Have you decided to ditch the traditional white wedding and opt for something a little more intimate? A little more off the beaten path? That’s absolutely incredible, congrats! Elopements are quickly becoming more and more popular with couples and are an incredible way to perfectly tailor your wedding day to celebrate your love! An added bonus of deciding to elope within Victoria is being blessed to live within a state that provides many beautiful locations to explore for your elopement.

In this blog, I will share with you some of my favourite elopement spots within Victoria (But make sure to watch this space as this blog is only part one!) and some incredible benefits of these picturesque locations. Whether it’s mountain ranges, waterfalls or something a little more unique and .. prickly, there are options available for everyone! Keep reading to see some of my most-loved elopement destinations within Victoria!

1. The Grampians

The Grampians National Park resides west of Melbourne and is home to just over 167,000 hectares of natural beauty. From panoramic mountain views, angled sandstone ridges and glorious waterfalls, the Grampians offer many unique elopement options surrounded by gorgeous Australian flora and fauna. In spring, the Grampians are fondly referred to as the “Garden of Victoria,” with wildflowers blanketing the park with bright coloured blooms! With so many beautiful landscapes, you might be thinking, but where in particular within the Grampians? Here are some of my personal go-to spots!

Hollow Mountain:

Following a trail through ancient eucalyptus trees and pines, Hollow Mountain has incredible views over Mt. Stapylton and the Wimmeria Plains. With exposed boulders, red ledges and a spacious cave, the summit is a beautiful place to watch the sunset and say your vows. It is a short scramble through rocky terrain to reach the top, but when I say that the view leaves you speechless, I truly mean it!

Mackenzie Falls:

Nestled away amongst picturesque greenery is one of the most majestic waterfalls I’ve ever seen. Mackenzie Falls is at the base of a 30-minute walking trail and flows year-round! When I say that this is one of the most magical locations that I’ve ever photographed, I mean it (There are literally rainbows in the air!) With water flowing over large cliff-faces into deep pools, the mist and light perfectly create glimmering rainbows around the falls. There is also plenty of open space at the base of the waterfalls to have a picnic or even explore to further immerse yourself in the beautiful surroundings!

2. The Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road spans across the southeast coast of Victoria and winds through various coastal terrains. From the limestone formations of the Twelve Apostles to The Redwoods plantation in the Otways, there are so many elopement options tucked away within The Great Ocean Road ready to explore! I’ve had the privilege of shooting at two picturesque locations in particular and they are both incredibly dreamy and worthy of an intimate elopement!

Loch Ard Gorge:

This beautiful sandy beach sits nestled within towering sandstone cliffs and looks like a scene straight out of a rom-com movie. Whether you’re wanting to splash in the water with your love after your vows or watch the waves roll in from the Loch Ard Wreck lookout, Loch Ard Gorge is a gorgeous location to consider for your elopement or as a romantic backdrop for your couples shots!

Gibson Steps:

With a vast shoreline to explore, Gibson Steps received its name from the 86 carved steps that lead you down to the sandy beach. With large vertical cliffs and sweeping sea views, Gibson Steps also has two large limestone formations rising from the ocean. At sunset, this beautiful beach would be a perfect location to wed your love as you’re bathed in golden light by the seaside!

3. The Cliffs, Flinders.

The Cliffs is one of my all-time favourite locations for elopements based in Flinders on the Mornington Peninsula. This spot is so incredibly versatile for photography to ensure you get those beautiful couples shots! Eloping atop the cliffs will guarantee you have those stunning views, and incredible colours at sunset as well as having the opportunity to travel down to the rocky beaches and explore the base of the cliffs. The Cliffs is a hidden gem tucked away in such a beautiful landscape and has such a magical essence when you’re there. If you’re inspired by Scottish landscapes, in particular, The Cliffs is definitely a location that I recommend you check out!

4. Cactus Country

I get so excited whenever I have the opportunity to talk about this incredible location! Looking at photos of Cactus Country with its Mexican flare, you wouldn’t believe that this gem is located in Victoria, Australia. Based in Strathmerton, Cactus Country is Australia’s largest cactus garden with 8 paths winding through a 12-acre oasis. It features some of the coolest and quirkiest plants and cacti that you can imagine! What’s more fun than saying, “I do!” amidst this unique landscape! You can wander through the gardens for your couples photos following your ceremony. And that’s not even the best part! Cactus Country is also dog friendly which means you can include your four-legged best friend in your wedding party!

It can be difficult trying to narrow down your elopement location to one specific place, especially when there are so many beautiful ones to choose from! If you’re having any doubts or have any questions about any specific locations and need further advice, I’d highly recommend reaching out to your photographer. The beauty of a wedding photographer is being able to further help you create a plan for your day, find the right lighting and work alongside you to help you achieve everything you desire on your special day! Having photographed all of these locations personally, feel free to reach out if you have any questions or queries and I’d be happy to help you out!