Can’t get the time off for a long haul honeymoon? Go short haul then jet off to far-flung climes when the boss (and funds) allow. WED picks the dreamiest destinations for your mini moon – and you won’t even have to venture up the M5.

Get romantic in PARIS
With the French capital’s seductive fusion of art, history, glamour and delectable cuisine, you’ll be getting down to some seriously dewy-eyed moments of l’amour in no time. Enjoy a relaxing few days wandering along the banks of the Seine, mooching around the über stylish boutiques and supping on that irresistible Parisian charm.
DO Climb the tower of Notre Dame Cathedral for spectacular views across Paris. Take a cruise along the Seine and explore the chic and bohemian streets of Marais. Finish each day in style with a feast at a traditional Parisian bistro washed down with fine wine, then indulge in some shamelessly public French kissing on the way back to your hotel.
STAY Lap up the luxury of Hotel Balzac, an intimate townhouse hotel which oozes elegance with its opulent fusion of rich fabrics, neo-classical styling and modish flourishes. Many of its sumptuous suites boast views of the Eiffel Tower www.hotelbalzac.com
FLY Flybe from Exeter Airport www.flybe.com



Go sightseeing in Barcelona
Sunny Spain’s hip and happenin’ capital of cool, Barcelona has it all: labyrinthine medieval streets, sandy beaches, incredible contemporary architecture, buzzing nightlife and cutting edge urban style. Spend a dreamy few days wandering the Mediterranean shores and sampling the city’s rich culture.
DO Gaudi’s superbly surreal temple Sagrada Familia, which is still in construction, is a must see; arrive early to beat the crowds and venture up the tower for breathtaking city views. Catch some rays in the fantastical Parc Güell then watch the street entertainers and soak up the history of the medieval quarter, Barri Gòtic. Visit The Palau de la Musica Catalana for a spine-tingling evening’s entertainment from classical guitar and orchestra to flamenco.
STAY If you like your location central and your interiors super chic, check in at Hotel 1898 on Barcelona’s buzzing La Rambla. Unfeasibly comfortable with a spa and rooftop pool amongst its facilities, a stylish honeymoon is guaranteed www.hotel1898.com
FLY Ryanair from Newquay www.ryanair.com



Get cultural in Dublin
The Irish capital is emerging as one of Europe’s most vibrant and cosmopolitan cities. Friendly and compact, Dublin is famed for its unique charm, elegant Georgian architecture, history, museums, shops and galleries. Whether you’re seeking activity, culture or gastro delights, dally around Ireland’s fair city and you’ll find it. And don’t forget the pubs…
DO Lap up the culture on one of the city’s many tours then head to St Stephen’s Green and take a romantic trip of the city in a horse drawn carriage. Visit the Guinness Storehouse and drink in panoramic city views with a pint of the black stuff in the glassed Gravity Bar. Stop off at Ireland’s oldest pub, The Brazen Head, for good food and foot-stomping music washed down with the finest of Irish tipples.
STAY Honeymooners with a taste for things hip will fall in love with boutique hotel The Dylan. Expect fabulously funky interiors, delectable food and a cocktail menu to die for, as well as honeymoon treats such as chilled champagne and chocolate-dipped strawberries www.dylan.ie
FLY Air Southwest from Newquay www.airsouthwest.com



Taste the high life in GENEVA
As far as swoonsome honeymoon settings go, Geneva takes some beating. Located on the banks of Lake Geneva and nestled amidst the foothills of the Alps, the city oozes a chic, cosmopolitan vibe. Explore the mountains, stroll the promenade and chill out before the magnificent views of this lakeside lovely.
DO Catch the gondola to Mont Salève, and marvel at the breathtaking views over the city and surrounding Alps. Up the romance factor another notch by visiting the tiny Rousseau Island in the river of Le Rhône. Mooch around the boutiques of Rue du Rhône and round off the day with a wine tasting tour at a local vineyard.
STAY Boasting magnificent views over Lake Geneva, Mont Blanc and the city’s 140ft fountain Jet d’eau, Hotel d’Angleterre fuses historic elegance with a flourish of contemporary style. A haven of luxury and tranquillity to toast your nuptials www.dangleterrehotel.com
FLY Flybe from Newquay www.flybe.com



Chill out in DUBROVNIK
Byron and Bernard Shaw waxed lyrical about this ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’, and, wander along the streets of this history-soaked town wedged between the hills and the coast, you’ll see why. Fast becoming an A-list hot spot, the fortified Croatian capital has history, culture and romantic ambience in awe-inspiring abundance.
DO Wander through the old town, take a walk along the city walls and sup on Dubrovnik’s intoxicating charm. Catch the ferry to the uninhabited island of Lokrum; wander the botanical gardens and monastery ruins then chill out on one of the secluded beaches. Watch the sun set from the Buza Bar, an atmospheric and achingly romantic spot perched on rocks beneath the city walls.
STAY Check into the Dubrovnik Palace and expect to feel very special indeed as you watch the sun slip beneath the sea from your private balcony. The newly styled hotel is primed for pleasure-seeking newly weds, boasting an outdoor pool, dive centre and spa amongst its charms.
www.dubrovnikpalace.hr
FLY Flybe from Exeter www.flybe.com



words Rebecca Matthews

Copyright WED Magazine 2010