The Costa Brava, with its rugged coastlines, azure waters, and golden beaches, presents an idyllic canvas for couples dreaming of a wedding that combines natural beauty with unforgettable experiences. This guide aims to navigate you through the diverse selection of Costa Brava wedding venues, ensuring that your special day is not just celebrated but cherished.
Photo: Petr Ovralov
The allure of the Costa Brava as a wedding destination lies not just in its picturesque landscapes but also in the rich tapestry of venues it offers. From the serenity of beachside ceremonies to the grandeur of castle weddings, each venue type promises a unique backdrop for your vows. This diversity means that whether you envisage an intimate gathering or a lavish celebration, the Costa Brava has the perfect spot for your nuptials.
Types of venue
Photo: Nick Karvounis
Beaches: The Costa Brava’s beaches are synonymous with romance. Offering a laid-back yet sophisticated setting, beach venues allow you to exchange vows against the soundtrack of lapping waves and under the canopy of a sunset sky. Ideal for those seeking a relaxed atmosphere, these venues can transform your wedding into a weekend getaway for your guests.
Castles: If your heart is set on a venue that tells a story, the castles of Costa Brava offer a blend of history and elegance. These venues, steeped in centuries of history, provide a dramatic setting for your wedding, complete with stone archways and sweeping vistas. They are perfect for couples looking for a touch of majesty and a timeless backdrop for their photographs.
Villas: For those who prioritise privacy and customisation, villas in the Costa Brava offer an exclusive setting that can be tailored to your precise needs. From rustic farmhouses to modernist estates, villas give you the freedom to design your wedding day exactly as you envision it, with the added benefit of accommodating your closest friends and family on site.
Hotels: Hotels are a go-to for couples seeking convenience without compromising on style. Many hotels in the Costa Brava specialise in weddings, offering packages that include everything from catering to decor. With a range of options from boutique hotels in medieval towns to luxurious resorts on the beachfront, you can find a hotel that caters to your taste and budget.
Unique venues: For a wedding that breaks the mould, consider one of Costa Brava’s unique venues. Imagine saying “I do” in a vineyard, with rows of vines as your backdrop, or in a museum, surrounded by works of art. These venues offer a distinctive setting that reflects your personality and makes your wedding stand out.
Each venue type in the Costa Brava brings its own charm and possibilities, making it crucial to consider what matters most to you as a couple. Whether it’s the sound of the sea, the history of ancient walls, the privacy of a secluded villa, the convenience of hotel services, or the uniqueness of an unconventional setting, your perfect venue awaits in this Mediterranean paradise.
Choosing the right venue
Selecting the right venue for your wedding is a decision that involves balancing dreams with reality. Here are some key considerations to guide you through this process.
Hostal la Gavina. Photo by Angela Llop licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0
Capacity and accommodation: First and foremost, ensure the venue can comfortably accommodate your guest list. Consider not just the space for the ceremony and reception but also the availability of overnight accommodations or nearby hotels for your guests. This is especially important if you’re expecting a lot of out-of-town guests.
Budget: While it’s easy to get carried away by the beauty of a venue, it’s vital to keep your budget in check. Remember to ask about all the costs involved, including venue hire, catering, and any additional fees for exclusive use. Getting a clear picture of the total cost will help you avoid any unexpected surprises down the line.
Location: The beauty of the Costa Brava is its variety of landscapes. Whether you prefer a beachfront setting, a historic town, or a secluded countryside, choose a location that not only matches your wedding theme but is also accessible for your guests. Consider the logistics of getting there from major transport hubs, especially if many of your guests are travelling from abroad.
Style and ambience: Every couple has a vision of what their wedding should look and feel like. Whether you’re dreaming of a rustic countryside wedding, a chic beachside affair, or a formal event in a grand castle, the venue plays a crucial role in bringing that vision to life. Spend time visiting potential venues or viewing them online to get a sense of the style and ambience they offer.
Availability: Popular venues can be booked up to two years in advance, especially during peak wedding season. Once you’ve narrowed down your options, check the availability for your preferred dates. If you’re flexible with your date, you might find more options open to you.
Spotlight on top venues
To help you start your search, here are some of the top Costa Brava wedding venues, each offering something unique.
Phot: Peralada Castle by Enfo is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0
Hostal de la Gavina
Located in S’Agaró, Hostal de la Gavina stands out for its luxurious facilities and stunning views of the Mediterranean. Its grandeur and elegance make it a perfect setting for a lavish wedding. The hotel’s terraces and gardens offer a splendid backdrop for ceremonies, while the sophisticated interiors are ideal for an exquisite reception.
Peralada Castle
Peralada Castle, nestled in the wine country of Perelada, combines historical ambiance with romantic landscapes. This castle is not just a venue but a journey back in time, where every corner tells a story. Its vineyards and gardens provide a serene setting for both ceremonies and celebrations, making it ideal for those seeking a touch of elegance and history.
Mas Torroella
Mas Torroella, near Palafrugell, offers a blend of luxury and rustic charm. This beautifully restored farmhouse features lush gardens, a spa, and panoramic views of the Empordà. It’s the quintessence of privacy and exclusivity, suitable for couples looking for an intimate wedding with a countryside feel.
El Far Hotel Restaurant
Perched atop a cliff near Llafranc, El Far Hotel Restaurant provides breathtaking sea views, making it a spectacular choice for weddings. The lighthouse, around which the hotel is built, adds a unique nautical charm. Its location offers a secluded and intimate setting, perfect for those who dream of a wedding by the sea.
Convent de Blanes
Convent de Blanes, located on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean near Blanes, is a historic site that offers a mix of cultural heritage and natural beauty. The convent’s gardens and the panoramic views provide a stunning backdrop for a romantic wedding ceremony.
Hotel Cala Jóncols
Situated in one of the most secluded coves of the Costa Brava, Hotel Cala Jóncols in Roses offers an escape to nature. Its remote location and direct access to a beautiful beach make it perfect for intimate beach weddings and receptions under the stars.
Cala Gran – El Trull
Cala Gran – El Trull, located in Lloret de Mar, is known for its exquisite seaside setting. The venue offers direct access to Cala Gran, a beautiful beach, making it ideal for those who envision a beach ceremony with the convenience of nearby facilities for a seamless reception.
Hotel Castell d’Empordà
Hotel Castell d’Empordà, in La Bisbal d’Empordà, combines the charm of a historic castle with modern luxury. Its sprawling grounds and elegant ballrooms offer endless possibilities for a fairy-tale wedding, from outdoor ceremonies to lavish indoor receptions.
Hotel Restaurant Molí de l’Escala
Nestled in the heart of L’Escala, Hotel Restaurant Molí de l’Escala is a renovated mill that combines gastronomy with comfort. The riverside setting and the rustic charm of its buildings make it a unique venue for weddings, especially for foodies looking for a culinary focus to their celebration.
Ruins of Empúries
For a wedding steeped in history, the Ruins of Empúries near L’Escala offer an unparalleled backdrop. The ancient Greek and Roman ruins by the sea provide a timeless setting for a ceremony, ideal for couples looking for a truly unique and historic venue.
Santa Cristina Hermitage
Santa Cristina Hermitage, located between Lloret de Mar and Blanes, offers a serene and spiritual setting. Surrounded by forests and with views over the sea, it’s a picturesque and tranquil location for those seeking a more intimate and reflective wedding setting.
Marimurtra Botanic Garden
Marimurtra Botanic Garden in Blanes is one of the most beautiful gardens on the Mediterranean. With its exotic plants and spectacular views over the coastline, it offers a vibrant and colourful setting for wedding ceremonies and photos.
Santa Clotilde Gardens
Overlooking the sea in Lloret de Mar, Santa Clotilde Gardens are known for their stunning Renaissance-inspired design. The gardens provide a tranquil and elegant setting for weddings, with lush greenery and panoramic sea views serving as a natural decoration.
Hotel Cap Roig
Hotel Cap Roig, located in Platja d’Aro, is built into the cliffs overlooking the sea, offering stunning views and lush gardens. Its location and facilities make it a popular choice for weddings, with options for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies and receptions.
Arranging a beach wedding
The Costa Brava boasts a variety of stunning beaches, each offering a unique backdrop for a wedding, from secluded coves to expansive sands. Hiring a local wedding planner can streamline the process of navigating local regulations, addressing permit requirements and logistical challenges such as guest comfort and environmental respect.
Photo: Yoann Boyer
Consideration for the weather, with a backup plan in place, alongside minimalistic décor that complements the coastal setting, ensures a memorable and seamless celebration. Ensuring your beach wedding is as environmentally respectful as it is beautiful, leaves a lasting positive impact on the stunning Costa Brava landscape.
Choosing the right venue is just the beginning of your wedding planning journey in the Costa Brava. With its stunning landscapes and diverse venue options, you’re sure to find a location that not only meets but exceeds your expectations.
Planning your wedding
Photo: Micheile Henderson
With the perfect venue secured, the next phase of your wedding journey begins. Here’s a streamlined approach to ensure everything falls into place seamlessly:
Booking your venue: Once you’ve made your choice, secure your date by signing the contract and paying any necessary deposits. Ensure you understand the cancellation policy and any other contractual obligations.
Vendor coordination: The right vendors can transform a good wedding into a great one. From florists and photographers to caterers and entertainers, select professionals who are familiar with your venue and share your vision. Many venues offer preferred vendor lists, simplifying this process.
Legal requirements: For couples planning a wedding in the Costa Brava from abroad, it’s essential to understand the legal requirements for getting married in Spain. This may involve gathering certain documents or meeting residency requirements. Consulting with a local wedding planner or legal expert can provide clarity and peace of mind.
Guest accommodations and logistics: If your venue doesn’t offer on-site accommodations, or if you need additional rooms, arrange hotel blocks or recommend nearby options for your guests. Consider transportation to and from the venue, especially if it’s located in a remote area of the Costa Brava.
Final touches: As your wedding day approaches, confirm all details with your vendors and venue. Consider a site visit with your planner or coordinator to finalise the layout, timeline, and any last-minute adjustments.
Legal requirements and steps for UK citizens to get married on the Costa Brava
This checklist aims to provide a comprehensive overview to help UK citizens plan their wedding on the Costa Brava but regulations and requirements are subject to change. Early and thorough preparation is key to navigating the process smoothly.
- Certificate of No Impediment (CNI):
- Obtain this from your local registry office in the UK to prove you’re free to marry.
- It must be legalised (apostilled) and translated into Spanish.
- Valid passport:
- Essential for proving your identity.
- Full birth certificate:
- Including both parents’ names, apostilled and translated into Spanish.
- Proof of residency (if applicable):
- At least one partner may need to prove residency in Spain, though this requirement can vary.
- Divorce or death certificates (if applicable):
- For those previously married, provide divorce decrees or death certificates, apostilled and translated.
- Application form:
- Fill out an application form at the Civil Registry in the area where you plan to marry.
- Witnesses:
- Two witnesses who are not related to you must be present at the ceremony.
- Legal requirements for civil marriage:
- For civil marriages, specific regional requirements may apply, including potential residency requirements and pre-marriage interviews or examinations.
- Translations and legalisation:
- All documents not in Spanish need translation by a sworn translator and legalisation.
- Appointment with civil registry:
- Apply for permission to marry at the local Civil Registry and submit all documents.
Additional considerations for the Costa Brava
- Check local requirements: Contact the local registry office in the Costa Brava for the most up-to-date information on additional regional requirements.
- Language: Be prepared for interactions in both Catalan and Spanish. Consider hiring a translator or legal advisor if needed.
- Celebrant: Ensure the officiant for your ceremony is legally authorised to conduct weddings in Spain.
- Venue: For civil ceremonies, verify any restrictions on venues outside of official registry offices or town halls.
- Cultural elements: Consider incorporating local Catalan traditions into your wedding to celebrate the regional culture.
- Legal assistance: Engaging a local solicitor or a wedding planner experienced in international marriages in Catalonia can streamline the process.
- Plan ahead: Start the process early, especially for popular wedding locations on the Costa Brava, to secure your desired venue and date.
Final tips:
- Stay informed: Regulations and requirements can change. Regularly check with local authorities or your legal advisor for updates.
- Seek support: Utilize resources like the British Consulate in Barcelona, expat forums, and local wedding planning services for additional guidance and insights.
Conclusion
Your wedding is a reflection of your love story, and the Costa Brava offers a picturesque stage to tell that story. From its sun-drenched beaches and historic castles to its secluded villas and luxurious hotels, this Spanish coast provides a setting as unique as each couple. By choosing the right venue, aligning with experienced vendors, and attending to the legal and logistical details, you can ensure your wedding not only meets but exceeds your dreams.
Photo: Takmeomeo
Remember, the key to a stress-free wedding is planning, preparation, and partnership with the right professionals. Start early, be clear about your vision, and trust those you’ve enlisted to help bring your day to life. The Costa Brava awaits to play its part in your love story, offering a backdrop of unparalleled beauty and a wealth of resources for your perfect day.
