When you picture an Iceland elopement, maybe you imagine glaciers or black sand beaches. But if you’re craving something a little wilder, a little more remote, and a whole lot more epic, let me introduce you to the Highlands.

Eva and Isaac’s elopement at Landmannalaugar, Iceland, took them from a cozy glass cabin with panoramic views to rugged, windswept mountains where they said their vows surrounded by nothing but earth and sky. From the softest, slow morning to off-road adventure magic, this day was exactly what the Highlands dreams are made of.

Getting Ready at the Panorama Glass Lodge

Eva and Isaac stayed at the Panorama Glass Lodge, one of Iceland’s most unique accommodations. Think: a cozy, glass-walled cabin where you can literally wake up to panoramic mountain views and watch the sky dance with Northern Lights at night. It’s private, peaceful, and unreal in every way.

They spent the morning cozied up in bed, sipping coffee, and getting ready side-by-side. Just the two of them, soaking it all in before the adventure began.

Into the Wild, aka Eloping at Landmannalaugar, Iceland

After getting dressed, they hopped into their trusty 4×4 Land Rover. This region is Iceland’s wild heart and is only accessible from mid-June to mid-September, with rugged F-roads that twist through volcanic terrain, river crossings, black sand deserts, and colorful rhyolite mountains. It’s raw, untouched, and absolutely unreal. But you have to come prepared: a proper 4×4 (check out ISAK rentals) is essential.

Our destination for the day was heading into the heart of the Highlands. We drove past black sand deserts, green moss-covered cliffs, and volcanic ridgelines that looked like they belonged on Mars.

Intimate Elopement Ceremony at Landmannalaugar, Iceland

Eva wore the most incredible embroidered dress, fringes swaying in the wind. Isaac kept it simple and timeless in a black suit. Together, they stood on a rocky ridge, wind brushing their hair back as they exchanged their vows. Who needs an arch when you’re surrounded by beauty like this?

After their ceremony, we explored the volcanic terrain, laughed through the wind, and soaked up every second of the surreal views. We made photos that feel like they came from another planet. 

What to Know About Eloping in Iceland’s Highlands 

If you’re looking for something cinematic, quiet, and completely off the beaten path, the Highlands deliver. It’s the kind of place where you can exchange vows on a windswept ridge, warm up in a hot spring, and watch the sky stretch forever.

The Highlands are only accessible for a few months each year, but if you’re up for the adventure, it’s so worth it. Here’s why couples like Eva and Isaac choose to elope here:

Unmatched Scenery

You’ll find multicolored mountains, black sand deserts, mossy lava fields, hidden canyons, and glacier-fed rivers. It feels like stepping into a fantasy world. Some of the most epic spots include:

• Thórsmörk (Þórsmörk) – A lush valley surrounded by glaciers, with rivers to cross and endless trails. It’s harder to access, but SO worth it for privacy.
  
• Askja Caldera and Víti Crater – This remote volcanic crater lake in the northeastern Highlands is perfect for the truly adventurous couple. You’ll experience dramatic volcanic scenery unlike anywhere else in Iceland.
  
• Kerlingarfjöll – Another fantastic geothermal area known for its hot springs and surreal landscapes.
  
• Laugavegur – One of the most popular hiking destinations in Iceland, and can be found between the other two Highland locations. The trail is very scenic as you go alongside mountains, hot springs, lakes, and a black sand desert! It really is gorgeous!

You’ll Need a 4×4

Most Highland roads are classified as F-roads, which require a high-clearance 4×4 vehicle to navigate safely. These roads often involve:

• Loose gravel + volcanic terrain
  
• River crossings (yes, actual rivers!)
  
• Steep climbs and minimal signage
  

If you’re not confident driving them yourself, consider hiring a driver or booking a guided super jeep tour. I can help recommend both!

Pro Tip: Fill up on gas whenever you can. Gas stations can be few and far between, and you don’t want to get caught without fuel in the middle of nowhere!

Choose Your Accommodation Wisely

For an immersive experience, I recommend staying at one of the mountain huts located in places like Landmannalaugar and Thórsmörk. These huts are basic but give you direct access to the Highlands’ hiking trails. They typically require advanced bookings, especially during the summer season.

If you’re more adventurous, you can also go camping. There are designated campgrounds in the Highlands,but they are quite basic, so come VERY prepared with supplies.

And for day trips, you can base yourself in Hella or Selfoss. These towns have a wider range of accommodation options, from guesthouses to hotels.

You Can Only Elope Here in Summer

The Highlands are only accessible in the summer months (from mid-June to mid-September), so keep this in mind if you’re dreaming of eloping here. And even in summer, the weather changes fast, so make sure to pack ALL the layers, thermal wear, and a change of clothes, just in case.

More Iceland Elopement Resources

• The Ultimate Iceland Elopement Guide
• Unique Iceland Adventure Elopement Ideas
• The Perfect Iceland Road Trip Itinerary

My Iceland Elopement Packages

Hi! I’m Christina, your Iceland elopement photographer. Planning, traveling, and finding beautiful locations and experiences are my jam. Helping you create and document the celebration of a lifetime brings me the utmost joy! I want you to make the most amazing memories and have stunning photos that you can share with all of your loved ones. This is a day where you get to look back and say, “Wow, we did that!”My Iceland elopement packages offer a half-, full–, or multi-day experience! I offer a ton of flexibility in designing our time together and would love to get to know you more to help you plan! To learn more, head over to my contact form, and we can get together on a call!

Offered throughout every elopement package:

• Help you hand pick a location
• Provide resources and custom location guides on lodging, activities, and the best places to indulge in delicious foods
• Scout locations with boots on the ground to find the best places and lighting for your ceremony and photos
• Secure the right location permits to make sure your wedding is legal!
• Recommend vetted vendors to help make your dream of a day come true. 
• Create your custom timeline (there are 2-3 options to choose from!) with room to breathe and enjoy your day.
• Deliver a joyful experience along with swoon-worthy photos in your own online gallery!
• Have a backup plan for it all!
• Deliver sneak peeks within 72 hours and a full wedding gallery within 6 weeks! 
• Provide a Fine Art Wedding Album design for you to print and hold onto your photos to thumb through for years to come.