Elope in The Alps | The Dolomites, Switzerland, and Chamonix-Mont blanc: The Ultimate Guide

Apr 3

Written By Marcella Laine

The Alps: Elopement Tips, photoshoot Locations, and traveling

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everything on how to plan an adventure in the mountains of europe

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A place of wonder, welcome to THE ALPS

Eloping in the Alps offers a stunning and stress-free alternative to a traditional wedding, with some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world. Whether you’re drawn to the snow-capped peaks of Switzerland, the dramatic cliffs of the Dolomites, or the rolling alpine meadows of France, this region provides a perfect mix of adventure, intimacy, and natural beauty.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to plan your Alpine elopement—from choosing a location and navigating legal requirements to the best seasons, vendors, and logistics. Whether you’re planning a scenic hike to a secluded vow exchange or a cozy ceremony in a mountain village, this resource will help both photographers & clients plan a dream experience.

The Swiss Alps

The French Alps

The Italian Alps

◆ Map & Ultimate Guide (available April 22!)

◆ Regions of the Alps

◆ Cities and Access Points

◆ What to Expect traveling to the Alps

◆ Deciding on a Location to shoot or elope

◆ Accommodations, Resources, and Seasonality Tips

◆ 6 Favorite Hikes & Adventures

◆ 11 Things to Do

◆ Some of my work from the Alps

Downloadable map & Ultimate Location Guide

As a more in-depth resource, I created a downloadable map and master guide outlining 35 photoshoot locations (that I have shot first-hand), 50+ things to do, and 25+ European wedding vendors — available for purchase April 22

Regions to Consider eloping in the Alps:

When choosing a place to elope, I like to prompt my clients to consider a few things:

How do you want the day to feel? Would you like to be in a remote town where you can celebrate after with a private dinner cooked in your chalet? Or a smaller city, where you can head out to a luxury restaurant? What kinds of colors, tones, and weather are you interested in? Deep lush emerald tones, or dry golden arid ones? Considering these things can inform where you decide to elope or shoot.

Italy

The Dolomites, in northern Italy, are known for their dramatic limestone peaks, alpine meadows, and stunning valleys. This region offers world-class hiking, skiing, and rock climbing, with breathtaking locations like Lago di Braies, Tre Cime di Lavaredo, and Seceda. Charming villages such as Cortina d’Ampezzo and Ortisei blend Italian, Austrian, and Ladin cultures, creating a unique atmosphere with incredible food and hospitality. Whether you’re exploring scenic mountain passes or enjoying a cozy mountain hut, the Dolomites offer an unforgettable mix of adventure and relaxation.

Switzerland

The Swiss Alps are a stunning mountain range known for their dramatic peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and charming alpine villages. Home to iconic destinations like the Matterhorn, Jungfraujoch, and Lake Lucerne, this region offers world-class skiing, hiking, and breathtaking scenery year-round. Whether you're exploring the adventure hubs of Interlaken and Zermatt, or relaxing in an alpine spa, the Swiss Alps provide a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and Swiss hospitality.

France

The French Alps are a breathtaking region known for their rugged peaks, picturesque valleys, and world-famous ski resorts like Chamonix, Megève, and Val d’Isère. Home to Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Western Europe, this region offers incredible opportunities for skiing, mountaineering, and hiking, along with charming alpine villages and rich French cuisine. In the summer, the Alps transform into a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with scenic trails, crystal-clear lakes, and cozy mountain refuges. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, the French Alps offer a perfect mix of natural beauty and cultural charm.

Austria

In an effort to offer first-person driven and unique (not exclusively internet researched) advice, I will be excluding Austria from this guide as it is a country and region I have never visited. The Austrian Alps are famous for stunning trails, iconic snow-capped peaks, and incredible hospitality. This hotel has been on my bucket list for years, and is a great follow on social media!

Getting to The Alps: Cities & Access points

Below I’ve outlined the different major cities that act as gateways to different regions of the alps, organized by country.

Italy

Venice, is a major port in the North of Italy, and only a 2 hour drive to Cortina, the most major town in the Dolomites. This also brings you to the Eastern part of the Dolomite range, which is home to some must see spots like Tre Cime de Lavarando and Cadini Di Misurina.

Verona, a less major port in the North of Italy, you can still access by flight from many major European cities, and as a less busy airport, car rental and travel are typically quick and easy. Verona is farther from the Eastern side of the Dolomite range, but faster access to Val Gardena and Alpe di Siusi.

Bolzano is the most convenient station to train to, if you are choosing to explore the Dolomites by public transit, without a vehicle.

Milan, another major city, though farther from the heart of the Dolomites. Milan does offer the best access to Lake Como.

SWitzerland

Zurich offers direct access to Switzerland’s most breathtaking mountain destinations, with direct train connections, scenic drives, and short domestic flights leading to iconic spots like Zermatt, Interlaken, and St. Moritz—all within a few hours of the city’s well-connected international airport.

Bern easily accessible by train, Bern is a midsize town that can be convenient for travel within Europe, and is a more affordable place to stay with ample access to food, drinks, and a larger range of hotels. Just a short drive to many areas of Switzerland, particularly the Bernese region.

Geneva
While technically in Switzerland, this city is best for accessing Zermatt and Chamonix (in France). A major city, it can be flown directly into from many major European airports, and some international US ones.

France

Geneva

As mentioned above, technically located in Switzerland, this city is access point to Lausanne, Zermatt, Chamonix, and other Western areas of the Alps.

What to expect traveling to The Alps

Traveling to the Alps offers stunning landscapes, diverse outdoor activities, and a mix of cultures depending on whether you're visiting the Swiss, Italian, or French Alps. Here’s what to keep in mind:

1. Accessibility & Transportation

Major hubs: Zurich, Geneva, Milan, Venice, Verona
Efficient trains: Switzerland has one of the best rail networks, with scenic routes like the Glacier Express. Italy and France also offer train access to key alpine towns, and great bus routes.
Rental cars: Useful for exploring more remote areas but be prepared for winding mountain roads!

2. Weather & Best Times to Visit

Winter (December–March): Prime time for skiing and Apres.
Spring (April–June): Melting snow means fewer crowds, though some trails may still be inaccessible.
Summer (July–September): Best for hiking, climbing, and exploring lakes.
Fall (October–November): Cooler temperatures and fewer tourists, but some alpine resorts or gondolas may be closed.

3. Costs & Budgeting

Switzerland: The most expensive, with high costs for accommodations, food, and transport.
France & Italy: More budget-friendly, with a variety of lodging and dining options.
Mountain huts & guesthouses: A great way to experience the Alps without luxury prices.

4. Culture & Language

Switzerland: A mix of German, French, and Italian influences, depending on the region.
France: Predominantly French-speaking, with strong alpine traditions.
Italy: A blend of Italian, German, and Ladin cultures, especially in the Dolomites.

Expect breathtaking scenery, efficient transportation (especially in Switzerland), and a mix of adventure and relaxation. Planning ahead, especially for accommodations and activities, ensures a smooth and unforgettable trip to the Alps.

How to decide on a location for a wedding in The Alps

I have traveled the world shooting elopements and weddings, and my time in the Alps is without a doubt the most prominent. Deciding where to get married in the Alps is all about matching the location to the kind of day you envision. Purchase my master guide to the alps here for complete access to 30+ locations I have shot in.

Things to consider

Your Dream Setting: Do you picture saying your vows atop a snow-dusted mountain, or by a crystal-clear alpine lake? If you want dramatic views and adventure, think about higher-altitude spots like Zermatt or Chamonix. If you prefer something more serene and intimate, consider the charming villages around Grindelwald or the Dolomites.

Accessibility & Comfort: Are you okay with a little adventure to get there, or do you prefer a more accessible location? Some remote spots require a scenic hike or cable car ride, while others, like Cortina d’Ampezzo or Lake Brienz, are easier to reach.

Season & Weather: The Alps change dramatically with the seasons. Winter is perfect for a cozy, snow-covered ceremony, while summer opens up options for hiking or lakeside settings. Consider how weather will impact the location you choose and whether it’s accessible year-round.

Privacy vs. Popularity: If privacy is important, look for lesser-known villages or hidden mountain spots. Popular destinations like Cortina d’Ampezzo or Chamonix are beautiful but may be busier with tourists, especially in peak season.

Ultimately, choose a location that feels true to the vibe you want—whether that’s an adventurous mountain summit, a tranquil lakeside escape, or a charming village where the Alps feel like your personal backdrop. Trust your instinct, and let the mountains do the rest.

For access to my complete Alp Location List, including information on over 30 locations I have first-hand shot at, purchase the Ultimate Guide to the Alps

Accommodations and Resources for elopinG in the Alps:

Below are a few of my favorite places I have stayed

The Dolomites

In Alpe Di Siusi, COMO hotel

In Val Gardena, Linder Cycling hotel

Switzerland

In Grindelwald, short term rentals through Grinda-Rent

In Zermatt, Hotel Bellerive

In Ebenalp, Hotel Alpenrose

France

In Chamonix-Mont Blanc, Chamonix Prestige,

Do you legally get married internationally, or within the US?

I have had clients do both! However, officially signing the papers in your home state can be streamlined and simplified, and you get an extra day of celebration. If you’d prefer to legally get married in Europe, resources for that can be found below.

What about sleeping in a campervan?

Traveling through the Alps in a campervan offers ultimate flexibility and access to some of Europe’s most stunning landscapes. Enjoy scenic drives along famous routes like the Passo Giau or Stelvio Pass, and park in picturesque spots near lakes, mountains, and villages. With numerous campsites and wild camping options, you can stay close to hiking trails, ski resorts, or charming towns. In winter, you can easily reach ski areas, while in summer, outdoor activities like hiking and lakeside relaxation await. Just keep in mind local road rules, weather changes, and waste disposal practices. A campervan road trip through the Alps gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, making it a perfect way to experience the region’s natural beauty.

How to choose a season to elope in the Alps?

Choosing the right season to elope in the Alps depends on the atmosphere you envision.

Winter (Dec – Feb) brings a serene, snowy wonderland, perfect for cozy, intimate ceremonies. But be ready for colder weather and some locations may be harder to reach. One of my bucketlist dreams would be to shoot a vintage Apres Ski wedding in Zermatt.

Spring (Mar – May) offers a quieter vibe with snow-capped peaks and blossoming valleys—ideal for a more private experience, though some areas may still be inaccessible early on.

Summer (Jun – Aug) is lively, with vibrant landscapes and endless daylight, perfect for outdoor adventures and lakeside ceremonies. Expect more tourists, but the beauty is unmatched.

Fall (Sep – Nov) is peaceful and stunning, with golden foliage and fewer crowds. The weather can be unpredictable, and some higher areas may close, but it’s a serene, intimate choice.

Pick the season that matches the vibe you want—whether it’s winter magic or summer’s warmth, the Alps have something special year-round.

Do you know of any local wedding vendors based in Europe?

For an extended list of 20+ florists & planners, purchase the Ultimate Guide

I work in the Alps yearly, see my travel dates here and to inquire for your wedding or elopement please review the information here!

Favorite Hikes & Adventures in the European Alps

What are some of your favorite local experiences that could be implemented into a Mountain elopement?

Swim in an Alpine Lake - taking a dip in the icy Lake Bachalpsee on a July day will forever be one of my favorite memories

Wander Chamonix - this quaint town is filled with concept shops, delicious coffee & pastries, endless opportunities to be inspired outside, and sweeping views of the mountains around

Take the Gondola to Lake Oeschinensee- one of the most captivating views in Switzerland, and highly accessible due to the gondola access

Apres ski in Zermatt or Alpe di Siusi- a true bucket-list item for me, skiing straight to my chalet and finishing with fondue & Aperol

Drive the Giau Pass - this winding road will offer once in a lifetime views of the Dolomites

Wine Taste in Italy- I mean, how could you not? Here are 5 regional wine routes (wine tours)

Stay in a spa hotel - After shooting a 2 week wedding that took me from NYC to central Italy, I treated myself to 2 nights at the Como Hotel in Alpe Di Siusi - I basically have never traveled the same since

Visit the “Top of Europe” - The highest point in Europe is accessible by this tram out of the Jungfraujoch region

Eat Crepes in Chamonix - while the opportunities are ample, our favorites were at this cafe on a rainy day

Have a picnic in Wengen - Wengen is a proper alp-town only accessible by adorable train, take some local cheese and wine and find a meadow to settle in!

Have your first dance in the town square of Cortina — one of the most special moments I’ve experienced during an elopement

Purchase the ULTIMATE guide to view a list of 50+ ideas of things to do in The Alps

A picnic in the fields in the traditional Alp-Town (no cars) Wengen

Slow strolls in the highest alpine meadow in Europe

Hiking to the one of a kind turquoise Lake Sorapsis

deciding to legally have your wedding in Europe

To have a legal wedding in Europe, you’ll need to meet specific requirements that vary by country. Generally, you must reside in the country for a set period (anywhere from a few days to a few weeks), and submit documents like passports and birth certificates. Some countries, like Switzerland and France, require a civil ceremony to be legally binding, while others may allow a symbolic ceremony in scenic locations with a separate legal process. It’s important to research local laws, ensure all documents are in order, and possibly hire a wedding planner familiar with the legalities of your chosen country.