The Sprig List
The Most Fabulous Eco-Honeymoons
Fall in love with these destinations of extraordinary beauty, exquisite spa treats and romantic communings with nature.
Here are our picks for the top green honeymoon spots around the globe, including some that just might surprise you:
Southern Ocean Lodge: Kangaroo Island, South Australia
Encompassing 1,737 miles of a terrain similar to West Africa, Kangaroo Island offers expansive dry plains of brush, indigenous wildlife and dramatic ocean vistas. More than one-third of the island has been declared a Conservation or National Park, and five significant Wilderness Protection Areas have been retained, including more than half of the native vegetation. Book a suite at the new Southern Ocean Lodge, the first luxury resort on the island: The contemporary white and blue-grey décor is flanked by floor-to-ceiling panoramic ocean views. Unlike many of its overdeveloped counterparts, this resort's lodges were constructed in a way to blend into their natural surroundings. When it's time to dine in the chic restaurant, be sure to try the locally sourced marron (a crawfish meets lobster) and whiting fish; the islands local vintners, Two Wheeler Creek and The Islander, are featured on the superb wine list. www.southernoceanlodge.com
Las Casitas del Colca: Colca Canyon, Peru
A quick one hour flight from Lima and you will find yourself deep in the Colca Canyon – the largest in the world and home to the famous Condor. Set against this dramatic backdrop is Las Casitas del Colca, a tranquil 20-room eco-lodge situated on a 60-acre estate strewn with cactus and fruit trees. Its large soaking tubs, indoor and outdoor showers with glass ceilings and heated plunge pools ensure that honeymooners will be cosseted for the duration of their stay. The best valley views are to be had at the Spa Samay (meaning 'rest' in the ancient Incan language of Quecha). Treatments, inspired by the Andean culture, involve local products from the Peruvian highlands. In addition, volunteer work can be organized for any guest wishing to be involved in the nearby Mission of Sister Antonia, which runs purely on donations from tourists and anonymous benefactors. www.lascasitasdelcolca.com
Solage Calistoga: Napa Valley, California
Nestled in northern Napa Valley, the Solage Calistoga features unparalleled views of the Palisades and Mayacama Mountains. The pool and adjacent outdoor lounge are both popular with guests, but the real draws here are the geothermal spring waters and chic spa. The property's prime spot on the Silverado Trail means that honeymooners have dozens of award-winning wineries at their disposal when (and if) they decide to venture out. Bikes are available to guests who are interested in exploring the property and surrounding areas, which means the car can stay parked until check-out. The property also offers eco destination weddings in a 3,500 square-foot barn-like venue with locally sourced food; the resort's wedding planner will work with the couple to incorporate additional green initiatives such as recycling, composting and donations to local charities. www.solagecalistoga.com
Le Méridien Bora Bora: Bora Bora, French Polynesia
A must stop for all nature-loving honeymooners is this unspoiled turquoise lagoon on the island of Bora Bora. Book an over-water bungalow at Le Méridien Bora Bora, and be prepared to be wowed by the spectrum of rainbow-hued tropical fish that swim right beneath the glass-bottom floor. One of the highlights here is the unique sea-turtle sanctuary, where guests can explore marine life in a safe private lagoon environment and actually swim with some of the 200 brown-and-green-shelled turtles.The property's Tipanie restaurant offers some of the best French food and wines to be found outside of Paris. Don't miss the grilled local lobster tails in vanilla sauce, roasted duck and trios of mini-créme brûlée. www.borabora.lemeridien.com
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