Telluride, Colorado is a Rocky Mountain town that’s romantic in its remoteness—it’s a six-hour drive from the city of Denver, and its teeny-tiny commercial airport boasts the highest elevation in the United States. Yet couples willing to make the trek will be rewarded with its raw, rugged beauty. Located in a box canyon, the entire historic Victorian mining town is surrounded by 13 to 14,000 feet snow-capped mountains. (The beauty of Telluride is so pristine, in fact, that it’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places.) It’s also an adventurer’s paradise: hike, mountain bike, or kayak down alpine creeks. There are also a number of five-star hotels in the region, including the Madeline Hotel & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection and Dunton Hot Springs. (The latter is where Emily in Paris actor Lily Collins got married.)
Maui and Lanai, Hawaii
Maui, Hawaii.Photo: Getty Images
While technically within the United States, the islands of Hawaii feel worlds away, because well, they are: a 10-hour flight from New York and a six-hour flight from Los Angeles, traveling to the Pacific isles is arguably the farthest journey any American can make while remaining in the country. But with its tropical beaches, rainforests, and national parks, it’s more than worth the journey—and that’s without even mentioning the Hawaiian culture and food. (You’ve never had a poke bowl until you’ve had one in Hawaii.)
Parts of Maui—the most popular island for honeymooners due to its beautiful, lush landscape and sunsets—are still recovering from a devastating wildfire a year ago. But the area is open for respectful tourists and honeymooners. (We recommend the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, where the White Lotus was filmed.) Across the channel is the island of Lanai, owned by billionaire Larry Ellison and known for its romantic seclusion. Here, you’ll find two Four Season resorts: Sensei Lanai is tucked away in the tropical wilderness and focuses on wellness, whereas the Four Seasons Resort Lanai boasts a picture postcard palm-tree-lined beach.
