Hotels for Destination Weddings
Planning a destination wedding is an exciting endeavor, filled with dreams of saying “I do” in a breathtaking location surrounded by loved ones. Choosing the right hotel is paramount to ensuring your special day is everything you’ve imagined and more. This comprehensive guide explores some of the best hotels around the globe for destination weddings, covering a range of styles, budgets, and amenities to help you find the perfect fit.
Why Choose a Destination Wedding Hotel?
Opting for a hotel as your destination wedding venue offers numerous advantages. Hotels often provide all-inclusive packages that streamline the planning process, covering everything from catering and decorations to accommodation for you and your guests. This simplifies logistics and reduces stress, allowing you to focus on enjoying the celebration. Furthermore, hotels typically have experienced wedding planners on staff who can assist with every detail, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable experience. Many destination wedding hotels also boast stunning locations, whether it’s a pristine beach, a picturesque vineyard, or a historic castle, providing a spectacular backdrop for your vows and wedding photos. The convenience of having everything in one location, from the ceremony to the reception and accommodation, creates a cohesive and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
Considerations Before You Book
Before diving into specific hotel recommendations, it’s essential to consider several key factors that will influence your decision:
Location, Location, Location: Think about the type of atmosphere you envision for your wedding. Do you dream of a tropical paradise with swaying palm trees and turquoise waters? Or perhaps a romantic European escape with cobblestone streets and historic charm? Consider the accessibility of the location for your guests, including flight options and visa requirements.
Budget: Destination weddings can range in price significantly depending on the location, hotel, and inclusions. Establish a realistic budget early on and stick to it. Be sure to factor in not only the cost of the wedding package but also travel expenses for you and your guests.
Guest List: The size of your guest list will significantly impact your choice of hotel. Ensure the hotel has sufficient accommodation to comfortably house your guests and that the venue spaces are appropriately sized for your wedding party.
Wedding Style: Consider the overall style and theme of your wedding. Are you envisioning a formal black-tie affair or a more casual beachfront celebration? Choose a hotel that complements your vision and offers the appropriate amenities and services.
Legal Requirements: Research the legal requirements for getting married in your chosen destination. Some countries have residency requirements or require specific documentation. Ensure you understand the process and have ample time to complete all necessary paperwork.
Reviews and Testimonials: Read reviews and testimonials from previous couples who have held their weddings at the hotel. This can provide valuable insights into the hotel’s strengths and weaknesses and help you make an informed decision.
Top Hotel Destinations for Weddings
Now, let’s explore some of the most sought-after hotel destinations for weddings, highlighting specific hotels that offer exceptional wedding packages and services:
Tropical Paradise: The Caribbean
The Caribbean is a perennial favorite for destination weddings, offering stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a laid-back atmosphere. Several islands stand out as particularly desirable wedding locations:
Jamaica: Known for its vibrant culture, reggae music, and lush landscapes, Jamaica offers a diverse range of wedding venues. Sandals Royal Caribbean in Montego Bay boasts over-the-water bungalows and a private offshore island, creating a truly unique and romantic setting. Half Moon, also in Montego Bay, is a luxury resort with sprawling grounds, multiple pools, and a dedicated wedding team. They offer a variety of wedding packages and can accommodate weddings of all sizes.
Dominican Republic: Punta Cana is a popular choice for couples seeking all-inclusive resorts and stunning beaches. Hard Rock Hotel Punta Cana offers a wide range of wedding packages, including customizable options and a dedicated wedding planner. Excellence Punta Cana is an adults-only resort known for its luxurious accommodations and exceptional service. They offer several wedding packages and can create bespoke experiences tailored to your specific needs.
Mexico (Cancun & Riviera Maya): The Mexican Caribbean offers a blend of stunning beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, and vibrant nightlife. The Ritz-Carlton, Cancun provides unparalleled luxury and stunning ocean views. Their wedding planners are experts at creating unforgettable events. Rosewood Mayakoba in Riviera Maya offers a secluded and luxurious setting amidst lush mangroves and pristine beaches. They offer a range of wedding packages and can accommodate intimate elopements or grand celebrations.
Barbados: This sophisticated island boasts stunning beaches, upscale resorts, and a rich history. Sandy Lane is an iconic luxury resort known for its impeccable service and stunning oceanfront location. They offer a variety of wedding packages and can accommodate large and small weddings. The Crane Resort offers dramatic cliffside views and historic charm. They offer several wedding venues and can create a truly unforgettable experience.
European Romance: Italy & France
For couples seeking a romantic and sophisticated wedding, Europe offers a wealth of stunning locations and historic venues:
Italy (Tuscany & Amalfi Coast): Tuscany’s rolling hills, vineyards, and charming villages provide a picturesque backdrop for a romantic wedding. Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco, a restored medieval castle in Tuscany, offers a luxurious and authentic Italian experience. They offer a range of wedding packages and can create bespoke events tailored to your specific needs. The Amalfi Coast, with its dramatic cliffs, colorful villages, and stunning sea views, is another popular choice. Belmond Hotel Caruso in Ravello offers breathtaking views and impeccable service. They offer several wedding packages and can accommodate intimate weddings or larger celebrations.
France (Provence & French Riviera): Provence’s lavender fields, charming villages, and gourmet cuisine create a romantic and unforgettable atmosphere. Domaine de Manville, a luxury hotel in Provence, offers stunning views and a range of wedding venues. They offer a variety of wedding packages and can create bespoke events tailored to your specific needs. The French Riviera, with its glamorous resorts, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife, is another popular choice. Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc in Antibes is an iconic luxury hotel known for its impeccable service and stunning oceanfront location. They offer several wedding packages and can accommodate large and small weddings.
Exotic Adventures: Southeast Asia
For couples seeking a unique and adventurous wedding experience, Southeast Asia offers a wealth of exotic locations and cultural experiences:
Thailand (Phuket & Koh Samui): Thailand’s stunning beaches, lush jungles, and vibrant culture make it a popular destination for weddings. Trisara in Phuket offers secluded villas with private pools and stunning ocean views. They offer a range of wedding packages and can create bespoke events tailored to your specific needs. Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui offers luxurious accommodations and stunning beachfront locations. They offer several wedding packages and can accommodate intimate weddings or larger celebrations.
Bali (Indonesia): Bali’s stunning beaches, lush rice paddies, and vibrant culture create a magical setting for a wedding. The Ritz-Carlton, Bali offers luxurious accommodations and stunning ocean views. Their wedding planners are experts at creating unforgettable events. Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan offers a secluded and luxurious setting amidst lush rice paddies and the Ayung River. They offer a range of wedding packages and can accommodate intimate elopements or grand celebrations.
Unique & Unforgettable: Beyond the Usual
For couples seeking something truly unique and unforgettable, consider these less conventional destination wedding locations:
Scotland: With its dramatic landscapes, historic castles, and rich history, Scotland offers a unique and romantic wedding experience. Inverlochy Castle Hotel offers a luxurious and historic setting for a fairytale wedding. They offer a range of wedding packages and can create bespoke events tailored to your specific needs. Skibo Castle is another stunning castle venue that offers a truly unforgettable experience.
Iceland: Iceland’s dramatic landscapes, including glaciers, volcanoes, and waterfalls, provide a breathtaking backdrop for a wedding. Hotel Ranga offers stunning views of the Northern Lights and a range of unique wedding experiences. They offer a variety of wedding packages and can create bespoke events tailored to your specific needs. The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland offers a luxurious and relaxing setting amidst the geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon.
Specific Hotel Recommendations and Wedding Packages
Let’s delve into more details about specific hotels and the types of wedding packages they offer:
Sandals Royal Caribbean (Jamaica)
Location: Montego Bay, Jamaica
Style: All-inclusive, adults-only, luxury resort
Wedding Packages: Sandals offers a variety of wedding packages, ranging from simple elopements to grand celebrations. Their “Free Wedding” package includes essential elements such as a marriage officiant, bouquet and boutonniere, wedding cake, and reception with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. They also offer customizable packages that allow you to tailor the details to your specific preferences.
Unique Features: Over-the-water bungalows, private offshore island, underwater restaurant (at select Sandals resorts), butler service
Capacity: Varies depending on the venue, can accommodate both small and large weddings.
Price Range: $$$$ (Luxury)
Half Moon (Jamaica)
Location: Montego Bay, Jamaica
Style: Luxury resort with sprawling grounds and a variety of amenities
Wedding Packages: Half Moon offers a range of wedding packages that can be customized to your specific needs. They offer venues for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies and receptions, including beachfront locations, gardens, and elegant ballrooms. Their wedding planners can assist with every detail, from decorations and catering to entertainment and accommodation.
Unique Features: Equestrian centre, dolphin lagoon, Fern Tree Spa, private villas with pools
Capacity: Can accommodate weddings of all sizes, from intimate elopements to grand celebrations.
Price Range: $$$$ (Luxury)
Hard Rock Hotel Punta Cana (Dominican Republic)
Location: Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Style: All-inclusive, family-friendly resort with a rock ‘n’ roll theme
Wedding Packages: Hard Rock Hotel Punta Cana offers a wide range of wedding packages, including customizable options and a dedicated wedding planner. Their packages include essential elements such as a marriage officiant, flowers, cake, and reception with food and drinks. They also offer unique add-ons such as live music, themed décor, and spa treatments.
Unique Features: Casino, golf course, multiple pools, rock ‘n’ roll memorabilia
Capacity: Can accommodate weddings of all sizes, from intimate elopements to large celebrations.
Price Range: $$$ (Mid-Range to Luxury)
Excellence Punta Cana (Dominican Republic)
Location: Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Style: All-inclusive, adults-only resort with a focus on luxury and relaxation
Wedding Packages: Excellence Punta Cana offers several wedding packages that can be customized to your specific needs. They offer venues for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies and receptions, including beachfront locations, gardens, and elegant ballrooms. Their wedding planners can assist with every detail, from decorations and catering to entertainment and accommodation.
Unique Features: Multiple pools, swim-up bars, gourmet restaurants, world-class spa
Capacity: Can accommodate weddings of all sizes, from intimate elopements to larger celebrations.
Price Range: $$$ (Mid-Range to Luxury)
The Ritz-Carlton, Cancun (Mexico)
Location: Cancun, Mexico
Style: Luxury hotel with stunning ocean views and impeccable service
Wedding Packages: The Ritz-Carlton, Cancun offers a range of wedding packages that can be customized to your specific needs. Their wedding planners are experts at creating unforgettable events, and they can assist with every detail, from decorations and catering to entertainment and accommodation. They offer venues for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies and receptions, including beachfront locations, gardens, and elegant ballrooms.
Unique Features: Multiple pools, gourmet restaurants, world-class spa, private beach access
Capacity: Can accommodate weddings of all sizes, from intimate elopements to grand celebrations.
Price Range: $$$$ (Luxury)
Rosewood Mayakoba (Mexico)
Location: Riviera Maya, Mexico
Style: Secluded and luxurious resort amidst lush mangroves and pristine beaches
Wedding Packages: Rosewood Mayakoba offers a range of wedding packages that can be customized to your specific needs. They offer venues for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies and receptions, including beachfront locations, gardens, and elegant pavilions. Their wedding planners can assist with every detail, from decorations and catering to entertainment and accommodation.
Unique Features: Private plunge pools, butler service, gourmet restaurants, world-class spa
Capacity: Can accommodate intimate elopements or grand celebrations.
Price Range: $$$$ (Luxury)
Sandy Lane (Barbados)
Location: Barbados
Style: Iconic luxury resort known for its impeccable service and stunning oceanfront location
Wedding Packages: Sandy Lane offers a variety of wedding packages that can be customized to your specific needs. They offer venues for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies and receptions, including beachfront locations, gardens, and elegant ballrooms. Their wedding planners can assist with every detail, from decorations and catering to entertainment and accommodation.
Unique Features: Golf course, tennis courts, multiple pools, world-class spa
Capacity: Can accommodate large and small weddings.
Price Range: $$$$ (Luxury)
The Crane Resort (Barbados)
Location: Barbados
Style: Dramatic cliffside views and historic charm
Wedding Packages: The Crane Resort offers several wedding venues and can create a truly unforgettable experience. They offer a range of wedding packages that can be customized to your specific needs. Their wedding planners can assist with every detail, from decorations and catering to entertainment and accommodation.
Unique Features: Cliffside pools, historic architecture, stunning ocean views
Capacity: Can accommodate a range of wedding sizes.
Price Range: $$$ (Mid-Range to Luxury)
Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco (Italy)
Location: Tuscany, Italy
Style: Restored medieval castle in Tuscany, offering a luxurious and authentic Italian experience
Wedding Packages: Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco offers a range of wedding packages that can be customized to your specific needs. They offer venues for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies and receptions, including vineyards, gardens, and elegant ballrooms. Their wedding planners can assist with every detail, from decorations and catering to entertainment and accommodation.
Unique Features: Private villas, golf course, wine tasting, cooking classes
Capacity: Can accommodate weddings of various sizes.
Price Range: $$$$ (Luxury)
Belmond Hotel Caruso (Italy)
Location: Ravello, Amalfi Coast, Italy
Style: Breathtaking views and impeccable service
Wedding Packages: Belmond Hotel Caruso offers several wedding packages and can accommodate intimate weddings or larger celebrations. Their wedding planners can assist with every detail, from decorations and catering to entertainment and accommodation. They offer venues for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies and receptions, including gardens, terraces, and elegant ballrooms.
Unique Features: Infinity pool, stunning views of the Amalfi Coast, gourmet restaurants
Capacity: Can accommodate intimate weddings or larger celebrations.
Price Range: $$$$ (Luxury)
Domaine de Manville (France)
Location: Provence, France
Style: Luxury hotel in Provence, offering stunning views and a range of wedding venues
Wedding Packages: Domaine de Manville offers a variety of wedding packages that can be customized to your specific needs. They offer venues for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies and receptions, including gardens, courtyards, and elegant ballrooms. Their wedding planners can assist with every detail, from decorations and catering to entertainment and accommodation.
Unique Features: Golf course, spa, gourmet restaurants, stunning views of the Alpilles mountains
Capacity: Can accommodate weddings of various sizes.
Price Range: $$$$ (Luxury)
Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc (France)
Location: Antibes, French Riviera, France
Style: Iconic luxury hotel known for its impeccable service and stunning oceanfront location
Wedding Packages: Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc offers several wedding packages and can accommodate large and small weddings. Their wedding planners can assist with every detail, from decorations and catering to entertainment and accommodation. They offer venues for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies and receptions, including gardens, terraces, and elegant ballrooms.
Unique Features: Stunning ocean views, private beach access, world-class spa, gourmet restaurants
Capacity: Can accommodate large and small weddings.
Price Range: $$$$ (Luxury)
Trisara (Thailand)
Location: Phuket, Thailand
Style: Secluded villas with private pools and stunning ocean views
Wedding Packages: Trisara offers a range of wedding packages that can be customized to your specific needs. They offer venues for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies and receptions, including beachfront locations, gardens, and elegant pavilions. Their wedding planners can assist with every detail, from decorations and catering to entertainment and accommodation.
Unique Features: Private plunge pools, butler service, gourmet restaurants, world-class spa
Capacity: Can accommodate weddings of various sizes.
Price Range: $$$$ (Luxury)
Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui (Thailand)
Location: Koh Samui, Thailand
Style: Luxurious accommodations and stunning beachfront locations
Wedding Packages: Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui offers several wedding packages and can accommodate intimate weddings or larger celebrations. Their wedding planners can assist with every detail, from decorations and catering to entertainment and accommodation. They offer venues for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies and receptions, including beachfront locations, gardens, and elegant pavilions.
Unique Features: Private plunge pools, world-class spa, gourmet restaurants, stunning views of the Gulf of Thailand
Capacity: Can accommodate intimate weddings or larger celebrations.
Price Range: $$$$ (Luxury)
The Ritz-Carlton, Bali (Indonesia)
Location: Bali, Indonesia
Style: Luxurious accommodations and stunning ocean views
Wedding Packages: The Ritz-Carlton, Bali offers a range of wedding packages that can be customized to your specific needs. Their wedding planners are experts at creating unforgettable events, and they can assist with every detail, from decorations and catering to entertainment and accommodation. They offer venues for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies and receptions, including beachfront locations, gardens, and elegant pavilions.
Unique Features: Multiple pools, gourmet restaurants, world-class spa, private beach access
Capacity: Can accommodate weddings of all sizes, from intimate elopements to grand celebrations.
Price Range: $$$$ (Luxury)
Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan (Indonesia)
Location: Bali, Indonesia
Style: Secluded and luxurious setting amidst lush rice paddies and the Ayung River
Wedding Packages: Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan offers a range of wedding packages that can be customized to your specific needs. They offer venues for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies and receptions, including rice paddies, gardens, and elegant pavilions. Their wedding planners can assist with every detail, from decorations and catering to entertainment and accommodation.
Unique Features: Private villas with plunge pools, world-class spa, gourmet restaurants, stunning views of the Ayung River
Capacity: Can accommodate intimate elopements or grand celebrations.
Price Range: $$$$ (Luxury)
Inverlochy Castle Hotel (Scotland)
Location: Scotland
Style: Luxurious and historic setting for a fairytale wedding
Wedding Packages: Inverlochy Castle Hotel offers a range of wedding packages that can be customized to your specific needs. They offer venues for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies and receptions, including gardens, lawns, and elegant ballrooms. Their wedding planners can assist with every detail, from decorations and catering to entertainment and accommodation.
Unique Features: Historic castle, stunning views of the Scottish Highlands, Michelin-starred restaurant
Capacity: Can accommodate weddings of various sizes.
Price Range: $$$$ (Luxury)
Hotel Ranga (Iceland)
Location: Iceland
Style: Stunning views of the Northern Lights and a range of unique wedding experiences
Wedding Packages: Hotel Ranga offers a variety of wedding packages that can be customized to your specific needs. They offer venues for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies and receptions, including under the Northern Lights (seasonal), in their restaurant, or in specially constructed areas. Their wedding planners can assist with every detail, from decorations and catering to entertainment and accommodation.
Unique Features: Northern Lights viewing, observatory, hot tubs, log cabins
Capacity: Can accommodate weddings of various sizes.
Price Range: $$$ (Mid-Range to Luxury)
The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland (Iceland)
Location: Iceland
Style: Luxurious and relaxing setting amidst the geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon
Wedding Packages: The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland offers a range of wedding packages that can be customized to your specific needs. They offer venues for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies and receptions, including overlooking the Blue Lagoon or in elegant private rooms. Their wedding planners can assist with every detail, from decorations and catering to entertainment and accommodation.
Unique Features: Access to the Blue Lagoon, private lagoon access, world-class spa, gourmet restaurant
Capacity: Can accommodate weddings of various sizes.
Price Range: $$$$ (Luxury)
Tips for Planning Your Destination Wedding Hotel
Here are some essential tips to keep in mind when planning your destination wedding at a hotel:
Visit the Hotel in Advance (If Possible): If your budget allows, consider visiting the hotel in advance to get a firsthand look at the venue spaces, meet with the wedding planners, and sample the catering options. This will help you make a more informed decision and ensure the hotel meets your expectations.
Negotiate with the Hotel: Don’t be afraid to negotiate with the hotel to get the best possible price on your wedding package. Many hotels are willing to offer discounts or additional perks, especially if you’re booking a large number of rooms or holding your wedding during the off-season.
Book Early: Destination wedding hotels are often booked well in advance, especially during peak season. To ensure you secure your desired date and venue, it’s best to book as early as possible.
Communicate Clearly: Maintain clear and consistent communication with the hotel’s wedding planners throughout the planning process. Be sure to provide them with all the necessary details, including your guest list, wedding style, and specific requirements.
Consider Travel Insurance: Protect your investment by purchasing travel insurance that covers unforeseen circumstances such as flight cancellations, medical emergencies, or natural disasters.
Inform Your Guests: Provide your guests with ample notice of your destination wedding, including details about the location, travel arrangements, and accommodation options. Consider creating a wedding website to share important information and updates.
Plan Activities for Your Guests: In addition to the wedding festivities, plan some activities for your guests to enjoy during their stay. This could include sightseeing tours, spa treatments, or group dinners. This will make their trip more memorable and enjoyable.
Embrace the Local Culture: Incorporate elements of the local culture into your wedding celebration. This could include using local flowers, serving local cuisine, or hiring local musicians.
Relax and Enjoy: Most importantly, remember to relax and enjoy your special day. You’ve put in a lot of effort planning your destination wedding, so take the time to savor every moment.
Alternative Wedding Venue Styles
While hotels are fantastic options, it’s worth considering other venue styles too depending on the destination, budget and personal taste. Here are a few:
Private Villas and Estates
Offering exclusivity and privacy, villas and estates provide a more intimate and personalized wedding experience. They’re ideal for smaller guest lists and allow you to create a bespoke wedding, often giving you control over vendors and decor.
Historical Landmarks
Castles, grand mansions, and ancient ruins can provide a unique and unforgettable wedding venue, steeped in history and providing stunning backdrops. These often require more detailed planning and specific vendors experienced with these locations.
Beachfront Properties (Non-Hotel)
While hotels often have beaches, considering private beachfront homes or designated public beach areas with special permits can be more budget-friendly or offer a more personalized touch. Consider the logistics of permits, catering, and setup.
Botanical Gardens or Parks
Lush gardens and parks offer beautiful natural settings for your wedding, ideal for couples who love the outdoors. Look into permit requirements and ensure the venue can accommodate your guest list and desired amenities.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect hotel for your destination wedding is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. By weighing factors such as location, budget, guest list, and wedding style, you can narrow down your options and find a hotel that perfectly complements your vision. Whether you dream of a tropical paradise, a romantic European escape, or an exotic adventure, there’s a hotel out there that will make your special day truly unforgettable. Remember to book early, communicate clearly with the hotel’s wedding planners, and embrace the local culture to create a unique and memorable experience for you and your guests. And most importantly, remember to relax and enjoy every moment of your destination wedding celebration!