5 places to elope on Isle of Skye, Scotland

Aug 15

Scotland has always been one of those places full of myth, wonder, and beauty. But there is a particular Scottish island that is extraordinarily unique and mythical—Isle of Skye. When crossing the Skye Bridge for the first time, your whole body experiences a sudden shift. Anxiety, concerns, and doubtfulness dissipate. What’s left? The welcoming feelings of calm, serenity, and intimacy. At least this is what happened to me while I drove across that bridge for the first time.

Of course, the excitement of being in a new place and learning of its folklore and mystery had me fully entranced. But the actual atmosphere that the land created is what made me feel like I was walking around in an enchanted fairy tale. Never before have I experienced physical land emitting magical energies. I know that sounds a bit far out there. Trust me! I’ve never been one for magic crystal healing powers or anything of the sort. But I truly don’t know how else to describe this island other than magical.

It was this magical sensation I felt on Isle of Skye that not only made me wish I had eloped there but inspired me to become a Scottish elopement photographer and photograph couples from all over the world in this serene and magical land.

I’ve created this list of locations on Isle of Skye that would be perfect to elope to just you and your partner or a small group of your closest loved ones. These locations include outdoor elopement ideas as well as small castle wedding ideas.

The Fairy Glen

This is the ideal location for a sunrise ceremony elopement. In the early morning, the glen is completely uninhabited. It is silent except for a trickle of water in the far distance. Alone, just you and your partner, you’ll wander through the glen soaking up its magic. Multiple tall hills provide excellent ceremony locations. Here you can whisper your vows to each other as the morning sun slowly spills it’s light onto the glen and creates a soft spotlight on you. You will feel like the only two people on earth here creating the ultimate unique elopement and intimate experience.

Old Man Storr

An excellent location for the adventurous couple wanting to experience a hiking elopement is Old Man Storr. Although the hike is long, gets a bit rugged near the top, and you may or may not experience all four seasons in one hour, it’s dramatic mountainous scenery and views make it a dreamy setting and worth the climb.

The main path is busy with tourists midday, however, there are multiple lesser-known paths in the area that are extremely private and would make a romantic and intimate elopement. Planning a sunrise or sunset elopement will also help avoid crowds.

Dun Beag Broch

Being on top of the hill next to Dun Beag Broch makes you feel on top of the world. The view overlooks Scottish farmland and the ocean. The Broch is now in ruins, but what’s left will make you feel like you’ve stumbled through time. It’s this aspect of the Broch that creates the romantic atmosphere suited for a unique elopement.

Although the Broch is on a hill, it is located close to the parking lot and isn’t too steep of a climb which makes this location an ideal compromise if you want beautiful views but not a strenuous hike.

Personally, my favourite part of the Broch is that you get a bit of everything here. Beautiful Scottish views, stone ruins, accessibility, and privacy.

Eilean Donan Castle

Although not on Skye, Eilean Donan Castle is a short 15-minute drive off of the island and onto the Scottish mainland. It is a gorgeous setting for those who love history and perhaps are wanting to elope with friends and family. Eilean Donan Castle sits on a wee island that you walk to on a medieval stone bridge. You will say your vows overlooking the three lochs - Loch Long, Loch Duich, & Loch Alsh - with highland mountains surrounding you.

Because the castle is open to tourists, ceremonies take place in the evening when it is closed to tourists - allowing you and your guests’ private access to the castle and courtyards! Sunset elopement at a castle? Yes, please!

Dunvegan Castle

Have you ever wanted to feel like a princess in a fairy tale the day you marry your best friend? Honestly, I know I did, and Dunvegan Castle is the perfect location to make this vision come to life. This castle has multiple historical rooms available for use, looks over Loch Dunvegan, and has multiple gorgeous gardens to stroll through. There’s even a waterfall!!!

The castle makes for a beautiful backdrop for a fairy tale elopement or intimate wedding, but also a practical location for those wanting to elope with a small number of guests.

I’d love to know which of the above locations spoke to you the most. Or if you have eloped to one of these locations, what was your experience? Share with me below. <3