What comes to mind when you think about Norway? Maybe fjords, dramatic mountains, roaring waterfalls, glaciers, and those glassy blue lakes that look like they’ve been edited to perfection. Well – there’s a hidden gem in Western Norway that looks like it was taken straight out of a fairytale: Loen. And yes, you can elope here.
If you’re dreaming of an elopement that’s intimate, fun, and full of incredible nature experiences, this blog post is for you. Diana and Alex’s lakeside elopement in Loen was a perfect example of what’s possible when you design a day that feels like you. Keep reading for their story – and get inspired for your own elopement in Norway.
A lakeside elopement in Loen, Norway: cozy vibes, spontaneous moments, and glacier lake magic
Diana and Alex originally booked me for their elopement in Western Norway, and we first had our eyes on Aurland. But during the planning, they came across Loen – and fell head over heels. Diana messaged me and said, “We can’t stop thinking about Loen – it looks like a dream.”
To which I replied: “Let’s go to Loen, then!”
They were right. Loen is one of the most photogenic and accessible places in Western Norway, with stunning views in every direction. They found a cozy Airbnb near Oldevatnet, a glacier-fed lake surrounded by mountains, and that’s where I met them on the morning of their elopement day.
Thinking about eloping in Loen?
From hidden ceremony spots by glacier lakes to mountaintop dinners and adventure add-ons like the via ferrata – there’s so much more to explore.
Getting ready together in a quiet cabin by the lake
Diana and Alex chose to get ready in the same cabin – but without seeing each other fully dressed until it was time for their first look. It was such a sweet and fun morning: Diana hid her headpiece under a pillowcase, and Alex had to close his eyes while she helped him with his long hair.
Once they were both ready, they stepped outside for a first look right next to their Airbnb, surrounded by steep, dramatic mountains, distant glaciers, and waterfalls pouring down the valley walls. It was calm, emotional, and full of that oh-my-god-it’s-happening excitement. Then it was time for snacks, hiking shoes, and a day of exploring Loen together.
Ceremony by the turquoise waters of Lovatnet
For their ceremony, we went to one of the main reasons they chose Loen in the first place: Lake Lovatnet. This glacier lake is one of the most beautiful places in Norway — with its unreal turquoise color and the wild mountain landscape around it.
Standing by the water’s edge, Diana and Alex exchanged their vows in private, with just nature as their witness. It was peaceful, deeply personal, and full of meaning.
Thinking about eloping in Loen?
- Loen is ideal for couples who love romance, nature, and a touch of adventure
- Lovatnet and Oldevatnet are two stunning glacier lakes, easy to access and perfect for lakeside vows
- You can ride the Loen Skylift to the top of Mt. Hoven – or even climb the via ferrata if you’re up for it
- Weather changes fast – sunshine, rain, fog… sometimes all in one day!
- Most couples handle the legal part at home and come here for the experience and epic photos
- If you’re looking for a Loen elopement photographer who knows the area and can roll with any weather – well… I might know someone 😉
From fjord to sky: Loen Skylift views and mountaintop sheep
Next up: Loen Skylift. It’s famous for its slogan “From fjord to sky in five”, and that’s exactly what we did. The cable car brought us up to Mt. Hoven, where we were greeted by some very photogenic sheep, gusts of mountain wind, and panoramic views of both Lovatnet and Nordfjord.
There’s a whole network of hiking trails up here – and if you’re feeling extra adventurous, it’s even possible to climb the via ferrata up to the top of this mountain as part of your elopement day. Yep – harnesses, helmets, and all. It’s one of the most unique ways to say “I do” with a serious dose of adrenaline and unbeatable views. We kept it more chill that day, but just being up there was enough to take your breath away.
Rowboats, beer spray, and a glacier lake swim
After descending from the mountain, we made our way back to Oldevatnet – where Diana and Alex had one more surprise planned. The owner of their Airbnb had a wooden rowboat, and we got to borrow it for a spontaneous end to the day.
Originally, they had planned to toast with champagne – but they never found a liquor store, so beers it was! They rowed into the lake, cracked them open, and celebrated with an epic beer spray moment that made for some awesome photos.
And then, Alex looked at the lake and said:
“You can’t not swim in a place like this, right?”
So he jumped in.
It was freezing.
It was hilarious.
And it was the perfect way to wrap up their wild, romantic, joy-filled elopement in Loen.
Example of a full-day elopement timeline in Loen, Norway
One of my favorite parts of being a Norway elopement photographer is helping couples design timelines that feel freeing, not stressful. Every couple is different, and I love tailoring the day to your energy, your dreams, and the natural rhythm of the place and season.
Here’s an example of what a full-day elopement in Loen can look like:
- Before 11:00 – Sleep in, have brunch, write your vows, or go for a morning walk together
- 11:00–13:00 – Getting ready (together or separately) in your cabin or hotel
- 13:00–13:30 – First look outside your Airbnb
- 13:30–14:00 – Portraits by a nearby waterfall
- 14:00–14:30 – Drive to Lovatnet
- 14:30–15:00 – Ceremony by the lake
- 15:00–16:00 – Explore the Lovatnet area for photos
- 16:00–17:30 – Ride Loen Skylift + time at the top for views and snacks
- 17:30–19:00 – Drive to Oldevatnet lake
- 19:00–19:30 – Row a boat or paddleboard on the lake
- 19:30–20:00 – Optional swim (or just dip your toes!)
- 20:00–21:00 – Change into dry clothes + drive to dinner or back to your cabin
- After 21:00 – Dinner and drinks by the fire, stargazing, and cuddling up together
Dreaming of your own elopement in Loen?
From glacier lakes to mountaintop and fjord views – let’s create an adventure that’s true to you.