Off to the “Strawberry Moon”

Have you ever heard of the “Strawberry Moon”? Some know it as the “Rose Moon,” thanks to its pink-tinged glow reminiscent of May’s signature blossom. For farmers, June’s last moon was the “Cider Moon,” since that was prime time for gathering honey to ferment into cider. In Algonquin lore, this moon marks the brief North American strawberry harvest—hence its name. And because this season is so closely tied to weddings and honeymoons, on the cusp of summer, here are a few out-of-the-ordinary ideas for a honeymoon… or perhaps a Strawberry Moon getaway? Trips as extraordinary as the moon’s own blush.

Lord of the Rings fans, gear up and go—destination: Woodlyn Park in New Zealand. You can stay in the Britanic, Captains, Endeavour or Hobbit rooms—yes, the whole place, just a stone’s throw from the famed Waitomo Caves on the North Island, is designed to transport you straight into Frodo & Co.’s fairy-tale realm. The accommodations, set deep in nature, are fashioned from the most unlikely relics: an old railroad carriage, a twin-engine monoplane, a World War II ship… and, of course, two Tolkien-inspired hobbit holes complete with round windows and solid-wood furnishings. Rafting, cave excursions and boat trips are among the on-site adventures, as are tours of the nearby Hobbiton Movie Set. But the real showstopper is the glow-worm display—bioluminescent insects that light up the caves like a star-studded sky.

Our nature-themed journey continues near Skinnskatteberg, Sweden, at the Kolarbyn eco-lodges. Here, luxury is left at the door. The forest cabins come equipped with only a wood-burning stove—no electricity, no running water, not even showers. For a wash, you’ll rely on a nearby lake; for cooking, an open-air barbecue area. In return, the resort offers a floating sauna and a communal lodge with a fireplace and sheepskin rugs. Canoes are free to use—perfect for a wilderness-survival course—plus you can safari for moose and beavers in the surrounding woods.

Animal lovers, take note: the Dog Bark Park Inn in Cottonwood, Idaho, offers a stay like no other. Nestled among fields of golden corn, this hotel celebrates our noble, patient, four-legged companions. There’s no TV or phone here—just two beagle-shaped rooms, Sweet Willy and Toby, designed for a truly wholesome stay. Air conditioning? Check. Microwave? Check. But the real treat is the library of books, games and puzzles. The B&B began in 1995 when the owner’s passion for woodcarving turned into a thriving business. Thanks to infomercials, the first 1,800 carvings sold out in two minutes—a record that quickly made this pet-friendly getaway one of the world’s quirkiest escapes.

Ever thought about turning old sewer pipes into tiny hotels? Austrian architect Andreas Strauss did exactly that. Each repurposed pipe now houses two guests. Furnishings are minimal—a bed, a bedside lamp, a wool blanket and lightweight cotton sheets—just enough to keep you cozy. Bathrooms are communal, since these exclusive rooms sit right in the middle of public parks. There’s no morning coffee service; for that, you’ll have to stroll down to the café. The kicker? You pay whatever you think it’s worth. After your stay, you’re free to leave any amount you feel is fair. It’s a bold gamble, but as the saying goes, “nothing ventured, nothing gained.”