Picking the perfect honeymoon is no easy feat—countless romantic destinations, endless hotel options, limited vacation time and the struggle-is-real challenge of finding the perfect place to please both you and your new spouse. Where to begin? Well, right here. BRIDES teamed up with the A-list agents at Virtuoso—a global network of more than 15,000 luxury-travel specialists—to find the most romantic, luxe hot spots in the world. Whether you're looking for bucket-list hotels and resorts, far-flung beaches, the top cruise lines for couples, inexpensive honeymoon ideas or unexpected honeymoon-worthy locales, you’ve come to the right spot. Presenting our 2017 Honeymoon Awards—dive in to see the world's most romantic, yet unexpected honeymoon destinations!
1.
Iceland
[post_ads]By now, it probably feels like everyone and their mother has been to Iceland (or at least that's what your Instagram feed would seem to indicate). And it's no surprise, owing to the Nordic nation's wild scenery and even hotter nightlife. Start your honeymoon in Reykjavik, Iceland's bustling coastal capital, eating at farm-to-table restaurants like Fridrik V and touring out-there cultural sites like the Library of Water. From there, post up at Ion Hotel, an architectural marvel both inside and out (interior furnishings are designed by local artisans), where remote landscapes lead to adventure activities and unobstructed Northern Lights views. From there, make the trek to the Snéfellsnes peninsula to take in the otherworldly peak of Church Mountain (a.k.a. Kirkjufell) and explore glaciers, volcanoes, and geothermal pools. If you're traveling later this year, you can even stay at the new 62-room Moss Hotel, set inside the famed Blue Lagoon—think exclusive after-hours access to the steamy waters, set in an 800-year-old lava field.
2.
Switzerland
Few destinations meld luxe, five-star living with thrill-seeking outdoor adventures quite like Switzerland. This Central European alpine nation oozes Old World allure (sophisticated mountain towns, historic museums, Michelin-starred restaurants, and Olympic-quality skiing). Rent a car and drive through quaint villages and medieval cities like Bern before checking in to a grande dame hotel on Lake Geneva like Beau-Rivage Palace) or post up in jet-setting St. Moritz or Gstaad (try the new Ultima Gstaad, with chic, reclaimed-wood decor, a detox bar, and spa with luxe La Prairie products). If you're traveling in winter, post up at a ski-in, ski-out resort in Zermatt, the resort town that overlooks the Matterhorn, one of the highest and most majestic peaks in the Alps.
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3.
Japan
When it comes to unexpected honeymoon destinations, Japan may be in your top five, as well. But a trip to this Asian nation is at once a journey into the past and the future. From Kyoto's gilded temples and cherry blossom trees to Tokyo's bright-lights streets and world-class cuisine, there's something for everyone here. (Not to mention it's a quick overnight flight from the West Coast.) Learn about ancient Japanese crafts (painting and wood sculpting), criss-cross restaurants in search of your favorite ramen, and cheers to each other over few rounds of Saki.
Iceland
2.
Switzerland
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3.
Japan
