Norway is the perfect destination for those who want to have a scenic wedding since the natural landscapes are second to none. From glaciers and fjords to sprawling forests and lofty mountains, there’s something here for everyone who loves the great outdoors. And if you want to tie the knot surrounded by nature, there’s no better place to be. Depending on your preference, there are several different settings you can choose from. For instance, you might be keen on the coastlines or choose the arctic tundra in the north.
If you’ve been thinking about having a Norway wedding, here are some of the locations you can consider.
Fjord wedding
Fjords are long and narrow sea inlets surrounded by cliffs. The Norwegian coastline is roughly 29,000 km long and has about 1,200 fjords. If you plan on having a wedding here, you must be mindful of the weather. From December to February, the weather can get quite cold, with temperatures ranging between -5°C and 3°C on average, but it can get even colder in the northern fjords. Snowfall is common as well, so if you enjoy the winter wonderland atmosphere, this is definitely the best time to visit. To ensure everyone is comfortable, make sure everyone’s wedding attire fits the temperatures.
For example, the bridesmaid dresses should be long in order to be warmer, and you can also make faux fur shawls or jackets part of the ensemble for extra comfort and warmth. If you’re not a fan of the cold, though, you will want to have your wedding a little later, ideally between April and August. During the spring, wildflowers will be in bloom, while the summer months have the mildest weather. If you visit the Arctic Circle, June to July are the best times to spot the midnight sun.
Fjord weddings are typically rustic and rather informal, but that doesn’t mean they’re completely devoid of elegance. These locations are generally the preferred spots of those who have only a few guests, typically no more than forty or fifty. The serene natural backdrop, charming fjord barns, and unique dinner experience, with customized dishes crafted from local ingredients, will make for a unique and unforgettable experience.
Juvet
If you want your wedding to feel luxurious, there is no better place to achieve that than at the Juvet Landscape Hotel, a 4-star venue located at Alstad 24, 6210 Valldal. The location is popular for its remarkable architecture, which makes it unlike anything else in the world. The landscape rooms are one of the highlights, being built entirely out of glass, which lets you have a panoramic view of the surrounding natural environment. No two rooms are alike, but they all have a dark interior in order to emphasize the beauty of the outdoor scenery.
The Bird Houses and structures placed directly on the steep slopes above the landscape rooms will put you directly next to the mountainside, but you can also choose the Writer’s Lodge if you’re looking for a tranquil space to recharge after the party. You can also treat the guests to a refreshing spa experience, with the rooms overlooking the river and being painted in a manner that creates the impression of being in a cave. And since the hotel is situated on the grounds of a farm that is more than a century old, you can also expect incredible seasonal cuisine served in a cozy sitting room, next to an open fire.
Hytte
The popularity of cottagecore peaked during the pandemic, and while the subculture was criticized for its unrealistic and highly romanticized view of rural life, among other things, there are still many who enjoy this aesthetic quite a lot. If you’re one of them and would like to replicate the look for your wedding, you can do so in a Norwegian hytte. The hytte are essentially huts or cabins built out of wood and which are most often painted in red. They are typically built close to forested areas, in the mountains or close to the sea.
To keep in line with the cottage theme, the clothing of the wedding party members should be in line with the style as well. For instance, the dress for the mother of the bride can be inspired by the nap dress, a style that was popular in the early 2020s because it is soft and comfortable while also managing to look presentable and is perfect for both lounging around and festive occasions. The outfits can also be inspired by Bunad, a Norwegian word which, in its narrowest sense, refers to traditional costumes, particularly those designed in the early 20th century.
These traditional outfits are particularly intricate, involving stunning complex embroidery on wool fabric, locally-sourced materials, and even dyes derived from Norwegian flowers and plants. And while the traditional hytte had very limited amenities, the modern ones are much more comfortable and often bigger than their earlier counterparts. Since most of them are located in the mountains, they’re ideal for intimate weddings.
The Bolder and The Woodnest
Combining style with going off the grid isn’t simple, but you can have it at The Bolder. The lodges overlook the Lysefjord, one of Norway’s most spectacular natural areas. The cabins were designed to be sustainable and have minimal impact on the environment, and you will be surrounded by stunning views at all times. You’ll need to opt for a buyout in order to have exclusive access to the entire venue and be able to provide all the guests with accommodation.
The Woodnest is a luxurious take on the treehouse, a location that combines comfort with whimsy. You’ll be in touch with nature at this location and experience your wedding at an elevated spot, where the air is crisp, and the views seem to stretch on forever. Reaching The Woodnest is a bit of an adventure in and of itself, as you have to climb a series of stone steps carved into the mountainside in order to reach the location.
Having your wedding in Norway is an amazing choice since there are so many beautiful places where you can tie the knot. Do your research in advance in order to get the best venue for you and make your special day even more exceptional.