Glenmore Country Estate
Amidst the chaos of organising a wedding – and well before saying “I do” – couples need to make the ultimate and quite frankly one of the hardest commitments of all: selecting the venue. Dramatics aside, ask any bride-to-be and they’ll tell you that choosing the setting for this momentous occasion is much easier said than done! Not only does the space need to represent you as a couple, but it also needs to tick a lot of boxes – accommodation, amenities, food, bar, wet weather option (just to name a few) – not to mention it needs to be absolutely stunning (non-negotiable).
So, whether you’re looking for that perfect country estate or you’re after a relaxed coastal do, here, we’ve rounded up some of the most spectacular and stunning places to get hitched in Australia.
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New South Wales
Fullerton Hotel, Sydney
The Fullerton Hotel Sydney not only offers the glamour of a five-star hotel experience, but with the backdrop of a historic Victorian-era architecture. Situated in the centre of Sydney, there’s no better destination for those looking for more urban nuptials, or perhaps an easily accessible but glamorous venue close to home.
From rising double staircases to sandstone finishes, the Fullerton Hotel is the perfect mix of cosmopolitan city style with heritage elegance.
Read more about the Fullerton Hotel, here.
Glenmore Country Estate, Hunter Valley
Looking for a private, country venue that gives you and your guests five-star treatment? At the top of our list is Glenmore Country Estate – the perfect spot for the whimsical, yet bold bride.
Located in the Hunter Valley (yes, that’s wine country) an easy 3.5 hours north of Sydney, this venue boasts country charm with a luxurious edge. Although it’s close to nearby establishments, when you’re on the property it feels like you’re in the middle of nowhere – pure bliss!
In addition to heralding some of the most tranquil views the valley has on offer, the venue includes the artfully preserved and newly renovated homestead that sleeps eight plus the classic country barn that can hold around 100 guests. The ideal setup for those who want the simplicity of holding everything in one place (ceremony and reception) yet still want that “wow factor”.
Owned and operated by the Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley, your big day is made better (and easier) with food and beverage options tailored to you by the best in the biz. A dedicated wedding coordinator is there to help you curate the space to suit your needs and make sure that the day is as beautiful as it is memorable!
Luna Park, Milsons Point
What could be more fun than a ride on a rollercoaster, followed by a ceremony with some of the best Sydney Harbour views on offer? For the couple who are seeking a venue with a little colour and a whole lot of amusement, Luna Park is one of the most iconic wedding venues around.
‘Brides on Rides’ aside (yes, that’s an inclusion), Luna Park is not merely fun and games. With several stunning rooms available for hire, the waterfront park has something that will appeal to everyone.
Case in point: the mesmerising Crystal Ballroom. With its ceiling to floor windows overlooking the harbour, there’s little question as to why this is one of the most popular wedding venues in Sydney.
The Fig Tree, Byron Bay
Byron Bay has long been the destination for those seeking the ultimate relaxing escape. For the same reason, the surrounding hinterland provides for some of the most romantic wedding locations in Australia.
Ontop a hill and boasting both mountain and lovely coastline views, The Fig Tree is one such establishment. Named after the 150-year-old Moreton Bay Fig Tree on site, this venue is classic and elegant with that relaxed bohemian vibe that Byron Bay is known for.
Royal Botanic Gardens, Sydney
Whimsical and wonderful; there’s something so special about a garden wedding, and, as far gardens go, nothing quite compares to the Royal Botanic Gardens in Sydney.
With several vast lawns for setting up marquees or a picnic reception, there’s a garden setting for every couple. The Gardens House is our top pick for a garden wedding. This is a perfect venue if you’re dying to have a beautiful ceremony, but you want to avoid wedding-stress.
Peter Rowland’s expert planners have been planning and catering weddings here for over ten years; their all-inclusive packages mean that they will handle everything for you – from the budget to the flowers, they’ll take care of everything!
Victoria
The Brown Brothers Winery, Milawa
Bubbles, bubbles and more bubbles. Known as the home of Australian prosecco, the Brown Brothers Winery is more than a vacation hotspot, it’s a magical destination for those looking for a wedding venue that provides a simple and intimate outdoor experience – and did we mention the bubbles?
With an unimpeded view of Mt. Buffalo and the gorgeous vineyard location, you can have your ceremony in their recently restored barnyard, and perhaps even schedule a wine tasting as part of the festivities!
The Langham, Melbourne
Romance; elegance; grandeur: all words that this quintessential luxury wedding venue is known for. Right in the middle of Melbourne, The Langham is for the bride that wants it all – and then some!
From the Alto Room on the 25th Floor with sweeping views of Melbourne’s city skyline and terrace to the Clarendon Ballroom (yes, BALLROOM) and Yarra Room with magnificent crystal chandeliers and French silk upholstered walls, The Langham is luxury and bespoke at the same time.
Our suggestion? Tie the knot at the rooftop, then hold the reception in their ballroom. Drinks, dinner, and dancing will be unforgettable in this hotel.
Summerfields Estate, Bittern
Originally built as a bed and breakfast in 1998, this stunning location has been hosting celebrations for years. Set on beautiful grounds surrounded by a grove of 2,000 olive trees and an ornamental lake, Summerfields is encircled by beautiful gardens, a terrace and occupied by a family of resident geese, making it the perfect places for your special day.
Summerfields also boasts on-site accommodation, so you and your guests can make a weekend out of the occasion.
Queensland
Loyal Hope Of The Valley, Brisbane
Completely rejecting the idea that a wedding in a hall is daggy and dated, Loyal Hope of the Valley is the DIY bride’s dream!
Located in Brisbane’s fortitude valley, just moments away from the bustle of busy James Street, this venue is as picturesque as it is romantic. Think: whitewashed walls, beams of natural light, hardwood timber floorboards and an emerald green art-deco style bar that will make you swoon.
With exclusive use of the space, couples can do as much or as little as they like. A blank canvas for you to create your perfect, modern wedding.
Hamilton Island
Located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, Hamilton Island offers the ultimate destination wedding experience. With more than 10 ceremony locations, including a little white chapel looking out over the ocean, and 15 unique reception venues, the island can cater for up to 300 guests.
Plus, with world-renowned resorts like Qualia, you don’t even need to leave for the honeymoon.
Tasmania
Museum Of Old And New Art (MONA), Berriedale
If your love for art comes a close second to your love for each other, then the MONA is the wedding venue for you.
Located just a short ferry ride from Hobart, this attraction is a feast for the eyes. Not only does it house some of the greatest artworks of all time, but the architectural elements of the buildings are guaranteed to impress your guests – and make for some very inspiring photos.
Our pick? The Void: a space that sits 13 metres underground, and encased by a Triassic-aged sandstone wall.
Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge
Known as one of the most popular wedding destinations in Tasmania, Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge features breathtaking mountain views, endless opportunities for stunning photographs and the ability to host both the wedding and reception in the one location.
And, with cabins available for hire, you and your guests can simply roll into bed once the celebrations are done and dusted.
Western Australia
Nedlands Yacht Club, Perth
For couples looking for that perfect waterfront location on the west coast, look no further than Nedlands Yacht Club.
With its lush foreshore leading down to the banks of the Swan River in Nedlands, this venue is an idyllic choice for your summer wedding.
The space which holds up to a whopping 500 people, can be utilised a myriad of ways. Foodtrucks, dancefloor under the stars, marquee – the staff are flexible and there to help you create pure magic!
South Australia
Kingsford Homestead, Barossa Valley
A wedding venue hitlist would not be complete without a Barossa Valley inclusion. With its jaw-dropping scenery, sophisticated vibe and exclusive nature, we couldn’t go passed the Kingsford Homestead.
Just 45 minutes from Adelaide this incredible venue is truly something special. However, only catering to a select number of weddings each year, it’s one of those venues you need to jump on – quickly!
Sunnybrae Estate, Adelaide
Lookng like something out of a romantic fantasy novel, Sunnybrae Estate is a hidden gem just 10 minutes outside of Adelaide’s CBD.
Dating back to the 1880s, the estate has been beautifully reimagined to create a venue that is both rich in history and stunning in view. With a winery-feel setting, palm garden, rose garden, rustic brick walls, heritage buildings, gorgeous interiors and lush grass, it’s a photographer’s (and bride and groom’s) dream.
Coriole Vineyard, McLaren Vale
Situated in the beautiful rolling hills of the McLaren Vale wine region, this venue boasts a picturesque courtyard and garden – perfect for those searching for a stunning outdoor venue looking out onto the equally as stunning vineyard.
Serafino, McLaren Vale
Set on a tranquil lake, and among 200-year-old gum trees, Serafino McLaren Vale is the perfect location to host a wedding. It features a courtyard that can seat up to 180 guests, while the traditional ballroom can hold up to 220.
You won’t be short of photo opportunities either, with a gorgeous lake, rose garden and gum trees aplenty. Plus, there are 30 boutique rooms available for guests to stay overnight.
