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Honeymoon and travel ideas for UK couples

Whether looking for long haul or UK honeymoons, County Wedding Magazines has lots of ideas along with essential travel advice.

The Luxury Travel Book adds new villas to its collection

This luxury villa to rent on the Algarve is located at the heart of Armação de Pêra, a resort situated on a large sandy bay, around 15 kms to the west of Albufeira. Built at the turn of the 20th Century, and used as a family summer home for nearly 80 years, the villa is now a listed historical building and a famous landmark on the Armação de Pêra coastline.

Moorish influences, including geometric designs on the shutters and ceilings, are reminders of the region's rich history and, although renovated, the villa has retained many original features, including the wooden floor, a spectacular staircase and antique chandeliers.

Despite its central location and luxurious interiors, the secluded villa offers a unique and authentic holiday escape. In the main house, the large kitchen opens to a living and dining area, with a beautiful terracotta terrace in a spectacular seafront setting. The terrace has both direct access to the beach and the historical town centre, combining the traditions of the Algarve, from the pretty historic church square it overlooks, to the flavours of the beach front restaurant below the villa.

Posted by Melissa Cullen on 25 August 2022

Romantic holidays in the Maldives

In the Maldivian language of Dhivehi, 'Lobi' means love and 'Gili' means island. OBLU SELECT Lobigili is, in essence, the island of love. This contemporary adults-only five-star resort allows for a truly romantic getaway, exclusively for couples.

Set along a dreamy white beach and over a sparkling turquoise lagoon are 68 stylishly designed villas. Guests can experience colourful sunsets, exotic dining and snorkelling at the marine-rich house reef. All guests stay on the Lobi Plan, a specially designed all-inclusive offering that includes not only villa accommodation, delicious food and beverages, excursions and non-motorised water sports, but also a unique romantic dining experience at Only BLU – the largest underwater restaurant in the Maldives.

Posted by Melissa Cullen on 23 August 2022

Embrace the Wilderness Nature Package at five-star Palazzo Ducale Venturi in Italy

Renowned for its outstanding wild and natural beauty, Puglia provides the perfect destination for those seeking a serene sanctuary amidst the verdant hills of Italy. To celebrate this spectacular landscape, five-star hotel Palazzo Ducale Venturi is offering guests an immersive experience with their new 'Embrace The Wilderness Nature Package' to bring peace and calm to both mind and body.

Mixing the elements of wellness, exploring Pugliese nature at its best, plus delicious gourmet food, this new set of experiences allows guests to rest and replenish. The new 'Soul of the Trees' full body treatment, focusing on natural tree products is the ultimate way to relax and unwind, whilst a trip to the nearby Vallonea Oak, one of the oldest trees in Italy, provides the perfect way to connect with nature. Great gastronomy lies at the heart of Palazzo Ducale Venturi, and during their stay guests can experience locally foraged ingredients and home-grown vegetables and fruits for an authentic farm to fork experience.

Posted by Melissa Cullen on 18 August 2022

Reconnect with your senses with botanical trails and discovery walks at Val d’Isère

For those looking for a sense of discovery this summer, Val d'Isère is offering visitors the opportunity to venture on a botanical trail to explore the rich flora and fauna or try their hand at mindfulness on a discovery walk.

Franck Bortolotti, an enthusiastic Val d'Isère based mountain guide hosts walks where walkers can learn to reconnect with their senses, offer lessons on how to protect the environment, identify wild plants for those interested in cooking and themed walks. Sunrise lovers can enjoy a slow mindful walk in the heart of the nature, where these early risers can focus on engaging with oneself, with the aim of opening to others and to their surroundings. Franck also offers a dusk forest walk with no artificial lights around to introduce walkers to nature and to reconnect them with their senses and a 'grandmother's garden' walk where participants are educated about the wild plants and herbs like wild spinach, dandelions, and yarrow that grow in Val d'Isère. The last is the extraordinary 'world of trees' walk, where visitors will be introduced to Val d'Isère's larch and pine forests. Partakers can choose from a gentle stroll or a longer more strenuous hiking route for the active walker.

Posted by Melissa Cullen on 16 August 2022

Quinta do Lago Resort has introduced a new beach bar

Quinta do Lago has announced the opening of Gigi's Bar, located right by the beach and next to the iconic hotspot Gigi's Restaurant on the edge of the Ria Formosa Natural Park. This is Quinta do Lago's 14th F&B offering, opening during the resort's 50th anniversary and following significant culinary investments. The bar offers breathtaking views, Ria Formosa-inspired cocktails and light-bites created from ingredients sourced in the local area. The launch of Gigi's Bar is complemented by the reopening Gigi's Restaurant, a privately-owned and muc- loved favourite of Quinta guests - which has recently completed a significant renovation.

Accessible via the resort's boardwalk bridge and complete with panoramic terrace overlooking the beach, Gigi's Bar has been perfectly designed for visitors to bask in the late afternoon sun, a spot to take in the best of the surroundings and connect with nature in a laid-back, convivial setting. Gigi's Bar is dedicated to creating a space in which guests can come together and feel revived by the surrounding nature sanctuary that is the Ria Formosa Natural Park. It aims to inspire and celebrate the local area, providing a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere until dusk settles.

Posted by Melissa Cullen on 11 August 2022

Careys Manor & SenSpa has launched a new overnight spa package

Beat the blues and reset the body and mind with the new Ultimate SenSleep overnight spa package at Careys Manor & SenSpa. Featuring a rejuvenating 45-minute Ayurvedic Head Massage, access to SenSpa's health club and hydrotherapy facilities, and an ultimate sleep gift box to aid a blissful night's rest, the package aims to offer even the most stressed-out traveller a ticket to slumberland.

Nestled in the heart of the New Forest national park, Careys Manor is home to the award-winning SenSpa - a world-class Thai spa blending ancient traditions with state-of-the-art technologies, boasting spectacular hydrotherapy facilities and holistic wellness treatments.

Take advantage of the array of spa and leisure facilities that work in perfect harmony to promote deeper, longer-lasting sleep and thus reducing stress and enhancing energy levels. Start in the hydrotherapy pool to balance the body and release muscle tension, before heading to the ice room or experience showers to activate the sympathetic nervous system, facilitate blood flow to the brain and increase blood levels of beta-endorphin. This balancing of blood pressure can help reduce anxiety, headaches, fatigue, and digestive issues, in turn improving inflammation as well as quality of sleep.

Posted by Melissa Cullen on 9 August 2022

Time + Tide Safaris unveil a stylish transformation to its seasonal camps in Zambia

This month, Time + Tide Safaris unveils a spectacular new look to three of its seasonal camps – Time + Tide Kakuli, Time + Tide Mchenja and Time + Tide Luwi – inviting travellers to connect with the natural world and experience the beauty of Zambia's prime South Luangwa National Park.

In keeping with all of Time + Tide's properties, each newly-redesigned camp has been inspired by its diverse tapestry of habitats, from the ancient ebony forests and the open pans of the South Luangwa, to the intimate river lagoon frequented by wildlife and the lofty perch along the Luangwa River's sweeping curve.

Mirroring their unique locations and individual stories, each camp's design has developed its own distinctive personality. From Kakuli's modern masculinity and storied history, to Mchenja's elegant romance, to the all-new vintage-style tent safari setup of Luwi – each has their own look, yet all share the same ethos and are underpinned by the same warm and generous Zambian hospitality.

Posted by Melissa Cullen on 4 August 2022

DoubleTree by Hilton Seychelles – Allamanda Resort and Spa has launched a new range of itineraries

DoubleTree by Hilton Seychelles – Allamanda Resort and Spa is welcoming new visitors to the Seychelles by offering exciting, bespoke itineraries that can satisfy even the most adventurous traveller.

Discover an underwater paradise with Allamanda's array of water activities such as an unforgettable reef safari adventure on Moyenne Island to catch a glimpse of the Seychelles' exotic marine life.

Those looking to explore Mahé on land can choose from a range of adventurous guided hiking trails that offer guests the chance to explore the natural wonders of the Seychelles.

Posted by Melissa Barker on 2 August 2022

Masseria Calderisi in Italy is open for its first full season

Masseria Calderisi, Puglia, has reopened its doors to welcome guests for its first full season. Launched in Spring 2021 as a newly-revived, charming boutique hotel set amongst eight hectares of secluded olive and citrus groves in the Puglian countryside, this is the region's latest farmhouse stay for couples looking for a laid-back, authentic Italian escape, a stone's throw from the Adriatic.

Guests will have exclusive access to Calderisi Beach, a private strip of sand equipped with sun loungers and parasols, offering drinks and light bites.

Posted by Melissa Barker on 28 July 2022

Hotel Union Øye in Norway has re-opening its doors

Hotel Union Øye is delighted to be re-opening its doors this June, following an extensive transformation. A hidden jewel, located by the remote and beautiful Norangsfjord in the Sunnmøre region on the North West coast of Norway, it has been a firm favourite with mountaineers, artists, writers and royals since its origin.

The remote location in which the hotel resides makes it a wonderful, limitless playground for guests. With a plethora of hiking trails and cycling routes directly from the front door, couples can spend their days exploring this mountainous region either solo or accompanied by an expert local guide.

Posted by Melissa Barker on 26 July 2022

The Lighthouse Athens is a new hotel in Greece

The Lighthouse Athens, by Browns Hotel, brings contemporary urban glamour to the city of Athens. The 220 room hotel is the latest to open in Greece and boasts two restaurants, a nightclub, and a rooftop complete with a pool, open-air bar and panoramic views.

The property has an elegant yet eccentric design aesthetic with superb amenities to serve the needs of travellers and locals alike.

The Lighthouse Athens will host weekly DJ parties, weekend brunches, art exhibitions and special events on the first floor bar and restaurant.

Posted by Melissa Barker on 21 July 2022

Cotton Club Mallorca is a new beach club on Balearic Island

Located on Balearic Island's pristine Costa de la Calma, on a hillside above the spectacular Cala de Santa Ponça, is Cotton Club Mallorca.

This new beach club offers breathtaking sea views, a stylish restaurant and bar area with a 70-sunbed deck surrounding a grand pool.

Like the Cotton Clubs in Ibiza and Zakynthos, Cotton Club Mallorca delivers an authentic, welcoming albeit exclusive atmosphere with a sense of place that makes guests feel at home and wanting to return, again and again.

Posted by Melissa Barker on 19 July 2022

Kanava Hotels & Resort’s new Luxury Collection Resort in Paros is now open

Kanava Hotels & Resort's new Luxury Collection Resort in Paros, Cosme, opened on the 15th June, 2022.

This luxury escape, moments from the island's lively harbour village of Naoussa, will feature an outdoor living spa and private beach club overlooking the turquoise Aegean Sea.

Cosme promises to be a spirited, cosmopolitan home, exuberantly celebrating the enjoyment of life. The natural-chic décor elegantly blends rare elements from around the world, which can be experienced throughout the resort's 40 suites and the beachfront Mediterranean restaurant where guests can revel at the uninterrupted panoramic vistas.

Posted by Melissa Barker on 14 July 2022

Glenapp Castle has introduced a new restaurant

Glenapp Castle, a 21-bedroom Relais & Chateaux Hotel in Ayrshire, Scotland, is a leading destination for delicious cuisine. With the introduction of the new The Azalea, Glasshouse & Bothy Restaurant, which is opening this summer, the hotel plans to take its dining experience to new levels with this informal venue.

Situated in the centre of the castle's Walled Garden, The Azalea, Glasshouse & Bothy Restaurant are adjoining, giving guests the choice of the surrounding gardens or picturesque views of the Azalea Pond.

Posted by Melissa Barker on 12 July 2022

Ruby opens second design hotel in Munich

Ruby Rosi is the latest design hotel of the Munich group and has 101 rooms are spread over three floors of a former 1950s office building with a total area of 4,100 square metres.

Rosi was inspired by an iconic Munich figure, Bally Prell: singer and 'the beauty queen of Schneizlreuth' and her Isar fairytale. The combination of stately castles and rustic village life, typical of traditional fairy tales, is evident in the public areas on the fourth floor, where the 24/7 bar is located, in every hidden nook and cranny. Luxurious materials and hand-picked vintage furnishings skillfully complement the wooden timbering and mediaeval style to create a unique Bavarian fairytale world.

The second Munich hotel also follows Ruby's Lean Luxury philosophy: a location in the heart of the city, top design, high-quality furnishings, and affordability, by removing superfluous non-essentials. In Rosi's rooms, the trademark elements are the open vanity and glass rain shower; lots of fresh white and cherry wood wall panelling; and extra charm with the addition of a canopy above the bed.

Posted by Melissa Barker on 7 July 2022

New gin & gelato Italian summer experience at The Culloden Estate & Spa

Hastings Hotels' five-star The Culloden Estate & Spa is bringing a taste of Italy to Northern Ireland this summer with the launch of its new outdoor experience, Gin and Gelato.

Guests can enjoy Ginato gin ice cream floats, wine, prosecco and draft beer from the bespoke timber bar installation in the comfort of a deck chair, located outside the Cultra Inn in the beautifully landscaped grounds of the five-star boutique hotel.

Ginato Gin is the world's first Prinot Grigio Gin, capturing the very essence of Italy - effortlessly chic, timeless, and sunshine-drenched. The gin is distilled with the finest Italian grapes selected from the wine-growing regions of Friuli in the north of the country, juniper sourced from the rolling hills of Tuscany, and the citrus is picked from the sunny climate of southern Italy.

Posted by Melissa Barker on 5 July 2022

Eight extraordinary activities and experiences in the Cayman Islands

Famous for unspoilt beaches, crystal waters and paradise scenery, the Cayman Islands is the perfect place for a relaxing holiday. However, many travellers considering the destination for their next holiday might not be aware of the variety of activities and adventures available in the archipelago.

Adrenaline seekers, active travellers, and intrepid explorers of all ages will have ample opportunity to immerse themselves in the great outdoors. From kayaking through mystical mangrove forests to rock climbing 'the bluff' on Cayman Brac, hiking, biking and - of course - world-class diving, there are plenty of ways to get your adventure on in the Caymans Islands!

The Cayman Islands is home to spectacular scenery, flora, fauna, and breathtaking views. Discovering them by foot is one of the easiest ways to get active, with hiking trails available for all fitness and ability levels. The 100-year-old Mastic Trail on Grand Cayman is a popular two-mile route that will take visitors past silver thatch palm (the islands' national tree), wild banana orchid (Cayman Islands' national flower) and flocks of Cayman Parrots (the islands' national bird).

Posted by Melissa Barker on 30 June 2022

Radisson Blu Euphoria Resort, Mykonos is the group’s latest destination

Radisson Blu Euphoria Resort, Mykonos is located steps from golden Kalo Livadi beach with its bars, restaurants, and vibrant live music scene. Mykonos is a favorite summer vacation destination, known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, trademark windmills, gorgeous, whitewashed buildings, and vibrant café, bar and nightlife scene, all within a mere 20-minute drive from the resort. The island's stunning natural beauty, sunsets, and architecture make it the perfect destination for travelers looking either for seaside revelry or for quiet relaxation soaking up the calming blue of the Aegean Sea. The island also offers a wide range of attractions beyond water sports and sun seeking, such as archaeological and nautical museums, monasteries and churches with Byzantine icons, as well as ancient castles designed protect the island against invading pirates.

The resort features 34 stylish rooms and suites that draw inspiration from the famous whitewashed architecture of the Cyclades, with white walls and furniture complemented by light wood tones, creating an elegant and soothing ambiance and that special island vibe. Most rooms offer spectacular views of the bay and the Aegean Sea, including the grand Euphoria Suite with its spacious terrace and private pool.

Posted by Melissa Barker on 28 June 2022

Check out The Botanical Experience at Ca’ di Dio in Venice

Ca' di Dio, Venice, a Patricia Urquiola-designed hotel, opened at the end of last year and offers many experiences which allow guests to see a different side of Venice. The Botanical Experience offers a special tour of the lagoons accompanied by Botanist Gabriele Bisetto. Gabriele shares the secrets of lagoon life and explains how the herbs and plants are used in the restaurants and bar at Ca' di Dio.

Guests will set sail from Ca' di Dio to the colourful Burano Island. From here, they will embark upon their discoveries on Bisetto's traditional boat called a 'Carolina'. The Carolina has a flat bottom which allows the boat to get close to the island banks. The route follows the traditional wooden structures called bricole, along the navigable canals from the Bacino di San Marco. After travelling along the San Felice Canal, the boat will enter the heart of the northern lagoon, a silent and highly evocative place where the sandbank plants continuously change.

Posted by Melissa Barker on 23 June 2022

Vrbo reveals its 2022 European Holiday Homes of the Year just in time for the summer holidays

Family holiday rental expert Vrbo® is revealing for the first time the best-in-class holiday homes across Europe, the 2022 European Holiday Homes of the Year. The 10 selected holiday homes are fabulous properties, ideal for families to spend quality time together and make wonderful memories.

The properties can be booked through the Vrbo website and meet a strict selection criteria, including a combination of five-star ratings, guest reviews, number of bookings and feature some of the most sought-after amenities that make special moments together with loved ones.

"We know every family – or whoever you call family - has its own needs and preferences, so in addition to meeting high-quality standards, this list of holiday homes also includes a variety of property types in popular European destinations," said Karen Mullins from Vrbo. "Whether you prefer a beachfront house, a chalet in the mountain, a country mansion or a cottage, you can have an amazing stay at any of our European Holiday Homes of the Year."

Posted by Melissa Barker on 21 June 2022

Oliver’s Travels launches its Sustainable Villa Collection

Oliver's Travels has revealed its Sustainable Villa Collection, offering guests an impressive selection of eco properties from villas to chateaux in Europe and beyond. The collection allows guests to book a holiday safe in the knowledge that the property is doing its part to be more eco-friendly. Not only this, but guests will be reassured knowing that with every holiday booking made, Oliver's Travels will plant enough trees to offset 100 per cent of the villa stay. With increasing awareness around the importance of protecting the planet, travellers are looking to be more sustainable than ever and this extends to when considering travelling. Oliver's Travels provides the perfect platform in which to travel consciously.

Each property in Oliver's Travels Sustainable Villa Collection is as unique as it is extraordinary, boasting everything from photo-worthy décor and indescribable views to luxurious hot tubs and stunning fireplaces. Whether it's a villa growing produce on-site, celebrating the local heritage, or a villa that uses a renewable energy provider, it is these crucial efforts that set them apart and enable them to be a part of the Sustainable Villa Collection.

Posted by Melissa Barker on 16 June 2022

Salamander Voyages is the perfect way to explore Turkey

Salamander Voyages is a great alternative honeymoon option to a luxury villa holiday. Sleeping up to 12 guests, this is perfect for families and groups of friends and provides an intimate and memorable way to celebrate. Explore the stunning Turkish Riviera; all its ancient cities, isolated villages, harbours and stretches of sandy beaches, and swimming in the crystal-clear waters. On board, expert local crew will take care of every need so guests needn't lift a finger.

There is also the option to rent Aganippe and Heyamola alongside Salamander to allow for larger grounds.

Salamander Voyages is a family run luxury gulet charter company, founded by the Cooke family in 2003, it's a wonderful and authentic way to explore some of the most stunning and richly cultured coastlines in the Mediterranean. With a growing collection of beautifully refurbished wooden gulets, Salamander Voyages offer private charters and bespoke itineraries.

Posted by Melissa Barker on 14 June 2022

Ella Resorts opens five star Helea family resort in Rhodes

Ella Resorts is proud to announce the launch of Helea 5 star beach resort this July, a spectacular family property on the beautiful island of Rhodes.

Designed over a 45,000 square meter estate with 503 rooms and suites, Helea offers laidback luxury for the whole family. The resort was designed to make the most of its magnificent surroundings with floor to ceiling windows that provide spectacular views across the sea, beautifully landscaped gardens & shimmering turquoise pools. The attentive staff and excellent facilities provide a playground retreat for all ages with live music, watersports, an all-day beach bar, entertainment, a cinema and games room. There are 11 freshwater pools to choose from and a dedicated children's pool, plus a 700 square meter water park.

Ella Kids Park has been entirely designed by kids, crafts and costumes create a unique experience for the resorts' little guests. Children will be kept entertained with the plethora of activities on offer, leaving parents plenty of time to relax. The timetable is brimming with fun things to do including: escape rooms, arts and crafts, indoor climbing, and basketball. The kid's club accommodates children from four months to 12 years old and offers a nanny service in the evenings (upon request, with extra service).

Posted by Melissa Barker on 9 June 2022

The Club Hotel & Spa, St Helier, has launched an exclusive shopping butler hotel package for guests

Looking to discover Jersey's hidden premier boutiques, charming local markets, designer department stores and tax-free shopping? The Club Hotel & Spa, St Helier, has you covered with its new Shopping Butler package. Available to book for stays on Fridays and Saturdays, the two-night island escape includes breakfast, a bespoke Shopping Butler experience offering access to exclusive discounts, use of the hotel's world-class spa facilities and a tasting menu dinner in its Michelin-starred restaurant Bohemia.

Shopaholics will have a one-to-one consultation to discuss their tastes and preferences – from designer to pre-loved fashion, jewellery and homeware – with qualified stylist and local retail guru, Laura Morel, before heading on the curated shopping trail in St Helier and the nearby St Aubins and Gorey. Exclusive discounts and a glass of bubbly for that extra special touch will be available to those keen to explore Laura's roster of store partners.

Posted by Melissa Barker on 7 June 2022

Cosme Hotel in Paros is a new property opening in June 2022

Set to open right on time for the summer season, this luxury escape located moments from the island's vivacious, whitewashed harbor village of Naoussa, will feature its own private beach club overlooking the turquoise Aegean Sea. The resort promises to be a spirited, cosmopolitan home away from home for the global explorer, exuberantly celebrating the enjoyment of life.

The natural-chic décor elegantly blends rare elements from around the world with bold Cycladic lines. Complete with 40 suites designed with a crisp aesthetic, guests will revel in a beachfront Mediterranean restaurant, spa and outdoor wellness and fitness centre.

Posted by Melissa Barker on 2 June 2022

Advertising Feature:

Dawn Clarke Designs

Now available

Simple and timeless, these stunning hammered silk children’s celebration dresses by Hampshire British designer Dawn Clarke will make any little girl feel like a princess!

Why not come along and see for yourself - Dawn will be attending County Wedding Events – Mercedes-Benz Signature Wedding Show on 28th April 2024 and showcasing some of her flower girl dresses down the catwalk.

If you are looking for the finest quality silk children’s garments for your wedding visit our website www.dawnclarkedesigns.co.uk or telephone us on 01962 670014.

Email: info@dawnclarkedesigns.co.uk

Image credits: www.kateizakphotography.com

Dawn Clarke Designs

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