Today’s honeymooners are looking for more than just lounging by the resort pool with mai tai in hand. Nowadays it’s about exploring a destination and packing in some outdoor adventure, and these three resorts are made for those active-laden honeymoons (although a little bit of downtime for cuddling is also in the picture).
An Active Match
The Ranch at Rock Creek, a Relais & Chateaux property in Montana, is a great choice for active honeymooners as it’s set on 10 sq. miles of wilderness. Honeymooners can get their adrenaline pumping while horseback riding, hiking or biking, or trying their hand at fly fishing, clay shooting, or archery. The winter months, too, are filled with active pursuits such as snowshoeing, ice skating, cross-country skiing, and sledding, although an intimate moment on a horse-drawn carriage ride is a must. For a truly unique experience, recommend “snowga,” or yoga practiced in the snow.
All-inclusive rates start at $2,600 per couple per night and include all activities, board, and food and beverage including wine and spirits. Travel agents work directly with a Ranch Ambassador who will help them customize their client’s honeymoon and create special celebratory moments and amenities for them to enjoy. Couples can opt for a private picnic followed by a couples spa treatment; or a private meal en-suite or out in nature.
For the most romantic accommodation, point honeymooners to Trapper Cabin—A Romantic Canvas Cabin on Rock Creek, set among the pines and aspen at the highest point on property, and steps away from the creek. It features an outdoor cedar soaking tub and fire pit that honeymooners can enjoy with a bottle of wine or nightcap under a starry sky.
Twosome Glamping
Located within Montana’s Moonlight Basin, Collective Yellowstone offers honeymooners luxurious tent accommodations with signature furnishings and locally sourced meals, as well as outdoor adventures. For clients who would like to be one with nature, but don’t want to rough it during their romantic rendezvous, this glamping experience situated along the freshwater Lee’s Pool is ideal. “Upon arrival, guests will find spacious tents decorated with chandeliers and rugs from local artists, 1,500-thread-count sheets and a private en-suite bathroom. The grounds include a large campfire where guests can enjoy artisanal s’mores by chef William Howell,” says Daniella Sloane, general manager of Collective Yellowstone. “Collective Yellowstone appeals to every kind of newlywed, but really speaks to the adventurous couple who prefers the fresh mountain air and sound of bubbling creeks.”
Outdoorsy couples will also like the farm-to-table format, and let them know that chefs can prep meals alfresco at the retreat’s Three Peaks Lodge. Sloane adds that, “Sitting around the campfire while watching the sunset is one of the most romantic moments at the retreat. After toasting marshmallows, many couples walk to the dock to gaze out across Moonlight Basin to look at the reflection of Lone Peak and Fan Mountain
on the water.”
The outdoor activities include hiking, horseback riding, and stand-up paddleboarding, which can be arranged through Moonlight Outfitters service.
Concierges are available to help honeymooners customize their trip, as well as special celebrations such as private romantic dinners, or a BBQ in a box to enjoy lakeside or at their tent. Rates start at $500 per night per tent.
Beaching It
And for watersports aficionados, the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa on Florida’s Emerald Coast is just the spot. Honeymooners can choose from a variety of watersports, including pontoon boat ride, wave runners and parasailing, or they can go sailing, deep-sea bottom fishing and even take a sunset dinner cruise aboard a luxury yacht. While on land, couples can opt for a tennis match, or go biking around town. The property offers four championship golf courses, a Serenity by the sea Spa, three
pools, two whirlpools, six restaurants and three bars.
Recommend a stay in the 1-bedroom Presidential Suite boasting a private wraparound balcony, coastal views, separate living and dining areas, a wet bar, and a separate bathroom from the master.
As for the most romantic spot? Well, catching that Florida sunset dip into the horizon is at the top of many lists. Book the Leisure Escapes package and receive a $50 daily resort credit for every night of your stay. In July, room rates start at $346 per night.
Contact Information
Collective Yellowstone: collectiveretreats.com/retreat/collective-yellowstone
Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa: hiltonsandestinbeach.com
The Ranch at Rock Creek, a Relais & Chateaux:
relaischateaux.com/us/united-states/rockcreek-philipsburg
