Elope to Glencoe: Glencoe Elopement Wedding Planning Guide
If you’re planning to elope, then choosing to elope in Scotland is most definitely the right choice. Scotland is one of the only countries in the UK that you can legally get married anywhere and there are so many beautiful spots to pick from (Scotland has been voted one of the most beautiful countries in the world). So will you pick the hustle and bustle of an elopement in Edinburgh with its magnificent architecture and history or are you looking for something intimate and romantic surrounded by nature and tranquillity?
Much of what draws people to Scotland is it’s beautiful landscapes and there’s few places that are quite like Glencoe that capture the essence of wilderness and beauty that Scotland is so loved for. So if you’re thinking of eloping in Glencoe you’ve come to the right place, in this guide we’ll be showing you the best spots to elope, and the best places to call home whilst you’re here exploring.
Best Elopement Spots in Glencoe:
Glen Etive: You might recognise this beautiful spot… it's an epic backdrop for James Bond Skyfall. So if you’re all about action and adventure then this is the spot for you and your partner. With a single road track following the river it’s a beautiful spot right in the heart of the valley that will make for some incredibly dramatic elopement photography. You might even be lucky enough to spot herds of deer that tend to roam around the glen.
If you’re eloping in the summer why not make the most of it and have a picnic pre or post ceremony in the middle of the beautiful scenery. Another bonus is that this spot usually isn’t that busy so you won’t have to worry about hoards of crowds.
The Study: If you want some of the best views overlooking Glencoe and The Three Sisters then this spot is perfect, especially for elopements, as it has a range of flat rock standing areas. Fear not! You don’t have to be an avid hiker to reach this point, the walk isn’t that challenging so you can wear that incredible dress you’ve always dreamed of and capture some stunning photographs the moment you and your partner say “I do”.
Glencoe Lochan: Perfectly picturesque, this is home to arguably some of the most beautiful spots in Glencoe. There is a perfect combination of calm blue waters, trees lining the banks, mountains towering behind in the distance which you can see reflected in the waters. The array of trees around the Lochan mean that there are many spots to elope to but if you do want to elope by the waters edge there might be many passers by.
Three Sisters Viewpoint: Fancy yourselves as avid hikers? This short but steep ascent has amazing views of Glencoe surrounded by the entire Three Sisters range aka Bidean Nam Bian. Aonach Dubh, Beinn Fhada and Gearr Aonach are the mountains that make up this scene. So after you’ve said “I do” why not take that first step into married life and turn it into a hiking adventure?!
Loch Etive: Always dreamed of a beach wedding but still want that slice of the Scottish highlands? Loch Etive is a sea loch with a small beach where you can have your elopement ceremony, overlooking the mountains and waters. It’s also surrounded by wild countryside making it the best spot for exploring. Did you know that this is the spot where Harry Ron & Hermione jump into in the Deathly Hallows Part 2 after escaping Gringotts Bank! So if you’re a harry potter lover then why not elope here.
Accommodation in Glencoe:
Self - Catering
Glencoe Holidays have a choice of up to 14 self catering holiday cottages near Glencoe. There are a range of stunning lodges, with incredible views of the surrounding lochs. The Beach House has been designed by an architect and has a stunning view of the beach with its own private terrace and private hot tub. There are a range of other cottages all with luxury amenities that you can browse.
Situated in the heart of Glencoe Village, Burn Beag is a beautiful but quaint cottage that makes the perfect base for exploring the beautiful scenery and nature of Glencoe. The cottage has its own wood burning stove, a beautiful dining area with french windows that open out onto a quaint garden and a bedroom with a super king size bed perfect for getting a good night's sleep ready for more exploring!
Bluebell Luxury Cottage Glencoe:
Nestled in the middle of beautiful woodlands, this luxury cottage with a hot tub makes for the perfect escape to elope and explore for just you and your partner and is incredibly indulgent. It boasts luxurious Oak Beds, Egyptian Cotton bedding, fluffy towels, underfloor heating and best of all you can pop some prosecco or champagne and sip the night away in the Hot Tub as newlyweds.
Hotels
Glencoe House: A magnificent mansion home with 10 acres of private gardens in the heart of the highlands, this place is perfect for a blend of those seeking tranquillity but also adventure. The 5 star accommodation is perfect for those looking for a home away from home and the suites are perfect for couples eloping or getting married. It’s also the perfect place for a wedding, should you be after this or looking for a place to have a reception with family and friends.
Isles of Glencoe: At the foot of Glencoe, right on the shores of the loch stands this beautiful hotel. It’s the perfect base for a highland adventure or retreat away from the world. The choice is yours! There’s so much to do from canoeing to hiking, ice climbing and biking so you’re after a bit of adventure and then looking for somewhere to plonk down and unwind, this is the perfect place.
What do we wear for our elopement?
As elopements are all about you and your partner and doing things exactly how you want to, there are no set rules on what you need to wear for your elopement. You can be as formal or as casual as you’d like.
For Her: The options are endless - short cocktail dresses, whimsical flowing wedding dresses, jumpsuits, or just your favourite dress?! Wear whatever you feel comfortable in. Think about the season, the weather and if you’re doing an activity and also if you want your outfits to look a specific way in your elopement photos.
Want some inspiration for elopement dresses? We have a guide right here with a range of amazing brands and styles to suit a range of styles and elopements.
For Him: Suits, a shirt and trousers, or your favourite pieces are all options. Decide together whether you want to look a certain way for your elopement photos - it’s up to you two and your personal vision and what you feel most comfortable in and what reflects you both as a couple!
Tips and Planning Resources From Your Local Glencoe Elopement Photographer and Videographers
We’re Aryan and Shay, your local elopement photographers and videographers (yes we shoot both!).
We’re one of the few photographers in Scotland that offer an all inclusive photo + video package saving you from the hassle of having to go through two different suppliers, endless meetings, contracts and invoices.
If you’re looking for a photographer with a natural, relaxed and documentary approach with a bit of glam, then we’d love to hear from you.