Although you may be in the midst of wedding planning, there’s one thing you really look forward to after your nuptials: the honeymoon. And while you may have your eyes set on a luxurious resort abroad or a quaint European seaside town, there are plenty of places to feel far away without having to unearth your passport. Whether you’re short on time, trying to save money, or love exploring your home state, here are five swaps to make you feel like you’re in a faraway land.
A Euro-style seaside getaway along the Rappahannock.
If you and your betrothed crave a tiny resort in a fishing village along the Mediterranean, consider heading to The Tides Inn instead. Located in Virginia’s Northern Neck, this eco-conscious boutique resort is the ideal place to experience a secluded waterfront honeymoon—or wedding—on your own private peninsula. Arrive by car or boat (there are 27 vessel slips) and sleep in one of the 70 cozy rooms. Book a spa appointment, experience a wine cruise at sunset, walk along the Shoreline Trail, or sunbathe on your own private beach. The charming town of Irvington provides the perfect backdrop to complement the distinctly European vibe. TidesInn.com
Climb every mountain … in the Blue Ridge.
Outdoorsy couples may head to parts of Europe to hike in the Alps, but the hills can be just as alive right here in the Commonwealth—and a lot more convenient. Case in point: Primland, Auberge Resorts Collection. The crowning jewel of this 12,000-acre private mountain estate, near Meadows of Dan, is its regal Lodge, with its Teton-worthy window wall and million-dollar mountain view. A clutch of secluded tree houses, perched high above the Dan River Gorge, offers unparalleled back-to-nature luxury. The property also offers stunning mountain homes for groups up to 22, including Hawk’s Eye, a dramatic, six-bedroom mountaintop manor. Primland also features an observatory; miles of trails; an extensive menu of outdoor options; Leatherflower, its signature restaurant at the Lodge; an 18-hole golf course; and the opulent Auberge spa, making the resort not only ideal for honeymooning couples, but also for destination weddings. AubergeResorts.com/Primland
Find English-esque history in the heart of Richmond.
London is famous for its rich history—good and not-so-good—from the Norman Conquest and the Great Fire to Jack the Ripper and the royals. While Richmond may not date to Londinium and 1st-century Romans, it has its own tales, and Linden Row Inn makes an excellent base from which to explore the roots of Virginia’s capital city. Its downtown location makes it convenient to Church Hill, the Fan District, Capitol Square, and sites further west, like the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and the Virginia Museum of History & Culture. Back at the Inn, a stately row of Greek revival townhouses and brick walks that almost feel like English cobblestones underfoot ooze charm and elegance, and in its picturesque courtyard garden, you can imagine a young Edgar Allan Poe exploring its carriage houses and outbuildings. LindenRowInn.com
Wander the French countryside on the James River.
When relaxation and seclusion top your honeymoon agenda, you may be tempted to fly to France for a respite. However, The Estate at River Run in Maidens will make you feel like you’re in Provence, complete with its own Rhône River. Not only is the 60-acre property regally perched high above the banks of the James River—which means you’ll have gorgeous views—but the 22,000-square-foot Georgian revival mansion is beautifully appointed and well-equipped to handle every detail of your wedding experience—from rehearsal dinner to ceremony, reception, and honeymoon. If you’re considering a stay, make reservations early, as there are only a handful of rooms. (P.S. And they’re stunning.) TheEstateAtRiverRun.com
Enjoy the appeal of Scotland in Bonny Old Town Alexandria.
With its rich history and striking architecture, Alexandria is perfect for couples yearning for an urban escape. Like Edinburgh, Alexandria has a deep history, evidenced by its Old Town, where honeymooners can feel Virginia’s strong sense of identity. Anchor your stay at the luxurious Hotel AKA Alexandria with its artfully designed rooms near galleries and boutiques, and dine at one of the many waterside eateries or relax with a craft cocktail in hand. VisitAlexandria.com
This article originally appeared in the February 2025 issue.
