In the busy build-up to the wedding day itself, it can be easy to forget to relax, chill out, laugh, and take a little time for yourself. With so much to organize and take care of, things can get overwhelmingly fast. This is where the Bridesmaid Getaway comes in!
A bridesmaids’ getaway is the perfect opportunity to unwind a little, to shake off the stress of planning the big day, and to celebrate the bonds you have with your closest friends. It doesn’t really matter what you do and where you go, the essential thing is to spend time with your loved ones.
You might choose to sail from Southampton to some of Europe’s most beautiful destinations or rent a cottage in the Scottish Highlands. There are countless destinations and activities that are ideal for a bridesmaids’ getaway, whether you are looking for serene relaxation, thrilling adventures, or a mix of both.
So if you find yourself head down in wedding planning, take a moment to breathe, and check out some of the best ideas for a bridesmaids’ retreat below.
Relaxing Getaways
1. Napa Valley, California
Napa is one of the most quintessential destinations for a girls’ weekend away and is perfect for a relaxed yet effortlessly elegant bridesmaids’ escape. Wine country is the ideal location for gentle, relaxing fun, giving your group the chance to spend your days sampling world-class wines at renowned vineyards before indulging yourselves in a few luxurious spa treatments.
Wineries such as Opus One, Domaine Carneros, and Castello di Amoroso are world-famous and offer private tours and tastings that are perfect for an intimate experience with your besties. Napa also boasts a bunch of amazing spa resorts, like Auberge du Soleil and Meadowood Napa Valley. Finally, the region is well-known for its fantastic restaurants, with gourmet dining options like the French Laundry and Bouchon perfect for a sophisticated way to end an evening.
2. Santorini, Greece
Santorini’s epic vistas and stunning sunsets are Insta-famous, and the combination of natural beauty, tranquility, and amazing food makes it the perfect place to go for full-on relaxation mode.
Rent your group a luxury villa with endless views of the caldera, and soak up the atmosphere with a cocktail at sunset. Or head out onto the water to experience the magic of sundown at sea, on a private catamaran cruise. Finally, don’t miss the island’s amazing beaches and gorgeous tiny cliff top villages, for total peace and serenity.
3. Tuscany, Italy
If you are looking to add a touch of culture and culinary excellence to your relaxing girls’ weekend, then Tuscany might be absolutely ideal.
This charming Italian region is famous for its ‘agriturismos’, independent farm stays, often with an attached vineyard, where you can enjoy exquisite home-cooked, farm-to-table meals, participate in local wine tastings, and enjoy a touch of simple Italian authenticity. Add a cooking class or a hot air balloon ride to complete your trip, and you’ll find yourself living la dolce vita in no time at all.
Adventurous Escapes
4. Whistler, Canada
If you and your bridesmaids love winter sports, then it might be worth considering a cold-weather adventure to Whistler, Canada. For stylish and warm winter dresses, check out Tobi. Blackcomb is one of the best ski destinations on the planet and has slopes and runs fit for all abilities, from total newbies to black-run veterans.
If you love being outdoors in the cold but can’t quite get on with skiing or snowboarding, don’t panic! In Whistler you can jump on a snowmobile and head out into the backcountry, discovering trails covered in crisp, fresh powder, far from the crowds. You could even try dog sledding, getting behind the reins of a loveable team of expert pooches for an unforgettable cute adventure.
5. Queenstown, New Zealand
If your group is looking to get the adrenaline pumping with a thrill ride of an adventure away, then Queenstown, New Zealand, is a great place to start.
The stunning landscapes that surround this exhilarating city are an amazing backdrop for skydiving, while the Kawarau Bridge is famous as a destination for bungee jumping. The nearby Shotover River is renowned as one of the best white-water rafting spots in the whole of New Zealand, while Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound regularly feature on lists of the most beautiful places in the world and have some fantastic hiking trails to explore.
6. Costa Rica
Another great option for an active, adventurous getaway is Costa Rica, with the extra added bonus of being an extremely sustainable and eco-friendly place for tourists as well!
You and the rest of the girls can head to the stunning cloud forests, where you can soar above the jungle canopy on a zipline, for a bird’s-eye view of this amazing landscape and its fascinating wildlife.
Then head to the beach for some of the best surfing breaks in the world, in Tamarindo or Jaco.
Finally, test your mettle by scaling the Arenal Volcano, where you can relax after a hard climb with a soak in the mineral-rich waters of the natural hot springs.
Mixing Relaxation and Adventure
7. Sedona, Arizona
Finally, if you want a bridesmaids’ getaway that combines excitement with adventure, then consider Sedona. This gorgeous corner of Arizona boasts stunning red rock formations, incredible hiking trails, and an incredible spiritual atmosphere to make it perfect for a trip that combines relaxation with outdoor activities.
Explore the remarkable landscapes on foot or by jeep, then discover the unique energy of the desert, harnessing the power of the vortexes that converge on Sedona for a mystical moment of connection and peace.
A bridesmaids’ getaway is the perfect opportunity to take a break from wedding planning and enjoy some time relaxing and unwinding, while reconnecting with your besties and strengthening the bonds of friendship. Whether your group enjoys pure tranquility or thrilling excitement, there are so many great destinations to explore that will get you ready for your big day in style!
