Drawing a blank with where to hold your destination wedding? These sun-soaked venues will reignite your wanderlust
1. Dominican Republic
Yes, this place really exists. Hard Rock Hotel’s Punta Cana resort is perhaps better known for its mammoth casino, but we’re more interested in sinking our toes into the sand and breathing in the Caribbean sea air.
Need to know: Celebrity event designer Colin Cowie is on hand to help style your big day. If you don’t fancy this greenery-garnished effort on the beach, take to the aisle in a gazebo framed by palm trees. Packages are available.
2. Bahamas
The Bahamas was named the World’s Leading Wedding Destination at the World Travel Awards in 2015 and we’re not surprised. It’s made up of 700 islands and consists of diverse options from secluded boltholes for elopements or luxury resorts where your guest numbers can run into the hundreds.
Need to know: This pretty pavilion is part of the all-inclusive Grand Lucayan resort on Grand Bahama island. Prices start from around £150 per person per night (minimum three-night stay required).
3. Mallorca
How does spending your entire wedding and honeymoon in a five-star, Spanish hilltop resort sound? The Park Hyatt Mallorca perches high above this Mediterranean island, with panoramic views of the valleys and olive trees below.
Need to know: An alfresco wedding is a must. Tie the knot in the sunken garden or the honey-toned Residences Courtyard, next to the fountain. From £425 per night.
4. Fiji
Voted number one hotel in Fiji for romance in the 2017 Trip Advisor Awards, Tokoriki Island Resort is an adult-only paradise in the Mamanuca group of Fijian islands, comprising a variety of beachfront bures (hand-built indigenous structures), and sunset pool villas. Think azure waters and pristine, white beaches.
Need to know: Choose between hosting a barefoot beach ceremony or a service at the on-site chapel. What’s more, all nuptials are legal in the UK. From £450 per night.
5. Greece
Rhodes is a compelling place, not least for its history (particularly the Colossus sculpture that once towered over the island, Statue of Liberty-style, and was wiped out by an earthquake in 226BC), but for its seaside setting and tranquil, aptly named Amada Colossos resort, part of the Louis Hotels group.
Need to know: The resort has its own private beach overlooking the Aegean Sea and is moving into phase two of its latest revamp. Ceremony hire from £340.
6. Jamaica
Jamaica’s easy-going vibe and idyllic backdrops make it a popular wedding hotspot for couples from all over the world. Planning a wedding abroad might seem tricky, but Sandals’ website couldn’t make it any easier. From the comfort of your couch you can chat with wedding planners, browse colour palettes and pick from a staggering array of choices for entertainment, decor and catering.
Need to know: The Beautiful Beginnings wedding package offers a free ceremony, flowers and cake when you stay at one of Sandals’ seven resorts on the island for three nights or more.
7. Cyprus
The Elias Beach Hotel in Cyprus boasts one of the most breathtaking ceremony spots we’ve ever seen – The Sunset Pier – which allows you to be surrounded by that glorious Cypriot seascape as you exchange vows.
Need to know: Based in Limassol, the all-inclusive hotel offers its private Blue Paradise beach bar for evening receptions and also has a hotel chapel and gardens to play with. £POA depending on location.