Adrenaline Unlocked: Honeymoon Destinations for the Daring

Epic honeymoon trips with an adventurous twist.

While a honeymoon spent by the pool or beach is always a good idea, adventure-minded couples might find a multi-day trip liaising by the water a bit boring. As a result, activity-filled honeymoon trips have been on the rise, and there are more options than ever to find itineraries packed with excursions that allow couples to indulge in both the serenity—and many times thrill—of nature.

From winter kayaking along Norway's Lofoten archipelago, to hiking amongst the fall foliage in Banff, Canada, there are a myriad of ways to get swept away in adventure. Broken up by physicality level so you can decide how hardcore you want to go, here are some of the best itineraries for thrill-seeking honeymooners.

ADVENTURE LEVEL: LIGHT

OPTION 1: Winter Adventures in Lofoten

Opt for a customizable trip to Lofoten Islands during the magical winter, when the snow-capped mountains and trees beam and the surrounding water seems to dance, with local  adventure travel leader Norrøna Hvitserk. Request Hattvika Lodge as part of your stay, not only because it’s located in an authentic fisherman’s village with sleek accommodations and an excellent restaurant, but because it will put you in perfect proximity to tons of adventures. For some time on the water, you can kayak through islets and reefs or rent an electric surfboard directly from the resort for an otherworldly experience. Throughout the trip you can also opt-in to sea-eagle safaris, which will allow you to observe the majestic creatures in their natural habitats. When you’re ready to venture away from the water, take a snowshoeing excursion for views of the pristine winter landscape after which you can settle by a crackling fire to take in a view of the Northern Lights—though it’s ultimately up to Mother Nature if they’ll really show. 

OPTION 2: Action-Movie Themed

What could be more adventurous than an Indiana Jones-inspired honeymoon? Luxury travel operator Scott Dunn offers archaeologist-guided private tours of Ancient Rome, including an after-hours tour of The Vatican and the ability to train like a gladiator at Gladiator School. Here, guests learn the history of the ancient warriors before receiving physical training lessons in hand-to-hand combat, and the rare opportunity to try on Roman armor. Other heart-pounding highlights include a Leonardo da Vinci scavenger hunt which concludes with a visit to the Leonardo da Vinci Museum to learn more about the inventor's life and work. It's an ideal light option for the warmer months, especially for those adventure honeymooners who want to incorporate a European city or two into their big trip.

OPTION 3: Antarctica Cruise

For a bucket list trip you’ll never forget, consider a cruise to one of the world’s most remote locales on the planet: Antarctica. With Aurora Expeditions, you can scuba dive in the mysterious waters where you’ll see grounded icebergs alongside rare sea creatures. These cruises also offer treks and peak-climbing excursions on the Antarctic peninsula to get your heartrate going. If you sail on Hurtigruten Expeditions, you can also add adventure along the Chilean fjords on your way to Antarctica, all the while learning about the conservation efforts to preserve the region’s wildlife.

ADVENTURE LEVEL: MEDIUM

OPTION 1: Hut-to-hut or Heli-Skiing in British Columbia

Explore the best lodges and ski huts in British Columbia during a backcountry skiing trip. This area is famous for its legendary snowfall, as well as its perfect bluebird weather, which makes it an ideal choice for nature-lovers. Whether you want to ski through trees in the Coast Mountains or glide along glaciers in the Tantalus Range, you'll always be able to kick back in a warm, rustic lodge nestled in the powder. And if skiing is your primary focus, opt for a heli-skiing adventure with CMH or Mabey Ski which allows you to tailor your trip to the regions and accommodations of your dreams.

OPTION 2: Sea Kayaking through the World’s Most Biodiverse Regions

Though they’re fragile and should be protected with the utmost care if you visit, there is truly nothing more incredible than observing wildlife unobtrusively during a kayaking journey through some of the world’s most biodiverse regions. Aurora Expeditions offers trips through locales such as Scotland, Iceland, all of which include access to knowledgeable guides who are there to provide insight about the surrounding wildlife. While the types of wildlife depend on the region, the tours have encountered penguins, seals and whales. In tropical regions, the kayaking trips offer the ability to book snorkeling excursions separately that take you over reefs and the most colorful of tropical fish. While you can choose the location to suit your heart’s desire, all of the trips require a foundation of paddling experience.

OPTION 3: Summer Hiking in Banff National Park

For warmer weather, head to Banff National Park in the prime summer months, where you can indulge in any number of rigorous hikes. Choose from shorter day hikes through Sentinel Pass, where you’ll be treated to lake and river views, or The Big Beehive, where you’ll be able to soak in views of Lake Louise. For two- to three-day hikes, the Merlin Lake route covers the west portion of the Skoki Loop and takes you through varying terrains for different views. It also passes by the Skoki Lodge, which will certainly act as a welcome respite. 

ADVENTURE LEVEL: HIGH

OPTION 1: Skiing Spitsbergen Island Lengthwise

This specific trip by Norrøna Hvitserk bills itself as one of the hardest skiing expeditions you can do—period, so this certainly isn’t an option for leisure-seekers. The excursion takes participants on a 30-day (!) wilderness romp during which you’ll camp in tents and your modes of transportation will be limited to your skis. Participants get to traverse the entire length of the Spitsbergen from south to north, during which time they can expect sights of the most remote arctic wilderness. 

OPTION 2: Scuba Diving Between Two Continents 

Embrace exploration and the raw beauty of Iceland's glaciers, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes that will leave you both in awe. Picture this: a summer escape where you hike through the stunning Thorsmork Valley, witness the raw power of the mighty Skogafoss waterfall and venture into the mystical ice caves of Vatnajökull. For an extra memorable honeymoon, book with Arctic Adventures, the renowned tour company specializing in immersive Icelandic adventures. And suppose you really want to tack on a challenge (with the proper certifications, of course). In that case, you can scuba dive at Silfra, a cold water drysuit dive and the only place in the world where it's possible to dive or snorkel directly in a crack between two moving tectonic plates. 

OPTION 3: Surfing Teahupo'o

An extraordinary honeymoon to Tahiti's Teahupo'o will add to your adrenaline-fueled love story, where you and your partner can conquer the waves and experience the raw beauty of nature together. This romantic honeymoon is not for the faint of heart, though, as you will be surfing one of the most treacherous waves on the planet. Prepare to be awestruck as you and your SO paddle out to conquer the monstrous barrels that crash upon the coral reef. Trust the expertise of Teahupo'o Tahiti Surfari,a tour company specializing in surf trips. They offer private tours with local guides, as well other waterfall adventure tours and even a massage tour—where couples can get a massage surrounded by nature. Bonus, you're already in the lush and tropical Tahiti, a top destination for couples. When you're not riding the waves, you can enjoy intimate moments on pristine beaches, savor local food, and explore the vibrant culture of French Polynesia.

*This article originally appeared in Love Inc.'s V9 print issue, which can be purchased here.

Written by Dan Koday