Your honeymoon is one of the most important holidays of your married life. It’s all about splashing out — booking once-in-a-lifetime experiences, sipping champagne for breakfast, and lounging on sun-kissed shores. But you don’t need to travel to the other side of the world for an unforgettable honeymoon. Enter the ‘mini-moon’ — the perfect solution for time-short couples.
More and more newlyweds are opting for quick breaks right after the wedding, heading to nearby gems like France and Ireland, and saving up for a longer getaway in the future. Europe is a mini-moon paradise: far enough to escape together without the hassle of jetlag, and brimming with romantic spots.
Here are five of our favourite places for romance-seekers:
The country one: Rathsallagh House: Wicklow, Ireland
The welcome is warm at this cosy country house just one hour from Dublin airport. Calming decor (log fires, snuggle-worthy sofas, and crisp white linens) make it a peaceful retreat if you’re jotting down mini-moon ideas. You’re close to Waterford Crystal, Wicklow National Park, The Irish National Stud and Japanese Gardens, and Kildare Retail Village — so there are plenty of post-marriage adventures to pencil in during your stay. Rathsallagh House has a long list of awards under its belt — its restaurant has even won the National Breakfast Awards a record four times. And in the words of Virginia Woolf: “One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well”. It’s an ideal spot to enjoy the Irish countryside in all its glory.
The boutique one: Kyrimai Hotel: Mani, Greece
Tucked away at the southern tip of the Mani Peninsula, Kyrimai is a real gem. This charming boutique hotel mixes historical vibes with modern luxury perfectly. Think 19th-century stone buildings, elegant antiques, and plush linens. The food? Divine local cuisine. And those views of the Aegean Sea from the pool? Simply breathtaking. It’s a serene spot that’s just perfect for a romantic mini-moon. Spend your days exploring the rugged coastline or lounging by the pool, and your nights dining under the stars with the sound of the waves as your soundtrack.
The secluded one: Dalen Hotel: Telemark, Norway
Dreaming of a fairytale escape? Dalen Hotel in Telemark has got you covered. This historic beauty, built in 1894, is all about old-world charm and lavish interiors. Wander through the gorgeous gardens, take a boat trip on the Telemark Canal, or indulge in the hotel’s spa. It’s the perfect hideaway for couples looking to get lost in each other and the stunning scenery. The combination of majestic mountains and tranquil lakes creates a magical atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after the hustle and bustle of a wedding.
The spa one: Hotel Royal Palace: Turčianske Teplice, Slovakia
If relaxation is top of your list, then the Royal Palace in Turčianske Teplice is calling your name. Famous for its therapeutic mineral waters and top-notch spa treatments, this place is all about pampering. Whether you’re into massages, hydrotherapy, or beauty treatments, you’ll leave feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Add in luxurious rooms and fantastic dining, and you’ve got a mini-moon haven. Take leisurely walks in the surrounding park, enjoy a dip in the healing waters, and let all your worries melt away in this tranquil retreat.
The city one: Hotel Giorgione: Venice, Italy
Venice is always a good idea, and Hotel Giorgione makes it even better. Right in the heart of the city, just a hop, skip, and jump from the Rialto Bridge and St. Mark’s Square, this charming hotel is the epitome of Venetian romance. With elegant, traditional decor, a lovely courtyard with a fountain, and a rooftop terrace offering stunning views, you’ll be swooning in no time. Perfect for wandering the canals by gondola or enjoying a candlelit dinner. Spend your days getting lost in the narrow streets, visiting historic landmarks, and indulging in delicious Italian gelato.
