10 breathtaking locations to elope

At DBMH we are all about wild weddings. The more intimate, unique and adventurous the better. So for us, there’s something particularly wonderful about deciding to elope. It’s a truly beautiful thing to quit the protocol and pressure of a traditional day and set off with only your partner to celebrate a lifelong commitment to one another. So if you are planning an elopement – we salute you! 

But, with literally the whole world to choose from, where should you pick to take your vows if you want to elope? We’ve sailed the seven seas, and drawn a little inspiration from our featured weddings, to round up 10 of the most breathtaking locations to consider for your upcoming elopement. Grab a coffee and settle in, we’re about to go exploring!

Olympic National Park, Washington

Photographer: Kandice Breinholt

If you’re looking to escape to the wilderness for your elopement, then look no further. Olympic National Park in Washington has almost a million acres of vastly different landscapes for you to explore. From the crystalline blue Lake Crescent, to mountainous Hurricane ridge, or even the lush forest area filled with waterfalls, dramatic coastlines and beaches, there’s something breathtaking to suit every taste. 

We published this absolutely gorgeous elopement at Olympic National Park a few months ago, as captured by Kandice Breinholt. Couple Travis and Jacqueline (and their adorable dog, Gracie), chose to take their vows at the incandescently beautiful Lake Sutherland. The result was a spectacularly magical and free-spirited day, the kind you only normally see in fairytales. If you think an enchanting forest elopement could be for you, then definitely check it out for inspiration!

Tuscan Hills

There’s a reason that couples from all over the world flock to the Tuscan hills to take their vows. What could be more romantic than an elopement with the romatic charm and magestic history of the rolling Tuscan hills as your backdrop? 

For a dreamy villa with a view over a Florentine valley, we love Villa le Fontanelle. You can have your ceremony in an ivy-covered old fort located on the property, and then enjoy a decadent meal on the villa rooftop, overlooking Florence as the sun sets.

If, on the other hand, you would like to elope with a handful of loved ones, you could rent a villa in the mountains where you can enjoy both your ceremony and a low-key after party. This gorgeous farmhouse has a view over Florence and comes with everything you need for your day, even a chapel on site. Prego.

Isle of Skye, Scotland

Photographer: The Kitcheners

If you’re looking to escape to the wilderness for your elopement, then look no further. Olympic National Park in Washington has almost a million acres of vastly different landscapes for you to explore. From the crystalline blue Lake Crescent, to mountainous Hurricane ridge, or even the lush forest area filled with waterfalls, dramatic coastlines and beaches, there’s something breathtaking to suit every taste. 

We published this absolutely gorgeous elopement at Olympic National Park a few months ago, as captured by Kandice Breinholt. Couple Travis and Jacqueline (and their adorable dog, Gracie), chose to take their vows at the incandescently beautiful Lake Sutherland. The result was a spectacularly magical and free-spirited day, the kind you only normally see in fairytales. If you think an enchanting forest elopement could be for you, then definitely check it out for inspiration!

Bornholm, Denmark

Few people in the world know about this secluded island, so it had to make our list. Situated around 200km east of Copenhagen, Bornholm has for many years been a silent treasure enjoyed by the Danes, Swedes (and a handful of Germans). Famed for its crystalline white beaches, craggy coastlines, lush forests and medieval architecture, this gorgeous island is an outdoor lover’s paradise, and is the perfect location for a totally unique elopement.

For a beach wedding that will have you feeling like you’re in a tropical paradise, head to Dueodde Beach. With it’s fine white sand and emerald green water, some visitors have gone as far as to call it the best beach in Europe. Stay at one of the typical Danish beach holiday houses just off the beach for the ultimate escape. We love this cottage that’s nestled in the neighbouring forest.

Lake Louise, Canada

Photographer: Jodie Goodwin

In the heart of Banff National park lies a place where shimmering turquoise water meets snow-capped mountains and lush, green forests. It’s called Lake Louise, and it’s no surprise that this one of a kind destination made our list. 

If you’re looking for expansive nature that will take your breath away, but don’t want to trek or hike on your big day, then Lake Louise is perfect. 

You can take your vows at the Fairmont Chateau, which is surrounded by soaring mountains and glaciers, and enjoy world-class luxury for your big day. This really is an alpine paradise, and perfect for any couple looking to elope somewhere with a dramatic natural backdrop.

Sombrio Beach, Vancouver Island

Photographer: Kim Jay

We’re about to let you into a little secret than not many people know about. If you venture on a 3 day hike along the rugged west coast of Vancouver Island, you will end up at Sombrio beach. Famed for its sunsets, rolling fog and jagged shoreline, Sombrio Beach has long called surfers the world over. But it’s a little known spot for those seeking out a private setting for an elopement. 

With its heavenly mix of both lush forest and fiery coastline, this location is a Nature lover’s paradise. We love it because it requires a little effort to get there. They say that if it isn’t hard work, it isn’t worth it. And that’s perhaps especially true if you’re considering eloping somewhere that’s off the beaten track. 

If you want some inspiration of what an elopement here might look like, we recently featured a styled elopement on Sombrio Beach by wedding photographer Kim Jay which blew our socks off.

Faroe Islands

North of Scotland, about halfway between Norway and Iceland, lies the tiny Faroe Islands. If you’re a couple that thrives on adventure and exploring the road less travelled, then eloping here could be just for you. 

The Faroe Islands are one of the most unspoilt and culturally rich places on earth. With dramatic rolling hills, cascading mountains, and majestic waterfalls it’s hard to imagine a more unique setting for an elopement. Untouched nature extends as far as the eye can see on these rocky islands, creating the most beautiful of backdrops for any couple seeking a wild wedding. Check out this official Faroese site for how to arrange an elopement in this magical place. 

We hope this post inspires you to find the perfect location to elope. Good luck, and enjoy your special day!

Ouahu, Hawaii

Photographer: Tessa Tadlock

What elopement location list would be complete without a destination in Hawaii? Ever since we saw this beach shoot by Tessa Tadlock, Ouahu Beach shot to the top of our elopement wish-list. 

Part of the Hawaiian island chain in the Central Pacific, Oahu is a mesmerizing place and if you imagine a beach setting for your elopement, then they surely don’t come more beautiful than this. Eloping on Ouahu is certain to be a relaxed experience. Things run a little slower, time passes at nature’s pace, perfect for couples who want a totally stress-free day.

Santorini, Greece

Iconic blue capped church-domes, nestled in amongst bright white brick – Santorini is one of the most instantly recognisable places in Europe. If you would like to elope somewhere that oozes charm, then this could be the place for you. 

The cobblestoned island is packed with picturesque locations to take your vows. From the many fishing villages, to terraces above the colorful rooftops – this is a wedding photographer’s dream. 

Set high up in Firostefani, Danas Villas is the perfect backdrop for a Santorini elopement. With its cascading views down the Santorini caldera, this is sure to be a magical place for your elopement.

Written by:
Dirty Boots & Messy Hair Team

Connection is what it’s all about. Feel free to reach out to us with any comments or questions you might have, even if it’s only to say hello. If it wasn’t for our beautiful community, this place just wouldn’t feel the same.

Wedding Planning
14 Jul 2018

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