The Grand Tour!

With the popular Netflix show, Bridgerton, taking the world by storm, we’re shining a light on cultural escapades that took place in the Regency era. At the time, Grand European tours were all the rage, when aristocratic families would cross the continent by railroad and boat to discover the cultural wonders of Europe. Enlightened by the extraordinary and educational sights that they saw, these inspirational journeys were a rite of passage. Let us take you on a journey through Europe, from the stately jewels of Scotland to the artistic romance of Paris and the architectural marvels found in the floating city of Venice. With regal castles, grand hotels and mountain hideaways, travelling Europe has never been easier, and with it all on our doorstep, you can enjoy a honeymoon worthy of any lord or lady of the manor.

NORTHERN IRELAND

 

Let the lush rugged coastline of Ireland sweep you away on a romantic road trip for two. Home to medieval castles, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Giant’s Causeway and the Titanic Museum where the world’s most famous ocean liner was built, you’re bound to fall in love with this enchanting part of the UK. It’s a Celtic destination where good craic and merriment can be found at every pub corner, delicious gastronomy awaits your tastebuds, and the spellbinding scenery will blow you away, as it did for millions of Game of Thrones fans.

As one of the finest luxury hotels in Northern Ireland, Culloden Estate and Spa in Belfast was built for a Bishop and fit for any King or Queen. Poised on the Holywood Hills with remarkable views of the Antrim Coastline, honeymooners are in for a treat at this splendid 5-star manor set in 12 acres of peaceful country surrounds. There are 98 individually decorated bedrooms to take your pick from, furnished with exquisite antiques and King Koil ‘Cloud Beds’ for a comfortable and soundless night’s sleep. At their trio of culinary outposts, Vespers Restaurant, the Lough Bar and Cultra Inn, carefully curated menus are served using the best local ingredients, giving you all the more reason to delve in and unwind at this regal Irish haven. cullodenestateandspa.com

SCOTLAND

 

From sparkling lochs and fairy glens to towering mountain peaks and gothic cathedral spires, Scotland is a place that forever calls to the heart. Whether you’d like an adventurous weekend, a cultural crawl from a museum to a gallery, or time to simply put your feet up in the sumptuous surroundings of a luxury hotel, this captivating country at the northern tip of the UK has the best of all worlds. The capital of Edinburgh is a grand gateway to it all, with monuments perched atop crags and a turreted skyline that will dazzle you from the moment you step off the train.

As a grand dame hotel, The Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh - The Caledonian has become an iconic establishment since its opening in 1903. Located on Princes Street with views of Edinburgh Castle, the former rail station building is as central as it gets with nearby access to The Royal Mile and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Edinburgh Old Town. With majestic suites and a variety of dining options, you can enjoy the luxuries of room service or try out all kinds of cuisine, from afternoon tea at Peacock Alley to a sensory 7-course taster menu at Dean Banks at The Pompadour. The Waldorf Astoria Spa is another highlight, featuring an indoor pool with mesmerising city views and indulgent treatments in partnership with 111SKIN. hilton.com/en/hotels/ednchwa-waldorf-astoria-edinburgh-the-caledonian

PARIS

 

Paris is the ultimate getaway for romance. There’s much to swoon over, from the grand architecture, culturally-rich landmarks and cosy restaurants and cafes dotting the hidden cobblestone streets. But that’s not all! What truly sweeps travellers off their feet is the vibrant soul of the city, sheltering years and years of history. Art, literature, music, fashion and food, much of what we love today dates back to the City of Love. If you’re looking for opulence and luxury, you can’t go wrong with a trip to Paris. Soak it all in as you cruise up and down the Seine, and if you have extra time, a day trip to the Palace of Versailles is a must.

Make special memories with your love with an unforgettable stay at the Grand Hôtel du Palais Royal - which you might recognise from the acclaimed series ‘Emily in Paris’. Set in the heart of the French capital, you have all the main attractions at your doorstep. The hotel is only a stone’s throw away from the Palais Royal and its romantic formal gardens, and next door to the Louvre and the Tuileries Gardens for romantic strolls as the sun sets. Find refuge in one of the hotel’s 68 rooms and suites; particularly bright and with soft-hued furnishings, you’ll feel right at home in the comfort of your private hideaway. During your stay, you can either relax in the spa and delight in their menu or plan a romantic date at the Café 52 restaurant, which is due to open soon! grandhoteldupalaisroyal.com/en/

PROVENCE

 

The aura of Provence is bound to leave everlasting memories in your hearts. This awe-inspiring region of France is blessed with rolling hills, flourishing vineyards and mesmerising views, not to mention a rich culinary scene and cultural treasures that will keep you hypnotised as you drive along the tree-lined roads. When we think of Provence, we imagine picturesque lavender fields, elegant manors and romantic sunsets. You can rest assured that this lyrical part of the world offers this and much more to couples seeking an escapade to celebrate newly married life. Looking to disconnect from your daily frenzy?

Reconnect at Crillon Le Brave, a luxury hotel enveloped amidst blissful vineyards and olive groves, peacefully overlooking the dramatic mountains of Ventoux. This 5-star, private refuge offers the art of French living and invites you to rest and make memories in ultimate comfort. The hotel boasts 16 rooms and 18 suites for a relaxing honeymoon getaway, two gastronomic destinations to savour the best that Provence offers, and a sumptuous spa to forget all your troubles. During your stay, you can enjoy picnics in the vineyards, bicycle rides along the rolling hills and tours to the enchanting medieval towns nearby. Start your married life right with an unparalleled stay at Crillon Le Brave. crillonlebrave.com

VENICE

 

Graced with ancient canals and masquerade traditions, the magical lagoon of Venice is the floating jewel of the Adriatic Sea, luring couples to its endless charm and rich past. A city like no other, in Venice, you won’t find streets to hinder your path, but winding canals opening to marvellous squares and Renaissance palaces. A breathtaking seascape, La Serenissima, is made of infinite islets sprinkled across the sea, protecting the glorious city and connected by over 400 bridges. Hop on a gondola and uncover a few of the lagoon’s hidden gems, with Murano and “the vegetable garden” of Venice, Sant’Erasmo, set just a stone’s throw away.

Start your Venice escapade with a stay at Hilton Molino Stucky, Venice. Set in a fully restored flour mill on the shores of picturesque Giudecca Island, this is the perfect starting point to explore the city’s cultural history and unrivalled hospitality. Offering a refuge from the city’s buzz, it’s perfectly located just a few minutes away from Piazza San Marco by private shuttle boat. Rest in stylish rooms and suites boasting majestic views of the lagoon, dine and discover the local flavours in the hotel’s restaurants and take a dip in their summer rooftop swimming pool, flaunting the highest sights from any rooftop in the city. Luxuriate in the refined lifestyle of Venice with a soothing getaway to Hilton Molino Stucky, Venice. hilton.com/en/hotels/vcehihi-hilton-molino-stucky-venice

LAKE COMO

 

The glistening waters of Lake Como host the world’s A-listers and are home to some of the most lavish and grand villas, hotels and restaurants in Italy. Just a swift hour away from Milan, Lake Como is where you’ll get a taste of the glamorous Dolce Vita as you weave through the narrow lakeside lanes. Framed against a scenery of forested mountains and elegant towns perched atop pine-shrouded hills, Lake Como offers the perfect quiet setting to make memories with your love. Whether you’re visiting the romantic gardens of Villa Balbianello, sailing along the idyllic shores, or seeking out the stars’ hidden holiday villas, you will fall in love with the tranquil banks of Como.

Bask in the glorious views of the lake and surrounding marvels with a stay at Hilton Lake Como. 10 minutes from Como’s city centre, the hotel is a peaceful haven just steps away from it all. Villa Olmo is less than five minutes by foot, and many boat tours depart nearby for your day trips. The hotel is a modern location where you can experience the luxuries of Italy’s glitziest lake and find refuge for special moments with your better half. Get panoramic views of the lake and neighbouring mountains from the rooftop infinity pool and sky-high bar for a romantic date with your love, and don’t forget to take a trip to the spa for a taste of the newlywed's package. hilton.com/en/hotels/mxpcohi-hilton-lake-como

SWITZERLAND

 

Blessed with snow-capped mounts, shimmering lakes and pretty towns, Switzerland is a country like no other. As a landlocked country, it’s a melting pot of traditions, people and languages, perfect to uncover the abundant history and marvellous culture across its territory. From skiing in the Alps, trekking amidst the quaint mountain towns, uncovering the beautiful cities and tasting the world-renowned chocolate temptations, newlyweds will find a place to feel at one with nature.

Nestled on the serene shores of Lake Maggiore, Hotel Eden Roc is what dreams are made of. Framed by lush mountains, enveloped in a charming garden and with a prime waterfront position, couples will feel right at home. Hotel Eden Roc sits in the heart of Italian-speaking Switzerland in Ascona, which has long been a refuge for artists, writers and cosmopolitans looking to escape the everyday humdrum and find inspiration in nature. Hotel Eden Roc is the perfect gateway to discover the local traditions, and at the same time, it’s the ideal location for couples to take time to themselves and enjoy walks along the hotel’s stunning private beach, explore the four tantalising culinary options and relax in the comfort of their own vibrantly designed suites. tschuggencollection.ch/en/hotel/hotel-eden-roc

PRAGUE

 

Without a doubt, the capital of the Czech Republic, Prague, is one of Europe’s most enchanting cities, a cradle of history and modernity that inspires the world. Couples will find a warm ambience to delve into. With architectural wonders at every turn, pretty cobblestone streets for romantic strolls and a buzzing city scene with cafes and restaurants ready to welcome lovebirds as the day draws to an end, Prague is on our radar. From its hilltop castle, boasting over 1000 years of history, to the iconic Charles Bridge, offering sweeping views across the city, and the oldest clock in the world set in the Old Town Square, there’s much to uncover for a honeymoon to remember.

A city with such a regal presence needs a hotel to do it justice, and The Grand Mark Prague does exactly that. Situated within a stunning Neo-Classical building, the palatial hotel combines historic architecture with modern amenities to elevate your stay. Home to 78 tastefully appointed rooms and suites, an elegant restaurant and a cosy bar for nightcaps, you are in for the time of your life. The jewel in the crown of The Grand Mark is its unique private garden with its baroque fountain, offering a romantic place to delight in quality food and celebrate your special occasion. Get enveloped by the elegance of Prague and create memories to last a lifetime with a sojourn at The Grand Mark. grandmark.cz