Image courtesy of Wildflower Farms
I'm all about big, bold honeymoons. But with the stress of wedding planning, adding another thing to your plate — planning a far-flung adventure — sometimes isn't in the cards. That's where mini-moons come in. These are known as shorter, more low-key getaways taken immediately post-nuptials.
There are tons of dreamy locations across the US that make for a perfect mini-moon (you can always extend your stay, of course). After all, there's something to be said for escaping real life — if only briefly — in your own backyard.
1. The Dewberry Charleston - Charleston, South Carolina
Image courtesy of The Dewberry Charleston
Between Charleston’s mouth-watering food scene, candy-colored streets and oh-so romantic vibe, a getaway down south makes for the perfect postnuptial recharge. Minimooners should stay at the Dewberry, Charleston’s reigning style star overlooking Marion Square, with a popular terrace lounge and must-visit rooftop bar. Housed in a meticulously restored federal building, the hotel is a mid-century-modern jewel – we’re talking sleek velvet couches, twinkling chandeliers and tropical plant life mingling with graphic wallpaper and industrial touches. Plus, minimooners can take advantage of the top-notch spa (hello, couples massage) and savor whimsical cocktails on the roof. And did we mention it’s within walking distance of downtown Charleston?
Fora Perks:
Complimentary one-way airport transfer or valet service.
Breakfast daily.
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
2. Rosewood Miramar Beach - Santa Barbara, California
Image courtesy of Rosewood Miramar Beach
This romantic beachfront stay sits on what's lovingly referred to as the "American Riviera." The area is glamorous, of course, but also refreshingly relaxed, embodying that effortless California cool. The resort itself also masterfully combines the sort of laid-back, five-star ethos I love. Expect gourmet, farm-to-table dining, fantastic cocktails, the best service, sumptuous spa treatments and the most stylish accommodations that will make you and your boo feel like the VIPs you are. So grab your chicest pair of sunnies, oversized tote bag and comfiest linen ensemble, all of which pair beautifully with one of the resort's complimentary bike rentals, perfect for cruising around Montecito in style.
Fora Perks:
$250 activity credit.
Welcome amenity.
$60 daily breakfast credit.
Upgrade whenever possible.
3. Wildflower Farms, Auberge Resorts Collection - Gardiner, New York
Image courtesy of Wildflower Farms, Auberge Resorts Collection
Wildflower Farms, one of the best Auberge resorts, is the Hudson Valley retreat of my dreams. The onsite farm and local producers supply much of the ingredients for the resort's delectable culinary program. Clay, Wildflower's signature restaurant, is *chef's kiss*, and serves up expertly prepared fare inspired by the seasons. Even the mini-bars come equipped with nourishing snacks supplied from local businesses. Couples can stay in well-appointed suites, cabins or cottages, all of which feature sleek decor, handsome earth tones and huge windows that overlook the surrounding nature idyll.
Fora Perks:
$100 hotel / resort credit.
Breakfast daily.
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
4. The Standard Spa, Miami Beach - Miami Beach, Florida
Image courtesy of The Standard Spa, Miami Beach
When a hotel's name includes the word "spa," you know you're in for a treat. Indeed, the property thinks of itself more as a "spa with guest rooms," and I agree. And it's adults-only. Need I say more? Well, I do. Guests have complimentary access to the hotel's indoor-outdoor hydrotherapy playground, with an infinity pool, cold plunge, hammam, steam room, sauna, "Solar Circle" (perfect for sun-bathing) and more. Among the numerous wellness offerings are health coaching sessions, astrology sessions, acupuncture facials, yoga classes, B-12 shots...You name it, they've got it. Wellness is top of mind, of course, but you're still on vacation. Head to the sexy, dimly lit Monterrey Bar for cocktails and snacks, and don't miss brunch or an afternoon bite at the guests-and-members-only Belle, located on Belle Isle, the only natural island among Florida's Venetian Islands. For an open-air, locally sourced dinner, Lido Bayside is a must. (Get the oysters.)
Fora Perks:
$100 food / beverage credit.
$60 daily breakfast credit.
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
5. Life House, Nantucket - Nantucket, Massachusetts
Image courtesy of Life House, Nantucket
This welcoming mansion-turned-inn dates back to the early 19th century, and maintains that sophisticated, comforting New England charm you know and love. Cozy common areas and beautiful rooms are flooded with natural light, and a variety of native plants dot the premises, creating a delightfully green and lively hilltop haven. Days can be spent sailing, learning the art of landscape painting, taking a yoga class by the sea or biking around the island. Life House hotels have a knack for immersing guests into the soul of a place — while also allowing ample time for leisurely wandering, long naps and afternoon reading.
6. The Allison Inn & Spa - Newberg, Oregon
Image courtesy of The Allison Inn & Spa
Oregon's Willamette Valley is a lush paradise home to some of the country's top wineries (especially those known for Pinot Noir). It's also home to The Allison, a cozy luxury resort brimming with vibrant artwork from 100 local artists. A celebration of all things local also extends to the resort's farm-to-table restaurant, JORY, which features produce grown on The Allison's very own farm and greenhouse. You'll find the Pacific Northwest's bounty represented in the spa, too: treatments draw on the region's healing plants and (what else?) wine grapes, which help brighten and firm the skin.
7. Blackberry Farm - Walland, Tennessee
The Great Smoky Mountains
I'm swooning over this Relais & Châteaux escape in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. Think of Blackberry Farm as the ultimate luxury wellness retreat you didn't know you needed. It's intimate and special, with James-Beard-Award-winning cuisine (sourced from local suppliers and the resort's farm, of course), an extensive wine collection and numerous activities ranging from hiking to artisan cooking demos to carriage rides (perfect for couples). And the spa is a must: full-body treatments, spiritual rejuvenation, meditation, mindful movement classes and more nourish body, mind and soul.