3 of the Best Elopement Locations for your wedding in the Scottish Highlands | Heather McKay Photography | Scotland, UK

Heather McKay
Apr 27, 2025
3 min read

If you're dreaming of an intimate, soulful elopement in a location that really takes your breath away, the Scottish Highlands are home to some of the most stunning, scenic spots in the world. From rugged landscapes and heathered moors to wild beaches and peaceful loch-sides, here are my top three locations for a truly unforgettable elopement.

1. Sandwood Bay – Kinlochbervie - My favourite elopement location in the Scottish Highlands

Close to the highest point of mainland Scotland and little bit of a hike from the nearest carpark in Blairmore, but it’s a spot that is well worth the journey. Sandwood Bay is a hidden gem of the Scottish coastline and a gorgeous beach that few venture to, which makes it perfect for an intimate getaway. Hike across the landscape and around lochs before emerging through the grass onto a white sand beach nestled between the hills. Whether the sun is shining, or the weather is a wild as the Highlands themselves, the absolute raw beauty of this intimate spot cannot be altered. Sandwood holds a special place in my heart bringing it to the top of this list, as it’s the place my husband proposed to me. We later continued our travels to Thurso, where my family are from, to stay for a few nights, and there are guest houses and lodges a little closer in the villages of Kinlochberview, Durness and Tongue.

2. The Meeting of the Three Waters - Glencoe

Known for its dramatic, mystical scenery, Glencoe is one of the best-known areas of the Scottish Highlands and is perfect for couples seeking a wild elopement. Head beyond the Three Sisters peaks, park at the Làirig Èilde Car Park and hike a short distance over the hill to the point where the three rivers meet. Say your vows on top of the most incredible waterfall before taking a cold dip in the pools – the most beautiful thing about your elopement is it’s yours, and you can celebrate however you like! Head down the side of the waterfall to enjoy the magic below or hop over the wall to the road to take in the entire view. Stay just a few minutes away at the Kinghouse Hotel and heat up with a dram by the fire.

3. The Three Sisters Viewpoint - Glencoe

The Three Sisters is the name given to 3 towering mountains, the northern peaks of the highest mountain range in Glencoe. Arrive early morning for peace and tranquility, and explore the landscapes of wild heather, mist and low hanging clouds. The Scottish Highlands are a magical place to experience, but the mountain ranges of Glencoe carry that extra bit of mysticism, having once been connected to the Appalacian mountains on a continent called Pangea. Althought separted for millions of years, many believe in the magic these mountain ranges hold, making them perfect for a romantic, breathtaking elopement location.

4. The Quiraing - Isle of Skye

The Isle of Skye is quaint and breathtaking, with wild mountains and dramatic landscapes. The little island offers so many stunning locations for your elopement, and the Quiraing is one of my favourites. Park at the top of the mountain before sunrise and explore the rugged cliffs as the sun comes up through the most unique mountain peaks. Say your vows on the vast open landscape and explore some of the hidden nooks and crannies for some quiet moments together. Another personal favourite spot, as it’s the one my husband and I chose for private vows following our wedding. The island is small, so venture down to the fairy pools afterwards for a dip in the magical waters, before staying in the main town of Portree.

When you choose to elope, you’re choosing to celebrate your love and marriage in your own way, in a place that speaks to your soul. The Scottish Highlands have some of the most gorgeous, and incredible locations just waiting for your adventure. Embrace the wild atmosphere and celebrate your love in a truly magical spot, intimate and unique to you. If you’re planning your elopement and love these locations, or want to hear about more perfect areas, get in touch to start planning.