Best Historic Resorts for Honeymooners in 2025
Planning a honeymoon is an exciting endeavor, filled with dreams of romance, adventure, and creating lifelong memories. For couples seeking a unique and unforgettable experience, historic resorts offer a blend of timeless elegance, captivating stories, and unparalleled luxury. In 2025, several historic resorts stand out as ideal destinations for honeymooners. These properties not only boast stunning architecture and picturesque settings, but also provide exceptional service, gourmet dining, and a wealth of activities to ensure a truly remarkable honeymoon. This guide delves into some of the best historic resorts for honeymooners in 2025, exploring their unique features, romantic offerings, and historical significance.
Why Choose a Historic Resort for Your Honeymoon?
Choosing the right honeymoon destination is a crucial decision. While modern resorts offer contemporary amenities and sleek designs, historic resorts provide something truly special: a connection to the past. These properties often have fascinating stories to tell, having witnessed significant historical events and hosted notable figures. Staying in a historic resort allows you to immerse yourselves in a different era, adding a layer of depth and intrigue to your honeymoon experience.
Moreover, historic resorts often boast stunning architectural details and meticulously maintained grounds, creating a sense of grandeur and romance. Imagine strolling hand-in-hand through lush gardens, exploring ornate ballrooms, or enjoying a candlelit dinner in a centuries-old dining room. These are the kinds of experiences that make a honeymoon truly unforgettable. Furthermore, historic resorts frequently prioritize personalized service and attention to detail, ensuring that every aspect of your stay is tailored to your needs and preferences.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Historic Resort
Before booking your honeymoon at a historic resort, it’s essential to consider several factors to ensure it aligns with your vision and preferences. These include:
- Location: Determine the type of setting you desire, whether it’s a charming European city, a serene countryside estate, or a tropical island paradise.
- Ambiance: Consider the overall atmosphere of the resort. Some historic resorts exude formal elegance, while others offer a more relaxed and intimate setting.
- Activities: Ensure the resort offers activities that appeal to both of you, such as spa treatments, historical tours, outdoor adventures, or cultural experiences.
- Dining: Explore the resort’s dining options, paying attention to the cuisine, ambiance, and availability of private dining experiences.
- Accommodation: Review the available room types and amenities. Look for suites with romantic features such as fireplaces, balconies, or private Jacuzzis.
- Budget: Establish a budget for your honeymoon and ensure the resort fits within your financial constraints. Consider the cost of accommodation, meals, activities, and transportation.
- Reviews: Read reviews from other honeymooners to gain insights into their experiences and assess the resort’s strengths and weaknesses.
Top Historic Resorts for Honeymooners in 2025
Now, let’s explore some of the best historic resorts for honeymooners in 2025, each offering a unique blend of history, romance, and luxury:
1. Ashford Castle, Ireland
Ashford Castle, located in County Mayo, Ireland, is a magnificent medieval castle that has been transformed into a luxurious five-star hotel. Dating back to 1228, this iconic castle boasts stunning architecture, breathtaking views of Lough Corrib, and a rich history that spans centuries.
Romantic Ambiance: Ashford Castle exudes romance from every corner. Imagine arriving in a horse-drawn carriage, exploring the castle’s grand halls and secret passages, or enjoying a romantic picnic on the lush grounds. The castle offers a variety of romantic experiences, including falconry displays, horseback riding, and private boat tours on the lake.
Luxury Accommodation: The castle features exquisitely decorated rooms and suites, each offering a unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities. Honeymooners can indulge in luxurious suites with four-poster beds, fireplaces, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The Kennedy Suite, named after President John F. Kennedy, who stayed at the castle in 1963, is a particularly popular choice for honeymooners.
Exceptional Dining: Ashford Castle offers a variety of dining options to suit every taste. The George V Dining Room, named after King George V, who visited the castle in 1905, is a fine-dining restaurant that serves exquisite French cuisine. Cullen’s at the Cottage offers a more casual dining experience, serving traditional Irish dishes in a charming thatched-roof cottage. For a truly unforgettable experience, couples can arrange a private candlelit dinner in the castle’s wine cellar.
Historical Significance: Ashford Castle has a rich history, having been owned by various noble families throughout the centuries. In the 19th century, the castle was purchased by the Guinness family, who transformed it into a luxurious hunting lodge. Today, Ashford Castle is a member of Leading Hotels of the World and a testament to Ireland’s rich heritage.
2. The Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni, Lake Como, Italy
Nestled on the shores of Lake Como, Italy, The Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni is a stunning Belle Époque palace that has been welcoming guests since 1873. With its breathtaking views, opulent interiors, and impeccable service, this iconic hotel is a favorite among honeymooners seeking a romantic Italian escape.
Romantic Ambiance: The Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni exudes romance from the moment you arrive. The hotel’s stunning location on Lake Como, with its picturesque villages and dramatic mountain backdrop, creates a truly magical atmosphere. Couples can enjoy romantic strolls along the lakefront promenade, explore the hotel’s manicured gardens, or take a boat tour to explore the charming towns that dot the shoreline.
Luxury Accommodation: The hotel features elegantly decorated rooms and suites, each offering stunning views of Lake Como or the hotel’s lush gardens. Honeymooners can indulge in luxurious suites with private balconies, Jacuzzis, and breathtaking views. The Royal Suite, with its opulent décor and panoramic views, is a particularly popular choice for honeymooners.
Exceptional Dining: The Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni offers a variety of dining options to suit every taste. The Michelin-starred Mistral Restaurant serves exquisite Italian cuisine with a modern twist. La Goletta Restaurant offers a more casual dining experience, serving traditional Italian dishes on a terrace overlooking the lake. For a truly unforgettable experience, couples can arrange a private candlelit dinner on the hotel’s pier.
Historical Significance: The Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni has a rich history, having hosted numerous celebrities and dignitaries throughout the years. The hotel’s elegant interiors and stunning location have made it a popular filming location for movies and television shows. Staying at The Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni is like stepping back in time to a bygone era of elegance and glamour.
3. Hotel Monasterio, Cusco, Peru
Hotel Monasterio, located in Cusco, Peru, is a unique and enchanting hotel housed in a former monastery dating back to 1592. This historic hotel offers a blend of colonial architecture, Incan heritage, and luxurious amenities, making it a truly unforgettable honeymoon destination.
Romantic Ambiance: Hotel Monasterio exudes romance with its unique blend of history and culture. The hotel’s courtyard, with its ancient stone arches and trickling fountain, creates a serene and romantic atmosphere. Couples can explore the hotel’s historic chapel, wander through its beautifully landscaped gardens, or enjoy a traditional Andean massage at the hotel’s spa.
Luxury Accommodation: The hotel features elegantly decorated rooms and suites, each offering a unique blend of colonial charm and modern amenities. Honeymooners can indulge in luxurious suites with oxygen-enriched rooms to help alleviate altitude sickness, private balconies, and stunning views of the city. The Presidential Suite, with its spacious living area and panoramic views, is a particularly popular choice for honeymooners.
Exceptional Dining: Hotel Monasterio offers a variety of dining options to suit every taste. Illariy Restaurant serves exquisite Peruvian cuisine with a modern twist. El Tupay Restaurant offers a more casual dining experience, serving traditional Andean dishes in a charming courtyard setting. For a truly unforgettable experience, couples can arrange a private candlelit dinner in the hotel’s chapel.
Historical Significance: Hotel Monasterio has a rich history, having been built on the site of an Incan palace. The hotel’s architecture reflects both its colonial and Incan heritage, creating a unique and fascinating atmosphere. Staying at Hotel Monasterio is like stepping back in time to experience the rich history and culture of Peru.
4. The Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel, USA
The Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel, is a landmark hotel located in the heart of New Orleans, Louisiana. Since opening its doors in 1893, this iconic hotel has been synonymous with luxury, elegance, and Southern hospitality. For honeymooners seeking a romantic and unforgettable experience in the Big Easy, The Roosevelt is an excellent choice.
Romantic Ambiance: The Roosevelt exudes romance with its grand architecture, opulent interiors, and vibrant atmosphere. Couples can stroll hand-in-hand through the hotel’s stunning lobby, admire the iconic Roosevelt Christmas decorations (if visiting during the holiday season), or enjoy a romantic cocktail at the Sazerac Bar, a legendary New Orleans institution.
Luxury Accommodation: The hotel features elegantly decorated rooms and suites, each offering a unique blend of classic charm and modern amenities. Honeymooners can indulge in luxurious suites with spacious living areas, marble bathrooms, and stunning views of the city. The Presidential Suite, with its opulent décor and panoramic views, is a particularly popular choice for honeymooners.
Exceptional Dining: The Roosevelt offers a variety of dining options to suit every taste. The Fountain Lounge, a New Orleans institution, serves classic Creole dishes in an elegant setting. Domenica, an award-winning Italian restaurant, offers a more casual dining experience. For a truly unforgettable experience, couples can arrange a private candlelit dinner in one of the hotel’s historic ballrooms.
Historical Significance: The Roosevelt has a rich history, having hosted numerous celebrities and dignitaries throughout the years. The hotel played a significant role in the city’s cultural and social life. Staying at The Roosevelt is like stepping back in time to experience the glamour and excitement of old New Orleans.
5. Raffles Singapore
Raffles Singapore is an iconic luxury hotel located in the heart of Singapore. Since opening in 1887, this historic hotel has been synonymous with elegance, colonial charm, and impeccable service. For honeymooners seeking a romantic and unforgettable experience in Southeast Asia, Raffles Singapore is an exceptional choice.
Romantic Ambiance: Raffles Singapore exudes romance with its stunning colonial architecture, lush tropical gardens, and timeless elegance. Couples can stroll hand-in-hand through the hotel’s beautiful gardens, admire the hotel’s iconic architecture, or enjoy a romantic Singapore Sling at the Long Bar, the birthplace of the famous cocktail.
Luxury Accommodation: The hotel features exquisitely decorated suites, each offering a unique blend of colonial charm and modern amenities. Honeymooners can indulge in luxurious suites with spacious living areas, private balconies, and personalized butler service. The Presidential Suite, with its opulent décor and panoramic views, is a particularly popular choice for honeymooners.
Exceptional Dining: Raffles Singapore offers a variety of dining options to suit every taste. Tiffin Room serves traditional afternoon tea in an elegant setting. Long Bar is the birthplace of the Singapore Sling. For a truly unforgettable experience, couples can arrange a private candlelit dinner in one of the hotel’s historic courtyards.
Historical Significance: Raffles Singapore has a rich history, having hosted numerous celebrities, writers, and dignitaries throughout the years. The hotel has played a significant role in Singapore’s cultural and social life. Staying at Raffles Singapore is like stepping back in time to experience the glamour and romance of the colonial era.
6. Hotel Santa Isabel, Havana, Cuba
Hotel Santa Isabel, nestled in the heart of Old Havana, Cuba, is a beautifully restored colonial palace that offers a glimpse into the island’s rich history and vibrant culture. This charming hotel, with its elegant architecture and prime location, provides an ideal setting for a romantic and unforgettable honeymoon experience.
Romantic Ambiance: Hotel Santa Isabel exudes romance with its stunning colonial architecture, charming courtyard, and lively atmosphere. Couples can explore the hotel’s beautiful courtyard, enjoy live Cuban music, or take a stroll through the historic streets of Old Havana. The hotel’s rooftop terrace offers stunning views of the city, providing a perfect spot for a romantic sunset cocktail.
Luxury Accommodation: The hotel features elegantly decorated rooms and suites, each offering a unique blend of colonial charm and modern amenities. Honeymooners can indulge in luxurious suites with spacious living areas, private balconies, and stunning views of the city. The Presidential Suite, with its opulent décor and panoramic views, is a particularly popular choice for honeymooners.
Exceptional Dining: Hotel Santa Isabel offers a variety of dining options to suit every taste. The hotel’s main restaurant serves traditional Cuban cuisine in an elegant setting. The rooftop terrace bar offers light snacks and refreshing cocktails. For a truly unforgettable experience, couples can arrange a private candlelit dinner in the hotel’s courtyard.
Historical Significance: Hotel Santa Isabel has a rich history, having been the residence of the Count of Santovenia in the 19th century. The hotel’s architecture reflects its colonial heritage, providing a glimpse into Cuba’s past. Staying at Hotel Santa Isabel is like stepping back in time to experience the charm and romance of Old Havana.
7. Parador de Santiago de Compostela, Spain
The Parador de Santiago de Compostela, also known as the Hostal dos Reis Católicos, is a magnificent historic hotel located in Santiago de Compostela, Spain. Originally built as a royal hospital in the 15th century to accommodate pilgrims arriving at the end of the Camino de Santiago, this stunning hotel offers a unique blend of history, luxury, and Galician hospitality, making it a perfect choice for a romantic honeymoon.
Romantic Ambiance: The Parador de Santiago de Compostela exudes romance with its grand architecture, opulent interiors, and historical significance. Couples can explore the hotel’s stunning cloisters, admire the intricate details of the building’s façade, or enjoy a romantic stroll through the historic streets of Santiago de Compostela. The hotel’s central location allows easy access to the city’s many attractions, including the iconic Santiago de Compostela Cathedral.
Luxury Accommodation: The hotel features elegantly decorated rooms and suites, each offering a unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities. Honeymooners can indulge in luxurious suites with spacious living areas, antique furnishings, and stunning views of the city. The Royal Suite, with its opulent décor and panoramic views, is a particularly popular choice for honeymooners.
Exceptional Dining: The Parador de Santiago de Compostela offers a variety of dining options to suit every taste. The hotel’s main restaurant serves traditional Galician cuisine in an elegant setting. The hotel’s bar offers light snacks and refreshing drinks. For a truly unforgettable experience, couples can arrange a private candlelit dinner in one of the hotel’s historic dining rooms.
Historical Significance: The Parador de Santiago de Compostela is one of the oldest hotels in the world, with a history dating back to the 15th century. The hotel’s architecture and décor reflect its rich history, providing a glimpse into Spain’s past. Staying at the Parador de Santiago de Compostela is like stepping back in time to experience the grandeur and romance of a bygone era.
8. The Omni Grove Park Inn, Asheville, North Carolina, USA
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Asheville, North Carolina, The Omni Grove Park Inn is a historic resort known for its stunning architecture, luxurious amenities, and breathtaking views. Opened in 1913, this iconic hotel has hosted presidents, celebrities, and countless honeymooners seeking a romantic escape in the mountains.
Romantic Ambiance: The Omni Grove Park Inn exudes romance with its grand stone architecture, cozy fireplaces, and breathtaking mountain views. Couples can relax by the massive fireplaces in the Great Hall, enjoy a spa treatment at the hotel’s renowned subterranean spa, or take a romantic hike on one of the many trails surrounding the resort. The hotel’s outdoor terrace offers stunning sunset views, providing a perfect spot for a romantic cocktail.
Luxury Accommodation: The hotel features elegantly decorated rooms and suites, each offering a unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities. Honeymooners can indulge in luxurious suites with spacious living areas, private balconies, and stunning views of the mountains. The Vanderbilt Suite, with its opulent décor and panoramic views, is a particularly popular choice for honeymooners.
Exceptional Dining: The Omni Grove Park Inn offers a variety of dining options to suit every taste. Edison, a craft kitchen and bar, serves innovative American cuisine with a focus on local ingredients. Vue 1913 offers fine dining with panoramic mountain views. For a truly unforgettable experience, couples can arrange a private candlelit dinner in one of the hotel’s cozy alcoves.
Historical Significance: The Omni Grove Park Inn has a rich history, having hosted numerous presidents, authors, and celebrities throughout the years. The hotel’s architecture and décor reflect its unique history, providing a glimpse into the past. Staying at The Omni Grove Park Inn is like stepping back in time to experience the grandeur and romance of the early 20th century.
Tips for Planning Your Historic Resort Honeymoon
To ensure your historic resort honeymoon is a truly unforgettable experience, consider these helpful tips:
- Book in Advance: Historic resorts are often in high demand, especially during peak season. Book your accommodation well in advance to secure your preferred dates and room type.
- Research Activities: Explore the resort’s activities and amenities and plan your itinerary in advance. Consider booking spa treatments, tours, or other experiences to enhance your honeymoon.
- Pack Appropriately: Pack clothing and accessories that are appropriate for the resort’s climate and ambiance. Consider bringing dressy attire for romantic dinners or special events.
- Communicate with the Resort: Inform the resort that you are honeymooners and inquire about any special amenities or services they offer for honeymoon couples.
- Embrace the History: Take the time to learn about the resort’s history and explore its unique features. This will add depth and meaning to your honeymoon experience.
- Relax and Enjoy: Most importantly, relax and enjoy your time together. A honeymoon is a time to celebrate your love and create lasting memories.
Conclusion
A honeymoon at a historic resort offers a unique and unforgettable experience, combining romance, luxury, and a connection to the past. By carefully considering your preferences and researching the available options, you can choose the perfect historic resort to create a honeymoon that is truly special. Whether you choose to explore a medieval castle in Ireland, relax on the shores of Lake Como, or immerse yourselves in the culture of Peru, a historic resort honeymoon will be a cherished memory for years to come. As you embark on this new chapter in your lives, may your honeymoon be filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments.