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25+ Best Places to Elope in Switzerland (Mountains, Lakes & More) [Updated for 2026]

Elopement Planning Resources

November 13, 2022

As an American elopement photographer working in the Swiss Alps, one of the biggest questions couples ask is, ‘’Where’s the best place to get married in Switzerland?’’. 

The truth is, though, there is no ‘’best place to get married in Switzerland’’, because there isn’t a one-size-fits-all location. Every couple has a different vision of how they want to spend their day.

The blog you’ll find here, ‘’25 The Best Places to Get Married and Elope in Switzerland’’, is designed to be a jumping-off point as you start planning your Switzerland wedding. In it, you’ll get a better idea of the different types of landscapes the Swiss Alps hold, so you don’t want to miss it! For a more in-depth guide on how to elope and get married in Switzerland, you can check out our full guide here.

If you want in-depth help with planning your Switzerland elopement wedding, that’s something I do for all of my couples. 

I help my booked couples: 

  • Find their dream location (and as a local, I have lots of lesser known spots up my sleeve)
  • Create personalized timelines that reflect what they want out of their adventure wedding
  • Suggest English-speaking vendors such as HMUAs, florists, celebrants, etc. 
  • Oh, and not to mention you’ll get my full photography services, and the option to add on videography

To find out how to get started, you can check out my pricing and packages here, or you can contact me here.  In 2025 and 2026, we are putting a greater focus on serving couples who are interested in more private, off-the-beaten-path locations you won’t find while scrolling Instagram.

How to Elope and Get Married in Switzerland

If you’re looking for information on not only where to elope in Switzerland, but how to plan your Switzerland elopement, check out our complete guide linked below.

Switzerland Wedding and Elopement Guide

Map of Switzerland Elopement Locations and Wedding Destinations

Video Guide to the Best Places to Elope in Switzerland

Here’s what I’d share with couples about the best places to elope in Switzerland, created as a video guide. It’s almost like we’re sitting down together, chatting about potential regions for your Swiss wedding. This guide has been created so that you can also tune in like a podcast.

Eloping in Appenzell

Appenzell, Switzerland, is one of our favorite elopement locations in Switzerland. Situated in the northeast corner, just 90 minutes from Zurich, Appenzell offers dramatic views, quaint charm, and amazing spots to elope for a variety of adventure ability levels. Appenzell’s towering, grassy mountains and wildflower-filled meadows are especially breathtaking in the summer. One perk of eloping in Appenzell is that many of the mountains located in its mountain range (the Alpstein massif) are accessible for a longer season than other parts of Switzerland. Late-May through October are great times to elope in Appenzell.

Getting married in St. Moritz and the Engadin

Another one of our top picks for best places to elope in Switzerland is St. Moritz and the Engadin. Located in the Southernmost part of eastern Switzerland, the Engadin is a high alpine valley surrounded by 3,000 meter peaks, glaciers, and sparkling, deep blue lakes. St. Moritz is just one of many picturesque towns located in the valley. 

Year-round, you’ll find plenty to do here and epic adventures for a variety of interests. Whether it’s going on a hike, skiing, taking a snowmobile tour, paragliding, swimming, or something else…you’re sure not to run out of things to do! You’ll also experience a unique blend of cultures in this region, and plenty of Italian flair. 

Because the Engadin is located at a fairly high elevation in the alps, summer typically arrives later to the region (I’d wait until July for serious hiking), and winter also arrives early. Mid-October is an especially stunning time to visit the region, since the mountainsides become covered in brilliant orange larch trees. 

You can check out a mini-guide to eloping in St. Moritz we’ve written, here.

Eloping in Valais, Switzerland

Valais, Switzerland is an incredible elopement destination that boasts rugged scenery, plentiful wildflowers, glaciers, and some of Switzerland’s tallest mountains. Valais, which is a canton located in Southeast Switzerland has also a variety of cultures, as both German and French is spoken depending on which town or village you stay in. This makes it an especially unique region.

Valais is a winter paradise for couples who love to ski, and one of Switzerland’s snowier locations. Plan on December-April to hit the slopes (or later if you visit a spot with year-round glacier skiing). Summer comes late to the area, so July-September is best for wildflowers and accessibility to the alpine regions. October is stunning for fall colors, as the mountainsides are covered in golden larch trees.

We love Valais for elopements, and it is a ”must go” place for adventure-lovers looking for something off-the-beaten-path.

Eloping in Engelberg 

Engelberg is a beautiful elopement destination in central Switzerland if you want the feel of some of the region’s more famous locations while getting also getting away from the crowds associated with those areas. Engelberg has a few different beautiful alpine lakes to explore, and an extensive cable car system that can take you to the top of Mount Titlis, which has a height of over 3,000 meters. Whether you want to hike, swim, or ski and sled down groomed routes, In Engelberg, you’ll be able to find fun activities for both summer and winter.  

We’ve personally fallen in love with the charm of Engelberg. It’s the perfect mix of classic Swiss charm and jaw-dropping mountains. Engelberg should be on every couple’s radar as a potential Switzerland elopement destination. In 2026, we’d love to work with more couples in this region in late-June/early-July (entering wildflower season!).

Lauterbrunnen Elopements

Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland is a popular elopement destination for many couples, and for good reason. It’s known as one of the most beautiful valleys in the world, the towering cliffsides are mesmerizing, and it’s home to 72 waterfalls. The village is cozy, and looks like something out of a fairy tale. 

As beautiful as Lauterbrunnen is, we don’t recommend spending the majority of your experience in Lauterbrunnen. If you’re really set on going, we would only suggest making it as a short stop during your day, and then heading off to explore the surrounding area via cable car, cogwheel train, or hiking. We suggest this because, one, Lauterbrunnen is actually very small and has quite limited locations to photograph at, and two, it’s typically very crowded. If you want the full low down of eloping in Lauterbrunnen, you can check out our Lauterbrunnen wedding guide.

Moving forward, we will not be taking elopements in Lauterbrunnen unless it is just a small stop during a couple’s wedding. We’ve found that the crowds often negatively impact our couple’s experiences.

Eloping in Grindelwald 

Another great elopement location is Grindelwald, Switzerland, located just a valley over from Lauterbrunnen. In Grindelwald, you’re surrounded by panoramic views in every direction. You also have access to numerous cable cars and cogwheel trains, which open up countless hiking options. If you elope in Grindelwald, just note it’s a very popular destination, so consider planning an overnight mountain hut adventure to maximize your privacy. 

We have a full breakdown of what you need to know about eloping in Grindelwald here.

Getting married in Interlaken

Interlaken, Switzerland is a great place to set up as base during your Switzerland elopement. It’s centrally located to the Bernese Alps (and just 25 minutes from Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald). The town of Interlaken is bustling year round, and offers plenty of lodging, dining, and activities nearby. There are some great cable cars and cogwheel trains not far from town, making it easy to get around and explore. 

Elopement at the Oeschinensee in 2023, before the current ban.

Eloping at the Oeschinensee

The Oeschinensee is a top Switzerland elopement location for many couples, and a spot it’s hard to get tired of. You can access the lake via a moderate hike, or taking a cable car and a short hike. The glittering blue water is nothing short of spectacular. As an added bonus, you also have forest surrounding the lake, glacial views, and rocky cliffsides. You can elope at the Oeschinensee in both summer and winter too. Because of its popularity, we’d suggest eloping at the Oeschinensee on a weekday, going first thing in the morning, and avoiding peak travel seasons (like August).

Important Update: Couples cannot get married at the Oeschinensee as of 2024 onward. The Oeschinensee is dealing with mass overtourism, leading to environmental degradation. The cable car operators and local landowners request that couples and photographers respect these rules, the community, and the environment by getting married elsewhere. Yes, even elopements are currently banned at Oeschinensee, even if it is only the couple without guests.

On the Oeschinensee FAQ page you can also find the following information under these two section, ”Are events such as weddings or similar permitted in the Oeschinensee area? No, Oeschinensee is located in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and is surrounded by various protected areas, including plant conservation areas, dry meadows and wildlife rest areas. Due to these special protective measures, all (commercial) events and drone flights are prohibited by law. Compliance with these rules is monitored by rangers.”; and ‘‘What outdoor guidelines apply when dealing with social media? Only post activities that are permitted. Publishing prohibited activities can have legal consequences. Remember that content on the internet remains visible for a long time. Only publish photos, videos or quotes on websites and social media from people who have expressly given you their consent to do so (personal rights). Commercial photo shoots are also not permitted at Oeschinensee .’‘ Please note, any type of photo sessions including influencing, couples photography, elopements, weddings, or other paid work, is considered commercial work.

Getting married in Gstaad

Gstaad is an upscale elopement destination in Switzerland known for its beautiful valleys, great skiing, and incredible wellness resorts. If you want to combine both adventure and relaxation, Gstaad can be the perfect place, both summer and winter. Something we particularly like about Gstaad is there are some beautiful, easy-access alpine lakes and waterfalls that rival many popular locations in beauty, but are far less trafficked. 

Braunwald Switzerland Elopements

Tucked away in Eastern Switzerland, Braunwald is another quaint elopement destination perfect for couples who love sweeping green mountains, craggy summits, plentiful wildflowers, and hidden alpine lakes. If you want a one-of-a-kind elopement in an area few couples go to, Braunwald is a great area to consider. While it is more remote than some other regions, it is still well-connected to cable cars, good food, and plenty of activities (from hiking and via ferratas to wine tours and boat rides.

Weddings and Elopements in Zermatt

Home to the famous Matterhorn, Zermatt is another incredible elopement destination in Switzerland. While the most iconic view is of the Matterhorn, there are plenty of other mountaintop panoramas to be seen. Most elopement spots in Zermatt are accessed via the Gornergrat Bahn, or else via cable car. Something especially cool about Zermatt is most years, there’s the possibility of year-round skiing! 

Zermatt is unique, because it’s a car-free town, so you can only arrive via train (or private helicopter taxi). Because of the logistical constraints of getting in and out of Zermatt, we recommend spending a few days here and exploring all that you can within the town before continuing on your trip. Zermatt is a very popular destination, so if you want some amazing mountain views (without the crowds), we also know of some incredible lesser-known locations in the nearby valleys we’re happy to share with our booked couples.

We have a full Zermatt Wedding and Elopement Guide you can read here.

Eloping at the Aletsch Arena

If you want to see mind-blowing scenery during your Switzerland elopement, don’t miss the Aletsch Arena. The Aletsch Arena shows off panoramic high-alpine scenery, including extensive views of the Aletsch glacier. For the best experience, we recommend planning an overnight stay at one of the huts on the mountain (accessed via cable car) so you have a shot at stargazing and witnessing this area at the best times of day – sunrise and sunset. Another unique perk of overnight elopements at the Aletsch Arena? You can even stay at a villa on the mountain – Villa Cassel. We suggest heading to the Aletsch Arena during mid-to-late July or early September, when the snow has melted, and you can see the blue ice. 

Weddings in Ticino

Palm trees…in Switzerland? The Italian-speaking region of Ticino is growing in popularity as a whimsical wedding destination. Lugano, one of Ticino’s towns is even known as Switzerland’s Monte Carlo. Ticino is famous for its vineyards, sparkling blue rivers, and fantastic hiking. It’s located not too far from Italy’s famous Lake Como. For couples looking for a unique Switzerland wedding, look no further than the area surrounding Ticino. 

Weddings in Lausanne 

For a bit of French flair on your wedding day, consider heading to Lausanne, which sits on the shores of Lake Geneva. From Lausanne, you have views of both the Swiss and French Alps. Additionally, you can find numerous chic, upscale wedding venues to meet your celebration needs.

Getting married in Zurich

For couples that love the city, a wedding in Zurich offers a nice blend of beautiful “old-town” charm while also being located along lake Zurich. If you’re hoping for mountains, I’d suggest staying somewhere outside the city, though, since the best hiking is still 60-90 minutes away.

Eloping on a Mountain Pass in Switzerland 

If you want to know our favorite way to access some of the best elopement locations in Switzerland, don’t overlook mountain passes. 

Switzerland has dozens of stunning drives that offer locations with jaw-dropping views. One perk of mountain passes is that you can access these ‘’mountain top feel’’ spots without being tied to cable car operating times. That means you can visit during sunrise or sunset! 

A few things worth noting about alpine pass locations: 

  • Due to their lofty elevation, it’s not uncommon for low clouds + fog to be present. Sunrise tends to have better visibility. 
  • Alpine pass locations are best suited for the summer – generally from July to mid-September.
  • Driving alpine passes isn’t for the faint of heart. If you aren’t used to navigating steep and windy roads or would find that experience stressful, these locations may not be a good fit for you. 

Trust us though when I say the Switzerland elopement locations on mountain passes are truly unmatched. Stunning meadows, craggy peaks, glaciers…it’s epic.

Eloping at a Swiss Mountain Hut or Berghotel 

For more amazing elopement locations in Switzerland, consider staying overnight at a Berghotel (mountain hotel), or a mountain hut (typically dormitory style). These accommodations are situated in all kinds of breathtaking spots, and provide meals too. 

A huge benefit of staying overnight in a Berghotel or mountain hut is you have a chance to catch sunrise or sunset in a surreal private location. These accommodations can often be accessed via cable car or cogwheel train, allowing you to stay out when the daytime crowds disappear at the end of the day. Mountain hut locations also give you some great stargazing opportunities on clear nights. 

We LOVE photographing multi-day adventures, and highly recommend opting for a Berghotel as part of your adventure elopement.

Wedding Venues in Switzerland for Your Elopement with Guests

If you’re planning on bringing along close friends and family to your elopement (whoohoo!), here are some beautiful Switzerland mountain wedding venues to check out. While it’s possible to hold a micro wedding in Switzerland without a venue (and some of my couples do hike with their guests), you’ll want a wedding venue if you need seating set up, or want to have tables, decorations, etc. 

Switzerland Wedding and Elopement Locations Based on Vibe

Having a hard time narrowing down where to get married in Switzerland? Here are my top regions to suggest, based on the vibe you’re going for: 

Switzerland Elopement Locations with BIG Mountains

If you want to elope somewhere that has towering mountains and glacier views, while still showing off plenty of greenery and wildflowers, below you’ll find some gorgeous inspiration for areas to consider. I love many of these regions for couples seeking fewer crowds and something unique. These locations also offer great fall colors and skiing in the winter. 

  • Engadin St. Moritz (Graubünden, Southeastern Switzerland) 
  • Scuol (Graubünden, Southeastern Switzerland)
  • Arolla (Valais, Western Switzerland) 
  • Evolène (Valais, Western Switzerland)
  • Fiesch (Valais, Central/Western Switzerland)

Elopements with Classic Swiss Scenery

For grassy green mountains, wildflowers, lakes, and a great mix of both off-the-beaten path locations and more popular spots, these are my go-to recommendations. They offer diverse landscapes and stunning mountain views. 

  • Appenzell (Eastern Switzerland)
  • Braunwald (Eastern Switzerland) 
  • Walensee (Eastern Switzerland)
  • Engelberg (Central Switzerland) 
  • Gstaad (West/Central Switzerland)

The Instagram Wedding Hotspots

For couples who want to elope in the place they’ve seen again and again online, and can’t stop dreaming about, here are the top IG hotspots you can elope at in Switzerland. While these spots may not be private, they are beautiful. 

  • Lauterbrunnen (Bernese Alps, Central Switzerland) 
  • Grindelwald First (Bernese Alps, Central Switzerland)
  • Oeschinensee (Bernese Alps, Central Switzerland)
  • Interlaken (Bernese Alps, Central Switzerland)
  • Lucerne (Central Switzerland) 
  • Matterhorn, Zermatt (Valais, Western Switzerland)

Do I need a permit for my Switzerland elopement location?

Typically, no, but it depends on the region. For example, in areas of the Bernese Alps such as Lauterbrunnen, Wengen, and Grindelwald, permits are becoming more popular and must be obtained directly through the local landowners. This is something I can help my booked couples with.

There is also some nuance to where you can and can’t elope. While most outdoor locations don’t require a formal permit for an elopement ceremony, if you’re planning a larger gathering (8 or more people), getting married on private property (ie, next to a hut, villa, farmer’s property, etc.), you’ll need to obtain permission.  

Beyond permits, it’s important to consider other factors like respecting the natural environment and leaving no trace. Some locations may have restrictions on the use of drones, amplified music, or can only accommodate a few people due to fragile alpine areas.

Switzerland Elopement Location Rules and Restrictions

While choosing where to elope in the Swiss Alps, here are a few rules and restrictions to keep in mind:

Protected Nature Areas: The Swiss Alps are home to dozens of protected nature and wildlife preserves. While many of these are perfectly fine to elope at, other spots you actually can’t get married at most of the year, despite growing popularity on social media. For example, many low-alpine meadows near villages and towns should not be walked on, or can only be walked on during certain times of year. Certain grasses and flowers in these meadows are protected as they are rich in nutrients and important to the cows. While not all of these areas are fenced off, that is a tell-tale sign to remain on the trail. Hiring a local vendor familiar with the nuances of protected areas in the Alps will help you have a stress-free, nature-friendly elopement.

Drones: Similar to the point above, there are drone restrictions in Switzerland, and across the Alps. Nearly all nature-protected areas are no-fly zones. Most no-fly zones aren’t listed on the DJI app, so photographers and videographers must do their due diligence to research restrictions. For example, Lauterbrunnen, the Oeschinensee, and many parts of Appenzell have flying restrictions or are no-fly zones. We always recommend choosing a videographer who can make a great film, regardless of drone photography so you can put your focus on selecting a location based on scenery, accessibility, and privacy first. We offer both photography and videography services in the Swiss Alps

These two websites are especially helpful (and need to be cross-referenced) to find out about no-fly zones.

How do I access my elopement location in the Swiss Alps?

The most common form of transportation for Swiss Alps locations are via cable car, or hiking. Cable cars (often referred to as ‘’bahns’’ in Switzerland) are found in just about every mountain town. Cable cars typically run from about 9 am to 5 pm, making them perfect for mid-day adventures. With cable car accessible spots, we recommend taking trails 15-20 minutes away from the top, so you have a better chance at privacy and seclusion. 

Couples dreaming of a sunrise or sunset elopement have a couple of options. The simplest is to stick to the valley which have locations you can get to with a short walk (often good for mountain lakes). If you’re envisioning a mountain top, your best bet is to hike or stay overnight in a cable car-accessible mountain hut or mountain hotel.

Should I book a venue for my wedding in Switzerland? 

For elopements with fewer than eight people involved, you generally don’t need to book a venue to hold your ceremony. If you’d like to set up chairs or decorations, or involve more people, we highly suggest securing a small venue for your wedding in Switzerland. 

Unlike in some parts of the world, venues in the Swiss Alps are often well suited for small groups, and frequently situated in stunning alpine  scenery. We’ve seen hiking-accessible only venues, and there are countless mountain huts accessed via cable car that double as venues. 

How much does a wedding venue cost in Switzerland?

While pricing fluctuates, you can generally expect to spend between 3.000CHF-6.000CHF for a few-hour rental at a mountain hut or small mountain hotel. This may include help with basic setup, drinks, appetizers after the ceremony. Other venues require booking an overnight stay, or full meal packages and cost upward of 20.000+ CHF.

Swiss Alps Elopement Packages

If you’re ready to start making your wedding in Switzerland a reality, you can check out our Switzerland elopement packages here. You can also contact us here to set up a free consultation call.

Every Swiss Alps Elopement Package Includes:

-8+ hours of photography coverage with the option to add on videography
-My VIP elopement planning guide and English-speaking vendor guide
-Personalized Questionnaires
-Custom location guides and timeline assistance
-Support Calls
-All photographer/videographer travel fees are covered

Alps Wedding Inspiration

Switzerland Elopement Location Photos and Videos

Want a glimpse into what your adventurous Switzerland elopement can look like? Check out these galleries I’ve blogged below for where to elope in Switzerland.

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