ISLE OF SKYE ELOPEMENT
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT GETTING MARRIED AT the Isle of Skye.
The Isle of Skye in the Scottish Hebrides is without a doubt one of the most magical locations for a romantic elopement.
It has it all: soft, sandy beaches, mystical rocks and ruins, misty-topped mountains, waterfalls, lochs, and so much more, all crammed into one stunning island, which is why I’ve put together everything you need to know about getting married at the Isle of Skye.
WHERE IS THE ISLE OF SKYE?
Located on the west coast of Scotland, Skye is perhaps the most famous of the Hebridean Isles – and for good reason.
Measuring at approximately 50 miles in length, Skye is a coastal isle that is conveniently close to the mainland, making it super accessible for those coming in from nearby airports or transport links.
The capital of Skye is the small but magical town of Portree in the northern part of the isle, with other delightful locations including Dunvegan, Uig (which is famed for its strong vein of Gaelic folklore and Rowan trees!), and Staffin. Skye is a particularly popular elopement destination because, unlike many of the other Scottish islands, you can drive to it from the mainland.
WHY ELOPE IN THE ISLE OF SKYE?
As we mentioned earlier, this rugged corner of the world has everything you can ever dream of for an intimate and peaceful elopement. It also has several famous whisky distilleries, for those who may like to celebrate their special day with a locally-made tipple!
Also, don’t be deterred by the smallness of the island – you still have ample choice for outdoor ceremony locations, wedding feast establishments, and accommodation – including log cabins and mystical castles! Skye is famous for many things, including waterfalls, which can make for a seriously stunning backdrop for your elopement ceremony. But we’ll get to that in a minute.
Finally, Skye really is the ultimate location for nature lovers because it boasts every natural landscape you can imagine (except deserts, but really, who wants to wed their sweetheart in a desert?!). Because of this, Skye isn’t known for urban scenery or excessive nightlife, so if this is a factor for your celebrations then the island probably isn’t for you.
one of the most magical locations for a romantic elopement.
If you’re planning a quiet getaway for your elopement, why not consider an Isle of Skye?
PERFECT FOR
ELOPEMENTS
Skye Elopement Locations
Cuillin Mountains
Scotland is known for its vast array of impressive mountain peaks, and the Skye skies are bedecked with two impressive beauties: the Black Cuillin and the Red Cuillin, otherwise known as the Cuillin Mountains.
These mountains, which are 60 million years old, were formed by the cooling magma of an enormous volcano. The result of which is one of the best places in Skye to experience some incredible panorama views, fresh air, and epic wedding photos!
Be warned though, this mountain range – particularly the Black Cuillin – isn’t suitable for novices, so this elopement spot is recommended for experienced hikers only.
Portree
The capital of Portree is the most populated of Skye locations and features shops, restaurants, and hotels, making it an ideal base or elopement spot for couples wanting to be a little more ‘in on the action’.
Known for its quaint harbourside, which is speckled with a spectacular row of pastel-coloured seaside cottages, this village is bustling with fishing boats and is like something from a postcard! Foodies will delight in the eatery options available in Portree, which includes an artisan woodfire pizza place, cosy country pubs, and even a Michelin-star restaurant. As for accommodation, couples can choose from hotels, B&Bs, a hostel, and even a campsite.
Neist Point
Neist Point can be found on the very tip of the Scottish peninsula overlooking the dramatic waves of the North Sea and is made famous for its resident lighthouse. It’s the perfect spot for those wanting to view the roaring waves of the ocean, as well as admire some local wildlife, such as puffins, dolphins, and basking sharks.
Built in 1909 and still an active lighthouse – and indeed, Scotland’s most famous – Neist Point Lighthouse’s beam can be seen up to 24 miles away. The views from the point itself are nothing short of breathtaking, particularly at sunrise and sunset. Be mindful though that this area is incredibly remote and doesn’t feature any nearby accommodation or restaurants, and involves a fairly notable walk to reach the lighthouse, so appropriate clothing and footwear is recommended.
Coral Beach
Beach weddings are to the wedding industry what the little black dress is to fashion – a timeless classic. Couples need not travel to the farthest corners of the Caribbean to feel pristine white sand between their toes – Coral Beach in Skye will do that!
Located in the small community of Claigan, Coral Beach is a remote waterside haven complete with aquamarine waters. Overlooking this serene sea are the mountains and ancient (and thankfully inactive) volcanos that the Hebrides are famous for. Lovers of water wildlife can enjoy a wedding picnic while spotting some of the local aquatic residents, such as seals, porpoises, whales, and the vast array of North Atlantic seabirds.
The image pictured about isn’t from Coral Beach. I haven’t yet had the privilege of taking a couple there, so here’s another beach session at a hidden beach just outside of Edinburgh.
Fairy Glen
Speaking of fairies, it’s a cardinal sin to visit Skye without stopping by the Gaelic folklore-rife realm of Fairy Glen. Better yet – why not choose it as your elopement ceremony spot?!
Fairy Glen can be found in the Rowan-studded hills above Uig, and as well as being a rural haven complete with emerald green grass and Highland sheep, is famous for its two ancient and mythical artifacts: the geological wonder of Castle Ewen (which is actually a rock formation) and the mini labyrinth.
These features make it easy to understand why this landslip is otherwise known as the Land of the Fairies, and is particularly idyllic for couples wanting a fantastical backdrop to their ceremony.
Fairy Pools
We mentioned earlier that Skye is known for its waterfall collection, but the Fairy Pools in Glenbrittal aren’t just any old run-of-the-mill waterfalls.
Located at the foot of the Black Cuillan Mountain, the Fairy Pools are as magical and mystical as they sound. Although the waterfalls aren’t particularly known for their height (they range from 2-7 meters), they still possess an otherworldly quality that would make them right at home in a fantasy novel.
The pools themselves are also a delight, and are formed from the freshest, clearest spring water – the very same water used to create the mouthwatering exports from the nearby whisky distilleries!
The spot pictured isn’t actually the Fairy Pools! It’s a little hidden gem that only takes a few minutes to walk to (instead of the 30 min – 1 hour for the Fairy Pools).
The Quiraing
Another go-to spot for lovers of hiking and the outdoors is the famous landform known as the Quiraing.
Known in Scottish Gaelic as Cith-Raing, The Quiraing, which is located on the Trotternish Ridge, is known as one of the most jaw-dropping landscapes in the Hebrides. It features several famous natural landmarks, including ‘The Prison’, and has a nearby car park, making it more accessible than other rural spots in Skye.
Old Man of Storr
Known to locals as just The Storr, the Old Man of Storr is a mysterious cluster of pointy rocks at the top of the Trotternish Ridge. It is also a famous walking trail – making it ideal for those wanting a hiking elopement – with the inside of the rock formation making for an ideal ceremony location.
To fully walk the entire perimeter of the Storr would take about 2 days, so camping equipment is required, as this remote area doesn’t have nearby accommodation.
Loch Coruisk
It is simply rude to visit Scotland and not stop by a loch to take in its peaceful vibes and serene views! Although there is no shortage of lochs to marvel at in Scotland, the freshwater Loch Coruisk has a certain folklore-esque twist.
Legend has it that the loch is home to a kelpie (a shapeshifting water-horse) that can assume the form of a man. These mythological beings are said to have ‘sticky’ hides so that when their prey mounts them, they can never get off.
Why not tie the knot at Loch Coruisk and see if you can catch a glimpse of the kelpie – maybe he can even officiate the wedding!
(Jokes. We doubt he has a license…).
Q&A
What should be included in an elopement ceremony?
You can include anything you wish that might also appear in a larger-scale wedding, such as ring exchanges, vows, first kiss as newlyweds, handfasting, a glass of bubbly, walking down the aisle, and so on. You could also choose to integrate some Scottish wedding traditions.
How many guests is considered an elopement?
Ideally, for an elopement guest list, less is more (think 10 guests or less). There are several individuals that are required to be there for the legal aspect, such as the officiator and a witness, but any more than 10 guests and you’re heading into micro-wedding territory.
How much does it cost to elope in the UK?
It depends on what type of ceremony you opt for and where you plan on conducting it. For example, registry office elopements can cost around £120, whereas hiring a church or other religious establishment may cost more.
Is elopement legal in the UK?
Absolutely. However, depending on where in the UK you plan on eloping, there may be different rules and regulations, so you will need to brush up on your knowledge of local laws and customs.
What does eloping mean in the UK?
Eloping in the UK is much the same as it is anywhere else in the world. It’s the official unity of two people as conducted by an officiator. It is essentially the same as a wedding celebration but with fewer/no guests.
