Instead of following the crowds to conventional honeymoon destinations, take the path less traveled to uncover the pleasures of new and exciting corners of the world. ­­­When else would you and your spouse indulge in a visit to a destination on your bucket list? Your dream honeymoon should fit into your getaway goals, whether it be hiking, sampling new and exciting dishes, lounging by the pool, or discovering the fantastical quality of a preserved historic city. The following list shares the top hidden gems of honeymoon destinations of 2018 for people looking for something a little different.

1. Patagonia, Argentina

This rugged and remote destination attracts nature lovers and thrill-seekers with spectacular treasures like the Beagle Channel, the craggy mountain peaks of the Andes, and luxury hotels with outstanding views. The diversity of Patagonia begins around the northern divide within the Lake District and the town of Bariloche. Travelers from around the world arrive in the rejuvenating forests in view of the glacier-fed lakes to fish, ski, mountain climb, trek, cycle, or relish the satisfying flavors of the local microbreweries and chocolatiers.

The southern edges of Argentina’s Patagonia hide untamed national parks, gourmet restaurants, and the impressive scale of the Patagonian Steppe. The hiking trails of El Chaltén in Los Glaciares National Park wind around the base of the region’s tallest mountains. Humpback whales breach the waters outside of Puerto Madryn. Whether you venture to the End of the World at Ushuaia or view the flamingos in the waters of Lago Argentino, Patagonia promises a romantic honeymoon imbued with excitement.

2. Umbria, Italy

The perfect Italian honeymoon is not so much about when you travel, but where you travel. The landlocked region of Umbria remains a romantic gem nestled between the major destinations of Florence and Rome. The countryside glows with lush, bucolic hills, golden plains, and rugged mountain peaks. Ancient wonders and narrow medieval lanes decorate the hilltop villages preserving delicate churches, spectacular castles, soaring towers, and dramatic city walls. Locals cherish the ideals of the Slow Food Movement; they search for best ingredients in the wild landscape, such as truffles, wild boar from the woods and fantastic wines cultivated on the different vineyards spreading across the valleys and foothills.

The quiet streets and aged architecture of towns like Bevagna, Narni, Spoleto, and Todi embody romance and charm. If you fancy art, Umbria boasts Gothic paintings and fantastic architecture in Assisi, the birthplace of St. Francis. History lovers should visit Gubbio to view the Eugubine Tables, seven bronze plates from the 2nd century BC. Indulge in a hidden spa, cycle through the countryside, picnic amongst the wildflowers, or spend time exploring the distinctive villages while discovering the majesty of Umbria.

3. Marrakech, Morocco

Couples are passing up familiar honeymoon destinations for fantastic adventures hosted in Morocco’s historic mansions known as riads. Marrakech is known for its souqs, the shopping district home to vibrant shops filled with colorful spices and shimmering silver teapots. A combination of Islamic and French architecture exemplifies the majesty of art and design reflected in the minarets, madrasas, and stunning 16th-century Saadian Tombs.

Djemaa El Fna square acts as the beating heart of the city where jugglers, storytellers, acrobats, and food vendors congregate each night beneath rooftop cafes serving refreshing mint tea. Photograph the city from above on a hot air balloon ride or relax in a hammam, a private sauna experience immersing you and your loved one in intimate steam. You will feel as though you have stepped into a storybook featuring magnificent landscapes, Saharan dunes, and quiet nearby beaches.

4. Sri Lanka

The island nation off the coast of India’s southern tip provides honeymooners with an epic journey filled with culture, passion, and seclusion. The mountains at the heart of the island support lush tea plantations that produce famous leaf-blends spoiling visitors for choice. Yala National Park has the highest density of wild leopards in the world, as well as roaming peacocks, grazing elephants, and resting crocodiles.

Dutch colonial buildings, antique churches, and historical mosques decorate the streets of the fabulous Galle Fortress, while fishermen at the village of Weligama sit on stilts looming above the rolling waves. Ancient cave temples host golden Buddha statues glittering in the sparse sunlight. The coastline ranges from hidden rocky coves to elegant white sand beaches. The sunshine and consistent temperatures make Sri Lanka a delightful destination year-round, offering a divine mix of exploration, relaxation, and pristine exotic ambiance.

5. Cape Town, South Africa

Natural beauty and unique wildlife decorate one of South Africa’s largest metropolitan cities. The blend of seascapes and rugged mountains reflect the adventurous spirit of locals. The irresistible scenery extends through the hillsides and blankets the collection of white sandy beaches. If you prefer exhilarating excursions, the city provides access to cycling, hiking, surfing, paragliding, and even cage-diving with great white sharks. Couples more enthralled by world history can relish the streets of Africa’s oldest European settlement and visit Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela spent 18 years imprisoned.

Culinary enthusiasts should spend time in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, which are known for producing elegant wines and celebrated cuisine inspired by the wild landscapes of the South African countryside. Cape Town’s splendor emanates as much from the plateau of Table Mountain as from the baboons, ostriches, and antelopes that roam free on the outskirts of the city. Cape Town promises an unforgettable honeymoon within reach of action, relaxation, and romantic seclusion.