Elopement Ideas for Ireland

Tranquil lakes and winding rivers, windswept coastlines and never-ending green hills; Ireland is famous for its breath-taking natural beauty. 

Over the centuries the 'Emerald isle' has inspired countless artists and writers alike and, to this day, the island's natural sites undoubtedly remain amongst some of the most beautiful places on earth.  But it is not only its spectacular scenery that makes Ireland such a popular destination. Due to its long and lively past, you'll find history and culture in every direction; there are stunning castles, hidden-away ruins and charming villages spread across the countryside, just waiting to be explored.  So whether you are looking to get married against the background of the storm-lashed cliffs above the Atlantic Ocean or  seeking a more intimate ceremony in an ivy-covered castle ruin, Ireland offers the ideal location for your elopement.

To help you choose or simply to inspire you, we have put together a selection of destination ideas based upon the idea of ‘unique wedding venues in Ireland’, all to assist with your choice.

Places to elope in Ireland

Cliffs

There are so many wedding locations to choose from in Ireland but when you think about Irish nature, what is the first thing that comes to mind?  The stunning cliffs of Ireland are surely the most well-known attraction on the island, and with good reason.  Over countless years the Atlantic has shaped Ireland’s western coastline into the imposing natural site that we know today. Standing atop the cliffs, the panoramic view, encompassing the Aran Islands etched on the waters of Galway Bay, will simply take your breath away.  From the infamous Cliffs of Moher to some lesser known cliffs along the coast, there are an abundance of places at which you can hold your ceremony, taking advantage of  the most spectacular scenery Ireland has to offer.  The impressive rock formations overlooking the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean beneath make for a dramatic photo opportunity, and create an ideal location for your elopement.  Remember to keep in mind though that Ireland's cliffs are a very popular travel destination and are visited daily by a number of people. But, if you don't mind a few curious spectators at your ceremony, then an elopement to the Cliffs will be a wonderful choice for you.

Ruins

Ireland has a very long and quite eventful past to look back on. Thousands of years of history have left their traces all over the island, leaving it full of amazing ancient sites.  Many of the old monasteries, churches and once magnificent castles were abandoned or simply forgotten long ago and have since been reclaimed by nature.  Unlike the famous cliffs that always attract a number of tourist and eager spectators, an elopement to one of the beautiful ruins can often provide you with real intimacy and a chance to take part in a private ceremony just with your nearest and dearest.

Sitting on a hill, overlooking a secluded beach, or located in the midst of centuries old trees, the ruins of Ireland are always surrounded by stunning nature. With their ivy-covered stone walls enhanced by the brilliant green of their surroundings, they make for a perfect photo opportunity.  But which ruins should you visit?  How about you take advantage of the romantic atmosphere at the old Muckross Abbey ruin in Killarney National Park with its waterfall and lakes or hold a symbolic ceremony in the small castle ruin in Dingle? Whatever you are looking for, you are sure to find the ideal location for your elopement amongst the romantic ruins.

Forests and beaches

If you are not sure where to elope in Ireland, how about looking at the forests of all kinds scattered throughout the land?  Here you will find natural forest parks sited around the Irish cities and villages through to ancient native woodlands.  You can say your vows below a mighty willow tree and have your photographs taken amongst the beautiful oak woods, enclosed by lakes and rivers and with the sound of nature surrounding you.

The Irish forests are also home to many species of wildlife, including deer and fox.  Apart from the green forests, the island also has also dozens of lonely intimate beaches dotted along its coastlines. Sandy shores, the seaside view and the relaxing sound of the ocean waves will ensure a truly magical ceremony in the privacy of any one of these secluded beaches.  An elopement to the woodlands or the beaches of Ireland is a great choice for nature-loving couples and will create exquisite memories along with a truly memorable elopement venue for your day.

Castles and Churches

Not all of Ireland’s castles are in ruins. Many still stand to this day and are open to couples looking for a venue for a small and private elopement ceremony. All across the island many of the former palaces and residences have been beautifully renovated and are often situated in the middle of vast gardens or forests, ideal for an outdoor ceremony. Should you not trust the Irish weather, there will nearly always be enough room to have your reception indoors. Another big plus is the possibility of being able to book an accommodation for you and you guests.  The Fanningstown castle in County Limerick for example can accommodate up to 10 people in its impressive bedrooms and can host receptions for many more.  

If a religious ceremony is what you are looking for, then you might consider eloping to a small and peaceful church far away from the rush of the world. Ireland is home to some beautiful churches, cathedrals and oratories, many of them off the beaten track.   For example, you could hold your ceremony in St. Finbarr's Oratory, a tiny chapel on a lake in the midst of tall pine  trees and rolling hills.

Lodges

Similar to the castles, lodges in Ireland are also historically rich sites and make for stunning venues for an elopement ceremony.  An elopement set in a lodge has one clear advantage when compared to many of the outdoor venues; it offers you the same magical scenery whilst still providing the convenience of charming accommodation and great food for you and your guests.

Here you have access to all of the necessary features to ensure that your wedding day is just  like you imagined it would be.  There are many options to choose from such as the Glengarriff Lodge; this former hunting lodge is surrounded by ancient oak woodlands and is set on its own river island.  With stunning gardens and the cosy glazed conservatory, this is a fairy-tale location for any couple looking to have a small and intimate wedding.

All of these castle ruins and the grounds on which they sit, along with the woodlands and chapels, are steeped in Irish legend and mystery. They illustrate the raw beauty of this remarkable island as well as its fascinating history.  Elope to Ireland and marry at one of its stunning locations, surrounded by the music, food and the people you love. Make memories that will last forever.