Close-to-Home Honeymoons

Although wedding ceremonies run the gamut from uber-traditional to somewhat outrageous displays of affection for family and friends, more often than not, a couple’s honeymoon tends to stray more toward exotic or tropical locales. There is, however, a lot to be said for staying stateside and away from the sand and surf.

The living room of a Lakeside Cottage at Canoe Bay

Wisconsin
Although more commonly known for cheese, cold weather and the Green Bay Packers, this midwestern state is also home to Canoe Bay, a Relais & Châteaux property in the Northwestern lakes region, just outside the quiet, scenic town of Chetek. The intimate, 21-room property rests on a 280-acre estate with three lakes as the backdrop. Architecture fans take note: The hotel’s six suites and 15 cottages are inspired by the work of Wisconsin-born architect Frank Lloyd Wright.

The best rooms for your lovebird clients are the Lakeside Cottages, of which there are two. These particular digs have private spas. Other nice perks include a large Emperor Bed— six square feet bigger than a king-size bed; a personal Jacuzzi next to a picture window, which overlooks Lake Wahdoon; two stone fireplaces; and lakeside decks.

The property delivers a breakfast basket to each room daily— the perfect way to start that day before rowboating, fishing, swimming, and, of course, canoeing. Guests may also partake in a candlelight dinner, which is served in the Inn’s glass-enclosed lakeside restaurant.

Getting there: Chetek is a two-hour drive east from Minneapolis and a six-hour drive northwest from Chicago. The Minneapolis International Airport has a variety of flights. Private planes may land at Rice Lake Airport, which is 30 minutes away. For more information, travel agents may contact Lisa Dobrowolski or Katie Daubner (715-924-4594).

The Elderberry room at Châteaux du Sureau

California
Sixteen miles from the south entry of Yosemite National Park, Hotel Château du Sureau— another Relais & Châteaux property— exudes old European charm. Besides exploring the world-famous park system miles away, guests may enjoy fountains, walking paths, a swimming pool, a bocce court and a life-size chess set.

In the 10-room Château, many of the accommodations are suitable for honeymooners. The best room, however, is the Villa Sureau, which spans 2,000 square feet and has its own gardens and outdoor spa.

The proprietress, Erna Kubin-Clanin’s, award-winning restaurant, Erna’s Elderberry House, is also not to be missed.

Travel agents sending clients may contact Jan Waterlow (559-683-6860), the head of reservations.

Washington
Just outside of Seattle in Woodinville, WA, Willows Lodge is another nice option for honeymooners. The 84-room property, a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts, rests in Washington’s wine country and offers a romantic escape for travelers who love nature. To further reiterate this point, the property has several packages, all of which offer an all-
encompassing experience for your newlywed clients.

The “Do Not Disturb Package” for two includes accommodations in a Nicer style room (the best room type for honeymooners), $100 dining credit at the Barking Frog restaurant, Willows Lodge in-tub dining, drawn bath with rose petals, Willows Lodge’s signature dessert, sparkling wine, candle and CD.

For a more adventurous take on the honeymoon experience, the property has paired with tour operator Evergreen Escapes to offer the “Northwest Wine Country Adventure” package, which boasts such perks as three nights in a Nicer style room, five-hour private Woodinville Wine Trail encounter and an eight-to-ten-hour private seasonal nature/adventure tour. For pricing information and to book these packages, call 425-424-2589.

For general booking, call reservations at 877-424-3930 or book via the property’s website or GDS.