The perfect honeymoon should be a celebration of the love you share with your partner, but it should also be a celebration of your relationship and the things you love to do together. Adventurous or laid back, beaches or mountains, every couple is unique and so are their choices for a honeymoon. For many couples, however, the ideal honeymoon might be to rent a private jet and explore some of the most incredible vineyards and wine regions in the world.
With that in mind, here we’ll be exploring some of the world’s best places to grab a wonderful glass (or bottle) of vino.
Stellenbosch, South Africa
The wine region of the Western Cape is in my opinion, the most underrated wine region of the world. It’s not undiscovered by any means, but it is lost in the shadows of places like France, Italy, Mendoza, and Napa Valley. I can safely say that Cape Town’s wine region is more stunning than all of the aforementioned, not to mention a hell of a lot cheaper with wine tastings that average R50. For those visiting South Africa, a visit to the wine region is an absolute must. I’ve visited many more wine farms than what I will list below so make sure to read about all of the wine farms I’ve visited in Cape Town.
While I’d highly recommend a few nights stay in the fabulous wine country, not everyone has the time so I’ve come up with the ultimate one to two day wine tour for those looking to do day trips from Cape Town. Although I’d like to think I’m a sommelier at heart, I am mostly just an amateur that likes to drink wine. Almost all the wine I’ve had during my time in South Africa is great, I’m just focused on which wineries (they’re called wine farms in South Africa), are the most stunning and picturesque.
Piedmond, Italy
The Piedmont region of Italy is one of the least visited and most underrated areas of Italy. I’ve traveled extensively through Italy and absolutely loved my trips through the Amalfi Coast, Sicily, Puglia, Tuscany, the Dolomites, and more. Piedmont was one of those last frontier types of places that I had to finally see.
In a country that produces wine in almost all corners of the country, Piedmont is produces some of the most famous and best rated wines in the country. The wine region of Piedmont is by far the most beautiful wine region in Italy and perhaps in Europe. I thought Tuscany was nice, but Piedmont is in its own world. Huge rolling hills completely covered with vineyards, medieval villages, and incredible Italian foods of which the Alba truffle is its claim to fame are what you can expect when visiting the Piedmont wine region.
In addition, the town of Turin is also the gateway to the Piedmont and worth at least a few days visit. Throw in the fact that Nutella, Vermouth (Negronis yum), and various other famous Italian products all come from this region of the country.
Bordeaux, France
France is always the top choice for couples as it’s a country already associated with love and romance. It’s also the first country that often comes to mind when we’re talking about wine and the Bordeaux region is where many of the best wines in the country (and the world) are grown.
There are many wine tours to be taken in this region of France with over 7000 wineries.
Unique experiences can be enjoyed too with stays in a giant wooden wine cask converted into a hotel room or a windmill in the middle of a vineyard. It’s also a gorgeous seaside town, so after you’re done indulging in the wine you can rent a boat and enjoy the fabulous coastline.
Marlborough, New Zealand
If you absolutely love a drop of white wine, then New Zealand might be the perfect destination for your honeymoon. Marlborough is renowned for its Sauvignon Blanc, but the cloud bay vineyards also have a diverse collection of pinot noir and chardonnay. The world-famous Nautilus Estate also provides plenty of winery tours and private tastings.
When you’re done getting nice and comfortable over a few glasses of cold white wine, try out the other Marlborough attractions. Consuming your body weight in fish and green shell mussels in eateries like those in Picton or Blenheim is something you won’t regret, and you may want to get even closer to Marlborough’s aquatic life by swimming, kayaking, or renting a boat.
Santorini, Greece
A truly dreamy honeymoon destination and the perfect wine, the Santorini vibe evokes romance with its black sand beaches and red volcanic rocks that almost resemble an alien landscape. Santorini has been making wine for 3000 years and even sells homemade wine in plastic bottles. Check out the award-winning Santo winery with their exceptional views of the Aegean and the Santorini Wine Museum if you want to learn more about traditional winemaking.
The iconic vacation destination can also provide you with private pools, hot tubs, beaches, and spectacular views. Hike from Fira to Oia on your romantic getaway to see the stunning sunset and indulge in Fava Beans, Saganaki and Greek Salad at the renowned restaurants in Slene and Psaraki. It’s definitely a destination where you come for the wine but stay for everything else!
