Amidst the buzz surrounding European destination weddings, it’s only fitting we explore enchanting options for an Italian honeymoon getaway.
Three idyllic choices that warrant your consideration include the timeless allure of Cinque Terre, the breathtaking expanse of the Amalfi Coast, and the romantic haven of Lake Como.
Tash Meys, an avid traveller and talented lifestyle and wedding photographer, shares her top tips for these three exquisite Italian gems, ensuring a blend of sunkissed splendour, pristine shores, culinary delights, and a glimpse of Italy’s finest offerings
Cinque Terre
Nestled within Cinque Terre, a string of five picturesque villages on Italy’s northwest coast, Portovenere exudes its own distinct charm. Accessible by bus, it’s a concealed treasure, with a historic castle, exhilarating rocky leaps into clear waters, and charming seaside eateries. Honeymooning in this idyllic haven is a dream-like experience
Among my favoured hikes is the two-and-a-half-hour scenic path from Vernazza to Monterosso. I highly recommend embarking early, ideally around 8am, to avoid the congestion and heat. This means you get to enjoy dawn vistas with only a handful of adventurers. Expect to see rugged cliffs and the azure expanse of the Ligurian Sea, while charming villages, vineyards, and lush vegetation punctuate the landscape.
Monterosso is the largest of the Cinque Terre towns, and it’s my favourite. It has sprawling
beaches and is divided into two parts. You can climb the connecting peak between these halves
to get a stunning view of the beautiful coastline below.
Lake Como
Villa Balbiano, renowned as an iconic Italian wedding venue, opens its enchanting doors to more than just betrothed couples. No matrimonial plans are required to experience its splendour – a boat ride to the island on which it resides, and a day pass to access its mesmerising gardens, should be top of your list.
In the town of Bellagio, I tasted the best dark chocolate gelato I’ve ever encountered. There is a gelateria near the ferry terminal in the heart of the central town, nestled alongside the waterfront. The simple pleasure of eating gelato on the waterfront seats, where boats glide and people meander, is a simple yet sublime pleasure to be relished.
For a few days’ sojourn at Lake Como, Bellagio makes an ideal base. It embodies the “Lake Como” ambience, with its scenic beauty and charm, and offers many wonderful accommodation options, enticing restaurants, and convenient boat charters for island visits. Staying here ensures an authentic Lake Como experience.
Amalfi Coast
Embarking on the Path of the Gods hike really allows you to immerse yourself in the breathtaking vistas of the Amalfi Coast in the south of Italy. It’s also a peaceful respite from the bustle of the villages below. This historic trail spans a 7km ridgeline journey from Nocelle to Bomerano, with numerous picturesque stops along the way.
The village of Positano epitomises the classic Amalfi experience, with colourful hotels, rooftop restaurants and beautiful beaches, all looking out over the Mediterranean Sea.
If you’re touring the Amalfi Coast, basing yourself in Sorrento can be a cost-effective choice. The town’s size offers a plethora of dining options and attractions, making it a fantastic base. It’s also a convenient hub for day trips to Capri or exploring different coastal areas via ferry.
WORDS + PHOTOGRAPHY Tastefully Studios; Tastefully Tash, @tashameys
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Tastefully Tash is available for weddings in NZ and worldwide. Check out her Instagram for more: @tashameys
