Delani & Peyton's Multi Day Iceland Elopement
In this in-depth blog we'll cover how to get to the remote highlands, where to stay, two of the most epic hikes in Iceland for elopement ceremonies, what kind of permits you need and more!
Staying at Highland Base and Running Around with Excitement
Delani and Peyton's adventure began deep in the Highlands of Iceland, at Highland Base at Kerlingarfjöll - a five-star retreat tucked among steaming valleys, rushing rivers, and rolling green mountains. Their first morning they started off wandering hand in hand past the tiny red A-frame cabins that dot the property. They laughed and strolled across the quiet hotel grounds, the cool morning air carrying the sound of the river cutting through the canyon below.
How to Get to the Highlands from Reykjavik
The best airport to fly into is KEF in Reykjavik, the countries main international airport. Once you fly in you can hire private transportation or get on the shuttle to Reykavik. It's roughly a 45 minute trip into the city. You can buy your shuttle ticket here or at the airport. It'll take you to the BSI bus terminal. This is where most tour companies start the journey to the highlands.
We rented a private 4x4 van that took us from the BSI bus terminal to Highland Base. It was roughly a 4 hour journey. The roads are BUMPY. Take a dramamine beforehand. They are very rural mountain roads and it's not the most relaxing ride but it's more than worth it for dramatic views the entire way of Icelands most remote areas.
Why Stay at Highland Basecamp
Remote luxury. 5-Star Michelin worthy dining on site. A mid day coffee & waffle bar. The perfect balance of architecture and nature. Epic hiking trails at it's doorstep. An onsite concierge. You simply can't find better accommodation in the Highlands.
Helping Each other Get Ready in a Cozy Cabin with a View
They spent the afternoon inside their private cabin, as sunlight poured through a wide picture window that framed the river and mountains beyond. It was here that they helped each other get ready, buttoning, zipping, and laughing as anticipation grew.
Should we get ready together on the morning of our elopement?
A million times yes!! These photos should be your answer. A first look can definitely build up anticipation and make the moment more sacred. But you can have both!! You can do a first look and then help each other with the finishing touches - help him fasten his tie, help her put on her necklace. Write your vows together, spontaneously, and in the moment.
Hiking up the Highlands for Epic Bridal Portraits
Once dressed, they climbed into a rugged 4x4 for a bumpy ride up the mountain - three kilometers of winding track that led to Hveradalir, a geothermal wonderland. Surrounded by colorful rhyolite mountains streaked with red, yellow, and orange, they wandered among steaming vents and bubbling pools, awestruck by the raw power of Iceland's landscape.
Should I do a Bridal Portrait Session?
Duh...
Soaking in all the Adventure, Love, and Hot Springs
As the day melted into evening, they returned to Highland Base, sinking into the private hot springs just as the sun slipped behind the mountains. With steam rising around them and the last golden light washing the valley, it was the perfect ending to their first day.
Hiking Þórsmörk for an Intimate Ceremony
The next morning, they set off on an epic four-hour trek through the F-roads, riding in a lifted 4x4 bus built to conquer the wild. The route carried them through 16 river crossings, swollen and rushing at seasonal highs, before finally delivering them into the hidden valley of Þórsmörk (Thórsmörk).
They prepared for their ceremony - this time hiking boots laced and vows tucked close to their hearts. Delani slipped into her second dress look.
Their destination: Valahnúkur, a steep but rewarding climb that lifted them nearly 1,000 feet above the valley floor. On the way up, glaciers loomed close enough to hear the deep cracks of ice calving, while waterfalls tumbled down moss-covered cliffs below. When they reached the summit, they stood in awe - 360° views of glaciers, volcanoes, and rivers weaving through the
valley.
It was here, at the top of the world, that Delani and Peyton said their vows. Tears mixed with laughter as the wind carried their promises across the valley, and the two of them soaked in the immensity of the moment.
FAQ
What kind of Permits do I need for the Highlands?
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When is the best time of year to Elope in the Highlands?
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What is the best time of day for my elopement ceremony?
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What Kind of Vehicle do I need to access F-Roads?
Vendors
Hotel / Venue - Highland Base
Dresses - BHLDN, Sarah Seven, Willow by Waters
Florals - Flowers by Monica
Transportation -
Iceland Elopement Photography Packages
Weather you only want half day ceremony coverage, a full day of exploration, or a multi-day adventure I'd love to help you plan your elopement and document your love!
