Emotional Iceland Elopement at Kvernufoss Waterfall
If you’ve ever dreamed of running off to a hidden waterfall in Iceland to say your vows, Laura and Hugo’s elopement at Kvernufoss will speak straight to your heart. Their day was a blend of spontaneity, quiet intimacy, and the kind of wild beauty only Iceland can offer in the summer. It truly was the most beautiful & emotional Iceland elopement at Kvernufoss waterfall!
Kvernufoss is one of my favorite elopement locations along Iceland’s southern coast. It’s just a short drive from well-known towns like Reykjavik and Vik, but it feels worlds away. Tucked in a mossy canyon just behind the larger Skógafoss, it’s often overlooked by tourists, which makes it feel like your own secret spot. For couples wanting a dramatic backdrop without the crowds, this place is a dream.
Vendors:
Gown: Willowby by Watters Anthropologie Weddings
Suit: ASOS
Floral: 4 ARSTIDIR
Models: Together We Roam
A Slow Morning in the Icelandic Highlands
They began their day tucked away in the sweetest little Airbnb, where the windows opened up to Iceland’s soft green hills and long daylight hours. Laura and Hugo got ready together, moving slowly, letting the quiet anticipation of the day settle in. No rush. No pressure. Just the joy of being with each other.
Before hitting the road, we made a quick stop at Skool Beans, a school bus-turned-coffee-shop that’s as quirky as it is cozy. With warm coffees in hand, the adventure officially began.
Exploring Iceland’s Black Sand Coastline
We headed straight for the coastline—one of Iceland’s famous black sand beaches where the waves roll in with a steady rhythm, and the sea stretches endlessly in every direction. It was peaceful and grounding, the kind of place where time slows down.
Laura and Hugo wandered barefoot in the sand, collecting tiny moments and laughing as the sea breeze tangled their hair. There was no set timeline—just space to explore and be fully present.
A Private Ceremony at Kvernufoss Waterfall
Then came the highlight of the day: a tucked-away gem, Kvernufoss waterfall. Less crowded than its famous neighbor Skógafoss, Kvernufoss feels like a secret you get to keep. To reach it, we followed a short trail through a mossy canyon, the sound of rushing water growing louder with each step.
At the base of the falls, surrounded by cliffs and mist, Laura and Hugo pulled out a small piece of paper and played a quick game of rock-paper-scissors to decide who would go first. (Laura won.)
With the waterfall thundering behind them and not another soul in sight, they exchanged heartfelt vows. The emotion in the air was tangible—raw, real, and deeply moving. Nature witnessed it all, with only the waterfall echoing their promises.
Pancakes & Quiet Joy Back at the Cabin
After the ceremony, we returned to their cabin. The sun was still high—it is Iceland in summer, after all—and they decided to make pancakes to celebrate.
It wasn’t Pinterest-perfect. The first pancake was hilariously wonky. But in that tiny kitchen, surrounded by laughter and warmth, it felt like the most honest way to end the day.
Because that’s the beauty of eloping: it’s not about perfection. It’s about crafting a day that feels true to you—where every little moment is meaningful because you chose it.
Thinking About Eloping at Kvernufoss?
Kvernufoss is one of the most stunning hidden waterfalls in Iceland. If you’re dreaming of a quiet, off-the-beaten-path spot to exchange vows, it’s the perfect place. As an elopement photographer who’s explored much of the south coast, I can help you plan a day that’s deeply personal and uniquely yours.
Whether you’re drawn to Iceland for its epic landscapes or the intimacy an elopement allows, there’s something magical waiting here for you.
If you’re ready to dive into planning your own dreamy Iceland elopement at Kvernufoss or elsewhere, read through this Ultimate Guide to Planning Your Dream Iceland Elopement. And if you’re looking for more location inspiration, read through this one filled with the Best Places to Elope in Iceland or check out this Two-Day Summer Iceland Elopement at the Glacier Lagoon!
Ready to start dreaming up your own Iceland elopement?
Let’s create a day that feels like you—messy pancakes, spontaneous vows, and all. Reach out here to start planning, or explore my Iceland elopement packages to learn more.
