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Scotland Elopement Guide

Scotland Elopement Guide - Everything you need to know to plan for your 2021 elopement in Scotland

Are you dreaming of a Scotland elopement with the one that you love? Scotland, is one of the most beautiful places to elope in the world! Famous for its rugged coastlines and wildly dramatic landscapes! In addition, Scotland includes more than 790 islands within the Northern Isles and the Hebrides archipelagos. Therefore, we have an abundance of beautiful locations to elope. I have captured over 100 elopements and weddings all over Scotland and over time witnessed some of the most unique and hidden gem places! So I’ve written this guide to give you the best insight to eloping in Scotland.

Below I have listed my favourite 12 places to elope in ScotlandKeep reading to learn all about each stunning elopement location and about how to plan your elopement in Scotland.

 

12 Best Places To Elope in Scotland

  1. Isle of Skye
  2. Glencoe
  3. Assynt
  4. Torridon and Wester Ross
  5. Tongue
  6. Isle of Mull
  7. Cairngorms National Park
  8. Orkney Islands
  9. Loch Tay
  10. Port Appin
  11. Corrour Estate
  12. Edinburgh

The Best Scotland Elopement Locations

Scotland Elopement Locations

1. Isle of Skye

Couple climbing up hill at Loch Coruisk for elopement - Scotland Elopement Guide.

The Isle of Skye is the largest and most northern of the major islands in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland. The island’s peninsulas radiate from a mountainous centre dominated by the Cuillin, the rocky mountains provide some of the most dramatic scenery in the country (and world?). There are many reasons why The Isle of Skye is first on my list, although I may be biased as I live here! Below you will find some of the best elopement locations on Skye. If your heart belongs with Skye, I have a detailed elopement guide just for you here.

 

Where To Elope On The Isle of Skye

Quiraing

Quiraing Elopement by Elope With Belle - Isle of Skye Elopement Planner

The Quiraing is an incredible landslip far north in the Trotternish Peninsula on Skye. Parts of the distinctive landscape have been given particular names. The Needle is a jagged 120-foot-high landmark pinnacle, a remnant of the landslide. Northwest of it is The Table, a flat grassy area slipped down from the summit plateau, with stunning views of the Torridon Hills and the mountains of Wester Ross. Southwest is the Prison, a pyramidal rocky peak. Parts of the Quiraing can be a bit of a scramble, the good news is that there are also stunning views which can be accessed within a couple of minutes from the car park.

 

Old Man of Storr

Sunset Elopement Old Man of Storr. Couple dancing on top of Storr during sunset with moon and stars in background.

The Old Man of Storr, or Storr, is another majestic landslip on the Trotternish Peninsula on The Isle of Skye. Once you manage the 45 minute steep hike, you will be faced with the most beautiful views to the Sound of Raasay. Amidst the weirdly unique pinnacles of rock! Best place for a sunrise or sunset elopement.

 

Loch Coruisk

Loch Coruisk Elopement Ceremony on Isle of Skye

Loch Coruisk is an in-land freshwater loch, sitting at the foot of the Black Cuillin mountain on Skye. This incredibly unique loch can be reached either by a 7 mile hike (not for inexperienced hikers) or a 30 minute boat trip from Elgol.

 

Bucket List Isle of Skye Elopement Location : Red and Black Cuillin Mountains

Best Places to Stay on The Isle of Skye for your Scotland Elopement

  1. Skye Red Fox Retreat The ultimate glamping cabin on the Trotternish Peninsula on Skye. This luxury cabin offers the most stunning views from their glass-roof deck. Watch the sunset as you take a hot bath and sip champagne. Sleeps 2
  2. The Tin Sheds, Dunan, Skye. Beautiful cottages situated on the waterfront in the South of Skye. Perfect for a Loch Coruisk Elopement. Sleeps 6
  3. The Eyrie, Grealin, Skye. Stunning self-catering accommodation in the North of Skye with wood burning stove and beautiful views. Sleeps 4

How to Get to The Isle of Skye

Car hire is the preferred option by most visitors to Skye, as it allows the flexibility to come and go as you please. If you choose to stay in one of the more remote parts of the Island a car is essential.
If you prefer not to drive choosing accommodation in one of the larger villages (Portree, Broadford or Dunvegan) would be advised. There are local buses that can be relied on, but they are not that frequent. The nearest International Airport is Glasgow and the nearest Local Airport is Inverness.

There is not a railway on Skye. There are two train stations on the mainland that are very close and connect to local bus routes.

  • Glasgow to Mallaig – then the Ferry to Skye.
  • Inverness to Kyle – then a Bus on to the Island.

Inverness – 2 hours 30 minutes
Perth – 4 hours
Edinburgh – 5 hours
Glasgow – 5 hours
Aberdeen – 5 hours

 2. Glencoe

Why you should elope in 2021

Glencoe is located within the awe-inspiring deep valley of the Scottish Highlands. Its main draw are towering mountains of Glen Coe which were carved out centuries ago by icy glaciers and volcanic explosions.

Glencoe village is picturesquely located between the banks of Loch Leven and the mouth of the famous glen, making it the perfect base for couples who are interested in hiking, walking and of course, the most epic landscapes. This part of Scotland is known as the Outdoor Capital of the UK! This is second on my list for so many reasons, it is the place that first made me fall in love with the Scottish Highlands and driving through listening to Bon Iver Holocene, is one of my favourite things to do.

 

Where To Elope In Glencoe

Glencoe Valley

couple posing in front of Glencoe Valley Elopement, Scotland

Glencoe Valley Glen Coe is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and other-worldly places in Scotland. It’s even featured in films such as James Bond’s Skyfall and several Harry Potter movies! They towering Valley offers so many locations to elope in!

 

 Glen Etive

Couple standing with husky during elopement ceremony at Glen Etive, Scotland

Glen Etive – Following the River Etive, there is a single track road that literally leads nowhere. It is insanely beautiful and can be a much quieter spot to say your vows.

Rannoch Moor

Rannoch Moor Elopement Glencoe, Scotland

Rannoch MoorOne of the last remaining wildernesses in Europe, the Great Moor of Rannoch is a beautiful outdoor space composed of blanket bog, lochans, rivers, and rocky outcrops. This place is the definition of other-worldly and a very understated but incredible place to elope in Glencoe. 

Bucket List Scotland Elopement Location in Glencoe: Lost Valley (Coire Gabhail)

Coire Gabhail is the hidden valley in Glencoe, A hike involves a very rough but intensely dramatic and scenic walk. Adventurous enough to get married here? Get in touch!

Best Places to Stay in Glencoe for your Scotland Elopement

  1. KingsHouse Hotel – This legendary Hotel is right in the heart of Glencoe, close to the road to Glen Etive and has the most amazing whisky selection and food! This is the place where all the deer gather in the surrounding woodlands.
  2. The Glencoe Inn – Overlooking a loch and the pap of Glencoe, this charming Hotel is perfect for an intimate elopement.
  3. Grianain Eco Lodge – A beautiful eco lodge set on a small river surrounded by forest. This is an incredible tranquil spot for your Glencoe elopement. Take a look at Dee and Jacques elopement here.

How to Get to Glencoe

Car hire is the preferred option by most visitors to Glencoe, as it allows the flexibility to come and go as you please.

The closest Railway Station to Glencoe is Fort William.

  • From the South, take the train from Glasgow Queen Street and enjoy the scenic ride up to Fort William. You could disembark at Crianlarich or Bridge of Orchy if you have other transport plans in place.   The journey takes longer than it does by car as the tracks weave their way around the mountains and you get to enjoy the magical journey across Rannoch Moor.
  • From the North, a local train service runs from Mallaig to Fort William or during the peak season you can hop aboard The Jacobite steam train.

Inverness – 2 hours 30 minutes
Edinburgh – 2 hours 30 minutes
Glasgow – 2 hours
Aberdeen – 4 hours

3. Assynt

Assynt Elopement, Scottish Highlands.

Assynt is located north of Ullapool, on the west coast of Scotland. Assynt is known for its remarkable landscapes; mountains, waterfalls, other-worldly lochs and white sand coastlines. I have witnessed some of the most breathtaking sunrises I have ever seen here. The biggest village is Lochinver with plenty of hotels, b&b’s and little cafes. It is one of Scotland’s understated hidden gems and I can see why! It gives Skye a good run for it’s money…and that’s saying something! If you would like to see Sophie and Conner’s Assynt sunrise waterfall elopement then take a look here.

 

Where To Elope In Assynt

Wailing Widow Falls

Wailing Widow Falls, Assynt

Wailing Widow Falls are absolutely mesmerising as the sunrises above them and the 15m cascading fall catches the light. It is a bit of a scramble to get to the bottom of the falls, but this only takes 10 minutes. It is absolutely worth it and the most magical place to say your vows! You can also get right beneath the fall!

 

Loch Assynt

sunrise elopement at Loch Assynt

Loch Assynt, the long stretch of loch located just a few miles outside of Lochinver. This place gives you an ‘edge of the world’ feeling as it overlooks small islands and is perfect for a quiet ceremony.

Achmelvich Beach
couple kissing at Achmelvich Beach during elopement

Achmelvich Beach has to be one of the most beautiful and hidden gem beaches in the world. Think tropical white sands and turquoise blue water. Be aware though, it may look like it belongs to Mediterranean climates…but the water is definitely not!

 

Bucket List Scotland Elopement Location in Assynt : Stach Pollaidh

If you can brave the darkness and hike up here for sunrise, you will be rewarded with one of the most beautiful sights! If you are up for this then get in touch! I’d love to hear from you!

Best Places to Stay in Assynt for your Scotland Elopement

  1. Swallow Byre – A cosy bungalow situated in a rural location near the most beautiful beaches in Assynt.
  2. Heather Cottage – Overlooking Achmelvich Bay, this pretty cottage is perfect for a coastal elopement here!

How to Get to Assynt

Stretching from Lochinver in the west to Dornoch in the east Sutherland & Caithness make up the far north of Scotland. While much of the region can be visited by driving the famous North Coast 500 you need to detour off the route between Unapool and Ullapool to visit Assynt. If you aren’t driving the NC500, Lochinver is around 5 hours north of Glasgow and Edinburgh and 2 hours from Inverness. Whilst the best way to explore Assynt is by car  – there are daily bus services. To get to Lochinver catch the Far North Bus service 804 from either Durness or Ullapool.

Inverness – 2 hours
Edinburgh – 5 hours
Glasgow – 5 hours

4. Torridon and Wester Ross

Torridon Elopement by Belle Art Photography

Torridon is located in the North-west highlands, a picturesque and idyllic village sat beneath towering mountains. On the shore of Upper Loch Torridon in Wester Ross. If snow covered mountains and lochs that look like glass are your thing and you love tranquil, remote locations – then Torridon is a great elopement location for you! If you love dramatic coastlines and are a bit of a foodie, then consider the Applecross Peninsula for your elopement, more details below!

Where To Elope In Torridon and Wester Ross

The Torridon

Elopement Ceremony at The Torridon

The Torridon is a beautiful boutique resort set right on the shore of Loch Torridon. If you get a chance, I’d highly recommend booking their boathouse and staying right next to the jetty here, overlooking the surrounding mountains.

 

Torridon Estate

Torridon Estate - Scotland Elopement Locations

The Torridon Estate is a beautiful family home set in mature woodlands where you can stay and get married. It is just a short drive from the village of Torridon and sits right by the shore. If you would like to see Isabella and Max’s intimate Torridon elopement, click here.

Applecross Peninsula
Westeross and Applecross elopement

Head across one of the most spectacular roads through the valley from Torridon to Applecross. Here you will find a beautiful peninsula with some amazing pubs (The Applecross Inn) and you are spoilt for locations here! Take a look at my bucket list

 

Bucket List Wester Ross Elopement Location : Eagle Rock, Applecross

Eagle Rock is the most unique self-catering luxury accommodation which I have longed to capture for a very long time! Sleeping up to 10, it is perfect for an intimate Scotland elopement ceremony.

How to Get to Torridon for your Scotland Elopement

Public transport to and around Torridon is very limited, I would highly recommend travelling by car. From the south, follow A835 north-west from Inverness towards Ullapool. Turn onto A832 after Garve, then onto A896 at Kinlochewe. The road from Kinlochewe down Glen Torridon is scenic, but narrow with passing places. You will see lots of local deer on the roads so be careful driving at night.

Inverness – 1 hour 30 minutes
Edinburgh – 4 hours 20 minutes
Glasgow – 4 hours 20 minutes

5. Tongue

Tongue Elopement - Best Places to Elope in Scotland

The True Highlands – The road east from Durness runs around Loch Eriboll on its way to the lovely little village of Tongue. Tongue is situated right in the North of Scotland, alongside its neighbouring coastal village, Bettyhill. Ben Loyal and Ben Hope lie south of the coast – the two most northerly Munros. Both are beautiful mountains (although being situated on the remote northern coast, you won’t get the same crowds as you would on Ben Nevis or Ben Lomond!) and offer spectacular, 360 degree views of moorland, coast and the sea. If you are looking for an isolated setting for your Scotland elopement, with a true Scottish Highland feel, then look no further than Tongue (not that you can go much further North).

 

Where To Elope In Tongue

Kyle House
Kyle House, Tongue, Scotland

Kyle House is one of the most stylish and luxurious holiday homes I have ever seen. Located at the Southern tip of the Kyle of Tongue, Kyle House sits elevated in the wild landscape and is the only inhabited house to enjoy uninterrupted views along the length of the sea loch to the North and overlooking Ben Loyal. Celebrate your Scotland elopement outside by the fire pit and enjoy amazing food catered for by Kinloch Lodge.

Ben Loyal

Ben Loyal - Scotland Elopement Locations

Fancy having your Scottish elopement up the Queen of mountains? Yes that’s right, Ben Loyal is known as the queen of the scottish mountains and would be a stunning Scotland elopement location for adventurous couples! The hike is over 5 hours long, so not for everyone, but once you see the panoramic views over the coast and Kyle of Tongue, it will be so worth it!

 

Kinloch Lodge – Fishermans Hut

Kinloch Lodge Elopement - Unique Scotland Elopement Locations

Just outside of the grounds of Kinloch Lodge, in Sutherland sits a rather unique little fishermans hut. If you are looking for an indoor and  unique Scotland elopement location, then this hut is just the thing! With its wood fired stove and taxidermy adorning the walls, this place is amazingly quirky and cosy for your Scottish elopement ceremony! If you are interested in booking this for your Scotland elopement, get in touch with Kinloch Lodge.

How To Get To Tongue

As with most places in the highlands, car travel is almost essential with public transport very limited! Heading up to the wild North Scottish Highlands for your elopement is relatively simple! The A838 road loops around the far north west of Scotland.It starts from Lairg, heads north west to Durness, east to Tongue, and then south back to Lairg. 

Inverness – 2 hours
Edinburgh – 5 hours
Glasgow – 5 hours
Aberdeen – 4 hours 30 minutes

6. Isle of Mull

Isle of Mull Elopement - Couple sat underneath tree.

The Isle of Mull or just Mull is the second-largest island of the Inner Hebrides and lies off the west coast of Scotland in the area of Argyll and Bute. Mull is also now very well known as the home of the CBeebies programme Balamory, based around the coloured houses of Tobermory. Aside from the colourful towns and distillery, Mull is home to an abundance of wildlife from dolphins to eagles and all in between! From experience, it also has some of the most beautiful coastlines and plenty of unique places to stay.

 

Where To Elope on The Isle of Mull

Lochbuie Stone Circle

couple reading vows at Lochbuie Stone Circle - Isle of Mull Elopement

Lochbuie Stone Circle is a mysterious and majestic stone circle in Lochbuie, a remote settlement is at the head of a tranquil bay on the south of the island, surrounded by mountains, and home to a medieval castle and a manor house, both belonging to Clan MacLaine of Lochbuie. The idyllic and remote setting is a beautiful serene place to say your vows and know that you will be alone! As long as you don’t mind the short, boggy walk through a muddy field that it! (It is worth it!)

 

Calgary Bay

Calgary Bay - Scotland Elopement Locations

Calgary Bay really is outstanding. The bay faces west towards Coll and Tiree. The beach is perfectly white and sandy whilst the sea is an idyllic blue if you catch it in the right weather conditions. Hills sweep round the north and south sides of the bay, framing it perfectly. It lies 12 miles west of Tobermory and nearly 6 miles west of Dervaig. We camped right on the bay and watched the sunset with a roaring camp fire, it felt completely idyllic and I would really recommend it as a Scotland elopement location.

 

Best Places to Stay on The Isle of Mull for your Scotland Elopement

  1. Wild camping at Calgary Bay –  Not for everyone, but the white sand and beautiful sunsets by a camp fire are most definitely worth a night or two spent here! Especially if you have a Campervan. As you can’t book in advance, it may be full come the summer months.
  2. The Tobermory Hotel – Remember those colourful building I mentioned before that surround the harbour of Tobermory? Well The Tobermory is a lovely, stylish Hotel that sits (very pink) amongst these along the harbour. Great if you want to be surrounded by lotsof lovely restaurants and bars too!
  3. UNIQUE AND SECLUDED AIRSHIP – Located in Drimnin just over the water from Mull, this is probably one of the most unique places to stay in the world, not at least Scotland! Retreat to the deck of this sustainable getaway and gaze at the twinkling constellations under a cosy tartan blanket. AirShip 2 is an iconic, insulated aluminum pod designed by Roderick James with views of the Sound of Mull from dragonfly windows.

How To Get to The Isle of Mull

Ferries cross to the island at three points: Oban, Lochaline and Kilchoan. Booking is required during busy summer months on the Oban ferry, however, the other two are not possible to book, and places are normally available when required. The Lochaline ferry is a cheaper option and is used regularly by locals. Click here to go to the more detailed travel information page.

Inverness – 4 hours
Edinburgh – 4 hours 30 minutes
Glasgow – 4 hours

7. Cairngorms National Park

Elopement Ceremony at Loch Garten, Cairngorms National Park,

Cairngorms National Park  is the largest national park in the UK, located in northeast Scotland. The park covers the Cairngorms range of mountains, and surrounding hills. The surrounding towns and villages are Aviemore, Ballater, Braemar, Grantown-on-Spey, Kingussie, Newtonmore, and Tomintoul. Here you will find some of the most beautiful lochs, forests and mountains for your Scotland elopement. 

Where To Elope In The Cairngorms

Loch Garten

Loch Garten Elopement at the Cairngorms National Park.

Loch Garten, a beautiful glass-like loch and nature reserve deep within the Abernethy forest. It is located near Boat of Garten and is perfect for a relaxed and tranquil ceremony, surrounded by tall pine trees.

Loch an Eilein

Loch An Eilein Elopement - couple sat by the roots of the tree in the Cairngorms

Loch an Eilein is a small, freshwater loch in the Rothiemurchus Forest about 5 km (3.1 mi) south of Aviemore in the Cairngorms National Park. The loch is surrounded by a beautiful forest which is popular amongst nature lovers, bird watchers and hikers! It is a quiet and serene spot for your scotland elopement!

Best Places to Stay in The Cairngorms for your Scotland Elopement

  1. The Lazy duck, Eco Huts, Nethy Bridge. A six-acre hideaway nestled in the heart of the Cairngorms. Sleeps 2
  2. Loch an Eilein Cottage, Aviemore. A Luxury Cottage set on the waters edge with cosy wood stove and contemporary interior. Sleeps 2
  3. Beaver Creek Lodge, Aviemore. A luxury log cabin with hot tub. Sleeps 8

 

How To Get To The Cairngorms

Aviemore is just off the A9 main road from the South to Inverness and beyond. It is ideally located for exploring the Cairngorms National Park. The Cairngorms National Park is situated in the heart of the Scottish Highlands and is easily accessible with rail and road links. There is a train link to Inverness, Glasgow, Edinburgh and have a direct service from London and the south to Aviemore and Aberdeen. Sleeper train services from London stop at Aviemore and a new sleeper bus service with Megabus links the village with London.

Inverness – 30 minutes
Perth – 1 hour 30 minutes
Edinburgh – 2 hours 30 minutes
Glasgow – 2 hours 30 minutes
Aberdeen – 2 hours

8. Orkney Islands

Best places to elope in Scotland - Orkney Islands

The Orkney Islands, also known as Orkney is an archipelago in the Northern Isles, situated off the north coast of Scotland. In addition to the Mainland, most of the remaining islands are in two groups, the North and South Isles. The largest town is Kirkwall on the Mainland. Orkney is particularly breathtaking with historical standing stones, sandy beaches and cute cobbled streets dotted with independent stores and cafes.

Where To Elope on The Orkney Islands

Ring of Brodgar

Ring of Brodgar, Orkney Islands

The Ring of Brodgar is a Neolithic henge and stone circle, the most northern in Britain. Most henges to not form perfect circles, however the Ring of Brodgar is an amazing exception! Based in the North of Orkney, about 30 minutes from Kirkwall, The Ring of Brodgar is firmly placed on my list for the best places to elope in Scotland!

Warebeth Beach

Warebeth Beach, Orkne

Warebeth Beach is one of Orkney’s many beautiful beaches. There is a fantastic walk from Stromness that leads you along the shore of Hoy Sound to Warebeth, a lovely sandy beach with plenty of rocks and boulders to explore too. Alternatively, you can park close to the beach and save your legs. This also means potentially staying in Stromness which is a beautiful town with cobbled streets…although driving through the tiny roads is a bit nerve-wracking!

 

Scapa Bay

Scapa Bay, Orkney Islands

Scapa Bay is just a few miles outside of Kirkwall on the Mainland of Orkney. Completely surrounded by hill, this sandy beach is sheltered and beautiful, overlooked by the famous Scapa Distillery.

Best Places to Stay in The Orkney Islands

  1. Toft – A beautiful self-catering accommodation located just outside of Stromness, sleeps 4
  2. Waterfront Apartment – This waterfront apartment is based on St Margrets Hope, south of Orkney but joined to the Mainland by bridges. Sleeps 2
  3. Kirkwall Apartment – This cosy apartment is located very centrally in Kirkwall, complete with wood-burning stove.

 

How To Get To The Orkney Islands

There are three main vehicle ferry routes to and from Orkney. NorthLink Ferries sail between Lerwick in Shetland, Hatston in Kirkwall and Aberdeen, with the company also operating the 90 minute service between Scrabster and Stromness.

A quicker option again is with Pentland Ferries, which sails between Gill’s Bay, near John o’ Groats, and St Margaret’s Hope in South Ronaldsay (just over 1 hour). The company’s new purpose-built catamaran ‘MV Alfred’ is the most environmentally-friendly passenger ferry of its type in Scotland.

9. Loch Tay

Loch Tay Elopement
Photo by the wonderful Chris J Parkinson – Beneath The Pines

Loch Tay is a very special place close to my heart. My husband and I married here in November 2019 with our very closest family and friends, including our two little ones, Belle and Elijah! I couldn’t write a list of the best places to elope in Scotland without including this! Loch Tay is the largest loch based in beautiful Perthshire. Overlooked by Ben Lawers mountain range and surrounded by forests. The Biggest town is Kenmore.

 

Where To Elope on Loch Tay

Boreland Farmhouse
Boreland Farmhouse Loch Tay
Photo by the wonderful Chris J Parkinson – Beneath The Pines

Boreland Farmhouse is a huge farmhouse sleeping up to 21 people based in Fearnan, Loch Tay. The Farmhouse is set high on a hill overlooking the loch and has an impressive kitchen/dining area perfect for micro weddings.

 

Tay Forest Park

Tay Forest Park, Loch Tay

Tay Forest Park is a wonderfully varied patchwork of forests across the most scenic parts of Highland Perthshire, featuring some of the country’s most loved viewpoints and tallest trees. During Autumn and Winter, the trees and ferns turn a beautiful shade of red. Definitely a spot to consider for those of you that are nature lovers and love woodland trails!

 

Best Places to Stay in Loch Tay

  1. Boreland Farmhouse – A huge farmhouse on a hill overlooking Loch Tay and surrounded by forests. Sleeps 21.
  2. Oyster Lodge – A beautiful boathouse on stilts over the loch with hot tub and outside sauna – sleeps 4. (We stayed here for our wedding)
  3. The Cabin – The Cabin is situated up on the hill of the Boreland estate – A contemporary log cabin, with a stunning open kitchen lounge area with incredible views of the loch through floor to ceiling windows. Sleeps 4.

 

How to Get to Loch Tay

As with many Scotland locations outside of the Cities, it is always best if you can drive.

Getting there by railway:- The closest rail stations are at Pitlochry and Birnam (Dunkeld). Bus link or car hire from there to Loch Tay. Full details from Aberfeldy Tourist Information Centre.

Getting there by aeroplane:- From Glasgow or Edinburgh airports head north to the city of Perth. Follow the A9 trunk road to Ballinluig and then take the A827 west to Kenmore, a small village at the east of Loch Tay.

Edinburgh – 1 hour 45 minutes
Glasgow – 2 hours
Inverness – 2 hours 15 minutes
Aberdeen – 2 hours 45 minutes

10. Port Appin

Port Appin Elopement

Port Appin lies on the coast of Appin, just north of Loch Creran as it meets the sea.Just a short distance away from Oban, Port Appin is a pretty fishing village which looks directly across the strip of water called the Lynn of Lorn to the northern tip of the island of Lismore. Port Appin also has one of Scotland’s most romantic ruined castles, the much-photographed Castle Stalker, occupies a tiny rock island to the north of the village. I had to mention Port Appin purely because of one very special place that lies in the heart of the forests. Take a look below for more information.

Where To Elope in Port Appin

St Mary’s Space

St Marys Space, Port Appin - Best Scotland Elopement Venue

Nestled right in the woodlands is a family-run quirky converted church, St Mary’s Space.

St Mary’s space is unlike any other elopement venue in Scotland. From a former Church, Charlotte and Jamie have completely transformed this beautiful place into a highland retreat, recording studio and of course, intimate wedding venue! Near the mountains of Glencoe, surrounded by forest and facing a river, St Marys Space is not short of elopement locations for you. Then when you also add in that they are fabulous cooks and caterers and have created the most beautiful cabin to stay in – you are guaranteed to have such a special elopement experience knowing that you are completely isolated from the outside world.

St Marys Space - Unique Elopement Venue in Scotland

How to Get to Port Appin

From the South, take the Oban Road straight to Port Appin, via Castle Stalker.

ScotRail operates a train from Glasgow Queen Street to Connel Ferry every 4 hours. The journey takes 2h 51m. Alternatively, Scottish Citylink operates a bus from Buchanan Bus Station to Connel, Bridge Junction 3 times a day.

Edinburgh – 3 hours
Glasgow – 2 hours 30 minutes
Inverness – 2 hours 30 minutes
Aberdeen – 4 hours 15 minutes

11. Corrour Estate

Corrour Estate Elopement
Corrour Estate is a remote 57,000 acre Highland estate on the edge of Rannoch Moor. They have a saying on their site which states; to experience Corrour is to experience the wilderness. I couldn’t put this better myself. Their single track road leads you through a private coded gate before driving them any miles through their jaw-dropping valley feeling completely isolated and inspired by nature. You will drive past Corrour lodge and their beautiful self-catering cottages. Corrour is also the highest railway station in the UK, on the stunning West Highland Line. The Station House is accessible only by train or a twenty-mile walk. With so many activities, trails and adventures to be had, Corrour is a truly amazing and unique elopement location in Scotland!

Where To Elope in Corrour Estate

Loch Ossian

Couple standing on Jetty at Loch Ossian, Corrour Estate

Loch Ossian is a completely private 3 mile long loch that sits within Corrour Estate. Just a short walk from a few of their beautiful cottages and surrounded by woodlands it is such an amazing place to elope! Without even a hint of modern life in sight, you can explore somewhere completely desolate and truly be alone together.

The Gardens of Corrour

The Gardens at Corrour Lodge. Bride standing in the woodland Garden

The Gardens on Corrour Estate are vast. 68 acres of rhododendron garden lies on the south shore of Loch Ossian, south-west of the house. The Rhododendron collection, started in 1910, consists of some 125 species Rhododendron enclosed by a deer fence. There is also a beautiful walled garden and an alpine garden with a semi-natural rockery. The list could go on and on because there is truly so much to explore here. Including over 20 Munros to hike up!

Where To Stay in Corrour Estate

  1. Corrour Lodge  – A 5 star luxury rural retreat in the hear of Corrour Estate.

How to Get to Corrour Estate

Arriving by train is the most romantic way to arrive at Corrour Estate. The West Highland ScotRail brings you directly to Corrour Station, the highest railway station in the UK. It is one of the most spectacular railway journeys in the world.

Their detailed map and directions to their secluded estate can be found here.

 

12. Edinburgh

Edinburgh - Best Places to Elope in Scotland

I couldn’t really finish this list without including the very Capital City of Scotland now could I. It was a hard decision narrowing it down to just 12 but Edinburgh has stolen my heart in many ways. If you aren’t wishing to trudge through boggy fields brace the fierce highland winds – then Edinburgh most certainly offers a romantic backdrop with its Georgian architecture, cobbled streets and beautiful castles. Given that it’s also surrounded by huge hills like Arthurs seat, it is a very wonderful option for your Scottish elopement!

Where To Elope in Edinburgh

Arthurs Seat

Arthurs Seat Elopement

One of the most popular elopement locations in Edinburgh, and for good reason! This place is most beautiful at sunset, and most quiet for a sunrise elopement! Why not watch the sun rise over the City before it wakes up?

The Caves

The Caves Elopement Venue Edinburgh

If you are looking for an inside unusual elopement venue in Edinburgh then look no further! Right in the heart of the Old Town of Edinburgh, The Caves are the rediscovered and restored Edinburgh vaults which have now turned into a unique venue – definitely one for Whisky lovers!

 

Where To Stay in Edinburgh

  1. The Witchery – a baroque and gothic hotel housing one of Scotlands most famous restaurant in the heart of the Old Town, near Edinburgh’s famous castle.
  2. Classical Apartment on The Royal Mile – A beautiful classic apartment. Oak panelled walls, wooden window shutters, and warm parquet floors surround you. Sleeps 2
  3. London Street Georgian Apartment – A large, light-filled New Town flat with a fine balance of Georgian elegance and modern style. Sleeps 4

 

How to Get to Edinburgh

If you live or are visiting nearby cities such as Glasgow, Liverpool, Newcastle or Manchester, the easiest and most comfortable way of getting to Edinburgh is by train. From further away destinations, flying is normally the cheapest and fastest option. For more information on the trains available, check out the official National Rail website here.

Numerous coach companies travel between Britain’s cities to Edinburgh. For more information, check the following companies:

 

 

Scotland Elopement Advice

Wailing Widow Falls Elopement - Assynt

How to Legally Marry in Scotland

You can marry in Scotland either by a religious/belief ceremony, a civil ceremony or a humanist ceremony. Did you know that you can marry anywhere in Scotland? Provided its approved by your celebrant or local registration authority.

Firstly you and your partner will each need to give notice to the district registrar for the area where you intend to marry. You do this by filling out an M10 form and sending it along with your birth certificates to the registrar you want to give notice too. This costs about £70.

This applies to a religious/belief, Humanist or civil marriage. You must give the notices to the district registrar no earlier than 3 months and no later than 29 days before the date of the marriage. More details can be found here.

You will also need to choose two witnesses for your marriage ceremony. If you want to do it completely alone, I’m always happy to be a witness to any ceremony I capture.

Humanist Ceremonies

Humanist Elopement Ceremonies

Humanist ceremonies really are just so personal and beautiful! From what I’ve gathered, Humanists seek to live an ethical and fulfilling life based on reason and compassion. The ceremonies revolve completely around you and your beautiful love story including how your friends and family have shaped your lives – I will remember my own humanist wedding ceremony forever! I have worked with wonderful humanist celebrants all over Scotland. Below are a list of some of my favourites to get in touch with for your own elopement. Otherwise, you can go directly to the Humanist Society Scotland site and take a look at their list and more information here.

A list of my favourite Humanist Celebrants in Scotland:

  1. Rona Burstow
  2. Gary Smith
  3. Francesca Leigh
  4. Claire Digance
  5. Halde Pottinger

Scotland Elopement Packages

Couple standing with husky during elopement ceremony at Glen Etive, Scotland

I offer both elopement photography and videography for elopements across Scotland. I have also recently launched my biggest elopement package, an all inclusive Isle of Skye Elopement Package – Elope With Belle – For the full Isle of Skye elopement experience. More details can be found here.

If you would like to get started with planning your own dream Scottish elopement, then I have created a FREE printable elopement planner ready for you to download here.

I can’t wait to hear from you! If you would like any of my dedicated elopement information guides, get in touch here.

Lots of love,

Becy X

Comments

So many breathtaking locations Becky! This guide is amazing and so helpful!

Such an informative and complex guide. You nailed it. I discovered your website and artwork at the beginning of the year and I’m in love with your photography.

Belleartphotography

Thank you so much! That is so kind of you!

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