For some couples, an intimate exchange of vows is preferable to a large celebration. Not everyone feels the need to be the center of attention on their wedding day. Alternatively, perhaps they want to avoid stirring up family drama or spending months occupied by all-consuming wedding planning. Instead, a private ceremony lets a couple focus on what is most important: each other. That is why a Swiss Alps elopement is a popular option!
However, a small affair doesn’t need to be boring. An elopement is a perfect excuse to venture out of your comfort zone and see a part of the world you may have never seen before. While there are plenty of superb locations to say “I do,” Switzerland is ideal for those who envision snowy mountain peaks, rolling hills of forests, rich blue lakes, and quaint historic villages.
Ultimate Guide To A Swiss Alps Elopement
Whether your ceremony is just you and your partner, or an additional few friends and family, a Swiss elopement allows you to be yourself without the societal pressure of what a wedding should be. You’ll enjoy the iconic ski resorts and wellness spas surrounding the Alps before or after your day. Also, take advantage of our stunningly beautiful (and increasingly challenging!) hiking paths, and revel in the spectacle of our natural vistas. The Alps are easily accessible, with the Geneva, Zürich, and Basel airports relatively nearby. Alternatively, take a picturesque train ride through the countryside to get to your destination for your perfect wedding day.
When You Should Elope in The Swiss Alps & How to Pick Your Date
The time of year you choose to elope in the Swiss Alps will be a significant determining factor for the whole event. A few elements should go into your decision to put a date on the calendar, including weather, peak tourist seasons, and your ideal aesthetic.
Winter
Winter is perfect for those intense, snowy months that result in soft, pillowy snowbanks and pristine white mountainsides. The skyline is full of tall, snow-covered mountain peaks, and often, you can capture a picturesque snowfall. However, the snow is no joke, especially around the Swiss Alps. Winter, while beautiful, can be a little treacherous. So if you aren’t up for an intense snowy hike, you may want to consider a month on the early side of the snowy season or perhaps as things begin to thaw a bit. The winter also brings plenty of great skiing opportunities. It is one of the livelier seasons in Switzerland because of the prime ski season.
Spring
In the spring, the snow melts at lower altitudes, and the towns and cities begin to thaw. It’s a slower season for tourists, particularly in March and April, so it may be an optimal time of year to find quieter places to sneak away for your elopement. Plus, the greenery is pushing through, and flowers are beginning to bloom, which adds a delicate fresh aesthetic to your day.
Summer
Summer is another very popular tourist season, and for a good reason. The weather will likely be nicer (although storms are not uncommon), making Switzerland a prime location for great hiking, exploring, and dining. If that warm(er) weather is your thing, then go for it! But expect crowds, which could potentially interfere with your plan to find a secluded spot to elope.
Fall
Fall is the ideal time of year to elope in the Swiss Alps, as the colors will be absolutely magnificent. Picture mountainsides covered in red trees, warm yellows, oranges, and greens painting every vista. The first week of November is prime for autumn colors. The weather will still be relatively temperate before the snowy season sets in.
June or September are great months to elope near the Swiss Alps, as they’ll be a little more temperate and less crowded but still incredibly beautiful.
Regarding picking your actual date, if you are flexible, weekdays are great! They may allow you to book highly sought-after vendors with busy schedules. Regardless, select your date as early as possible so you can reach out to vendors and start signing contracts!
The Swiss Alps Elopement Locations
Lake Lioson
Known as the pearl of the Alpine Lakes, Lake Lioson is as tranquil as it is spectacular. The emerald-green water reflects the surrounding hills and trees. It provides a peaceful, budding backdrop for an exchange of vows. The lake is a vision of gentle greenery and is accessible by a moderate hike. The winter months can be snowy, but spring and summer create an ideal location for a lush elopement.
Zermatt and the Matterhorn
Zermatt is a quaint ski town tucked away in the Swiss Alps. The enormous Matterhorn dominates the skyline, making for various incredible mountain view vistas that would be a beautiful elopement background. The Sunnegga Viewpoint offers a striking alpine view and is easily accessible. Suppose you are looking for something a little higher. In that case, the view from Rothorn not only showcases the Matterhorn but also gives you spectacular views of the Alps below.
Ticino
The Ticino Mountains are often called “Switzerland’s Sunny South.” The stunning Verzasca River has many waterfalls. Plenty of trails follow the river with its beautiful stone bridges and rocky shore. Any hiking route in the Ticino region offers breathtaking views of pristine lakes, rolling hillsides, and snow-capped Alps.
Engadin
The Engadin Valley is perfect for winter sports enthusiasts and those looking for the ideal snowy mountain landscape. It offers precisely what comes to mind when you think of the Swiss Alps. Cozy ski chalets with glowing windows, trails for snowshoeing and winter hiking, and plenty of opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing, and more. Simply put, it’s a winter wonderland.
Lauterbrunnen
Lauterbrunnen is a tiny village in the heart of the Swiss Alps. Its quaint architecture, rolling green hillsides, and encompassing snow-capped mountains make it perfect for couples looking for an idyllic place to elope. The town is surrounded by waterfalls, and nearby, the Trummelbach Falls are located inside Europe’s largest underground caves. It feels genuinely hidden and tucked away in the mountains – quiet, calm, and away from the world’s bustle.
Jungfraujoch
The Jungfraujoch is a viewing point in the Bernese Alps and is recognized as Europe’s highest train station. Its altitude of 3,454 m gives visitors a breathtaking view of the surrounding snowy Alps. It is the perfect high mountaintop backdrop for those looking for a wintery elopement. It is accessible by cable car or cogwheel trains, and the journey is part of what makes the visit so exquisite.
How to Get a Swiss Alps Marriage License
So, here’s the deal. Unless you are a Swiss citizen or resident, you cannot legally get married in Switzerland. However, most international eloping couples don’t let that stop them. They may make their marriage official in their home country before traveling to Switzerland for a more symbolic elopement. You can still recognize the day you say “I do” on a Swiss mountainside as your official wedding date. Eloping while already married in your home country also means that there is no paperwork to do when you elope. So you’ll have one less thing to drag along with you throughout the day.
What to Wear to Your Swiss Alps Elopement
Some people want a more casual, laid-back approach to their elopement attire. However, most couples would often like to acknowledge their wedding day with a more unique outfit. Feeling beautiful and delicate may be vital to you for this moment in your life. Switzerland can be cold, even in the summer, so something long and with sleeves may be a bride’s best option. Plenty of elegant designs will allow you to wear something flowy, beautiful, and lightweight without sacrificing the warmth of a longer gown. If you wear something with shorter sleeves, you will definitely want to bring another layer for warmth, especially in cooler months. You will likely be doing quite a bit of walking in your dress, so make sure it is comfortable and you are okay with it potentially dragging.
As for the groom, a sturdy and comfortable suit is your best option since you may be walking considerable distances. Pick a material that may be heavier for extra warmth and a nice heavy jacket to keep you cozy in case of snow.
Regardless of the style of dress or suit, the most essential part of your elopement outfit will be your hiking boots. You’ll need a pair made of sturdy material with plenty of grip to get to the perfect elopement spot. Ski boots are ideal, but you can find plenty of cute, vintage hiking boots that add something special to your wedding day attire! Keep in mind that additional hiking equipment may be needed if you choose a more mountainous hiking area.
How Much Does a Swiss Alps Elopement Cost?
The cost of your elopement will vary depending on several factors, including your travel, accommodations, attire, and more. Where and when you elope will also affect your total budget. Some photographers, planners, and coordinators may offer elopement packages that include most of your vendors. Still, you will likely be able to put something together a la carte, too.
Cost Factors
Putting your elopement together, you will want to consider the costs of:
Travel: How are you getting to Switzerland? Once you are here, how will you be getting from place to place? Public transportation in Switzerland is efficient and reliable, but perhaps you’d instead rent a car.
Accommodations: Will you stay in a quaint cottage rental or a luxury ski chalet?
Attire: Consider how you envision yourself and your partner looking for your elopement. Something warm and simple will suffice, but perhaps you are looking for a more once-in-a-lifetime look.
Photographer: Your wedding photos are the only thing that truly lasts about your wedding; the rest of your day lives on in memory. Make sure you find a photographer who can capture the magic of your wedding for you to treasure forever.
Officiant: Are you bringing along a friend or family member to officiate your ceremony (although remember, it is a symbolic ceremony, as only Swiss residents can legally marry in Switzerland), or perhaps you will book a local officiant who can help incorporate some Swiss tradition into your elopement?
Details: You may choose a bridal bouquet for your elopement or smaller pieces like vow books. Take these into consideration as you plan your budget.
Food and entertainment: Do you plan to celebrate following your ceremony? Whether you are contemplating a private dinner for just the two of you, or an intimate party for close family and friends, you will want to account for the cost accordingly.
Coordinator or Planner: If you are planning on bringing guests, you may want to consider a coordinator or planner who can help ensure your day goes off without a hitch. Let them sweat the small details so you can focus on enjoying every moment of your elopement.
Travel insurance: Make sure your entire trip is protected from various circumstances with travel insurance. It’s one of those things that, in the best case scenario, you won’t need, but worst case scenario, you’ll be glad you have.
Hiring a Swiss Alps Elopement Photographer
You are investing time and money to elope to the Swiss Alps. Naturally, you will search for a photographer who can immortalize these important moments for the rest of your lives. That’s where I come in!
As your elopement photographer, my job goes beyond capturing photos; I am also there to encourage, support and guide you throughout your day. My style is laid-back and spontaneous, so you won’t be stuffy and posed for your pictures. Instead, I focus on capturing the honest emotions of your elopement, honoring the genuine relationship between the two of you.
I am based in Switzerland, so I am familiar with the country and its customs (though I will happily travel the world to share your special day.) When we work together, you will feel comfortable knowing that my priority is capturing the connection between you and your partner. No matter where you exchange vows. Your wedding should be genuine and fun, a reflection of the couple at its heart, and when you work with me, that is what your photos will capture for the rest of time.
Swiss Alps Elopement
The Swiss Alps are an idyllic place to elope. We have it all, whether you are looking for pristine snow or lush, green, forest-covered mountainsides. Switzerland’s breathtaking vistas and welcoming tourism industry are ready to host you and your partner for the most important occasion of your lives. But when you’re prepared for your Swiss Alps elopement, I’ll be here waiting to capture every moment.
So are you looking for more Europe wedding content? Then check out the blog links below! But before you go, reach out today to chat about your dream wedding photos!
