Are you trying to find the perfect balance between somewhere romantic, yet slightly different? Here are three places which are sure to appeal to lovebirds who want something a little more unique.
San Gimignano, Italy
The Low-down: One of the oldest cities in Tuscany, San Gimignano (pronounced Jimmy-ah-no) is a walled, medieval city located just under an hour away from Florence. The city grew in size in 1199, when it became an independent city from the bishops of nearby Volterra. Families built tower houses of incredible heights and many of them still stand today. One of the most famous architectural structures of the town is the Sant’Agostino church, which houses various artworks of early Renaissance artists.
X-Factor: You’d be forgiven for thinking that an old medieval city would make an odd romantic getaway, but San Gimignano really has so much to offer. For one, the city boasts an unforgettable skyline. The myriad of gothic and Renaissance architecture is a sight to behold. The city is surrounded by a lush countryside with olive trees scattered across the hill. A Tuscan sunset is like no other! Of course, no trip to Italy is complete without sampling some delightful Italian cuisine; one thing this town does very well is gelato. You’d be foolish not to grab one at Gelateria di Piazza, which has won countless awards and is heralded as one of the best ice-cream places on earth. With a seemingly endless list of flavours, you’ll simply have to visit more than once!
Best For: Historians. The city’s wonderful architecture is sure to appeal to those with a keen interest in history. Explore beautiful churches, climb the various towers throughout the town and explore hidden alleys and countless side-streets.
Munich, Germany
The Low-down: The largest city in the German state of Bavaria, Munich started off as a medieval town back in 1158 and became the capital of the kingdom in 1806. The city is located north of the Bavarian Alps on the River Isar. Munich is also famous for Oktoberfest; the largest fair in the world, which occurs in middle to late September. It is famous for the celebration of beer. So what’s not to love?
X-Factor: Munich is an undeniably beautiful city with a fascinating history and mesmerising architecture. Just walking through the city is an enjoyable experience. It is one of the greenest cities in Germany with a wide variety of parks, including the beautiful Englischer Garten. This is one of the largest urban parks in the world, larger than New York’s Central Park. One of Munich’s most attractive features is the fantastic array of Bavarian beers on offer. The city is laden with breweries and beer-halls; one of the most famous being Hofbräuhaus am Platzl.
Best For: Foodies. With literally hundreds of beer varieties to choose from, you’ll want to spend a lot of time in Munich. The city operates various beer and brewery tours regularly. You can sample some fantastic German cuisine from strudel to sauerkraut.
Aspen, Colorado
The Low-down: Winter weddings are becoming more and more popular. Why not go the whole way and enjoy a winter honeymoon? Located in the mountains of Colorado, Aspen is a winter-sport enthusiasts’ dream. The quaint mountain city started off as a silver mining camp and is now one of the most popular skiing destinations on earth — a favourite of celebrities!
X-Factor: The first thing that is immediately striking is the gorgeous landscape. Wherever you are in town, you’re treated to breathtaking views. The main attraction, of course, in Aspen is the skiing. With 76 slopes in total, there’s enough to suit beginners and skiing aficionados. If skiing is not your thing, then fear not. Aspen has so much more to offer. There are various mountain hikes and horse-riding tours available. Fifteen miles south-west lie the amazing alpine meadows and lakes. You can even saddle up on a snowmobile and ride into the magical Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness and observe the spectacular lake. The White River National Forest in the northwest is worth a visit as well.
Best For: Adventurers. Couples who are adrenaline junkies will not be disappointed in Aspen. The ski resort offers various skiing packages, as well as hikes and many other exhilarating activities.
