacations do not have to be all about quiet tasting rooms and vineyard tours. You can always try something new, such as a wine SPA in Spain, Segway or biking wine tours in Italy, or even an underwater winery in Croatia accessible only by diving.
TOP DESTINATIONS
Six Senses Douro Valley – Lamego, Portugal
Six Senses Douro Valley is the epitome of a holistic haven. Nestled among rolling hills and greeneries vines, the artfully renovated 19th-century stately home channels tradition in a completely modern, luxurious, and mindful way.
The calendar is jam-packed with vino-related activities, ranging from vineyard walks to gatherings with local producers. Want more? There are routine sommelier-led brews in the wine library, as well as a variety of tempting wellness experiences.
In addition, the property is home to one of the most enticing spas in the world.
The Allison Inn & Spa- Newberg, Oregon
Willamette Valley is well-known among Pinot noir enthusiasts. However, this award-winning wine-producing region offers more than just fertile soil and intermediate, low-tannin reds. At every turn, the Allison Inn & Spa honors its Oregonian heritage.
Handmade furnishings and illustrations adorn the spaces, while native flavors take center stage at Jory. Unsurprisingly, there’s also a fantastic cellar. Do you want to be pampered? You are fortunate.
Enjoy wine-infused treatments like face masks and red grape body wraps.
Babylonstoren – Simondium, South Africa
Stellenbosch is located 45 minutes from outside Cape Town. Babylonstoren is a historic Cape Dutch farm known because of its organic gardens, distinctive amenities, and phenomenal gastronomic reputation. Every morning, Babel serves a delectable breakfast spread.
And the farm-to-fork delectability persists well into the evening. Are you ready and get a little blitzed? Visit the winery for a cellar tour and tasting. Withdraw to the solace of your private cottage after a flask of Syrah.
Auberge du Soleil – Rutherford, California
Auberge du Soleil is the utmost wine country escape in California. The exclusive Napa Valley entity entices couples with its unrivaled location, romantic atmospherics, and attentive service.
Furthermore, you’d be hard pushed to find a vantage point on the property that didn’t offer breathtaking views. What else is worth bragging about? Elegantly hired villas and a magnificent pool. Private outings in the sculpture park are a honeymooner’s dream.
A three-course meal with wine pairing at the Michelin-starred eatery assures an unforgettable evening for gourmets.
Belmond Castello di Casole – Casole d’Elsa SI, Italy
Do you fantasize about a romantic Tuscan flee fit for royalty? At Belmond Castello di Casole, embrace country living. The sprawling 10th-century estate, rustic yet refined, provides an advanced stay with plenty of pastoral charm and history.
It has hosted dignitaries, Hollywood legends, and well-heeled travelers over the years. Wonderful food and world-class wine are complemented by sought-after activities such as trips to nearby farms, horseback riding, and truffle hunting.
After a week of recreation or leisure, warm, elegant rooms beckon.
Marqués de Riscal – A Luxury Collection Hotel – Elciego | Elciego, Spain
The Frank Gehry showpiece, positioned in the town of Elciego, impresses oenophiles and, yes, everyone who sees it. Hotel Marqués de Riscal’s whimsical, contemporary design stands out from the stunning features of the vineyards.
Gourmet delights complement the incredible architecture. Guests who are interested in wine can learn about the process and sample Rioja. Marqués de Riscal Restaurant excels in northern Spanish cuisine and is led by chef Francis Paniego.
Make a reservation for a signature Cabernet exfoliate just at Caudalie Vinothérapie Spa.
TIPS FOR WINE COUNTRY HONEYMOON
Consider wine country regions that are off the beaten path
While Bordeaux is always an option; the world is full of interesting and unique tourist attractions that many people are unaware are recognized for wine, among many other things.
Did you know that in the 1980s, Bulgaria was the world’s second-largest wine producer? Currently, the country has five distinct flavorful regions, within each microclimate.
So you need to get these tips for planning the perfect honeymoon in order to have a memorable venture.
Understand the key terms
Of course, you’re familiar with terms associated with wine tasting in English, such as tannins, barrels, antique, older, fruity, reserve, vial, or sweet. However, learning a few key phrases in the official language of one’s wine region honeymoon destination is a good idea.
Even if you’ll be touring in English, understanding some of the vocabularies on the bottle labels or asking a question in another language can significantly improve your wine encounter and earn a little respect from the locals.
Bring some honeymoon memories with you
Before you embark on your wine country adventure, research alternatives for shipment wine back to the house from your honeymoon.
After all, this is a trip you’ll remember for the rest of your life, so celebrating your 10, 20, or even 30-year anniversary with an antique reserve purchased all through your honeymoon from an exotic wine venue will make those married years even more special.
Also, don’t forget to include special luggage specifically designed for hauling wine back home on your gift list.