Local Switzerland Elopement Guides

Elope in Switzerland – Sunset vows in the Swiss Alps feel like pure magic.

Looking for a wedding day that feels simple, honest and close to nature? We are local wedding photographers based in Appenzell, guiding couples through relaxed elopements all across Switzerland.

We’ll help you find the perfect spot in the Swiss Alps, plan a day that feels easy and true to you. No big show. No staged poses. Just real moments, landscapes, and a day that’s truly yours.

Book a free call Mountain Elopement at Säntis


YOur Wedding day – Impressions form the Alps

Browse our gallery to see what your Swiss mountain day could look like.

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  • Brautpaar küsst sich bei Sonnenaufgang auf dem Säntis, im Hintergrund ist die Sonne und der Alpstein zu sehen.
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  • Braut mit Hut steht am Abend vor dem Berggasthaus Äscher, mystisches Licht.
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    • What our Couples say?

    + Thank you so much!

    • Ein Mann mit Bart im Anzug küsst den Bauch einer schwangeren Frau in weissem Kleid

      “WOOOW!”

      We just quickly looked through our pictures while we were waiting at the airport. Sooooo beautiful!!!

      Really. We are sooooo happy we chose you 🥰🥰🥰 Thank you very very very much for capturing our day so beautifully with so much love, skill, and attention to detail 🫶🏼
      S & M
    • Fotograf Hochzeitsfotograf Ostschweiz St.Gallen Appenzell Zürich Thurgau Aargau

      “JUST AMAZING!”

      Thank you so much for the lovely box and the wonderful photos 🥰😍 We’re so happy and love looking back on that day! Thank you for capturing all those beautiful moments 😍 You two are just great! 👍🏼
      D & S

    Meet your switzerland elopement photographerS

    Take a deep breath — you’re in good hands.
    We’ve seen couples rush through their day like it’s a checklist.
    But the most beautiful moments happen when you slow down, breathe, and simply enjoy the view.

    • Location ideas & planning support – We know these places by heart — the trails, the views, and the weather. We can scout locations in advance, share photos and videos, and make planning easy — especially if you’re coming from abroad.
    • Mountain-experienced elopement photographers – We’re used to changing weather, steep trails, and alpine light — and we handle it all calmly and confidently.
    • Trusted vendor recommendations – From florists and make-up artists to mountain inns — we connect you with trusted locals who know the Alps and make your elopement day seamless..
    • Cinematic storytelling – authentic, timeless imagery that captures both the grand landscapes and the intimate moments of your day.
    wehre to elope in Switzerland

    You’re ready to elope in Switzerland? — 3 Easy Steps

    Fill out our inquiry form or schedule a free call with us.

    Whether you already know exactly how your elopement should unfold or want to start planning from scratch — we’ll guide you every step of the way and make sure your journey to your dream elopement in Switzerland is completely stress-free.

    01.

    The mountains are calling you!

    We Start Early on a Cool, Foggy Morning. You put on your headlamps, take each other’s hands, and we start hiking. Your wedding dress is carefully stowed in your backpack, and your hiking boots are tightly laced. 

    After half an hour, the fog lifts, and before us lies a small mountain lake, quiet and still. The sun is just breaking over the peaks.

    Book a free call

    02.

    Elopement Switzerland Zermatt 1
    This is the place where you’ll make your promise.

    You slip into the wedding dress and the suit. The moment is about to begin – your first look.

    It’s the first time you see each other in your wedding outfits. You’re standing back to back, your hands slightly trembling with excitement before you turn around. Wow. An unforgettable moment – just the two of you, surrounded by mountains glowing red in the first light of dawn.

    03.

    hot wo elope in Switzerland
    SOME COUPLES CHOOSE AN EVENING ELOPEMENT

    We start our hike while the sun is still warm on our backs.
    The mountains glow golden, and the sky slowly turns from blue to pink.

    As the last hikers make their way down into the valley, you have this special place all to yourselves. A magical moment – before heading to the nearby mountain hut for the night, where a warm dinner is already waiting for you.

    “Our elopement in Appenzell was beyond perfect! From the very first call, Alpstein Fotograf guided us with local tips, hidden spots, and even helped us plan everything from abroad.”

    – Vanessa & Adrian · Elopement Wedding in Appenzell

    our Switzerland elopement packages

    These are just ideas and touchpoints – every elopement is unique.

    appenzell – Intimate Half-Day mountain Elopement

    Your Elopement Moment – also Bookable as an Engagement or Couple Shoot

    swiss engagement photographer
    4–5 hours of photography

    Accommodation not Included

    Location Scouting throughout Switzerland

    (Zermatt, Lauterbrunnen, Engadin, Appenzell, Lucerne)

    Recommendations for Local Service Providers

    (Florist, Officiant, Makeup, Transport, Accommodation)

    Online Gallery + 10 Fine Art Postcards

    (Optional: Video Coverage)

    From 2900 USD

    Book a free call
    matterhorn – Full Day mountain Elopement

    A Full Day – from Sunrise to Dinner in the Mountains.

    Switzerland elopement packages
    8–10 Hours of Photography

    Accommodation not Included

    Location Scouting throughout Switzerland

    (Zermatt, Lauterbrunnen, Engadin, Appenzell, Lucerne)

    Recommendations for Local Service Providers

    (Florist, Officiant, Makeup, Transport, Accommodation)

    Online Gallery + 15 Fine Art Postcards

    (Optional: Video Coverage)

    From 5500 USD

    Book a free call
    st.moritz – Multi-Day Switzerland Elopement

    More than one Day: Vows, Starry Night & Complete Freedom in the Swiss Alps.

    Swiss Mountain Elopement
    2 Days – Photography & Guidance

    Accommodation Included

    Location Scouting throughout Switzerland

    (Zermatt, Lauterbrunnen, Engadin, Appenzell, Lucerne)

    Complete Planning Including Itinerary

    4–5 Ceremony Spots to Choose From

    Online Gallery + 15 Fine Art Postcards + Highlight Video

    (3–5 Minutes)

    From 9,500 USD

    book a free call

    Haven’t popped the question yet? We can help with that too.

    Switzerland Pre-Wedding Shoot –This is how your mountain love story starts.

    A proposal or pre-wedding shooting in the Alps is much more than just a photo shoot. It is a shared adventure that connects you long before your wedding takes place.

    Whether you’re getting photos for your wedding invitations, as a gift for your loved one, or simply as a memory of a day full of emotions – these pictures will live in every home you have during your long and happy life.

    Wedding Venues in Appenzell
    Hochzeit Saentis Appenzell 1 1

    “Our wedding in the Swiss mountains on the Säntis was absolutely magical! The photos turned out exactly as we had dreamed – simply unforgettable.”

    — Julia & Pascal · Elopement at Säntis/Appenzell

    Why our Name: Alpstein Fotograf ?

    The Alpstein has always been more than just a mountain range in Appenzell to us.

    It’s the place we grew up with — where we’ve spent countless hours hiking, breathing in the crisp mountain air, and watching the light shift across the limestone peaks. These landscapes have shaped the way we see the world and the way we tell stories through our photography.

    When we started our journey together, it felt only natural to carry this name with us. Alpstein Fotograf is not just a name — it’s our roots, our connection to home, and a reflection of the authenticity we bring into our work.

    For us, it stands for honesty, raw beauty, and a sense of belonging. Every wedding, every portrait, every story we capture carries a piece of this mountain spirit — whether here in Appenzell, somewhere in Switzerland, or far beyond.

    Learn more about your photographers
    Switzerland Elopement Photographer

    QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR MOUNTAIN WEDDING IN SWITZERLAND?

    01.

    Switzerland is a true paradise for elopements. In a small area, you’ll find landscapes that look like they’re straight out of a picture book – from majestic mountains to glittering lakes and charming villages.

    Whether Eastern Switzerland, Valais, Engadin, or Bernese Oberland – the possibilities are endless. Well-marked hiking trails lead you to hidden spots with breathtaking views, and modern cable cars make it easy to reach even the highest peaks.

    Thanks to its central location in Europe and excellent transport system, Switzerland is easily accessible and offers countless dreamlike locations in every season.
    And the best part: we’ll help you find the perfect trail, ride the right mountain lift, and choose the spot that makes your day unforgettable. 

    02.

    The short answer: no – at least not as you might imagine. A legally valid marriage in Switzerland is only possible at the civil registry office. There you sign the papers – with two witnesses. 

    Many couples do it this way: they handle the legal marriage at home or in their home country – sometimes even secretly, just the two of them – and then experience their elopement here in Switzerland.

    03.

    As Elopement Photographer Switzerland we know, every season is magical – it just depends on how you envision your day: 

    Spring (April–May): Blooming meadows, still snow-capped peaks, and fewer tourists. Perfect if you love fresh colors. 

    Summer (June–September): Open passes, long days, wild mountain lakes, and complete freedom in choosing locations. Ideal for adventures & hikes. 

    Autumn (October): Golden larches in Engadin, mystical fog in Appenzell, fewer travelers. Atmospheric & quiet. 

    Winter (December–March): Snow-covered mountains, fondue in the hut, and a fairytale feeling. Perfect for couples who love snow and coziness. 

    So there isn’t one best season – but rather the one that suits you. We will help you find the right moment and the perfect location for your elopement.

    04.

    Yes, that’s possible. If you want to do everything on-site: A civil ceremony in Switzerland often only takes about 15 minutes. Important: It requires good preparation. Your documents must be submitted and checked months in advance. 

    Even as a foreign couple, you can legally marry in Switzerland – you must submit the documents through your consulate or directly to the civil registry office. With valid papers and the correct visa, you can also perform the ceremony here before heading to the mountains.

    05.

    Switzerland is one of the most magical places to elope – but how does it work in practice?

    1. Decide on the legal part: Most couples take care of the paperwork at home and celebrate a symbolic ceremony here in the Alps – much easier and stress-free.

    2. Choose your season & region: Summer meadows, autumn colors, or snowy peaks – from Appenzell and Eastern Switzerland to Valais, Engadin, or the Bernese Oberland, every season has its charm.

    3. Plan your access: Well-marked hiking trails and modern cable cars make it easy to reach breathtaking spots. Just check ride times or plan for a sunrise hike.

    4. Prepare the details: Comfortable shoes, layers for the weather, and a backpack for your dress – that’s all you really need.

    5. Find your team: With local photographers and guides (that’s us 😉), you’ll get help with planning, scouting, and capturing the magic of your day.

    06.

    Zermatt & the Matterhorn
    A Switzerland Elopement with the Matterhorn in the background is iconic. At Riffelsee, the peak is reflected in the morning light – a place so still and magical that you feel as if time stands still for a moment

    Zermatt Tourism

    Lauterbrunnen & Jungfrau Region
    Region Waterfalls, green valleys, small villages like Wengen or Mürren. Everything here seems straight out of a fairy tale. Vows with a view of the Staubbach Falls or a hike high above the valley – pure Switzerland. 

    Lauterbrunnen Tourism

    Appenzellerland & Alpstein
    Our home. Here, the mountains are less known but full of character. Places like Seealpsee or Berggasthaus Äscher combine tradition with wild beauty. Perfect for anyone looking for an intimate elopement in Eastern Switzerland. 

    Appenzell Tourism

    Engadin & St. Moritz
    In autumn, the larches turn golden and reflect in turquoise mountain lakes. The vastness of Engadin conveys a sense of freedom that can only be found here. Perfect to elope in Switzerland.

    Engadin

    Oeschinensee & Kandersteg
    One of Switzerland’s most beautiful mountain lakes – turquoise blue, framed by steep rock faces. Up here, every ceremony feels like a small adventure. 

    Oeschinensee

    Bernese Oberland
    From Interlaken to Grindelwald – mountains, glaciers, alpine pastures. Here you’ll find countless hidden spots for couples seeking both impressive backdrops and quiet moments. 

    Grindelwald

    Lucerne & Pilatus
    A combination of lake, city, and mountains. Ideal if you want a Switzerland elopement that combines nature and culture – perhaps with a boat trip in the evening. 

    Pilatus
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    Quick Links

    Inspiration for Your Mountain Elopement
    Ideas, stories, and big moments from the Swiss Alps.

    A Classy Swiss Wedding
    Modern style meets mountain charm.

    BTS on Instagram – Follow Us
    Behind the scenes of our work.
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    Referring partners
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    Let’s get Started!

    The Mountains Are Calling


    Whether you already have your dream wedding location in mind or need help planning the entire day, our process ensures everything comes together seamlessly — so your wedding in the Swiss Alps is just as perfect as you imagine.

    Let’s go!