Tampa Wedding Photographer Nina Bashaw Shares Her Out-of-the-Box Places to Elope in Europe for a Luxury Elopement
When it comes to luxury elopements, Europe offers an abundance of breathtaking, romantic destinations that feel like something out of a fairy tale. For couples seeking an intimate celebration that’s truly out of the ordinary, Europe’s diverse landscapes and hidden gems provide endless options for an unforgettable experience. If you're planning a luxurious, one-of-a-kind elopement abroad, you might want to look beyond the traditional Parisian landmarks or Tuscan villas. As a Tampa wedding photographer with a passion for destination weddings, I’ve captured elopements in stunning and unique locations, and I’m excited to share some out-of-the-box places to elope in Europe that will make your special day extraordinary.
1. Hallstatt, Austria
Tucked away in the Austrian Alps, Hallstatt is a dreamy village that seems like it was pulled from the pages of a storybook. Surrounded by crystal-clear lakes and towering mountains, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers couples a serene and picturesque backdrop for their vows. A private boat ride on Hallstätter See, followed by an intimate ceremony on the water, makes for an elopement filled with luxury and natural beauty. And I will happly assist you as your wedding photographer and photograph you as you say "I do"!
2. Santorini, Greece
While Santorini may be a popular destination, there are hidden spots on the island where couples can elope away from the crowds. Imagine saying "I do" on a private terrace overlooking the iconic blue-domed churches and the Aegean Sea. For those who want a lavish experience, a cliffside luxury villa in Oia, complete with a private dinner and sunset views, is the perfect setting. If Santorini isn't what you're looking for but still want to plan a Greek wedding consider the less populated islands such as Cyclades, Dodecanese, or Sporadic. Your wedding photos will still turn out fabulous!
3. Lake Bled, Slovenia
Lake Bled is a magical destination often overlooked by eloping couples, but its fairy-tale setting is ideal for those seeking something luxurious yet off the beaten path. The iconic Bled Castle perched high above the lake, and Bled Island, with its charming church accessible only by boat, offer a dreamy, intimate setting for your vows. The emerald-green waters and mountainous backdrop ensure stunning wedding photography. This is another bucket list place of mine to photograph a wedding. I will happily tag along as your Tampa wedding photographer. :)
4. Sintra, Portugal
Nestled in the hills just outside of Lisbon, Sintra is home to romantic palaces and lush gardens that create an otherworldly atmosphere. Palácio da Pena and Quinta da Regaleira are two stunning venues for a luxury elopement. The vibrant colors, intricate architecture, and mystical landscapes of Sintra provide a unique and enchanting backdrop, perfect for an out-of-the-box destination elopement. I have personally been to Sintra and believe me it's everything you imagine. I was there on vacation but I would love to go back to photograph a wedding there! The Tampa wedding photographer in me can't help it, I see beautiful areas that would make for stunning wedding photos!
5. Isle of Skye, Scotland
For couples who want a rugged yet luxurious elopement, the Isle of Skye in Scotland offers jaw-dropping landscapes that feel both wild and romantic. With its dramatic cliffs, rolling hills, and mystical landscapes, this location is perfect for adventure-loving couples who crave something different. A private ceremony by the fairy pools or in front of the Old Man of Storr will make your elopement feel like a scene from a movie. Book me as your Tampa wedding photographer and I promise you we will have so much fun in Soctland at your elopement!
6. Amalfi Coast, Italy
While the Amalfi Coast is known for its luxury, eloping here offers a more intimate experience than a traditional Italian wedding. Positano, Ravello, and Capri are all incredible spots where couples can exchange vows with stunning ocean views, pastel-colored buildings, and cliffside luxury villas as the backdrop. For the ultimate in opulence, charter a private yacht and exchange vows on the sea, followed by a Michelin-star dinner at one of the region’s renowned restaurants. I can't think of a more perfect ending to your wedding day!
7. Cliffs of Moher, Ireland
As a wedding photogrpher in Tampa I see Ireland and think of an awe-inspiring elopement, the Cliffs of Moher in Ireland offer dramatic views of the Atlantic Ocean and rugged coastline. While it's a popular tourist spot, finding a quiet, private area to exchange vows at sunset adds a romantic and luxurious touch. The cliffs, with their sweeping views and the wind in your hair, provide a cinematic experience for your big day.
8. Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
If you're a fan of medieval charm and quaint cobblestone streets, Rothenburg ob der Tauber in Germany is the perfect location. This walled town feels frozen in time, with its half-timbered houses and flower-adorned balconies. Eloping here offers a mix of history and romance, with venues ranging from historic castles to intimate garden settings. The rich history and magical atmosphere make it a truly out-of-the-box choice for a luxury European elopement. Tampa wedding photographer Nina Bashaw travels worldwide for weddings and eloepments.
9. Sognefjord, Norway
For couples who want to combine nature’s grandeur with a sense of serenity, eloping along the fjords of Norway is an unforgettable experience. Sognefjord, the country’s largest and deepest fjord, offers spectacular views of cliffs, waterfalls, and crystal clear waters. A luxury cabin with panoramic views, combined with a boat ride or helicopter tour, adds a touch of adventure to your elopement while ensuring breathtaking photography. Top rated Tampa wedding photographer Nina Bashaw
10. Hvar, Croatia
Hvar is a glamorous yet off-the-radar destination in the Dalmatian Islands, perfect for a luxurious Mediterranean elopement. Known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and upscale resorts, Hvar offers a mix of sophistication and natural beauty. Couples can elope in a private villa, on a secluded beach, or even in one of the island’s historic area for a unique and lavish experience.
11. The Faroe Islands
For the couple who craves complete solitude and raw, untamed beauty, the Faroe Islands provide an unmatched elopement destination. The rugged landscapes, towering sea cliffs, and remote waterfalls make this a dream location for adventure loving couples. It’s a luxury to escape to such a hidden gem, where your ceremony feels like a private moment at the edge of the world.
12. Mallorca, Spain
While Mallorca is often known for its beaches, the island’s countryside is equally stunning. Imagine exchanging vows in the rolling hills of a private estate or by the cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean. A luxury finca or vineyard provides a secluded, romantic setting with all the charm of Spain’s Balearic Islands. As a Tampa wedding photographer this is one of my top picks for a destination elopement!
13. Montenegro
For a luxurious elopement with breathtaking views, Montenegro offers undiscovered beauty along its Adriatic coastline. The Bay of Kotor, with its serene waters and towering mountains, feels like a hidden treasure. Couples can elope in one of the small villages that line the bay, or opt for a luxury yacht ceremony surrounded by the beauty of Montenegro’s landscapes. What a unique and fun place to get married and to think about how stunning your wedding photos will turn out.
14. Château de Challain, France
For those looking to elope in a fairy-tale castle, Château de Challain in France is a luxurious option and as your Tampa wedding photographer I will be trilled to come along and capture some spectacular shots! This breathtaking château, located in the Loire Valley, provides a romantic and grandiose backdrop for couples who want to feel like royalty on their special day. The castle’s beautiful gardens, ornate architecture, and French charm make it the perfect setting for a dream elopement.
15. Lake Como, Italy
Lake Como, with its stunning villas, lush gardens, and pristine waters, is one of Europe’s most glamorous elopement destinations. Celebrities and royalty alike are drawn to its beauty and elegance. A private villa or garden overlooking the lake, combined with a boat ride to a secluded spot for your vows, makes for a luxurious and unforgettable elopement experience. It is my dream to photograph a wedding there some day!
Final Thoughts according a Tampa Wedding Photographer
Europe is full of hidden gems that offer the perfect combination of romance, luxury, and adventure. Whether you’re looking to elope in a quaint medieval town, a serene fjord, or a dramatic coastal cliff, these out-of-the-box locations will make your elopement truly special. As a Tampa wedding photographer with a love for destination weddings, I understand how important it is to capture the magic of your unique day in these stunning locations. From the rugged beauty of the Isle of Skye to the elegance of Lake Como, the possibilities are endless. Wherever your heart takes you in Europe, I’d be honored to capture the moments that will make your luxury elopement a memory of a lifetime as your favorite Tampa wedding photographer.
Follow Me:
More information:
Nina Bashaw is fine art luxury elopement and wedding photographer in Tampa. She specializes in classica and timeless natural light photography with natural posing and genuine smaile. Nina travels throughout Plant City, Lakeland, Dade City,, St. Petersburg, Sarasota, Anna Maria Island, Longboat Key, and surrounding areas for weddings and luxury elopements giving her clients a personalized experience. Contact me for pricing and inquire about availability for 2024 and 2025. Thank you for stopping by my blog and reading about Out-of-the-Box Places to Elope in Europe for a Luxury Elopement
Comments