If you’ve ever dreamed of saying “I do” surrounded by nature, with the wind in your hair and the soothing sound of a waterfall in the background, then a cottagecore elopement at the breathtaking Seljalandsfoss waterfall in Iceland might just be the perfect setting. Imagine tying the knot with the most magical, ethereal vibes—think wildflowers, vintage lace, rustic charm, and the raw beauty of Icelandic landscapes.
This blog post will take you through the enchanting experience of a cottagecore-style elopement at Seljalandsfoss, offering inspiration for couples who crave a whimsical, nature-infused celebration that feels like stepping into a fairytale.
The Magic of Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
Seljalandsfoss is one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls, known for its sheer beauty and unique feature: you can walk behind it! The fall cascades 60 meters (197 feet) down, creating a curtain of water that you can stand behind while still being able to gaze out across the lush green landscape. The sight of water plummeting into the river below, framed by wildflowers and moss-covered rocks, is nothing short of enchanting. It’s an awe-inspiring place that perfectly captures the essence of nature’s untamed beauty.
The combination of misty spray from the waterfall, the open sky, and rugged terrain creates a sense of both intimacy and grandeur—a fitting backdrop for couples seeking a serene yet awe-filled atmosphere for their elopement.
The Cottagecore Aesthetic: A Whimsical, Nature-Inspired Vibe
Cottagecore is a charming aesthetic that draws inspiration from rural life, vintage elements, and a simpler, more idyllic connection to nature. For an elopement, this translates into an effortlessly romantic vibe—think soft, flowing dresses, wildflower bouquets, handcrafted details, and a peaceful, rustic atmosphere.
For your cottagecore elopement at Seljalandsfoss, imagine yourself walking through tall grass and delicate wildflowers, hand in hand with your partner, with the thundering waterfall as your soundtrack. You might wear a vintage-inspired wedding gown or a soft, boho dress, your hair adorned with fresh blooms or a simple crown of wildflowers. Your partner might wear earthy, neutral tones—think linen shirts, tailored trousers, and perhaps a rustic boutonniere made from Icelandic moss or local foliage.
Getting Ready: A Cozy Morning at The Old School House
Before heading to the breathtaking Seljalandsfoss waterfall for their ceremony, the couple started their day in the charming and rustic surroundings of Gaulverjaskoli The Old School House, an intimate, off-the-beaten-path location that perfectly embodied the cottagecore aesthetic. Nestled in the Icelandic countryside, this historic schoolhouse offered a warm and cozy atmosphere that contrasted beautifully with the wild, windswept landscapes that would soon serve as their ceremony backdrop.
In the cozy rooms of Gaulverjaskoli, the couple took time to relax and enjoy the morning, setting the tone for a laid-back, yet emotionally rich day. The bride slipped into her vintage-inspired wedding dress, a flowing, ethereal gown with delicate lace and soft fabrics that perfectly matched the natural beauty surrounding them. Her hair was styled simply, with wildflowers woven throughout—an homage to the Icelandic landscapes that would soon become part of their love story.
Meanwhile, the groom, dressed in a linen shirt and tailored trousers, completed his look with a rustic boutonniere crafted from local Icelandic moss. He looked out the window, taking in the breathtaking rural scenery, his excitement building as he prepared to meet his partner at Seljalandsfoss for their ceremony.
With the morning filled with laughter and anticipation, the couple shared a quiet moment together before the wedding, exchanging notes and whispers of excitement. The simplicity and warmth of the old schoolhouse made it the perfect space to pause before embarking on their adventure to Seljalandsfoss.
The Ceremony: Intimate, Personal, and Unique
After getting ready at Gaulverjaskoli, we drove to Seljalandsfoss, where the magic truly began. Surrounded by moss-covered rocks and the sound of cascading water, the couple exchanged their vows with the roaring waterfall as a backdrop, creating a truly unforgettable, intimate moment.
Eloping allows couples to skip the traditional, large-scale wedding and instead focus on what truly matters: the love and connection between them. The ceremony at Seljalandsfoss can be as intimate as you like, with just the two of you, or you can invite a few close family members or friends to witness your vows.
The location is naturally stunning, so there’s no need for extravagant décor. Instead, focus on small, meaningful details that speak to your relationship. A wooden arch adorned with wildflowers, a linen altar cloth, or even a simple rug to stand on can all add that perfect cottagecore touch. You can also incorporate elements from Iceland itself—such as adding birch branches, local stones, or Icelandic moss to your decor—to truly make the setting feel like a personal, bespoke experience.
One of the most unique aspects of Seljalandsfoss is the ability to stand behind the waterfall, offering you the opportunity to exchange vows in a setting that feels both sacred and wild. The mist from the waterfall creates an almost ethereal aura around you, making this moment feel timeless and magical.
The Reception: A Cozy, Rustic Celebration
While a traditional wedding reception may not be necessary for an elopement, you can still celebrate your union in a cozy, cottagecore-inspired way. Picture a picnic for two in a meadow, perhaps with a charcuterie board featuring local Icelandic cheese, berries, and bread, accompanied by a bottle of Icelandic craft beer or champagne. You can sip your drinks while sitting on a vintage-style blanket, surrounded by lush nature and the distant sound of the waterfall.
If you want a more formal but still intimate experience, consider a small table set with rustic wooden plates, candles, and perhaps a bouquet of Icelandic wildflowers. You could even bring along a photographer or videographer who can capture the magic of your celebration, preserving the memories of your cottagecore elopement.
Post-Ceremony Adventures: Exploring Iceland’s Natural Beauty
After your ceremony, why not embark on a mini adventure to explore more of Iceland’s awe-inspiring landscapes? Iceland is filled with incredible natural wonders, from glaciers and volcanoes to black sand beaches and geothermal springs.
A short drive from Seljalandsfoss, you can visit nearby sites such as the Skogafoss waterfall, the stunning Dyrhólaey cliffs, or the Reynisfjara black sand beach. If you’re into hiking, consider taking a trek through Þórsmörk valley, surrounded by mountains, rivers, and glaciers. Whatever you choose to do, Iceland offers endless opportunities for adventure and exploration after your elopement ceremony.
Practical Tips for Your Cottagecore Elopement in Iceland
- Weather: Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, so be sure to pack accordingly. Even in summer, it can be chilly and rainy, so layering is key. Bring waterproof jackets, sturdy shoes, and a warm sweater.
- Traveling Light: Since this is an elopement, keep your attire and accessories simple, but don’t forget to pack a few essentials like a camera, your wedding rings, and any personal items like handwritten vows or a favorite poem.
- Permits: Check with local authorities or your wedding planner to see if you need any permits to hold a ceremony at Seljalandsfoss. Typically, there are no major restrictions, but it’s always a good idea to double-check.
- Choosing the Best Time of Year: The summer months (June to August) offer long daylight hours and milder weather, but the winter months (November to February) provide an ethereal beauty with snow-capped landscapes and fewer tourists. Either season will make for a stunning elopement, depending on the vibe you prefer.
A Truly Magical Experience
A cottagecore elopement at Seljalandsfoss waterfall is the perfect way to celebrate your love in a way that feels intimate, personal, and deeply connected to nature. The enchanting beauty of the waterfall, the rustic charm of Iceland’s landscape, and the carefree, romantic spirit of cottagecore will create a memory that will last a lifetime.
If you’re drawn to the idea of a nature-infused, simple yet magical celebration, consider eloping to Iceland’s Seljalandsfoss—where your love story can be written against the backdrop of one of the world’s most breathtaking natural wonders.
Feel free to contact me if you have any questions about how to elope in Iceland
