Our Top 10 Unexpected Elopement Wedding Locations for 2024/25
Planning to elope and craving an unconventional wedding spot that’ll wow your guests and make your photos pop? We already know about gems such as Bali & Queenstown, and we love them - but check out these off-the-beaten-track destinations for your 2024/25 wedding.
From hidden gems in Indonesia, New Zealand, and Australia to other stunning locales around the world, these places promise unique and unforgettable experiences.
Sumba, Indonesia
If you’re dreaming of a secluded surfers paradise, Sumba Island in Indonesia is your perfect spot. Less commercialized than Bali, Sumba offers untouched beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush landscapes. Imagine exchanging vows under the stars on a pristine beach or in a luxurious eco-resort. Sumba's raw beauty and tranquil atmosphere will make your wedding feel like a true escape. For those seeking to incorporate local flair into their wedding, Sumba provides rich cultural traditions that can be woven into your ceremony.
To elevate your experience, add a VIP trip to nearby Komodo Island. This adventure includes a private boat tour through the stunning Komodo National Park, where you can encounter the famous Komodo dragons in their natural habitat. Dive or snorkel in some of the world’s most vibrant coral reefs, teeming with marine life, or relax on the pink sands of Pink Beach. The combination of Sumba’s serene beauty and the thrilling experience of Komodo Island offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for your wedding trip.
2. Akaroa, New Zealand
Nestled on the Banks Peninsula, Akaroa is a charming town with a rich French heritage and stunning natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for a luxury elopement. This picturesque seaside village offers a unique blend of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. For exclusive and intimate elopements, Akaroa features a number of award-winning properties from historic homesteads to contemporary villas, all set amidst the rugged beauty of the New Zealand coastline. Pair this elopement with private chefs, spa treatments, vinyard experiences, outdoor adventures, wildlife encounters and more.
3. Açores, Portugal
The Açores, an archipelago in the mid-Atlantic, is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. This remote and unspoiled destination offers a perfect blend of lush landscapes, volcanic craters, and crystal-clear waters. For couples seeking an intimate and luxurious elopement, the Açores provide an enchanting setting with a unique charm. Visit the stunning twin lakes of Sete Cidades set in an ancient volcanic crater, relax in the therapeutic hot springs of Furnas Valley, and enjoy a traditional “cozido” meal cooked by volcanic steam. Embark on boat tours to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat, and explore the UNESCO World Heritage vineyards on Pico Island, where you can taste unique volcanic wines while enjoying views of Mount Pico. Discover scenic hiking trails with volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, and lush forests, and experience the rich marine life through diving and snorkeling excursions in the clear, vibrant waters around the islands.
4. Freycinet, Australia
Located on Tasmania’s stunning east coast, Freycinet is a pristine and secluded destination known for its breathtaking natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and rugged landscapes. This enchanting area is perfect for couples seeking an intimate and luxurious elopement surrounded by nature. Freycinet offers a unique and romantic setting for a luxury elopement, combining natural beauty, seclusion, and world-class amenities. Whether you prefer relaxing in a luxurious suite, exploring the stunning landscapes, or indulging in gourmet cuisine, Freycinet provides everything you need for an unforgettable elopement experience.
5. Colmar, France
Nestled in the heart of the Alsace wine region, Colmar is a picturesque village known for its charming half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and vibrant flower displays. This fairy-tale town provides an idyllic backdrop for a romantic and luxurious elopement - it’s truly out of a story book. Experience a historic five-star hotel, Michelin-starred meals and exchange vows in the beautiful Saint-Matthieu Church, a historic chapel with stunning Gothic architecture. Romantic boat rides through Little Venice also await you, as does wine tastings at renowned vineyards, visits to the Unterlinden Museum, and short trips to nearby picturesque villages like Kaysersberg.
6. Banff, Canda
Seeking a mountain escape? Banff in Canada offers breathtaking alpine scenery and luxurious accommodations. The Fairmont Banff Springs, known as the "Castle in the Rockies," provides a stunning setting with its grand architecture and picturesque surroundings. Exchange vows with the majestic Rocky Mountains as your backdrop, and enjoy activities such as hiking, canoeing, and spa treatments. The hotel offers tailored elopement packages, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience. Banff’s natural beauty makes for the perfect winter wonderland elopement!
7. Sossusvlei, Namibia
For a truly unique and adventurous elopement, consider Sossusvlei in Namibia. Known for its striking red sand dunes and dramatic desert landscapes, Sossusvlei offers an otherworldly setting for your special day. Stay at the luxurious and eco-friendly Sossusvlei Desert Lodge, which provides exclusive and private accommodations with panoramic views of the Namib Desert. Exchange vows against the backdrop of towering dunes and endless desert plains. Enjoy activities such as hot air ballooning, stargazing, and guided desert walks. Sossusvlei’s stunning natural beauty and serene atmosphere make it a perfect destination for an unforgettable elopement.
8. Chugach Mountains, Alaska, USA
This breathtaking region in Alaska offers some of the most stunning and secluded landscapes in the world, making it a perfect destination for an unforgettable elopement. Known for its rugged peaks, expansive glaciers, and pristine wilderness, the Chugach Mountains provide an awe-inspiring backdrop for your special day. Exchange vows on a secluded mountaintop with panoramic views and enjoy activities such as guided glacier treks, heli-skiing, and wildlife viewing.
9. Okavango Delta, Botswana
The Okavango Delta in Botswana is a hidden gem for those seeking a unique, adventurous, and luxurious elopement. This pristine wilderness, known for its intricate network of waterways, lush landscapes, and diverse wildlife, offers an unparalleled backdrop for an intimate ceremony. Stay at ultra-luxurious and exclusive lodges, where you can exchange vows on a private deck overlooking the tranquil delta or during a sunset cruise on the serene waters. After your ceremony, enjoy bespoke experiences such as guided safaris, mokoro (canoe) excursions, and helicopter rides over the stunning delta.
10. Bay of Islands, New Zealand
Last but not least, we couldn't help but add the Bay of Islands to our list. This stunning region in New Zealand’s Northland, known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich marine life, is where Briar and Jasmin hail from. Their deep local connections enable them to find the most secluded and exclusive spots for your elopement, ensuring a truly personalized and intimate experience - think breathtaking beaches, stunning golf courses, sand dunes, and scenic flights. This level of exclusivity and luxury, combined with our insider knowledge, ensures your elopement in the Bay of Islands will be nothing short of extraordinary.
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