The months before your baby arrives are filled with excitement, appointments, shopping and endless preparation. It’s a joyful time, but it can also be exhausting. A babymoon offers the perfect opportunity to recharge your batteries. You’ll return feeling refreshed, and ready for the final stage of your pregnancy journey. In this guide I’ll share my top babymoon destinations, along with lots of helpful tips, so yours is a trip to remember.
What is a babymoon?
A babymoon is a special holiday taken before your baby arrives. While many people travel with their partner, it’s just as lovely to enjoy a relaxing break with friends or family. The pace should be slow, with a focus on rest and wellbeing. After all, the later stages of pregnancy are tiring enough, and you’ll want to soak up some serenity before the sleepless nights begin!
Tips for travelling while pregnant
I loved travelling during pregnancy. With such a huge life change around the corner, I wanted to make the most of that last bit of freedom and independence. Many women experience morning sickness during the first trimester, so I recommend planning your babymoon between weeks 14 and 30. Most women have more energy during the second trimester, which means you’ll be able to enjoy a mix of exploring and relaxing.
Unless there are complications, most airlines will allow you to fly up to 36 weeks (or 32 if you’re expecting twins). After 28 weeks, you may need a ‘fit to fly’ letter from your doctor or midwife, so always check with the airline before booking.
Always take out suitable travel insurance before you go, even if you’re staying within the UK. To feel at ease, you may want to research medical facilities in your destination and save local emergency numbers. If your pregnancy hasn’t been entirely straightforward, consider asking your midwife for a copy of your notes to take with you.
For long haul flights, I’d suggest wearing compression stockings to aid circulation. Also, book an aisle seat so you’ll be able to stretch your legs regularly, and visit the toilets without disturbing other passengers.
8 Amazing Babymoon Destinations
How to choose a babymoon destination
This guide features some of the best babymoon destinations, with each offering beautiful scenery, restful experiences, and comfortable places to stay. When planning, consider the average temperatures. Intense heat can be really uncomfortable during pregnancy. If you’re heading to a warm destination, be sure to wear SPF and use pregnancy-safe mosquito repellent.
Spa experiences are ideal for babymoons, but keep in mind that not all are suitable during pregnancy. Jacuzzis, saunas and steam rooms are often discouraged, though you may choose to use them at your discretion.
There are several destinations that you should avoid while pregnant, specifically those with a risk of the Zika virus. Check the Travel Health Pro website for the most up-to-date advice.
The best babymoon destinations in the UK
Whether you’re dreaming of a countryside adventure or a complete escape from everyday life, these UK destinations are perfect for a memorable babymoon.
The Cotswolds, England
One of my favourite regions for a relaxing getaway, the idyllic Cotswolds, will win you over with its history and charm. Spend your days walking through the countryside, exploring picturesque stone villages and relaxing in rustic pubs. Popular towns include Broadway, with its characterful high street, the bustling market town of Moreton-in-Marsh, and Bourton-on-the-Water, where a peaceful river runs through the centre.
It’s lovely all year round, too. In summer you can make the most of long days outdoors, while in winter, it’s the ideal place to cosy up.
Where to stay: For the ultimate luxurious Cotswolds babymoon, stay at The Slaughters Country Inn.
Bath, England
Bath offers a wonderful combination of relaxation, romance, and history. Start your babymoon with a dip in the soothing thermal waters at Thermae Bath Spa, where there’s a rooftop pool with panoramic views and a menu of treatments for mums-to-be.
Bath’s pretty Georgian streets are dotted with smart boutiques, quaint cafes and top restaurants. You could explore the city’s historic past with a trip to the Roman Baths or seek tranquillity inside Bath Abbey. Literature lovers will enjoy a visit to the Jane Austen Centre.
Where to stay: With chic accommodation and elegant gardens, The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa is an ideal base for your babymoon in Bath.
Isle of Eriska, Scotland
Are you looking for the ultimate babymoon escape? There aren’t many places more remote than this tiny island off the west coast of Scotland. Once there, check into your epic mansion: the 5-star Eriska Hotel & Spa. One of the top-rated hotels in Scotland, it’s surrounded by rugged Scottish countryside and coastline.
While there you could go cycling, hiking, try your hand at fishing or vent some pre-baby frustration with some axe-throwing! For something more soothing, head to the spa for a pregnancy massage or enjoy a swim in the indoor pool.
Dinner in the hotel’s fine-dining restaurant is a wonderful way to enjoy quality time with your partner before you enter the newborn bubble.
The best babymoon destinations in Europe
From the banks of Lake Como, to the bright lights of Paris and island-hopping in Croatia, these babymoons offer the chance to explore Europe at a slower pace.
Lake Como, Italy
With its sparkling waters, idyllic lakeside villages and mountain views, Lake Como is one of my top recommendations for a European babymoon. It’s easily accessible via a short flight from the UK to Milan, then a taxi or scenic train ride. The tranquil waters provide a calming environment to switch-off, before your baby arrives.
I’d recommend exploring lake towns such as Bellagio and Varenna by boat. While away the hours sipping non-alcoholic spritzes and enjoying tasty Italian fare overlooking the lake at one of Como’s waterside restaurants.
Where to stay: For the ultimate Italian babymoon, check into Grand Hotel Tremezzo. This five-star retreat offers spectacular lake views, elegant suites, and a luxurious spa.
Paris, France
Paris is one of the most accessible babymoon destinations from the UK, whether you hop on the Eurostar or fly direct. With romance in the air and lots of beautiful sights to see, it’s a wonderful city to stroll around.
Start the day with delicious pastries with Eiffel Tower views, enjoy moments of peace in the Jardin des Tuileries and enjoy candlelit dinners at buzzy French brasseries. You’ll want to take advantage of these special moments before your evenings revolve around nappies and feeds.
Where to stay: For a wellbeing escape with a touch of sophistication, book a stay at Château Voltaire.
Split, Croatia
I’ve spent many happy holidays in Split and know it would make an amazing babymoon destination in Europe. It blends history, coastal relaxation and the innate charm of the Mediterranean. While I’d recommend avoiding peak summer (it’s very hot and crowded), it’s ideal for spring or autumn breaks.
Wander through the atmospheric streets of Diocletian’s Palace, enjoy a seafood feast along Riva Promenade, or sit back and relax as you see nearby islands by boat.
Where to stay: I love Split’s boutique hotel options, such as Split Heritage Hotel. This charming and romantic boutique B&B is moments from the city’s sights.
The best international babymoon destinations
Nature, wildlife, bustling markets and luxurious hotels – if you’re happy to travel a little further these babymoons offer one final pre-baby adventure.
Marrakech, Morocco
If you’re craving a more exotic and cultural babymoon experience, book a trip to Marrakech. Just under four hours from the UK, it’s ideal for a short-haul adventure. You’ll love exploring the labyrinth of souks, which are a real feast for the senses. You might even pick up some new items for your newborn.
Along with the busy centre, take a wander around the picturesque Jardin Majorelle. This peaceful botanical garden was bought by Yves Saint Laurent, and features exotic plants and cobalt-blue architecture.
Where to stay: The city is home to several top-rated hotels and resorts. For a truly memorable experience, book a suite at La Mamounia. This iconic hotel blends the finest Arabic architecture and luxury amenities in a tranquil resort environment. You’ll definitely leave feeling rejuvenated.
Sri Lanka
If you love exploring far-flung destinations, how about booking a babymoon in Sri Lanka? This welcoming nation is rich in culture, wellness, and natural beauty. I’ve visited twice now (once while pregnant) and adored spending days on adventures, seeing elephants in the wild or chasing waterfalls. Evenings were spent feasting on tasty curries overlooking tea plantations or indulging in fresh seafood by the ocean. Dotted with amazing beaches and top spas, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to recharge your batteries.
Where to stay: For a unique and memorable stay, book a private villa at 98 Acres Resort & Spa, where you’ll be able to enjoy dramatic mountain views from your private swimming pool.
