Dazzle your guests and create a day to remember with these beautiful rural wedding destinations
Maybe you’re planning a small, intimate wedding; just a few friends and family, or maybe you’re inviting everyone you’ve ever met. Either way, you want a scenic, peaceful destination that’s going to wow your guests. Rural weddings are an awesome choice as you have no size restrictions, no city stress and the most beautiful backdrop for those all-important photos.
1. Gozo, Malta
If you are thinking of having your wedding in Malta, then you should certainly consider the tiny island of Gozo. Here you’ll find rugged cliffs, turquoise seas and quaint villages. A simple beach ceremony, a swanky harbour-side soiree, cliff-top vows… all of these are possible on Gozo. Your guests will be charmed by the area’s natural beauty and ancient architecture. Only three hours from London, Gozo is a peaceful, rural idyll where you could host the wedding of your dreams.
2. Bordeaux, France
The rolling hills and majestic chateaux of rural France are fairy-tale wedding heaven. Bordeaux will fulfil your dreams of a grand affair; think lakeside ceremony followed by a reception in the ballroom of a magnificent castle. Alternatively, for those seeking a low-key gathering, a pretty open-air ceremony in a rural garden or vineyard and a fairy light strewn party in a beautiful marquee are easily accommodated in Bordeaux. There are plenty of holiday apartments across Bordeaux where your guests can stay and enjoy exploring the city as well as the countryside.
3. Yorkshire, England
Yorkshire’s wild beauty makes for a stunning setting for any wedding, without having to leave the country. The elegant simplicity of a charming village hall wedding followed by a good old shin dig fuelled by some beautiful local ales will be a delight to your guests, harking back to a time when weddings were uncomplicated celebrations of love.
4. Lisbon, Portugal
If stunning architecture is high on your list, look no further than Lisbon, Portugal. This destination is becoming increasingly sought after due to the beautiful climate, incredible food and amazing venues. Breathtaking churches and castles are all waiting to host your big day, offering a gorgeous rustic backdrop to your photographs and a laid-back atmosphere for your guests. If you are looking to have a very intimate wedding, you could stay in a private villa and have the ceremony out in the garden.
5. Ireland
Alternatively, allow the romance of the Irish countryside to give your wedding the rural feel you are hoping for. Whether set in a rustic village church, or outdoors in a golden corn field, your wedding is sure to be intimate, personal and informal. From your bouquet to the table decorations, let the nature of Ireland inspire you to create a harmonious and individual occasion for your guests.
Exchange the hustle and bustle of the city for all the scenic romance and calm of a rural setting to have a wedding infused with all the charm and peace of the countryside.
Want more wedding information and inspiration? Just hit ‘Like’ on our Wedding Ideas Facebook page, and ‘Follow’ on our @wimagazine Twitter account to join in the conversation.
