GLENCOE ELOPEMENT GUIDE
ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE PLANNING A GLENCOE ELOPEMENT
Hello! I’m Lukas, a wedding photographer with a deep love for the wild, rugged beauty of Glencoe, Scotland. As someone who has had the privilege of capturing countless love stories in this stunning region, I can’t help but be inspired by the dramatic landscapes that make Glencoe one of the most breathtaking wedding destinations in the world. From the towering mountains to the misty glens, Glencoe offers a backdrop like no other, perfect for couples looking to celebrate their love in a place that feels both magical and timeless.
Scotland, with its rich history and enchanting scenery, is an extraordinary place to say “I do,” and Glencoe stands out as a truly unique spot for a wedding. Whether you’re envisioning an intimate elopement surrounded by nature’s grandeur or a larger celebration with the highlands as your canvas, I’m here to capture every moment in a way that reflects the epic beauty of your surroundings. Let’s create something unforgettable together in the heart of Scotland’s natural wonder.
This introduction combines your expertise with the allure of Glencoe and Scotland, setting the tone for a blog post that will resonate with couples looking to tie the knot in this iconic location.
WHY WOULD YOU WANT TO GET MARRIED IN GLENCOE?
Getting married in Glencoe offers a truly unique and unforgettable experience, steeped in both natural beauty and deep historical significance. The landscape of Glencoe is nothing short of awe-inspiring, with its rugged mountains, mist-covered valleys, and serene lochs creating a backdrop that feels almost otherworldly. This stunning scenery provides not only breathtaking wedding photos but also a sense of intimacy and connection with nature that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Beyond the landscape, Glencoe carries a rich history and a touch of Scottish mystique, making it a meaningful and symbolic place to begin your married life. Whether you’re drawn to its dramatic beauty, the allure of a secluded ceremony, or the opportunity to incorporate Scottish traditions into your wedding day, Glencoe offers a perfect blend of romance and adventure. For couples who love the idea of an outdoor wedding surrounded by the untamed beauty of the Highlands, Glencoe is an ideal choice that promises a wedding day as epic and memorable as the location itself.
THE BEST WEDDING VENUES IN GLENCOE
KINGSHOUSE HOTEL
HOTEL BUNKHOUSE
If you are planning a romantic runaway wedding that is hidden in the Highlands, then the Kingshouse Hotel might be your perfect wedding venue.
Enjoy jaw-dropping loch-side and mountainside views as well as locally sourced food. This location gives you panoramic views of the Glencoe valley and is a perfect starting point for an adventurous elopement hike to many lochs and mountain peaks.
You can get married at the Kingshouse hotel from October to March, which makes it a perfect winter wedding venue.
THREE SISTERS
VIEWPOINT
The “Three Sisters” viewpoint can be accesses through a 10 minute walk from the car park and it leads you directly to the top of the mountain. The Three Sisters are also known as the Bidean nam Bian Mountain range in the Scottish Highlands .
This location of Scotland has numerous rolling hills and waterfalls. You can access this viewpoint all year long. You can enjoy green grass in the summer and in the late fall it turns into a beaitful yellow and brown color.
he viewpoint is surrounded by the entire Bidean nam Bian mountain range and gives you a beautiful backdrop for your wedding photos
GLENCOE MOUNTAIN RESORT
MOUNTAINTOP VENUE
The Glencoe Mountain Resort known for it’s scenic beauty and breathtaking landscapes.
One of the best ways to get to the top of the mountains is by taking the chairlift, which runs throughout the whole year and gives you spectacular views of waterfalls, Ranoch Moor, and the Buchaille Etive Mor.
If you like to get to the top of the mountain, you can take a half an hour steep hike up there.
JAMES BOND SKYFALL LOCATION
VALLEY
If you are a James Bond fan, then this elopement spot should be on top of your location list for your Glencoe elopement.
You can drive to the Skyfall location by following the winding single track road that follows the River Etive. The exact spot sits between the two mountains Etive Mor and Buachaille Etive Beag.
Getting married right at this exact location can be a bit unromantic as it is right next to a road. But you can always just go for a walk off the road and elope in the middle of nature with no traffic in sight
LOCH ETIVE
LOCH
This remote location is perfect for intimate elopements surrounded by the wild countryside. You can probably spot some deer, seals, or even a golden eagle.
A 12 mile drive down the Etive Road takes you to a small car parking area and a tiny beach. the ride down the sinding single track road is definitifely worth the effort.
The breathtaking view of the calm water and the rough mountains are a perfect backdrop for your intimate elopment.
GLENCOE LOCHAN
TRACT OF FOREST
Glencoe Lochan is a hidden gem and is located north of the village of Glencoe.
The forest was created in the 19th century by Lord Strathcona. A 15 minute walk from the carpark gets you to the picturesque and serene Glencoe Lochan, which sits right in the centre of the woods.
Get married at this beautiful location and enjoy being surrounded by majestic conifers and rugged mountains.
If you are feeling adventurous, then you can take one of the many trails through the ornamental woodland at the foot of Glen Coe.
WHAT DO YOU NEED FOR YOUR GLENCOE ELOPEMENT?
GETTING MARRIED IN GLENCOE IS PRETTY EASY BUT THERE ARE SOME THINGS YOU NEED TO DoIf you are from the U.S. you will need to look into getting a marriage visa.
Apply for a marriage visitor visa, and follow these steps:
WHAT IS THE BEST TIME TO GET MARRIED IN GLENCOE?
SUMMER
In the beginning of summer all the colors of the landscapes in Glencoe change into a lush and fresh green. As temperatures rise, more tourists come to Glencoe, that is why some carparks might be quite full. Luckily, there is lots of space in nature, so it shouldn´t feel crowded when exchangings vows.
Though you will have mild weather during summer, with late July as the warmest time of the year, it can still change without warning, and it can even snow during summer. It is always a good idea to have an indoor option for your ceremony, just in case the weather changes.
But usually you will get some sunshine and in the evening beautiful golden light shining down on your wedding spot at one of the Lochs in Glencoe.
WINTER
The temperature during winter is almost close to zero, and colder temperatures feel piercing with high winds. But winter time gives Glencoes´landscape a magical feeling. The deer are usually quite friendly during winter, you might even get a view photos with them.
The sun can set as early as 3.30pm in winter, so make sure to have your outdoor ceremony and wedding photos planned before the sun goes down. All in all, these cold temperatures and freezing winds might not be ideal for an outdoor wedding but can make your indoor wedding next to a warm fireplace feel even more cozy.
SPRING & FALL
Spring is the transition period from winter to summer and brings wild weather into the country. Sometimes you experience snow storms and some locations might be closed off. So it can be a bit tricky to get down those smaller single track roads. But you will for sure get a winter wonderland.
Autumn is known to have less rain showers, just like spring. During this time, make sure to stay away from deer, as it is rutting season. And bring a warm jacket to stay warm because the temperatures are starting to drop. The autumnal colors of autumn give your wedding photos an epic backdrop.
4 TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL WEDDING IN GLENCOE
HAVE A BACKUP
When you plan your wedding in Glencoe, never be too set in your ideas. The weather conditions can change quite fast and can be unpredictable. Usually, you get ready at a place near your outdoor location. If you want to be prepared, you can always ask if your accommodation place also offers indoor facilities in case the weather changes. Some hotels even have halls with floor to ceiling windows that capture the beauty of Glencoe´s breathtaking landscape while still staying inside and enjoying your ceremony without freezing.
LEAVE NO TRACE
Make sure to park with care and move on if a car park is full. Also take your rubbish home if the bins are already full. Respect the beautiful nature in Scotland and leave no trace when you are visiting this beautiful place.
RESPECT THE TRESPASSING SIGNS
Scotland doesn´t have any trespassing laws, which basically means that you can get married where ever you like. While they are pretty easygoing with trespassing, there are still some in place, so if you see any signs, you should ask the landowner for permission to get married on their land. Usually, it will be totally fine, but it’s best to double-check for a smooth ceremony.
HAVE AN AMAZING TIME
This one seems obvious but has to be on our list. You are getting married abroad, there is lots of wedding organization and preparation for visas and documents. It is easy to get stressed and lose sight of the big picture. So, make sure to get some time for yourselves and enjoy Glencoe´s breathtaking scenery and explore its surroundings while you are there.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO GET MARRIED IN GLENCOE?
The cost of getting married in Glencoe can vary widely depending on the type of wedding you envision. On average, a wedding in Glencoe might range from £15,000 to £40,000. This estimate typically includes venue hire, catering, photography, and other essentials. For a more intimate elopement or small wedding, especially if you’re choosing a simple outdoor ceremony without a formal venue, costs can be considerably lower, potentially ranging from £5,000 to £10,000.
On the other hand, if you’re planning a larger celebration with a luxury venue, such as a historic castle or a private estate, and including extras like live entertainment, bespoke decor, and high-end catering, the costs can easily exceed £50,000. Glencoe offers a range of options, from affordable and intimate gatherings to grand celebrations, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Scottish Highlands.
ARE YOU STILL LOOKING FOR A PHOTOGRAPHER IN GLENCOE?
REACH OUT FOR MORE INFO ABOUT MY WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY PACKAGES IN GLENCOE OR GET MORE INFO ABOUT ELOPEMENTS.
