While Amsterdam, Ibiza and Miami are exciting hen party destinations, there are plenty of other options.
First things first, consider the environment you’re looking for. A girl’s trip doesn’t have to be action-packed, it could be wellness or foodie focussed instead.
Or find a place that offers a mix: great scenery, top restaurants plus some adventure or cultural activities. Curated experiences are popular too, whether that’s a private dinner at the bride’s favourite winery or chartering an antique catamaran for a stylish island excursion.
The possibilities are endless, so we’ve narrowed it down to 12 incredible destinations that offer a little bit of everything – not to mention stylish accommodation.
St. Barth's
We’ll admit, Saint-Tropez is much easier to get to, but St. Barth’s offers all the glamour, French fare, and fabulous resorts with less hassle. This French Caribbean island is a great alternative if you’re dreaming of the French Riviera but want something out of season. The island has an excellent beach club scene, offering something for every type of traveller, and it’s very safe. Get your fix at the stunning Rosewood Le Guanahani St. Barth’s, which is home to French-inspired spa treatments and shopping, two secluded beaches, endless activities, and a wide variety of Caribbean chic accommodations. Book your stay at one of the property’s Signature Suites; standalone cottages that can fit up to seven guests, each with their own breath-taking private outdoor spaces.
Montreal, Canada
Another excellent destination for a taste of Europe without experiencing an overwhelming throng of tourists, Montreal is a top pick. While it’s not the typical North American hen party destination, Montreal offers all the nightlife, outdoor activities, and fashionable accommodations you could want – not to mention spectacular architecture at every turn. Design-centric Hotel William Gray is our top pick for a hen party, as it’s known for having one of the best spas in the city (if not in all of Canada) and features dozens of experiences for every type of wellness seeker. What’s more, it has a fabulous rooftop terrace where you can sip and savour French favourites while taking in the gorgeous views of Old Montreal.
Taormina, Sicily
Think outside the Amalfi Coast box when planning an Italian escape and look to places like Sardinia, the Tuscan Islands, or Sicily for a lavish weekend. You’ll still get the glamorous riviera feel in elegant Taormina, which offers gorgeous views of Mt. Etna and the Ionian Sea, plus plenty of lavish accommodations. You can’t go wrong with a Belmond property and Villa Sant’Andrea, A Belmond Hotel, makes an idyllic home base for a girls’ retreat with your inner circle. Soak up the sun on its private beaches, enjoy ‘villeggiatura’ on a Sicilian boat tour, and indulge in a wine tasting from this burgeoning region for the ultimate bachelorette weekend.
Comporta, Portugal
Don’t forget to think beyond Lisbon and Porto for an extra-special girls’ weekend in Portugal. The Comporta region, known for its slew of wellness hotels, great food, and beaches, is easy to get to and there are plenty of wine experiences to enjoy. Book your stay at Quinta da Comporta, a wellness-centric boutique hotel that features villas and townhouses that allows guests to enjoy the best of hotel amenities and residential living. Plus, it keeps your gang together and makes things a bit more affordable. There’s a large infinity-style pool that’s over 100-feet long and the property looks out over the countryside. You’re also just a quick drive to the beach.
San Diego, US
San Diego is a highly underrated travel destination in the US and would make for a lovely hen party – if you’re willing to take on the major time zone change. It’s an easy destination to fly to, the beaches are lovely, and the food scene is fantastic. Oh, and traffic is a far cry from that of LA. Mark your long weekend territory at Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas for a luxurious taste of the San Diego coastline. Take a surf lesson, admire the views via seaplane, start your day with a fitness class on the beach, and indulge in ocean-inspired spa treatments. You’ll feel like a true Southern Californian in no time.
Bermuda
Bermuda, famous for housing some of the world’s best beaches and other natural wonders, is truly a sight to behold. Plus, there’s a deeply seated rum culture to experience at Swizzle Inn and you can still get your afternoon tea fix at the picturesque Lili Bermuda Perfumery. Where better to stay in Bermuda for a hen party than a pink palace? Hamilton Princess Hotel & Beach Club offers all the amenities you could dream of (including one of the world’s best art collections). Its Premium Suites are ideal for a small group to stay in one place.
Paros, Greece
Paros has become a sought-after Greek island for historical sites, water sports, charming villages, plus a bar and restaurant scene – but the isle moves at a slower pace than Mykonos and Santorini. There’s a lovely casual feel about the island and it’s easy to get around, and it’s the most central of the Cyclades, so you can rent a catamaran or take a ferry to explore the surrounding islands for the day or overnight. The Thinking Traveller offers picture-perfect villas across Paros, from stylish houses with infinity pools overlooking the sea to historic cottages with luxuriant gardens. Coordinate a private chef and in-house spa experiences for larger groups and head in to Naoussa town come evening for dining, drinking, and perhaps some dancing.
New York City, US
New York City is one of the most underrated bachelorette destinations, including for Americans. However, we believe that large, easily accessible cities will return as top hen party choices in the coming years, and The Big Apple is one of our favourite cities for a fabulous, frivolous girls weekend. Where better else to stay than the iconic Plaza Hotel? Aptly seated just off Fifth Avenue and in front of Central Park South, this property sets the perfect tone for a lavish big-city weekend. Be sure to enjoy afternoon tea at The Palm Court restaurant and book one of the multi-room suites to keep your crew together for the entirety of the trip.
Seville, Spain
It’s no secret that Spain is a popular destination for hen parties: opt for Seville, home to excellent food, nightlife and culture, and warm weather – what more could you ask for? This Andalusian city is full of tradition, beauty, and vibrancy that will leave you wanting more. Our pick for a stylish stay in Seville is the Instagram-worthy Triana House, named after the utterly charming, historic neighbourhood it resides in. Start your day with breakfast in the courtyard before perusing the Triana Market, taking a flamenco class, or shopping for traditional Andalusian pottery and other mementos from what’s sure to be a trip to remember.
Dubai, UAE
The Middle East has some of the world’s most breathtaking accommodation choices, in places like Dubai, Doha, and Al’Ula. Dubai is always a top choice for an extra-special weekend, as there’s plenty of opportunity for both pampering and adventure. While there’s an array of spectacular properties, few shine as bright as Bulgari Resort Dubai on the exclusive Jumeirah Bay. The hotel has the feel of a chic Mediterranean village while offering all the upscale amenities one could desire in a top-tier resort. Home to a renowned private beach club, a 1,700 square meter spa – and the brand’s first yacht club – you’ll be tempted to stay put until your flight home.
French Countryside, France
Paris is an eternally popular request for girls’ trips of all kinds but head out of the city for a more unique experience. Finding the perfect chateau an hour or two outside of the capital ensures you can enjoy the best of city and country, choosing an evening or afternoon to venture into Paris for a bit more vibrancy and revelry. A favourite destination is the impeccable Domaine de Primard, former home of Catherine Deneuve. Stunning gardens and wildlife, cooking classes, a Susanne Kaufmann spa, and plenty of opportunities for private experiences will ensure you’ll be planning a reunion trip soon. We’re sure your crew will certainly settle into castle life well.
Nantucket, US
There’s something so special about this New England isle that will have you smitten with the place as soon as the seaplane lands from Boston or New York. Historic, shingle-style homes and shops line the cobblestone streets and idyllic eateries can be found all over the island. Plus, there is plenty of excellent shopping to be had in between ventures to hydrangea-lined Sconset Beach and lunches at Cisco Brewers. White Elephant Nantucket is the ultimate home base for visitors, and its residence-style offerings are perfect for small parties. Pick up one of the hotel’s pastel-coloured bicycles (or a self-driving BMW) to get around the island but make sure to be back in time to catch golden hour at Brant Point Grill or for cocktails on the lawn at the hotel’s sister property, The Wauwinet. You’d be hard pressed to find a better view of Nantucket.
Lead image credit: The Lana Dior Spa, Dorchester Collection
We may earn a commission if you buy something from any affiliate links on our site.
Any Questions or Tips to add?