The best elopement ideas in & around Sydney
Sydney’s appeal is as clear as day. It isn’t known as the pretty city for nothing. So, it’s no wonder engaged folk from near and far flock there to elope.
With its magnificent harbour, an abundance of beaches and waterways, surrounded by national parks, pristine nature, wineries, top notch food and wine, gorgeous views, incredible places to stay and blessed weather (hmmm let’s not count 2021/2022, thanks La Niña), we’re indeed spoilt for choice!
I can vouch for it – I lived there for more than 20 years and as a well-seasoned marriage celebrant in my other hustle. It’s got the winning ingredients for loved-up couples who just wanna elope in style.
Sounds enticing? Go on, forgo the traditional wedding back home for a sneaky Sydney elopement instead! Let’s take a peek at the most unique luxe elopement spots in Sydney and surrounds…
SYDNEY
Luxury Yacht on Sydney Harbour
If you love being on the water and boats, you cannot beat a beautiful day on a beautiful vessel on Sydney Harbour. No other big city does it quite as good. Be like a celebrity or rockstar, and land yourself a luxury boat for your special day. Once on-board with champagne in hand, the captain will steer towards one of the harbour’s idyllic calm coves. This is where the magic unfolds. Have your elopement ceremony on-deck and then continue the celebrations with more champagne, canapes and a full course lunch beautiful crafted by your private chef. As the sun sets, choose to either stay on-board in a luxurious cabin or disembark as you head to one of Sydney’s opulent hotels for an equally impressive stay.
O Bar & Dining Sydney
With one of the best views of Sydney from level 47, it simply is a show-stopper. Get VIP treatment as staff usher you up before it’s open to the public. Have the entire restaurant to yourselves as you say your I Do’s before being indulged in a private dining experience as the city revolves around you. Couple your special occasion with a nearby stay at the majestic Crown Towers, the historic Pier One or the funky Ovolo Woolloomooloo.
Lilypad Palm Beach
This luxury floating villa is one of a kind. Providing a unique experience, all inclusive. Allowing privacy and time to explore nearby private beaches, water activities, enjoy world class food and indulge in the on-board wine cellar, and spa treatments. It sleeps two adults, however if you enquire about events you can host up to 16 people on-board for an unforgettable afternoon on the water.
SOUTH COAST
Ocean Farm, Gerringong
A secluded rainforest hideaway nestled amongst the rolling hills of the South Coast, Ocean Farm is a farm stay like no other. Boasting absolute privacy, panoramic ocean views and breathtaking scenery, it’s the ultimate destination to elope and experience luxury amidst untouched landscape. You’ll love the open log fireplace, infinity pool, entertainment room and the all-encompassing deck featuring sweeping coastal views. It’s a beauty and it comes highly recommended.
Dovecote, Gerringong
‘This is extraordinary’ said Boy George. Other a-list celebrities have also been fortunate to experience Dovecote since the doors opened in 2018. The property is set on 150 acres of oceanfront farmland on the South Coast, two hours’ drive from Sydney. Designed to fit the landscape and maximise the experience of place. It gives guests a wonderful sense of privacy, offering a rare and magical place to elope. After saying I Do, their partnered chefs and wine sommelier will delight you with a special culinary and wine-matching experience. Then just sit, relax and be in awe of the surrounding landscape. Reconnect with nature either by exploring the property, the Kiama Coast Walk and nearby beaches. If you’re after the absolute best, Dovecote hits the mark.
Bangalay Luxury Villas, Shoalhaven Heads
The epitome of laid-back luxury on the South Coast, two hours’ drive from Sydney. The region is blessed with shimmering blue ocean amongst the lush grassy plains and the property’s rustic setting. Ideal for natural, earthy weddings and elopements. Choose to hold your ceremony in the landscaped garden or the soft sandy beach. They have 16 luxury self-contained villas and a premium relaxed coastal dining room which means you can invite some guests to help you celebrate.
Aframe Kangaroo Valley
Set on 16 glorious acres and nestled deep in the heart of Kangaroo Valley, Aframe will delight the socks off you. It echoes the beauty of the Australian landscape and is designed using recycled building materials throughout. Ideal for couples who are yearning a slow-paced elopement and the opportunity to reset, reflect and connect with nature and each other. This is affordable luxury at its best. Once you’ve experienced it, you’ll be back again and again.
Paperbark Camp, Jervis Bay
If glamping if your thing, you are going to love Paperbark Camp in stunning Jervis Bay. It’s three hours drive from Sydney on the South Coast. Their canvas safari-style luxury tents are a step above the rest. Built above ground to provide extra privacy, to capture the sea breeze and empathise its tranquility. Hold your elopement ceremony amongst the eucalyptus and paperbarks, or choose any of the gorgeous white sand beaches around Jervis Bay. Another drawcard is Gunyah (Aboriginal for meeting place) is their dining room and the heart of the camp, taking the concept of bush tucker to another level. A true Australian experience. You won’t be disappointed.
SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS
The Rift Estate Bowral
Nestled in the Southern Highlands, the Rift is a grand Victorian Italianate mansion. Surrounded by the historic cold-climate gardens and lush, rambling countryside. The estate’s original stables have been sympathetically converted into luxury heritage accommodation, The Coach House. With claw foot baths, cozy fireplaces, underfloor heating, fine linen and other luxury inclusions, it is exclusively yours to enjoy for a truly sumptuous elopement.
BLUE MOUNTAINS
Spicers Sangoma Retreat, Bowen Mountain
Feel a world away at Sangoma (Zulu for healer). This hidden haven of calm, restoration and seduction has eight private suites, with endless indulgences, creative cuisine and refined service. You’ll feel the stresses of your routine life melt away. Sangoma is the ultimate romantic escape where you can truly reconnect. Perched on the eastern edges of the dramatic Blue Mountain ranges, overlooking the fertile lands of the Nepean River delta below. There are many spots where your nature-infused elopement ceremony can be held. The best way to decide is to take a wander throughout the retreat. No doubt you’ll discover its hidden gems.
Wolgan Valley Resort, Blue Mountains
Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley, of course, makes the cut. This ultra-luxury chic eco-retreat is located 2.5 hours’ drive from Sydney. Set amid 7,000 acres of pristine wilderness, the property offers absolute luxury with a quintessential Australian bush experience. It features 40 villas, each with a private pool, double sided fireplace and private verandah overlooking the stunning valley landscape. You’ll be looked after to no end, with its unsurpassed luxury, attention to detail and outstanding food and wine.
HUNTER VALLEY
Vinden Wines, Pokolbin Hunter Valley
Award-winning Vinden Estate is one of Hunter Valley’s most admired winery and accommodation. Based on 1840s early Victorian architecture, the homestead boasts understated style and elegance with spectacular views of the area. Owner, Angus Vinden is one of the most highly acclaimed young winemakers in Australia. If available, he will personally show you around and take you on their wine-tasting journey. Their overall style is innovative yet classic.
The Longhouse, Pokolbin Hunter Valley
One of the Hunter Valley’s best properties. Stylish décor, timber details and a subtle colour palette, create a modern Australian theme. It oozes space and comfort with north facing views from the lounge and large deck overlooking the vineyard and beyond to the Barrington Range. Hold your elopement ceremony on the gorgeous deck, in the vines or should the weather misbehave, the lounge area is a divine space too (not to mention, cozy and romantic by the fireplace).
CONCLUSION
Are you convinced? The list does go on but I have to stop somewhere. Writing with both my travel and wedding hat on, these are my absolute top picks for luxury elopements in Sydney and surrounds. To be honest, I would be torn if I had to choose just one. They’re all incredible. Do you have a favourite? I’d love to hear your thoughts.
Planning your elopement is one epic adventure you’ll never forget!
Whether you and your love are deep into nature, enjoy a flock in the vineyards, romance by the sea, or thrive in the heart of the city and if swanky is your brief, Sydney and surrounds undoubtedly ticks all the boxes. Bring Wander & Be’s know-how on-board for that special day where you say both yes forever.
At Wander & Be, we seek out the best, most stylish and unique things our world has to offer. Specialising in utterly individualistic travel adventures. Itineraries that are carefully sourced and booked just for you, by one of our trusted and highly experienced travel stylists.
Do you always gravitate towards beaches and islands? Do you thrive in nature? Are the ski slopes your happy place? Or are you drawn to the bright lights of a bustling city? Perhaps you’re celebrating a special occasion or getting hitched away from home…
Whatever your travel style, we’d love to curate the extraordinary for you!
