2015 List of Top Nordic Wedding Hotels: Iceland Honeymoon House

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Clients, Friends, and Fans, Happy Holidays!

I hope the last several weeks have been fun for you exploring the 2015 list of our Top 5 Adventure Wedding Hotels and they have inspired you to push your travel boundaries!  In case you missed them, they were in order as follows:

Vihula Manor Country Club & Spa (Estonia)

Ammende Villa (Estonia)

Baltic Beach Hotel & Spa (Latvia)

Nordic Hotel Forum (Estonia)

Hotel Føroyar (Faroe Islands)

Today, I am bringing you a brilliant bonus feature!  Like hands down the most ideal private cabin I have ever stayed in!  …and guess where that cabin is located?  ICELAND!  If you’re in the market to book the most romantic location for your honeymoon or an Iceland elopement location, I would urge you to consider Kristinn Arnason’s homes in Hafnarskogur (cabin/house) and Akureyri (apartment).

Barely a 1 hour drive from the bustling city of Reykjavik sits a quite secluded cabin I had the pleasure of staying in for 3 nights.  It felt like “home” as soon as I pulled in and looked down the hill at the house.  Falling in line with the traditional Icelandic wooden house design, you’ll find the house exterior is black (in the old days tar was used), a vibrant red door, and landscape accented by sod elements.  Beautiful, just beautiful and 100% connected to nature being only a few steps away.  Then it snowed and somehow made the outside of the house even MORE stunning as you’ll find from my photos below!

Your car stays up at the top of the hill and you have a fun little walk of excitement down a slight hill to the house.  The area feels private and very secure.  As you look around you’ll notice you have a 360 view of the colorful fjord, town of Borganes across the fjord, and a tall mountain across the street.  Pretty perfect if you ask me!  Ah, but perfection continues and increases as you enter into the house!  The décor has been professionally designed by the owner’s fabulous wife Rut Karadottir. It shows, as none of us could eloquently design such a dazzling design that belongs in an issue of Town & Country Magazine.  It boasts warmth, every room is inviting and beckons you to sit and stay a while, and conveys endless amounts of country sophistication.  You’ll leave wanting this same setup in your own home, or at least I did!  But, you be your own judge as you book a few nights here!

So why am I boasting this location as a sweet little spot to elope in Iceland too?  The deck outside offers a perfect spot to exchange vows with the fjords behind and you are then minutes from some of Iceland’s adventure spots such as the following:

  • Glymur Waterfall (30 minutes)
  • Iceland’s Western Highlands (30 minutes)
  • Borganes (5 minutes away – Grocery Store, one of my favorite bakeries, and fuel stations)
  • Langjokull Glacier (30 minutes) –Inside the Glacier Experience (open year round as of 2015).
  • Whale Fjords (30 minutes)
  • Hot Springs (Fontana / Fludir: 30-90 minutes)
  • Downtown Reykjavik (1 hour)
  • Snaefellsness Penninsula (1 hour)
  • Iceland’s famed Golden Circle (90 minutes)

As you tour the country, also keep in mind Kristinn’s other location in Northern Iceland in the awesome city of Akureyri.  The photos of the Akureyri apartment are intermingled in this post as well for your enjoyment!  What I adored the most about the locations is that they were made for couples by a couple!  They have taken the utmost consideration into the amenities to ensure whether you’ve come for your… Iceland wedding, Iceland Elopement, Iceland Anniversary, Iceland Honeymoon, planning to propose in Iceland, or just a romantic getaway in Iceland they have your needs met by ensuring their locations have the following available for you:

  • Perfectly placed locations.
  • Wifi throughout the homes.
  • Parking onsite.
  • All linens (sheets, blankets, pillows, towels, slippers, and even robes)
  • Fully equipped kitchens to cook whatever your heart desires (fridge, oven, dishwasher, pots/pans, utensils, plates, glasses, basic cooking needs like seasonings and more).
  • Exquisite bathrooms that even have a tub big enough for 2!
  • Toiletries (all the basics plus a full size hairdryer, yeah!)
  • Stunning master bedroom with a queen bed.
  • Dinning and sitting areas.

If staying in the cabin as we did, you’ll find a fun little upstairs that features an open air sitting and/or entertainment area where you can watch the TV or read a book with a fabulous view to the fjord or to the below living and dining room.  Next to this space is a bonus bedroom that has 2 twin beds so this space would be perfect if you are a family of 4 or have a friend or two joining you on your Iceland wedding adventure!

For these dreamy romantic accommodations, please contact:

Stay tuned next week for our final post for 2015!  We’ll be doing a year in review and you won’t want to miss it as we have super exciting news!

With a smile, Ann Peters (Iceland Adventure Wedding Photographer and Planner)

© 2015, Iceland Wedding Planner /  Photos by Miss Ann, All Rights Reserved

Faroe Islands Weddings: Hotel Føroyar

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Are you a couple who thrives on adventure and is looking to get married in a destination wedding location that encompasses magic, mystery, light, energy and nature based explorations you’ve never ever encountered before?  Please allow me the pleasure of introducing you to the captivating and unforgettable:

Faroe Islands

Are you racking your brain right now trying to figure out where are the Faroe Islands?  They are owned by Denmark (just as Greenland is) and are a hypnotizing set of islands in-between Iceland, Norway, and the U.K.  Inside these magical 18 islands you will lose yourself and find yourself over and over again.  …and the almost unbelievable part is when you leave the islands, you’ll be overcome with an unyielding amount of inspiration, focus, and view of nature that you didn’t know was possible.  You’ll almost believe Faroe Islands = Narnia!

You giggle, but I’m serious!  What other place has more grass covered houses than anywhere in the world, more sheep than people, horses playing in magical looking areas (see below), jagged cliff edges that will get your heart pumping, hikes that are self-finding, a serenity that you thought only exists in your mind, and a place that still offers a deep and rich culture that mixes the best of the best Nordic worlds of Denmark and Iceland?!  Nowhere, Natta, No place but the magnificent Faroe Islands, I tell you!  …and you all know I’ve traveled the world seeking the world’s best Adventure Wedding spots!

Within the mainland island just a 5 minute drive from the sparkling seaside city of Torshavn, sits on a hillside overlooking the city, the perfect Faroe Islands wedding location: Hotel Føroyar.  Back in September I was lucky enough to call this amazing hotel my home base for several nights as I location scouted both on land and on sea for epic Faroe Island wedding locations!  From the moment I arrived, I smiled.  It was very late and pitch dark but I was able to see the lights shinning from the city below and when I opened my hotel room window I found that the hotel was built right into the hill it was perched upon!  The next morning, I may or may not have climbed out my window and did somersaults down it 😉

So, are you wondering why I personally loved Hotel Føroyar?  The connection I felt to nature was outrageously awesome.  Walking towards the entrance to the hotel, you see the entire roof of the hotel is grass covered and then you follow your way to the reception desk and the colors, tones, and textures all feel earthy but with an underling accent of luxury.  I was given my keys and told to walk down the hallway where there are rocks from the land incorporated right into the walls you pass to your room.  It was brilliant, really freaking brilliant!

…and then you ask me the real question: Why would I choose Hotel Føroyar to hold my Faroe Island destination wedding?  I would playfully ask the question back to you as, “Why the heck wouldn’t you? It’s the best the Faroe Islands has to offer, hands down.” #TrueStory

There are 106 panoramic view rooms overlooking the amazing city below.  The room list follows below:

  • Clinton Suite
  • Prime Ministers Suite
  • (2) Wedding Suites –I toured and loved!
  • (98) Double rooms –I stayed in one and it was light, bright, and beautiful.
  • (2) Family rooms
  • (2) Combined family/handicap rooms

All of the rooms are well equipped and even more so, I think by American standards and offers the following in-room amenities:

  • Fast Wifi
  • Private bathroom with shower/bathtub
  • Full size hairdryer
  • Vanity Pack (hair tie, cotton balls/pads, nail files, earplugs, and q-tips)
  • Minibar
  • Telephone
  • Clock Radio
  • Work Station
  • Iron/Ironing board
  • Digital TV (10 channels) / Satellite TV
  • Coffee and tea facilities
  • Wake Up Call
  • Free Parking
  • Additional Costing Services are available as well such as the following: Room Service, Car Hire, Laundry Service, Horseback Riding, and Excursions.

Another reason why you should consider Hotel Føroyar is because they have lavish conference rooms that can perfectly accommodate your Faroe Island wedding reception from a whimsical Faroese elopement to a 300+ guest list.  There are 3 standout locations within Hotel Føroyar that I was totally struck by… First, the VIP top floor houses a hall that can capably host your 340 guest Faroe Islands wedding reception.  Second, there is a wine cellar that would be perfect for your intimate elopement for two or exclusive party of 10 that has a deep romantic vibe embedded in it.  Third, there is the CUTEST little grass covered trailer that can fit your fabulous party of 2-8 people in it and it can be towed to some of the really amazing spots we have scouted throughout the island!  Talk about service and options, right?  So I’m here right now, picturing you, your soon-to-be, and your closest friends/family indulging in exquisite cuisine… Seaside, Cliff-side, in View of an Amazing Natural Wonder, or set within one of their super cute magical towns.  Are you in?!

The final reason why Hotel Føroyar is rounding out my Top 5 Adventure Wedding Hotel List for 2015 is the caliber of the food and the euphoria it left me in.  Never have I ever had such an intense, beautiful, and creative tasting experience than at Hotel Føroyar’s world renowned (and awarded) restaurant: KOKS.  For 3 hours and 21 courses, I put things in my mouth I never thought I would and each dish made me even more excited in taste and presentation.  For my lovely high-end foodies out there that are all about the adventurous experience during the day and the evening being about food and conversation… THIS IS THE ULTIMATE DESTINATION WEDDING EXPERIENCE.  The dishes were delicate, intriguing, and came with amazing drink pairings that amplified the experience (as if that was possible).  Each course was introduced by a restaurant staff member who was well-versed on the local/cultural ingredients and also a skilled sommelier. The menu I had follows below (don’t drool too much!):

  1. Oda (Horse Mussels)
  2. Igulker (Sea Urchins)
  3. Toskur (Cod)
  4. Jakupskel (Scallops)
  5. Skerpikjot (Whale)
  6. Reydrotur (Beetroot)
  7. Garnatalg
  8. Rabarbur (Rhubarb)
  9. Toskur Og Urtir (Cod and Herbs)
  10. Skota Og Sanddunnuber (Skate and Sea Sandwort)
  11. Makrelur Og Mairotur (Mackerel and Turnips)
  12. Hummari (Langoustine)
  13. Skinka Og Ostur (Ham and Cheese)
  14. Breyd Og Raest Kjot (Bread and Lamb)
  15. Sitronjarnurt Og Timian (Lemon Verbena and Thyme)
  16. Sula Og Skardssyrusmaera (Gannet and Wood Sorrel)
  17. Lamb Og Tari (Lamb and Seaweed)
  18. Hvonn Og Jogurt (Angelica and Yoghurt)
  19. Rabarbur Og Hvonn (Rhubarb and Angelica)
  20. Godarad
  21. Kvarkkoka (Cheese Cake)

Drink pairings were out of this world and follow below:

  1. Cote 2000, Maison Bereche (Champagne, France)
  2. Riesling Cuvee Theo 2013, Domaine Weinbach (Alsace, France)
  3. Sancerre “Akmenine” 2011, Sebastien Riffault (Loire, France)
  4. “La Mailloche” 2012, Andrew Tissot (Jura, Portugal)
  5. Rinkusteinur, Okkara (Local Faroe Islands Beer)
  6. Marquis de Terme 2009 (Margaux, Bordeaux, France)
  7. Riesling Mandelgarten Spatlese 2013, Weingut Muller-Catoir (Pfalz, Germany)

To say that having your destination wedding in the Faroe Islands would be magical, would be an understatement.  Simply put, it would be an off the charts fairy-tale!  Mark my words folks, the Faroe Islands is just like Iceland was before the HUGE tourism boom… Pure, untouched, majestic, and no matter where you go you can escape people even in the frequented areas.  We would love to help you plan an incredible unforgettable adventure wedding in the Faroe Islands using Hotel Føroyar as your home base!  Please contact us for more information!

With a smile, Ann Peters + Team (Adventure Wedding Planners + Photographers)

Hotel Føroyar Contact Information:

  • Address: Oyggjarvegur 45 ; 100 Tórshavn, Faroe Islands.
  • Phone: Tel +298 31 75 00
  • Website: http://www.hotelforoyar.com/
  • GPS Cords: 62.0128859 / -6.8013864

2015, Photos by Miss Ann / Your Adventure Wedding, All Rights Reserved

Best Hotel for City Weddings: Nordic Hotel Forum (Estonia)

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When a bustling city, a wedding, and adventure collide, where do you end up?  In our adventure wedding world that answer is simple:

Nordic Hotel Forum in Tallin, Estonia.

I’m so excited today, to introduce you to not only a gorgeous country in the Baltic States that is filled with heart-warming history, art, stunning villas, parks, delicious food, and endless activities for my thrill seekers, but a hotel that is near it all.  The Nordic Hotel Forum offers you luxury within walking distance of the Old Town Tallin and is minutes away from everything else!

I arrived at the hotel totally tired from driving in several hours from Latvia and as soon as I walked in my mood changed as the staff greeted me.  The super professional team took my bags from my hands, checked me in quickly and wished me a wonderful day.  I suddenly found my second wind!  Luckily too because I was minutes away from eating out of my mini bar or ordering room service when I was reminded about their FABULOUS 5 star restaurant on site: Restaurant Monaco!

The meal I had in this fabulous hotel and restaurant, was one of the most delicious, surprising, and inspiring I have ever had.  Not kidding folks… and I eat out a lot!  The chef is genius and the space is gorgeous!  Which proves to be the best combination for having a destination wedding in Estonia, am I right?  You want your guests to walk away from their meal saying, “Oh my, that was the BEST meal I have ever had!”

I began with the astonishing “signature drink” of the hotel and it was calm, cool, and refreshing!  I delighted in a delicious 4 course meal that evening that brought in some traditional elements like duck/deer but brought it up 100 notches by taste and presentation (as you’ll see from my photos below)! …and I might have had the most amazing thing I have ever put in my mouth for dessert.  Nothing like I have ever had before, it blew my mind as it exploded (literally and figuratively) in my mouth!

So why is this marvelous location ideal for your Nordic/Baltic Adventure Wedding?  Countless reasons really but a few of my favorite highlights follow below:

  • We already know that check box #1 is marked with having: The Most Remarkable. Food Ever.
  • 267 luxurious new modern rooms await you and all you love.
  • One of the Newest and most elegantly Modern Designed hotels in Estonia.
  • Sinine Salong Spa is right next to the hotel (you will not have to go far for your hair and makeup on your Estonia wedding day)!
  • Premium Linens and Toiletries (and of course a full size hair dryer!).
  • Free Wifi.
  • Breakfast is included each morning.
  • Fabulous Mini Bar.
  • Can easily accommodate any handicap guest concerns and needs flawlessly.
  • The hotel is already a proven “go to” location for local clients as well international for special events… Your Estonian Destination Adventure Wedding will have the highest attention to detail!
  • They have 6 private rooms that can accommodate any event size flawlessly (Fun Fact: They are named after stars in the Northern sky and can house the following group sizes for weddings in each: Sirius – 250 guests, Capella – 150 guests, Arcturus – 80 guests, Vega – 40 guests, Altair – 25 guests and Miitsar – 10 guests).
  • Seasoned professional staff who go above and beyond.
  • A very Nordic / Estonian vibe is throughout the hotel with clean lines, local artist decor, and followed into the luxury rooms.
  • Eco-Friendly Hotel from the floors to the ceiling!
  • Room Service at your beckon call.
  • 24-7 Business Center (we all know work doesn’t stop even on a wedding weekend)!
  • The Monaco Restaurant, enough said.
  • Swanky Lobby Bar
  • Hot Tub, Sauna, Bar, Gym and lounge area on the top floor that overlooks the grand city of Tallin, Estonia. Check out their Leisure Roomhere.
  • Nordic Hotel Forum is 10 minutes from the Tallin Airport.

It is no understatement to say that the happiest hotel in Tallin, Estonia is the Nordic Hotel Forum.  The vibe throughout the hotel and the attention to detail the staff has is the best I’ve seen in a city hotel.  The best thing is too is that the concierge on staff can direct you to anything your heart desires whether it be museums, art, historical villas, the beautiful national parks in the area, or lead you to more limit pushing escapades for your daily activities.  For my lovely adventure seekers, there are many many things within the area that will get your heart thumping!  Activities like the Tallin Balloon, Tallinn TV Tower, the Sailing vessel “Kajsamoor,” and the Tallinn Creative Hub!

You better come back next week as we head to our next location on our Top 5 Adventure Wedding Hotel List for 2015… It’s in one of the most majestic and mysterious places on the planet for you nature lovers out there!  If you missed out previous posts on this year’s list, please go back Vihula,Ammende, and Baltic Beach to enlighten yourself on them.

With a smile, Ann Peters (Adventure Wedding Planner + Photographer)

Nordic Hotel Forum Contact Information:

2015, Photos by Miss Ann / Your Adventure Wedding, All Rights Reserved

Latvia Adventure Wedding Location: Baltic Beach Hotel

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Latvia!  Yes, I said Latvia!  Latvia is a gorgeous hidden gem of a country tucked within the beautiful Baltic Sea.  Latvia should be on your adventure wedding list, because it is full of rich culture, eco-friendly, one of the world’s greenest countries, has an endless list of romantic adventures for couples, it’s also a country filled with art, wooden architecture, castles and manor houses!

…and it is beside the Baltic Sea!  Have you ever been to the Baltic Sea before?  It’s seriously one of the dreamiest seas on the planet!  It just so happens that one of the most prominent adventure luxury hotels in Europe is alongside of it too!  Today, I am thrilled to introduce you the stunning: Baltic Beach Hotel & Spa.

Upon arrival to the hotel, I was greeted by an amazing host waiting at the entrance of the hotel who directed me to the reception staff.  They made check-in easy and pointed out all of the amazing opportunities for fun within the resorts property and just outside of its walls.  When I arrived to my room I found the accommodations to be more than I expected.  The bed was comfy and there were all of the American amenities we always need in room (IE, phone, room service, lots of outlets, high count thread sheets, desk, large TV, luxury toiletries, full size hair dryer, alarm clock, spa services at my finger tips, and large windows that open to allow that tremendously awesome breeze in)!

This hotel is on our Top 5 Adventure Wedding Hotels list for a billion reasons.  But for fun, I’m going to name 25 of my favorites for now =)

  1. Location, location, location! There are at least 8 locations onsite I can see you saying “I do” near!
  2. 161 Room Types (37 Superior; 28 Deluxe; 44 Budget; 31 Executive Suite; 11 Junior Suites; 8 Baltic Suites; 1 Jurmala Suite; and 1 Presidential Suite) plus an enchanting Garden Villa
  3. Endless luxury from top to bottom. You and your guests will feel like VIP’s.
  4. Onsite of the Baltic Beach Hotel the wedding reception options are many such as the following: Perle Hall (~130 guests); Jura Hall (~110 guests); Jurmala Hall (~75 guests); Majori (~40 guests); and at least 10+ others that can be considered depending on the size of your fabulous Latvian Destination Wedding.
  5. 3 restaurants onsite that offer dinning that is beyond 5 stars (Caviar Club, il Sole, and Perle)
  6. Onsite is one of Europe’s largest and most professional Spa’s (100’s of services available from 0700-2200, every day).
  7. Breakfast is included and that also includes mimosas! …did someone hashtag #balticandbreakast?  I did, go back and see here!
  8. Gated secure property.
  9. Within walking distance of a super cute historical town (Jūrmala).
  10. Award winning hotel every year from affirmed places such as the following: “Trip Advisor,” “World Luxury Hotel Award,” and World Travel Awards.”
  11. Baltic Beach Hotel offers many Romance and Honeymoon Packages that can easily be customizable.
  12. Onsite Fitness Classes, Gym, and Swimming Pool.
  13. Steps away from the beautiful Baltic Sea and pristine golden sand beaches.
  14. Exclusive area for you to lounge on the beach and delight in a cocktail.
  15. Immaculate grounds to walk through and enjoy.
  16. Exemplary customer service offering unique add on options to your event and stay such as hiring: Sand/Ice Sculptures, Illusionist, Fireworks, and other audio and visual delights.
  17. Full service decadent bar throughout the entire hotel property.
  18. Year-round beauty for any season wedding in Latvia.
  19. Chic styling throughout the hotel within the rooms, restaurant dinning spaces, and the reception halls.
  20. Staying within the walls of elegant Latvian history!
  21. An incredible Banja experience is available and one you will never forget!
  22. An experienced cultured Latvian staff available to you 24-7.
  23. Minutes away from the big city: Riga, Latvia (international airport is here as well).
  24. Moments away from Latvia and Lithuania’s best historical and natural sites such as the following: Sigulda, Rundale, Balta Kappa, Kemeri National Park, Venta Rapids, and the Hill of Hope.
  25. Tell me you don’t LOVE the way your invitations will sound… “Please join us beside the beautiful Baltic Sea, as we say I do!”

The Baltic Beach Hotel, is a premium luxury Latvian destination wedding location not only for your ceremony but your reception as well.  We would love to help you plan a Latvian adventure wedding here, so please contact us for more details!

If all those reasons don’t get you to come to the Baltic Beach Hotel & Spa in Jurmala, Latvia, I’m not sure you’re an adventurous traveler! 😉  The Baltic countries are an area in Europe that is still virgin, undeveloped and offbeat so I urge you to plan your trip soon so you may experience this phenomena yourself.  I foresee this area exploding soon just as Iceland did in 2012!  Hurry.

Stay tuned next week as we head to our next location on our Top 5 Adventure Wedding Hotel List for 2015… It’s a buzzing downtown luxury location for you fabulous city lovers.  If you missed out previous posts on this year’s list, please go back here and here to enlighten yourself on them.

With a smile, Ann Peters & Team (Adventure Wedding Planner & Photographer)

  • Baltic Beach Hotel Contact Information:
  • Address: Juras Str. 23/25, Jurmala, LV-2015, Latvia
  • Phone: +371 6 777 14 00
  • Website: http://www.balticbeach.lv/
  • Baltic Beach Hotel GPS Coordinates: 56.9753958 / 23.7954519

© 2015, Photos by Miss Ann, All Rights Reserved

Estonia Destination Wedding Locations: Ammende Villa

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Thanks for joining us again for our second installment of our yearly, Top 5 Adventure Wedding Hotel List for 2015.  In case you missed our previous gush over our first pick: Vihula Manor Country Club and Spa last week, please head back here to experience!

This week, I am thrilled to not only bring you another amazing Estonian Destination Wedding Location, but a compelling story about the location!  Who doesn’t love that combo?  Allow me to introduce you to the Ammende Villa in Pärnu Estonia.

The story goes…In the 18th century, an amazing entrepreneur named, Hermann Leopold set out to build this amazing villa, because his daughter was not satisfied with any wedding location she toured.  He exceeded her expectations in 1905, when he completed building one of the most prestigious villas in Estonia.  For you architectural savvy folks, the villa’s design follows Russian Art Nouveau and had the famed architects Mieritz and Gerassimov at the helm of the project.

Current day, the Ammende Villa still holds a very special excitement for holding destination weddings in Pärnu, Estonia and have numerous options for you to consider as far as locations and services in and around the estate.  For example, you could find yourself delighting in the following:

  • Booking the entire Villa and Gardener’s House for your Estonia Destination Wedding (5 suites, 8 luxe rooms, 4 double rooms, and 1 single room). The approximate sleeping accommodations onsite is for a total of 30-35 guests.
  • 7 halls/salons that can accommodate your reception (smallest fitting 10 people all the way up to 90 guests depending on the room).
  • In summer, you could also hold your event out on their stunning terrace or within their prominent gardens.
  • At one time they are fully capable of hosting 250 total guests indoors and up to 1,000 guests in the garden space.
  • 5 star dinning for breakfast, lunch and dinner. –Not kidding folks! How many hotels offer soufflé pancakes and mimosas?  They do and I was in serious awe!
  • First class wine selection.
  • Unique interior for historical wedding portraits.
  • Immaculate estate grounds.
  • Minutes from an acclaimed Western Estonia Beach…. YES the Baltic Sea folks!
  • Seconds away from historical downtown.

Your expectation for amenities follow:

  • 24 hour reception
  • 24 hour room service
  • Free WiFi
  • Minibar
  • Safe–
  • Toiletries
  • Hairdryer (Yes, ladies I know this is important and not all Euro hotels have them, lol!)
  • Free Parking (fenced inside the courtyard)
  • Laundry and Dry Cleaning (additional charge)
  • Transfers to/from the hotel (additional charge)
  • Guided tours around Parnu (additional charge)
  • In-Room massage and beauty treatments(additional charge)

My stay here was lovely and one of the things that surprised me the most was the attention to detail in the room and of the staff.  It was amazing to walk into my bathroom and find there were tea light candles and matches ready for me to use to unwind and relax- never have I had that at a hotel before!  The setting and vibe throughout the hotel is historical and romantic so if you’re a couple who enjoys both I would highly recommend this boutique hotel for your Honeymoon in Estonia or Estonian Destination Wedding!

Ammende Villa Contact Information:

  • Address: Mere Blvd. 7,800100 Pärnu, Estonia
  • Phone: +372 44 73 888
  • Website: www.ammende.ee
  • GPS Coordinates: 58.3802748 / 24.4902253

Stay tuned next time for our next awesome pick on our Adventure Wedding Hotel List for 2015! …we’re heading to Latvia! I’ll let you get your map out in the meantime to find it 😉

With a smile, Ann Peters (Adventure Wedding Photographer + Planner)

 Copyright © 2015 Nordic Wedding Planner, All Rights Reserved.

Weddings in Estonia: Vihula Manor Country Club and Spa

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Hello My Fellow Adventurer Lovers!

Today I begin my yearly series of posts educating you on the top 5 hotels for adventure weddingseekers.  Since we have an established post-wedding followers too who still look to us for travel advice, this year’s list is going to push your boundaries a little and introduce you into some badass off-beat locations that you may never have considered until you found my fabulous blog.  So I invite you to explore and delight in them with me as I share with you my amazing experience at each of these Nordic locales over the next several weeks.

First up on out 2015 Best Nordic Hotels List…. The Vihula Manor in Estonia.  Estonia…. Let’s be honest friends, do you even know where this amazing country is, do you?  PICTURE THIS… Slightly south of Scandinavia, it’s formally considered part of Europe in the area called the Baltic States.  Which means… YES it’s on the romantic Baltic Sea!  My fabulous North American clients, I urge you to consider this country for an adventure wedding for the many many reasons I am going to call out today partly because of this starry-eyed manor hotel I’m sharing with you today!

Where does time stop and the historical 16th Century meet 21st Century luxury?  The Vihula Manor Country Club & Spa.  The Vihula Manor, is a special place where decadence and nature mingle to create a feeling like “home” you’ve never ever experienced.  From the instant I arrived and drove down the tree covered driveway, I was overwhelmed with a sense of serenity.  My brain shut off and I was able to just “be in the moment.”  First. Time. Ever.

As soon as I checked in, the staff was genuinely warm and exuded serious accommodating vibes.  I had not realized how big this enchanting estate was until I was walked through the map letting me know about the endless list of amenities, services, and activities that were all around me!  I’ll tell you a little secret too… after being there an hour, I actually found no reason to leave this place for 2 days!  I had the pleasure of staying in one of their suites that was inside their old Vodka Distillery.  Um, yeah, a vodka distillery.  Talk about an exciting novelty!  How fun for your Estonia Destination Wedding guests to say too?  Another perk… The sound of the river and old water mill soothed me to sleep every night too, it was glorious and one of the best night’s sleep I’ve had to this day in a hotel!

So now you ask… What kept me busy for 2 days at this famed place?

  • Their charming 25+ historical buildings
  • The Mustoja River runs through this magical place!
  • Lahemaa National Park
  • The 15-meter Indoor Swimming Pool, Steam-bath, & Gym
  • 18 holes of Mini Golf!
  • The onsite Vodka Museum
  • The Carriage House Historical Car Museum
  • The giant Windmill out front!
  • The Kids Playground (Ahem, we’re all big kids, right?!)
  • The Vihula Manor Sports Complex (Tennis, Football, etc in Summer and in Winter delight in ice skating and of course hockey!)
  • Walking around the property and just being “in the moment” for like the first time ever in my life, seriously!
  • Their traditional Estonian restaurant: Kaval-Ants Tavern
  • 5 Star Dining at La Boheme Restaurant
  • Breakfast on the Sun Terrace
  • Hoping between the bridges on the lily pad pond.
  • Eco-Farm
  • A nearby beautiful seaside church.
  • The Baltic Sea (less than 4km away!)
  • Downtown Tallinn is merely an hour away too!

The Vihula Manor Country Club & Spa  is ideally designed for hosting a destination wedding in Estonia too!  Do you know why?  Allow me to enlighten you!

  • 75 luxurious guest rooms and suites (charming historical vibe)
  • Breakfast is included (and it’s AWESOME).
  • All rooms are equipped with all North American conveniences we need such as the following: Wifi, TV, Telephone (you’d be surprised how rare this is becoming), Coffee/Tea in room, Mini Bar, Toiletries, and a Hair dryer.
  • Their ZEN Suites have some additional upgraded amenities such as the following: Robes, Slippers, MP3 inputs, and Jacuzzi Tub!
  • The Eco-Spa: Offers endless treatment options, a Hot Tub, Wood-burning Sauna, and exclusively uses ESPA products.
  • Sweeping balcony’s lead you throughout the airy main manor house.
  • Various options for ceremony locations onsite and nearby that will allow you to feel immersed into nature.
  • A Wedding Gazebo (in Estonia, they call these Kissing Tower/Column)!
  • Access to their vintage cars!  Can someone say Estonia Wedding Photography opportunity?! Yes, please!
  • Endless reception space options! Just to briefly name a few…
    • Main Manor House can easily accommodate a group size of 100 guests (and is available if renting the entire hotel).
    • The Lawn Terrace right in front of the main house, would prove to the THE. PERFECT. ESTONIA. WEDDING reception space in summertime.
    • Dedicated conference halls are available as well such as the following: Constance Conference & Concert Hall for up to 120 guests; Ursula Conference Hall for up to 100 guests; and the Dora Conference Hall for an intimate 50 guests.  You could even rent the entire Barn House building and hold an exclusive even for your 2509 guests.
    • There are several other charming throughout the property that you could hold your Estonia wedding reception such as the following: Palm House Banquet Hall for 80 guests; the Oil Granary Seminar Room for 24 guests; their stunning Tea House for 10 guests; and their Presidential Suite for a cozy 8 guests.
    • A few novelty locations are available if you’re looking to really entice your guests with history… The Blacksmith’s House, the Vodka Distillery, and the Water Mill.
  • The Food!  If you’re looking to serve your guest an unforgettable traditional Estonian cuisine Kaval-Ants Tavern can accommodate.  But if you’d rather dine on a 3-5 course 5 star meal, I would of course suggest the breathtaking La Boheme Restaurant to cater.
  • The ease of getting all of your special requests… Did someone say FIREWORKS?  This is a private estate that will ensure all of your will’s and whim’s are met with excitement and a smile!

This is a very special place, folks!  I would even dare to say, magical!  So all that being said, Estonia needs to be put on your travel radar right now!  …and Your Adventure Wedding would absolutely love to help you plan and photograph your unforgettable Estonian wedding adventure here!  Feel free to contact us to make that happen!

With a smile, Ann Peters (Adventure Wedding Planner & Photographer)

  • Vihula Manor Estonia Contact Information:
  • Address: Vihula, Lääne-Virumaa; 45402 Estonia
  • Phone: +372 326 4100
  • Website: http://www.vihulamanor.com/
  • GPS Coordinates: 26°10´58´´ /  59°32´48´´

Stay tuned next week as our Top 5 Adventure Wedding Hotel List 2015 continues!

© 2015, Iceland Wedding Planner /  Photos by Miss Ann, All Rights Reserved

Win a Nordic Elopement Package!

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Hello, Clients, Friends, and Fans!

Such amazing news to share with you!  We have partnered with several of the industry’s best for a once in a lifetime contest to win a $15,000 Nordic Elopement!  See more here on our hosts website:Brides Without Borders!

Our sister company, Photos by Miss Ann  is also playing a huge part in it and so are we (Nordic Wedding Planner)!  So if you want to romantically elope somewhere adventure is endless you may want to consider these unforgettable destination wedding locations…

We hope to see your adventurous wedding entry soon!

With a smile, Ann Peters (Nordic Wedding Planner + Photographer)

Nordic Destination Wedding Ring Engraving Ideas

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Hello Clients, Friends, and Fans!

One part many couples overlook when planning their Nordic destination wedding is a creative statement to put inside of their wedding rings.  It’s important to choose a statement that you’ll not only remember, but one that is so special to you both you cannot help but swoon and smile over.  So whether you’re planning…

Here are several ideas that may help you begin your brainstorming ideas!  So take a date night and discuss!

Getting Married in Denmark (Language Danish):

  • ” Kærlighed” = Love in Danish
  • ” Jeg elsker dig” = I love you in Danish
  • “Altid ”  =  Always in Danish
  • “Eventyr” = Adventure in Danish
  • “Biggest Adventure Yet”
  • Initials of you both & Denmark
  • “To Denmark With Love”
  • “Jeg vælger dig” = I Choose You in Danish
  • Initials – Denmark – Wedding Date
  • GPS Coordinates of the location your holding your Denmark wedding ceremony.

Getting Married in Finland (Language Finnish):

  • ” Rakkaus” = Love in Finnish
  • “Rakastan Sinua” = I love you in Finnish
  • “Aina”  =  Always in Finnish
  • “Seikkailu” = Adventure in Finnish
  • “Love & Adventure”
  • “Biggest Adventure Yet”
  • Initials of you both & Finland
  • “To Finland With Love”
  • “Minä Valitsen Sinut” = I Choose You in Finnish
  • Initials – Finland – Wedding Date
  • GPS Coordinates of the location your holding your Finland wedding ceremony.

Getting Married in Greenland (Language: Eskimo-Aleut):

  • “Txin Yaxtakuq” = I love you in Eskimo–Aleut
  • “Biggest Adventure Yet”
  • “Love & Adventure”
  • “Married in the Arctic Circle”
  • Initials of you both & Greenland
  • “To Greenland With Love”
  • Initials – Greenland – Wedding Date
  • GPS Coordinates of the location you’re holding your Greenland wedding ceremony.

Getting Married in Iceland (Language Icelandic):

  • “Elska” = Love in Icelandic
  • “Eilífu” = Forever in Icelandic
  • “ég elska þig” = I love you in Icelandic
  • “Alltaf”  =  Always in Icelandic
  • “Adventure”
  • “Fire + Ice”
  • “Biggest Adventure Yet”
  • Initials of you both & Iceland
  • “To Iceland With Love”
  • “Ég vel þig” = I Choose You in Icelandic
  • Initials – Iceland – Wedding Date
  • GPS Coordinates of the location your holding your Iceland wedding ceremony.

Getting Married in Norway (Language Norwegian):

  • “Elske” = Love in Norwegian
  • “Jeg Elsker Deg ” = I love you in Norwegian
  • “Alltid ”  =  Always in Norwegian
  • “Love & Adventure”
  • “Biggest Adventure Yet”
  • Initials of you both & Norway
  • “To Finland With Love”
  • “Jeg Velger Du” = I Choose You in Norwegian
  • Initials – Norway – Wedding Date
  • GPS Coordinates of the location your holding your Norway wedding ceremony.

Getting Married in Sweden (Language Swedish):

  • “Kärlek ” = Love in Swedish
  • “Jag älskar dig” = I love you in Swedish
  • “Alltid ”  =  Always in Swedish
  • “Äventyr ” = Adventure in Swedish
  • “Love & Adventure”
  • “Biggest Adventure Yet”
  • Initials of you both & Sweden
  • “To Finland With Love”
  • “Jag Väljer Dig ” = I Choose You in Swedish
  • Initials – Sweden – Wedding Date
  • GPS Coordinates of the location your holding your Sweden wedding ceremony.

We hope that today this post has stirred up some awesome ideas for you to consider for your Nordic wedding rings!

With a smile, Ann Peters (Nordic Wedding Photographer and Planner)

Greenland Weddings

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Greenland… one of my personal Nordic destination wedding loves!

Sadly, this fabulous icy country doesn’t get enough love and attention from the destination wedding industry and frankly it should for many reasons!

This Nordic wedding location is for couples who are truly fearless explorers at heart, cold weather lovers, and have an unquenchable curiosity!  Is this you?  If so, you can look forward to having a destination wedding or romantic elopement in one of the most mysterious places in the world (it’s been said to be in the top 10)!

​Having a Wedding in Greenland means you are snuggled within the Arctic Circle and between several bodies of water such as Baffin Bay, Labrador Sea, Greenland Sea, and the Davis Strait… Who can say that they were married between all that?  Very few people in the world, I assure you!

Plus what adventurous wedding couple wouldn’t want to arrive to their Greenland wedding ceremony by dogsled?  Then partake in Greenland wedding adventures (or honeymoon) such as mountaineering, heliskiing, iceberg hunting, scuba diving, whale watching, and even flight seeing over the vast tundras!

The list is seriously endless!  I can just see your Greenland wedding invitation now…

“Save-the-Date: We’re getting married in the Arctic Circle!”  

Heck yes!  Let’s make it happen people… contact us!

With a smile, Ann Peters (Greenland Wedding Planner + Photographer)

Copyright © 2015 Nordic Wedding Planner, All Rights Reserved.

Norway Weddings

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Norway is a heavenly area of the world that just screams, “Have your Nordic destination Wedding here!”  Some may even dare to say it is a place where heaven and earth meet!

I mean really, What better place to hold an enticing elopement or intimate wedding adventure than on the top of a mountain with stunning fjords behind?!  Or holding your ceremony in a “stave” medieval wooden church?

So now I have you on the edge of your seat, right?

As to where do you signup for this fabulous Norway wedding?!  Oh oh don’t worry, we can help you – contact us!

With a smile, Ann Peters (Norway Wedding Planner and Photographer)

Copyright © 2015 Nordic Wedding Planner, All Rights Reserved.