If you're looking for a budget honeymoon that doesn?t scrimp on style, look no further! Whether you want to wander through lavender fields, explore the foothills of the Atlas mountains, enjoy romance in sun-kissed Tuscany or relax on the pristine beaches of Lithuania's Curonian Spit, we've got great ideas for you
Relax in a private chateau
Just whisper the word Provence and images of endless lavender fields and evenings spent watching the sun go down with a bottle of wine spring to mind. We've found the perfect hideaway to make your peaceful Provencal honeymoon dreams a reality. Chateau des Aspras, just over an hour from Nice, is definitely our choice. Widely regarded as one of the most beautiful houses to rent in the South of France, this stunning, private chateau has everything you could possibly need plus that essential je ne sais quoi. The exclusive property is nestled high in the Provence hills, with breathtaking views over the surrounding valley, not to mention your private vineyards and olive groves. There's a swimming pool, croquet lawn and tennis court for your personal use as well as a sunny terrace for leisurely outdoor dining. With local produce on the doorstep and at least four wine producers in the region you don't need an excuse to open a bottle or two... or indeed three with dinner, cooked, of course, by the in-house chef. This is a perfect romantic option all year round.
Find peace and serenity in Morocco
For those of you who want an exotic getaway without the long-haul flight, Morocco is just the spot. The city of Marrakech will certainly offer accessible style and elegance, but just an hour away from the buzzing souks of the city, the enchanting Atlas Mountains offer a heady mix of solitude and peaceful serenity amongst some of the most stunning scenery you are ever likely to see, with each season bringing a distinct feel to the area. The Kasbah Tamadot, a stunning retreat that sits nestled in the lower foothills of the Atlas Mountains, is sure to satisfy all your honeymoon needs. Our perfect Tamadot day is a morning in the lush landscape gardens and an afternoon of indulgence in the Hannam Spa. You'll be hard pressed to find a better destination that provides year-round luxury less than four hours away.
Treat yourselves in Tuscany
There are some places that just ooze romance and seem to have been custom made for honeymoons. The breathtaking Tuscan villa, Borgo Santo Pietro, is one such place. Combining the classic Tuscan aesthetic with a hint of Provencal flavour and a distinctly English country house feel, the villa epitomises stylish classic comfort with a hip and oh so sophisticated twist. Lounge by the infinity pool with a fresh fruit cocktail, spread a blanket in the cherry meadow and take on your lover (or the locals) in a game of tennis or boules. Fancy some quiet time? Retreat to your palatial, antique-filled suite where you can dine on your own private balcony, overlooking a stunning and serene Tuscan valley - not a villa or a road in sight. And did we mention the restaurant? It's phenomenal. Put simply, Borgo Santo Pietro oozes idyllic romance from every sun-warmed brick; from its magical setting to its indulgent and fashionable atmosphere this our pick for a perfect Italian honeymoon.
Discover Lithuania's hidden gem
A treasured location among travel insiders, Lithuania's stunning Curonian Spit is the perfect undiscovered honeymoon gem. The long, pristine sand spit is as close as you'll come to a Sahara in Europe. Ninety-eight kilometres long, the thin, curved lick of sand separates a blue lagoon from the Baltic Sea, where the refreshing smell of pine forests fills the air. Sound incredible? Trust us, it is. Our choice for the perfect honeymoon hideaway is the chic and stylish Hotel Palanga. Located near the spit, it is an incredible glass-fronted property which looks onto the pine forests lining the beaches of the coastal town. Shrouded in mythology and edged with huge white sand beaches, Palanga is also teeming with vibrant bars and bustling restaurants for the perfect night out. Listen to live music while sipping a local beer and watching the slow sunset over the Baltic Sea - the long days give you the chance to really make the most of your romantic getaway. Visit from April - September.
Experience rustic charm in Gozo
Europe might seem cliché as a honeymoon destination. But we are not suggesting any standard European holiday. Instead meet Gozo: no crowded beaches or high-rise hotels; just peace, quiet and rustic charm all year round. This beautiful Maltese island is the perfect romantic getaway just a stone's throw away from home. It has lots to offer by way of culture and atmosphere. We'd recommend jumping in your hire car for a breezy drive around the island: the pretty village of Ghasri is just five minutes away and Victoria, Gozo's gorgeous capital, only 15. Make sure you spend some time exploring the various local markets for delicious delicacies and get your fill of sand and sea at the beach. Stay at Veduta, a 400-year old farmhouse on the beautiful Maltese island. Don't panic. Old it may be but crumbly it definitely is not; the property has been lovingly restored and the original heritage features preserved. The characteristic honey-coloured stone, arched passageways and carved spiral staircase make the interior visually stunning, while the palm-fringed sun terrace and swimming pool ensure you'll spend some serious time soaking up rays. While you're out there we recommend firing up the barbecue to enjoy some tasty local produce with a bottle of wine. Ooh how romantic!