Destination Proposals: 3 Dreamy Spots for Your 2026 Proposal

Popping the question is one of the biggest moments of your life. Destination proposals are one of the biggest wedding trends for 2026, perfect for couples with a love of adventure and travel. Some hotels are even offering dedicated butlers for destination proposals! There’s a proposal destination for every couple, whether you enjoy spending your weekends hiking or immersing yourself in local culinary scenes.

At Valley Rose, our unique engagement rings are ethically sourced and sustainably made, helping to protect the planet we love. You can match one of these alternative rings to your destination proposal as the perfect finishing touch. In this article, we’re spotlighting 3 of the best places to propose in 2026 and which Valley Rose rings we’d bring to each location.

Why Destination Proposals Are More Popular Than Ever

Destination proposals have become popular following the pandemic, as we all focus more on experiences with travel finally returning to its pre-pandemic levels. These types of proposals are becoming increasingly popular, adding a special meaning to your vacation and offering a stunning backdrop for your engagement photos. 

Your chosen destination becomes part of your story, whether you’re setting off to Paris to explore the ‘City of Lovers’ or ticking off a bucket list destination like Japan. Below, we’re sharing 3 of the most popular locations for 2026 destination proposals.

Destination #1: Paris, France

Every corner of Paris has somewhere worthy of a proposal, and it’s easy to get swept away by the magic of these cobblestone streets. You can wait until the dazzling lights start to illuminate the Eiffel Tower before getting down on one knee or escape the crowds for an intimate proposal at the Louvre gardens. 

Paris is for lovers - the ultimate paradise for couples who spend their time exploring museums and want to fall in love with art. If you’re planning a romantic European proposal, consider sophisticated contemporary styles like the ‘Faye Pear’ ring, which captures the timeless beauty of Paris.

Destination #2: Yosemite National Park, USA

The best destination proposals are those that truly reflect who the couple are. If you love the great outdoors or feel an affinity for Mother Nature, a bucket list destination like Yosemite National Park is the perfect place for popping the question. There are several iconic proposal spots dotted throughout this National Park, including Yosemite Falls and Glacier Point. 

Our collection of nature-inspired engagement rings will capture the magic of your National Park proposal. The ‘Rosewood’ ring is our love letter to the rose, recreating its vines with a silhouette that captures the look of thorns and leaves with diamond accents.

Destination #3: Kyoto, Japan

Japan has skyrocketed to become one of the most popular tourist destinations, driven in part by the weaker Yen, making it a more affordable destination proposal than most couples expect. Whether you have a joint love of K-pop or have always dreamt of seeing the cherry blossoms in bloom, there is no shortage of proposal-worthy spots in Kyoto. 

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is one of the most popular nature spots for proposals, while Philosopher’s Path is lined with cherry trees for your private moment. If you’re proposing in Japan, you’ll want an engagement ring that captures the beauty of the region’s natural landscape, like the ‘Mionmir’ ring with an eye-shaped silhouette that feels as light as butterfly wings.

Plan Your Destination Proposal with a Valley Rose Ethical Engagement Ring

Destination proposals give you the chance to make your next vacation part of your special moment. At Valley Rose, our unique engagement rings make it easy to choose a sustainable design that reflects who you are as a couple, with a subtle nod to your proposal destination. Explore our ethical engagement rings or book a virtual 1-on-1 consultation to help find your perfect ring.