5 Destinations for the Ultimate Fantasy-Inspired Proposal in 2026

As we get ready to wave goodbye to 2025, you might already be planning your 2026 vacations – and perhaps, you might be planning to bring something extra special in your luggage. Destination proposals are on the rise, and at Valley Rose, our fantasy-inspired engagement rings are the perfect choice for a destination proposal, whether you’re stepping back in time in the Scottish Highlands or watching a pink-sky sunset in California.  

In this post, we’re sharing 5 of the most popular destinations to consider if you’re planning a fantasy-inspired proposal in 2026. Grab your passport, let’s get planning!

Destination #1 – The Scottish Highlands, UK

If you grew up wishing you had gone to Hogwarts, the next best thing is a visit to the Scottish Highlands. Between the medieval castles and rolling green hills, it’s easy to feel like you’re living inside your favorite fantasy novels. 

There are dozens of locations to propose throughout the Scottish Highlands, from Eilean Donan Castle to Arthur’s Seat and the iconic Edinburgh Castle. Our ‘Niamh Petal Prong Round Lab Diamond Engagement Ring’ is a whimsical style befitting of a medieval Scottish princess.  

Destination #2 – Sintra, Portugal

Portugal is a European country that’s quickly climbing up the list of most popular destinations. While Sintra is not as well-known as cities like Lisbon and Porto, it’s a charming Portuguese town that used to serve as a summer treat for royalty and nobility. It’s the perfect choice for a digital detox and can even be visited as a day trip from Lisbon. You can have your own royal engagement with our ‘Kristina Oval Sapphire Vintage Halo Engagement Ring’.

Destination #3 – Banff National Park, Canada

The best proposal location is one that reflects who you are as a couple. If you’re nature enthusiasts, you’ll feel right at home in Canada’s Banff National Park. Moraine Lake and Lake Louise are some of the most popular proposal spots, while Sulphur Mountain offers panoramic views that are perfect for your engagement photos. Take a quiet moment by the water and get down on one knee with our ‘Violette Round Lab Diamond Engagement Ring’.

Destination #4 – Kyoto, Japan

Japan is one of the most popular travel destinations right now, and there are plenty of spots throughout Kyoto for a fantasy-inspired proposal. Take a quiet moment under the cherry blossom trees on the Philosopher’s Path or at the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Capture the beauty of your Japanese proposal with our ‘Magnolia Marquise Engagement Ring’.

Destination #5 – Big Sur, California

No list of proposal locations is complete without mentioning the beach. California’s Big Sur is a coastline location that feels like a tropical destination. It’s within driving distance of San Jose, San Francisco, and Sacramento, with stunning views of the Pacific. If you’re an eco-conscious couple, our ‘Delphine Pear Blue Sapphire Fantasy Engagement Ring’ will be your lifelong reminder of the California coastline.

Curate a Magical Proposal with a Fantasy-Inspired Ethical Engagement Ring

We’re lucky to play a small part in your proposal. With our virtual consultations and gemstone finder, we’ll help you bring your dream fantasy engagement ring to life. Explore our fantasy engagement rings or find out more about our sustainability practices by visiting our blog.