The Simple Romance of the Mini-moon
Written by Cori Burcham | Submitted Photography
While the idea of the perfect honeymoon may be different for every couple, the majority of newlyweds fantasize about jet-setting to an exotic location where they can get swept away by romantic scenery, dine on local cuisine, and embark on adventures that satisfy their wanderlust. A romantic getaway by definition, however, doesn’t require luxurious five-star hotels, pricey tropical views or even flying overseas.
As the last major milestone of the wedding proceedings, a honeymoon is more than just a glamorized vacation. After getting caught up in the whirlwind of wedding planning, it’s the first moment when couples get to enjoy each other’s company and begin creating lasting memories together. With this in mind, the perfect getaway could take place anywhere and may not require you to travel very far.
Whether it’s due to timing or the expense, couples unable to commit to the full honeymoon experience should consider planning a “mini-moon” to coastal Delaware. While honeymooning at the Delaware beaches may not sound as glamorous as traveling abroad, the Delaware coast offers similar opportunities for ecotourism, recreational aquatic sports, and lounging on the beach until the sunset breaks over the horizon.
To begin planning your mini honeymoon, consider staying at one of these local inns, which boast the different varieties of natural beauty Delaware has to offer.
The Lazy L Bed & Breakfast
Located in Lewes, the Lazy L is a charming family-owned inn that would make a great escape for any newlyweds who find refuge in nature. Surrounded by wetlands teeming with wildlife, including eagles, otters, and herons, the Lazy L is a nature-lover’s paradise, where couples can relax on the patio with a glass of wine while listening to the soothing sounds of the lapping coastal marsh, or rent a kayak for two to explore them firsthand.
On-premises, couples can spend their mornings indulging in Lazy L’s renowned breakfast specials or lounge in the Author’s Loft, a room located on the top floor with a 360-degree view of the surrounding area.
During the day, couples are within driving distance of sunbathing at Broadkill Beach, hiking at Cape Henlopen State Park, birdwatching at Prime Hook Reserve, or viewing dolphins on a guided boat tour.
As a couple who prefers traveling with their dogs, owners Carrie and Lou Wolinetz have a pet-friendly policy, giving guests the option of bringing their four-legged friends. According to Carrie, all of Lazy L’s rooms would be suitable for honeymooners, but their most popular rental is the Denver Cottage, which is available for $325 per night. For more information, visit www.lazylbandb.com.
Addy Sea
Newlyweds searching for an economic alternative to the tropical honeymoon should consider staying at Addy Sea, an oceanfront inn just steps off the sand in Bethany Beach. With its stately antique furniture and vintage wallpaper, the modern-meets-Victorian design of the main house impresses upon guests the structure’s historical significance.
Before it was converted into an inn, the building formerly served as the summer family residence of John Addy, one of the founders of the town of Bethany Beach, back in 1904. For those craving more contemporary fixtures, one of the latest additions is the nearby Guest House, which showcases a softer coastal style.
One of the benefits of staying at Addy Sea is that downtown Bethany’s commercial district is only a short walk away, but bikes are also available for guest use. The rate for rooms that best accommodate honeymooners ranges between $300 to $600 per night, depending on the season. For more information, visit www.addysea.com.
The Estate at Plantation Ridge
Farther inland, away from more crowded beach towns, the Estate at Plantation Ridge is a newly established bed-and-breakfast that gives honeymooners a peaceful retreat deep in the heart of rural Delaware.
Matching the small-town experience both had as children, married couple Alyson and Brad Hudson — Millsboro natives and owners of the estate — established their bed-and-breakfast with the aim of recreating the warmth and sense of community one might find in their own hometown. Abutting the placid waters of Betts Pond, newlyweds with a proclivity for aquatic sports can spend the day canoeing or kayaking, or arrange a fishing trip.
While the space is remote enough to relax on cool summer nights around a fire pit immersed in the sounds of the forest, the estate is still close enough to drive to any of the surrounding beach towns. Apart from their master bridal suite, which costs $225 per night, honeymooners also have the option of staying in the rustic glamping yurt or the private cottage. For more information, visit their website at www.plantationridgevenue.com.
Good Earth Market's Cottages & Campground
A romantic setting can often be as simple as camping under the stars or cozying up with your partner in a cabin in the countryside. This is the type of mini-moon newlyweds will find at Good Earth Market, which by its name alone might not sound like something associated with the hospitality industry. But, after beginning as a health-food store nearly two decades ago, Good Earth has now added an Airbnb to their business, featuring charming country cottages and campsites for rent on their 10-acre property in Clarksville, just west of Ocean View and Millville.
While there are nine different tent sites and cottages, ranging between $30 and $269 per night, owner Susan Ryan suggests the Tiny Thyme Cottage for honeymooners, due to its intimate setting.
While the town of Bethany Beach is located just down the road, Good Earth guests can take advantage of their onsite amenities by venturing to the market for an organic snack, savoring a meal at their restaurant, or attending a performance of magic, comedy, or more at Dickens Parlour Theater. For more information about Good Earth’s accommodations, visit www.goodearthmarket.com.
