Pamper Yourself at These Top Honeymoon Hotels (U.S.)
You've said your vows, tossed the bouquet and paid the caterer. Now pamper yourself at these top hotels. (expert advice)
After your wedding, you may not be in the mood for a honeymoon that is filled with sightseeing, touring, or other activities that can just wear you out. If you’d rather just be pampered, book a stay at one of these fabulous U.S. destinations. Although they may be on the high end budget-wise, you’ll always get what you pay for.
1. The Lodge at Woodloch, Hawley, Pennsylvania
Located in Pennsylvania’s lake region, just 90 miles from New York City, the Lodge at Woodloch was voted one of the 10 most luxurious spas in the U.S. by Forbes.com. The accommodations include luxury bedding with down comforters, marble bathrooms, and elegant bath amenities, and you can choose from guestrooms or suites. The spa includes an aqua garden with therapeutic soaking pools, a cardio weight studio, a yoga/meditation studio, and a Pilates training area. Treatments run the gamut, from massage to facials to body polishes and soaking baths. The honeymoon package includes a junior suite, champagne and strawberries upon arrival, a private fitness class for two, use of all spa facilities, and a spa treatment allowance.
2. The Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa, Hawaii
Lounge by the pool, stroll the beautiful gardens, dine at one of the resort’s upscale restaurants, or take advantage of the beach or the Robert Trent Jones 18-hole golf course. Each guestroom has a private balcony and a stunning view, and the spa – which recently underwent a 20,000-square-foot expansion, offers honeymooners treatments in an open-air, teak and thatched-roof bungalow featuring a secluded garden, private lava rock shower, and wild-ginger steam grotto.
3. Run of the River Inn & Refuge, Leavenworth, Washington
This rustic getaway is perfect for nature-loving couples. Situated on the Icicle River, the luxurious resort is bordered by a wildlife refuge – binoculars and field guides, as well as hiking gear, are supplied for those who want to bird or hike. There’s no spa here, but each suite has a private deck, a stunning view, a Jacuzzi surrounded by river rock, a fireplace, Egyptian cotton towels, plush robes, and a king-size bed with fine linens. Your stay includes a full breakfast every morning, and the food is fantastic. Four wineries are in close proximity to the inn and offer wine tasting and tours.
4. Westglow Resort and Spa, Blowing Rock, North Carolina
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this European-style spa is situated on a 20-acre estate that was once the home of artist and writer Elliott Dangerfield. The building has been renovated and includes luxurious modern amenities as well as vintage period furnishings, and the Life Enrichment Center offers a cozy fireplace, a couples massage room, an indoor pool, and the latest therapeutic spa equipment and treatments. Beds are made up with 400-thread-count sheets, and guests have the use of monogrammed slippers, Egyptian cotton robes, and Aqua di Parma toiletries. There’s also an excellent gourmet restaurant.
5. Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills, California
You can’t get much more posh than the Four Seasons in Beverly Hills, where rooms feature down bedding, plush robes, a balcony, and the chic California-style atmosphere. There are outdoor spa services at a private poolside cabana, and massages are available in-room. At the spa, indulge in everything from body polishing to the hydrating cashmere wrap to airbrush tanning. The award-winning Gardens restaurant serves California-style cuisine with Latin American and Asian influences, and afternoon tea is served on Fridays and Saturdays. If you get in the mood for shopping, exclusive Rodeo Drive is just minutes away.
6. Lake Austin Spa Resort, Austin, Texas
Voted the #1 destination spa in North America by readers of Conde Nast Traveler, the Lake Austin Spa Resort is a beautiful and luxurious retreat for honeymooners. If possible, book one of the Premier Garden Cabins, which include a whirlpool tub, a fireplace, a private garden, and an outdoor private hot tub. The LakeHouse Spa offers more than 100 treatments and services, and has its own gourmet café, open for lunch every day. The resort frequently offers themed weeks with all activities included in the package rates. The dining room features seasonal menus and five-course dinners.
7. The Umstead Hotel and Spa, Cary, North Carolina
Filled with the artwork of renowned North Carolinians, the Umstead combines an appreciation for the arts with luxurious accommodations, a full-service spa, and a four-star restaurant. Suites include private, furnished patios, deep-soaking tubs, cozy bathrobes, Anichini throws, and access to guest services personnel 24 hours a day. The 14,000-square-foot spa has 10 treatment rooms (including an area for couple’s massage), a fitness studio, steam rooms, saunas, and whirlpools. Dine in the excellent Herons restaurant, which has a Southern-infused menu, or order in for a romantic dinner in your suite.
8. InterContinenal Montelucia Resort and Spa, Paradise Valley, Arizona
Set to open in November of 2008, this new resort is already getting rave reviews as a premier luxury destination. Custom fabrics and décor capture the flavor of southern Spain, and the guest rooms include sunken bathtubs and walk-in showers. The spa is opulent and offers state-of-the-art treatments and equipment. (If you can afford it, book a spa suite to experience the ultimate in relaxation together.) When you’ve had enough pampering, head out to Scottsdale for a day of shopping.
9. Biltmore Luxury Golf & Spa Resort, Miami, Florida
The Biltmore is a little piece of heaven set in the Coral Gables section of Miami. Most rooms and suites include European feather bedding, 340-thread-count Egyptian cotton duvet covers, Frette robes, Bamboo Orchid towels, and Jerusalem stone tile flooring. The spa is superb, and an 18-hole Donald Ross-designed golf course, 10 tennis courts and the gorgeous Biltmore pool with private cabana suites surround the resort. The Palms d’Or restaurant delivers extraordinary French cuisine and fine wines.
10. The Peninsula, Chicago, Illinois
Situated in the heart of Chicago’s Miracle Mile, the Peninsula Chicago is one of the country’s grandest dames. Opulent rooms and suites have marble bathrooms with soaking tubs, fine linens, and elegant furniture. Revitalize your body, mind, and spirit in the world-class spa, or partake of the gourmet cuisine offered by Avenues, the resort’s top-rated restaurant.









