• Travel & Honeymoon

The first thing that pops in my head when I think of honeymooning is Hawaii or Bali. Although, these beachy destinations are amazing, they may not be for every couple. Understandably, some newlyweds are seeking adventure, looking to relax, explore new destinations or perhaps just bring their dog along on their trip.

In honor of these couples we've gathered up 6 honeymoon spots that you may have missed or might not have stumbled across. So, keep reading for seven honeymoon spots for every type of couple. Starting with ...

whistler, canada

Where to Stay: The Westin Resort & Spa, Whistler
Whistler Resort is the ultimate couple's playground! A year round haven for the couple who loves to adventure and relax together. Ski, bike, kayak, paddle board, hike, relax and just be together. All of this with one of nature's most beautiful backdrops.

Perfect For: If you own a pair of hiking boots, shops at REI, loves paddle boards, relishes in nature and lives  for the fresh mountain air.

All the outdoor enthusiast's favorites - Ski, snowboarding, biking, kayaking, paddle boarding, hiking, relaxing, good food, couples spa treatments, awesome pool and jacuzzi.

Accommodations: The rooms are suites, your room will have a spacious and romantic retreat with a fireplace. The perfect place to get your cozy on.

Bonus: Dogs are allowed in the hotel. The Westin Resort & Spa, Whistler ensures that your four-legged guests will be well cared for with their Westin Heavenly Dog Program®. Check out @toby_littledude just chillin at The Westin.

blue mountain, canada

Where To Stay: The Westin Trillium House, Blue Mountain is nestled between the shores of Georgian Bay and the heights of the Niagara Escarpment.

Perfect For:  The couple that loves to get outside and have an adventure, regardless of the season. Blue Mountain is jam packed with outdoor activities all year long. From day to night skiing in the winter, to canoeing and mountain biking in the warmer months. 

Activities: Besides all day and night skiing, ice skating, tubing, sleigh rides, snowshoeing, wine tasting, winter caving, zip lines, high ropes, mountain biking and segway tours there are nearby spas like the Scandinave Spa (shown above) and IWA spa to pamper yourself and rejuvenate.

Another fun activity is the  The Apple Pie Trail. Inspired by South Georgian Bay's apple-growing history, bringing together culinary, shopping, adventure, farms and other local experiences that celebrate local history and reinterpret the mighty apple for the 21st century. 

Bonus: Keep up with your fitness routine while enjoying the fresh air and views of Blue Mountain. Stay motivated with the hotel's RunWESTIN program, and take advantage of guided group runs, running maps and more. Plus at most Westin Hotels they will deliver the latest New Balance® gear, including apparel and shoes, right to your guest room. Shoes come with brand new socks, which are yours to keep post-workout, and all of the clothing is provided fresh and clean.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Where To Stay: La Posada de Santa Fe, a Tribute Portfolio Resort & Spa which is located in the heart of Santa Fe, New Mexico.

Perfect For:  The couple that enjoys culture, luxurious spa treatments, romance and fireside dining. Be sure to visit the Stab House located in the hotel. They serve signature cocktails, created by a team of master mixologists, and standout bar fare.

Activities: La Posada offers easy access to all the charms of downtown Santa Fe. The resort offers a quiet and secluded setting surrounded by adobe walls. Acres of beautifully landscaped grounds are filled with fountains, outdoor fireplaces, garden paths, sculpture and more. Above is a candlelit Adobe on Farolito Walk. How beautiful.

Bonus: This place is definitely for the couple that likes to Spa together. Spa Sage was recently named the USA Today Readers’ Choice #4 Best Hotel Spa in the Nation. The spa reflects the tranquility and rich healing heritage of the city and Southwestern region, offering high-quality, locally inspired treatments – including couples treatments - administered by expertly trained professionals.

rancho santa fe, san diego

Where To Stay: The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe, a Tribute Portfolio Resort & Spa! Minutes from the bustling city’s center, yet worlds away, The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe is a truly unique destination. Set on a sprawling 21-acre property in the heart of charming Rancho Santa Fe Village, The Inn is a luxe countryside retreat that favors rustic elegance and an unhurried sense of time.

Perfect For: The couple likes intimate ambiance, afternoon naps, long strolls and a afternoon cocktail by the pool.

Activities: Hike through the eucalyptus groves, ride horseback through the orchards, allow their chef to prepare you a gourmet picnic, explore historic Rancho Santa Fe or spend the day in Del Mar at the beach or exploring all the on-trend boutiques.

Bonus: With over 20 acres of majestic countryside you'll have to the opportunity to hike, bike or ride horseback through this scenic Southern California oasis. After relax at their heated saltwater pool and jacuzzi with a craft cocktail.

Savannah, Georgia

Where To Stay: The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa in Savannah, Georgia. One of the Peach State's most historic cities - it was the first state capital in 1733 - it is also one of the most beautiful.  Home to 22 park-like squares and overflowing with southern hospitality.

Perfect For: The history buffs that love relaxing, world class golf, spa treatments and sipping on a mint julep by the fire.

Activities: Relax by the pool, play a round of golf, enjoy the beautiful scenes of the Savannah River on a boat ride to secluded Daufuskie Island where you’ll find the Bloody Point Resort, a boutique experiences that offers members and visitors the chance to enjoy "flip-flop luxury" amidst endless natural beauty. Spend the day strolling around downtown Savannah and taking in all the history. 

Bonus: The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa is the only downtown hotel to offer secluded beach access for their guests. Take their maritime transportation from their on-site marina directly to Daufuskie Island where beach chairs and umbrellas are waiting for you. Relax in style.

Charlotte, North Carolina

Where To Stay: The Ballantyne, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Charlotte. Located 20 minutes from downtown Charlotte, North Carolina. The minute you step on the property you will notice their gracious service. The Ballantyne raises the standard for creating an unforgettable visit. This particular hotel typically doesn’t attract families or children.

Perfect For: The couple that enjoys refined luxury, exceptional service, spa treatments, fine cuisine, tennis, and PGA championship golf.

Activities: Besides sipping on luxurious cocktails and nibbling on mouthwatering treats,   The Ballantyne has a variety of activities for honeymooners including - full-service spa with couples treatment room, 18 holes of championship golf as well as indoor and outdoor pools.

Not only is the The Ballantyne Hotel breathtakingly beautiful, but they whip up some amazing hand crafted cocktails. All made with house-made syrups and sodas in addition to fresh ingredients inspired by culinary innovations and techniques. Here are the 6 cocktails to try  at The Ballantyne Hotel.  And do not forget to try their Chocolate Guiness Cake as seen below. Yum!

1. Spring Reflection: Don Julio Blanco, lemongrass, pineapple, lime, hellfire shrub
2. Loretto Life: Maker's Mark Personal Selection, Coffee liqueur, almond orgeat, heavy cream, soda water
3. Blarney Stone: Jameson Caskmates, housemade stout syrup, egg white, crude "big bear" bitters
4. Juicer No. 2: Belvedere unfiltered, agave, USDA Certified Organic: orange, carrot, pineapple, tumeric
5. Travel Guide: Suntory Toki Japanese Whiskey, matcha green tea, cucumber shrub, soda
6. French Revolution: B&B, blackberry infused cabernet sauvignon, peppercorn melange, burlesque bitters, violet sugar, blanc de blanc champagne

Bonus: The Ballantyne features a wealth of events throughout the year, including Bourbon tastings and afternoon teas. You can also rent a car and venture into downtown Charlotte (just a 20 minute drive away) to check out the museums and lively food/drink scene or drive into the scenic countryside to get lost in rural North Carolina. The resort is also close to the U.S. National Whitewater Center if you’re looking for adventure!

This post was sponsored by Westin to showcase 6 utterly fabulous honeymoon destinations you might have missed. 

Still thinking that Hawaii, Paris or Bora Bora are in the cards for your Honeymoon. Well ... your in luck you can earn Starpoints® when you host your wedding at participating SPG Hotels of Hawaii and use those points for an exotic honeymoon in one of those locations. Read here for more. 

• Travel & Transportation: The Westin Trillium House, Blue Mountain
• Travel & Honeymoon: La Posada de Santa Fe
• Travel & Honeymoon: The Ballantyne, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Charlotte
• Travel & Honeymoon: The Inn at Ranch Santa Fe, San Diego
• Travel & Honeymoon: The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa