-Guest Post by our friends at Outward Bound Bride–
Congratulations! You’re engaged and it’s time to relish in that newly engaged bliss with your boo thang along with starting to plan for the big day. The day you have dreamed of since you were little. The day that you have been thinking of since you knew your significant other was the one. And, let’s be honest here, who doesn’t want an amazing backdrop for their wedding ceremony and photos? If your dream wedding is an adventurous elopement or intimate ceremony in a beautiful location, you have come to the right place. Let’s dive into 5 amazingly beautiful elopement “venues” that will take your breath away (literally) and are completely free!
Clear Lake // San Juan County, Colorado
Clear Lake is a secluded lake amongst rocky mountain tops surrounded by alpine flowers. It can be accessed only by a 4WD Off-Road capable vehicle or by hiking on foot which makes this remote setting perfect for a wedding. Sitting at a 9.4 mile out and back trek and 2,654ft elevation gain, the views won’t be the only thing to take your breath away. Best for weddings late July or early August when the wild flowers are in full bloom and the grass cascading down the rocky mountainside is vibrant green. Bring your closest friends and family and set up camp at the many flat ground areas available and have a ceremony to remember in this amazing location.
Big Sur // Carmel, California
Not only is Big Sur an iconic location for many reasons, it has so many different landscapes and scenery to offer! There are many little paths that lead to steep cliffs over the ocean or even a waterfall. With amazingly blue water and an ocean breeze, this location is sure to offer an epic ceremony and photos to remember. Best for weddings in May or June when the weather isn’t too warm and you’re sure to see some incredible sunsets and flowers on the coast.
Kvernufoss Waterfall // Vik, Iceland
I might be a bit biased since my own elopement style wedding (Shot by: The Ashley Keith herself!) was at this waterfall, but honestly it’s beauty and seclusion is too great to not share. Sitting in south Iceland right next to the highly popular Skogafoss Waterfall, this short .5 mile hike leads to a much less populated area perfect for a ceremony. Since it is not located right off the road like Skogafoss is, it is not as highly trafficked making it the perfect spot to say your ‘I do’s’. Best for weddings at the end of September, when the weather is mild and your chances to see the northern lights are high – you don’t want to miss them!
The Dolomite Mountains // Northeastern Italy
Picture this – you’re in a quaint little Italian town sipping wine and eating cheese with your new spouse with the backdrop of these incredible and dramatic mountains. You have just hiked at sunrise to say your vows in this incredible area and you’re sure to have photos to remember. The Dolomites are surrounded by small picturesque towns. Best for those Autumn weddings when the weather is cool and the chance of rain is lowered. There also tend to be less crowds and tourists during this time.
If you are looking for help planning your adventure elopement or even a destination bachelorette party, reach out to our friends at Outward Bound Bride! They specialize in planning elopements and helping you find the perfect location and wedding vendors for your intimate wedding.