Having just returned from some of the most stunning ceremonies and scenery in Europe, I have to say there is something so special in having your wedding or Elopement ceremony on a Swiss mountain top!
It really is a stunningly beautiful and breathtaking backdrop to making those vows and promises to each other. I really love how this small but beautiful country offers so much to couples who want to experience the romance, style, flair and grandeur of Switzerland. After your Wedding Ceremony, with a small group of closest family and friends, or your Elopement, where it is simply the two of you, you might be wondering what you can do in terms of celebrating as a couple or with a small wedding party, and to share my suggestions and experiences with you.
1. Keep your strength up with a Post Elopement Picnic.
With all the excitement and anticipation I know you won’t have been filling up on food and snacks beforehand, so after the ceremony is a perfect time to plan a romantic picnic – with such a wonderful choice of Swiss cheese, bread, wine, and fresh fruit you can simply find your spot and enjoy being together while taking in the stunning views! The fresh mountain air and peaceful surroundings are the perfect setting for an intimate and relaxed celebration.
As you lay out the blanket and set up the picnic basket, take a moment to appreciate the beauty of your surroundings. Whether you’re perched atop a mountain peak or nestled in a quiet valley, the natural beauty will give you so much joy!
Take your time savouring each bite and enjoying each other’s company. As you savour the delicious food and sip on some bubbles, remember to try and remain present in the moment, and share your thoughts, feelings, and dreams with one another. The time for calling family and friends will come, but later, when you’re cosied up together in your chalet cabin!
Consider some star gazing and light some lanterns, so that as the sun begins to set and the stars come out, you can stare at the beauty of the night sky.
For those who are holding a small wedding ceremony, maybe book a Swiss Fondue evening together. There are several wonderful mountain restaurants to try, and using the chair lifts and cable cars is fun. This couple recently celebrated with 10 guests at the wonderful Bergrestaurant Am Wasserngrat where the cosy ambience makes for unforgettable evenings.
2. Take a thrilling cable car ride across the mountain peaks!
Switzerland is known for its cable car rides, and what better way to celebrate your elopement than by taking one of these picturesque rides together or with your wedding party?
Some of the popular cable car rides in Switzerland include the Titlis Rotair cable car, the Klein Matterhorn cable car, and the Schilthorn cable car. Each of these rides offers stunning views of the Swiss Alps, so bring your cameras to capture the breathtaking scenery.
And for a truly unforgettable experience, consider taking a cable car ride at sunset or during the winter months when the mountains are covered in snow. Check out the seasonal timetables and prices so that you make the most of the opportunity to scale the heights without necessarily breaking out the walking poles!
3. Book a relaxing and pampering Spa Treatment
After all the excitement and planning leading up to your elopement, it’s time to unwind and relax. Treat yourselves to a couples spa treatment and let the stress melt away, especially if you have been on a couple of hikes before your big day, and need some time to ready yourselves for your Wedding or Elopement Day!
You can choose from a range of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps. Many spas offer packages specifically designed for couples, complete with champagne and chocolates. Not only will a spa treatment help you both relax, but it will also rejuvenate mind and body and if you choose to do this after your ceremony and celebration, well, I think you’ll agree it is a great way to start your new life together feeling refreshed and revitalized.
Be sure to book your spa treatment in advance to ensure availability, and communicate any special requests or preferences to the spa staff. They will be happy to customize your experience to make it as enjoyable as possible. I can recommend the Hotel Villa Honegg in Ennetburgen near Lucerne, the Gstaad Palace Hotel in Gstaad and Schloss Schadau, a stunning hotel situated on Lake Thun. Each has its own beautiful setting and you will have the most amazing experience!
4. Get your boots on and enjoy a scenic hike:
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not take a scenic hike together and explore the beauty of the area, and the famous Swiss Alps, which are open virtually all year round and have so many stunning trails to choose from. Not only will you get a bit of a workout, but you’ll also have the opportunity to take in breathtaking views of the mountains, valleys, and lakes and scenery that makes it so chocolate box special!
Don’t forget to pack plenty of water and snacks, and make sure to wear comfortable, worn in sturdy shoes and wind and waterproof clothing. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, there is a trail for everyone to enjoy.
The Jungfrau region is perfect for hiking and trekking and is served by a collection of signposted routes best taken in the spring, where you will enjoy those beautiful alpine meadows, with a view to the snowy peaked mountains in the distance. Amongst the most popular routes are the Eiger trail in Grindelwald, and two trails in Murren – the Blumental and Via Ferrata. A quieter route can be found at Obersteinberg, beginning at the village called Stechelberg.
5. Splash out on Fine Dining Experiences
Switzerland is home to many renowned restaurants that offer culinary delights that will tantalize your taste buds. Savour the exquisite food while enjoying the stunning views and the excitement of your adventures!
There’s just something about splurging on a fancy dinner that makes it feel like a special occasion. Perhaps this is exactly the right moment to treat yourselves to a meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant? Switzerland is known for its exceptional culinary scene, and there are plenty of restaurants to choose from that offer a truly unforgettable experience.
But it’s not just about the food – the ambiance of these restaurants is often just as impressive. Many of them boast stunning views of the Swiss countryside, making for a truly romantic and unforgettable evening. So take the time to indulge in some of the finest cuisine that Switzerland has to offer, and celebrate your love in style?
6. Enjoy a bit of the high life with a Private Yacht Hire
Switzerland is famous for its breathtaking scenery and crystal-clear lakes. If you’re looking for a unique experience, consider chartering a private yacht and sailing along one of the many picturesque lakes in the country. Add a taste of luxury and romance to your trip by enjoying a champagne toast on the deck or watching the sunset over the mountains, and from a whole new perspective.
With a private yacht, you’ll have the freedom to explore the lake at your own pace and enjoy the stunning views from the comfort of your own vessel. Eloping in the warm summer months allows you to indulge in the many water sports available, such as swimming, water skiing, Paddleboarding, or simply enjoying cocktails on deck as you admire the view!
and the Swiss makes the travelling so fun, and easy…… 
Switzerland is a small landlocked country of around 9 million people, with scenery that is dominated by the Alps, and with several stunning mountains of over 10,000 feet to explore using some, if not all, of the amazing transport types available. A singular engineering feat of the Swiss which never ceases to amaze me as I travel there, is the creation of amazing picturesque transport links and opportunities to scale these heights with a range of rail, cog wheel, funicular and alpine coasters, meaning you’ll be able to make the most of travelling and experiencing this wonderful country, it’s beauty, and it’s warm and friendly welcome.
Whatever you choose to do, make sure it reflects your personalities and what you both enjoy doing together. Trying new experiences like learning about the actor and writer Charlie Chaplin and visiting his home in Switzerland, exploring the Olympics Museum in Lausanne, Paragliding over Interlaken, or learning about famous Swiss Chocolate on a land-and-water tour of Geneva and seeing this fantastically indulgent treat in various forms.
Take Advantage of the amazing Swiss Pass, and get the best discounts everywhere you go!
This is your special day, and it should be a celebration that you’ll remember for a lifetime, whether it is simply the two of you, or with a very small but perfectly formed wedding party! As your Celebrant, it is a real pleasure to be with you in Switzerland, and as I speak German, a small amount of French and also currently learning Italian, this all adds to the support I can give should you decide to celebrate in this wonderful country!
If there is more you would like to discuss about a possible Elopement in Switzerland, then get in touch with me! I would love to hear about your plans and ideas, and work with you to create a ceremony that kick starts your adventure of a lifetime together! Call me soon to secure your 2024 date at this year’s rates! WhatsApp +447800543426
