We recommend these suite spots …
I’m almost certain I’ve stayed in more honeymoon suites than Elizabeth Taylor, the perks of a previous role as editor of a wedding magazine. This experience has informed future hypothetical choices. While I don’t mind a towel swan, when it comes to my own honeymoon, I’ll say no to rose petals (especially sprinkled in a bath), hold off on the champagne (who really wants it at breakfast?) and be meticulous about any views. I once went to Sorrento where the suite in my grande dame hotel overlooked the overgrown garden rather than the iconic view. I’m sure the Taylor Burtons would have had a meltdown with management; I said nothing though sulked inwardly for the whole stay (fortunately I was alone). That’s the thing about suites in idyllic locations – they create expectations that sometimes disappoint.
For old-school glamour and unpretentious service, I’d recommend Hotel Splendido in Portofino, though not in high season. Elizabeth Taylor celebrated four honeymoons there and the hotel’s Spaghetti alla Elizabeth Taylor is a must, a surprisingly simple recipe – albeit using three types of tomato – for someone with such expensive taste in jewellery. www.belmond.com
Italy is the top honeymoon destination for 2025 alongside Greece, Bali and French Polynesia. Apparently honeymooners now prefer what’s termed the “Goldilocks” combination of adventure and relaxation, over a flop and drop beach idyll. I found the (white knuckle) “Flight of Angels” over Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe followed by a safari at Hwange National Park an unexpectedly invigorating balance of adrenalin and relaxation.
The Ivy Suite at Ballymaloe House Hotel.
“Palate and Place” is another honeymoon trend for scenic stays with culinary clout. I can vouch for the pretty new Ivy and Litchfield suites at Ballymaloe House and the stylish Park Suites at Park Hotel Kenmare, which tick both boxes. www.ballymaloe.ie
Donegal Suite, Lough Eske Castle.
However, demand suggests that booking a suite is not exclusive to honeymooners. Dónal Cox, General Manager at Lough Eske Castle, says: “We’ve noticed an increasing demand for suites that cater to multi-generational families and international visitors looking for a luxurious, authentic experience. Our new Donegal Suites have been designed to meet this demand.” The 26 suites (from €390 with breakfast and a whiskey tasting) feature Magee 1866 tweed from the firm’s “Eske Bunch” collection. Four-poster beds, roll-top baths, fireplaces, local artwork and artisanal crafts are other design details. www.lougheskecastlehotel.com
Opera fans will like The Shelbourne’s new Margaret Burke Sheridan suite which includes memorabilia and a gramophone with some of the Irish soprano’s original recordings. www.theshelbourne.com.
How about a train? Climb aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express from Paris to Portofino. Wake to idyllic vistas as you travel through Southern France and along the iconic coastline of Liguria with its enclave of colourful houses spilling down the hillside. Take in the glamorous pink façade of Hotel Splendido and enjoy a two-night stay, filled with relaxing afternoons by the pool that turn into elegant drinks at sunset. From June 19 to 22, this breathtaking train journey is available to book here. Find out more; www.belmond.com.
We may earn a commission if you buy through affiliate links on our site.