The Top 8 Most Epic Elopement Destinations for Adventure-Loving Couples
Elopements these days are not about running off in secret anymore; they’re about crafting an experience that feels so you! You can have golden cliffs, moody oceans, or even snowy mountain peaks as your backdrop… dreamy, right? That’s why I’m obsessed with helping couples plan their weddings in epic elopement destinations!
One of my favorite shoots ever was with Madison & Gabriel in the Faroe Islands! Between the cliffs, the endless skies, and the way the wind whipped through her gown, it felt like we were photographing a love story, the kind of love story you’d expect to see in an epic film, only better because it was real!. But here’s the fun part: the Faroe Islands are just the start! There are so many elopement destinations that deserve a spot on your vision board. Let’s dive into a few of my faves!
Why Epic Destinations Make the Best Elopements
Elopement destinations don’t just give you a place to say “I do,” they turn your wedding into an adventure you’ll never forget. You’re not stuck inside a rigid timeline or a ballroom; you’re free to craft a day that feels completely like you two!
Flexibility you’ll love – Want to start the morning with coffee overlooking the mountains? Take a midday hike before your ceremony? Say your vows at sunset and then stargaze until midnight? You can! That’s the beauty of elopements! No rules, just intention.
Built-in beauty – Forget hours of decorating. Mother Nature has already styled the space for you, whether it’s dramatic cliffs, misty waterfalls, golden meadows, or alpine lakes.
All about the feels – Without the rush of a big wedding, every single moment feels slower, more intimate, and deeply meaningful.
And the best part? An elopement destination is like your wedding and honeymoon rolled into one gorgeous, unforgettable trip. It’s not just a ceremony, it’s the start of your greatest adventure together!
What Do Destination Elopements Cost?
Let’s get real for a sec, budgeting is part of the planning, and couples always ask what to expect when it comes to destination elopements. The good news? You have so much flexibility. Here’s a general idea of costs:
Travel & Flights: $500–$1,500 per person for U.S. elopement destinations, $1,500–$3,000+ for international elopement destinations.
Accommodations: Cozy Airbnbs or boutique hotels usually run $200–$500 per night.
Permits & Fees: National parks like Yosemite require permits ($150–$500). Other destinations (like Iceland or the Dolomites) may not require much beyond travel passes.
Vendors: Your biggest investment will be photography, videography, hair & makeup, and possibly a planner. Destination elopement packages often range $5,000–$15,000, depending on coverage + travel.
Extras: Think helicopter rides in Iceland, boats on alpine lakes in the Dolomites, or private dinners in the Faroe Islands. Budget $500–$2,000 for these bucket-list experiences.
Overall, most couples spend between $10,000–$25,000 on their elopement destinations. Often less than a traditional wedding, but with memories that feel priceless!
The Most Epic Elopement Destinations
Faroe Islands
Moody, cinematic, and totally epic, hello, Faroe Islands! Rugged cliffs, tiny cozy villages, and landscapes that make you feel like you’re the only two humans on the planet. Madison & Gabriel’s shoot here proved just how magical this place is, intimate, playful, and completely unforgettable.
Pro tip: Layers, layers, layers! The weather changes faster than your playlist shuffles. And golden hour? The cliffs light up like magic for portraits.
Iceland
Waterfalls, black sand beaches, glaciers… Iceland has it all. Exchange vows at Skógafoss, wander Reynisfjara Beach, and chase the Northern Lights afterward. It’s wild, romantic, and surprisingly easy to get around—perfect if you want epic backdrops without the headache.
It’s wild, romantic, and surprisingly easy to get around, which makes it a win for couples who want epic backdrops and convenience.
The Dolomites
Italy?! Who wouldn’t want to get married here?! The Dolomites are pure mountain magic. Hike to a sunrise overlook, say your vows with jagged peaks all around, then celebrate with pasta + wine in a cozy alpine lodge. If you’re dreaming of a mix of romance, adventure, and jaw-dropping scenery, this one’s for you.
Yosemite National Park
Not ready to hop on a plane? Yosemite has your back. Sweeping meadows, granite cliffs, golden sunsets, it’s basically a natural Photoshop filter IRL. My favorite spots: Tunnel View for that classic shot, Taft Point for cliffside drama, and Glacier Point for all the swoon-worthy romance.
Norway
The Lofoten Islands in Norway feel like stepping into a dream. Dramatic fjords, colorful fishing villages, endless skies, and yes, the Northern Lights!! Say your vows on a cliff overlooking the ocean, then cozy up in a tiny cabin with your love. Adventurous, romantic, and one of Europe’s most underrated elopement spots. Seriously, don’t sleep on this one!
Scotland
The Isle of Skye is straight-up fairytale vibes. Rolling green hills, misty cliffs, ancient castles… and yes, whiskey to celebrate afterward (because obviously). If you want moody, romantic, and epic with a dash of history, Skye is calling your name.
Zion National Park
Desert lovers, Zion is for you. Towering red rock cliffs, winding canyons, glowing sunsets—this place is an absolute showstopper. Hike up to Angels Landing or keep it chill in the valley, either way, your photos will be next-level epic.
Big Sur
Big Sur is California drama at its finest. Ocean waves crashing into cliffs, salty hair, and moody romantic vibes for days. Pair it with a Highway 1 road trip, and suddenly your elopement feels like an adventure movie starring you two.
How to Choose the Right Elopement Destination for You
Choosing your elopement destination is such an exciting part of the planning process, but it can also feel a little overwhelming because let’s be real, the world is full of dreamy places to say “I do.” The key is finding a location that not only looks stunning but also fits your personality, travel style, and vision for the day.
A few things to think about:
Scenery: Do you imagine cliffs, mountains, beaches, or forests as your backdrop?
Travel: Are you excited about hopping on a long-haul flight, or do you want something closer to home?
Budget: Some destinations are easier on the wallet, while others lean into luxury.
Experience: Do you want a chill, romantic vibe or an adrenaline-filled adventure?
Once you start answering those questions, the right spot usually reveals itself, and the best part? There’s no “wrong” choice when it comes to elopement destinations. Every location offers its own kind of magic!
Considering Eloping? Book me as your Destination Elopement Photographer!
Whether you’re running off to the cliffs of the Faroe Islands, or chasing waterfalls in Iceland, your elopement can be equal parts epic and personal! I want to be a part of your destination elopement! See more of my work on Pinterest and contact me here!
See more on the blog!
How to Elope in Yosemite National Park