Not your typical destination wedding location amongst UK couples, Gibraltar is a more understated part of the world, consisting of only 2.6 square miles, it’s strong British Heritage, incredible climate and wondrous backdrops in fact make this overseas territory a hidden gem ideal for exclusive weddings.

Getting Married Abroad in 2021

Due to the fact it’s entire population have been offered a COVID vaccination, Gibraltar is seen as one of the safest places in the world right now and with its current Green List status from the UK government (07 May- Gov.uk) allowing travel to the area from May 17th, we have no doubt its tourism this year will soar.

If you have your heart set on a 2021 destination wedding, this somewhat unforgotten territory offers exciting opportunities for weddings abroad. With on average of 80 weddings per week booked from this July, celebrations are confidently going ahead. There’s currently no formal restrictions or curfews on pubs and restaurants and the use of masks is only required in shops or on public transport.

Incredibly unique, hidden Wedding Destination for UK Couples

We discuss what’s in Gibraltar, what it’s like to walk around and the atmosphere your guests will experience as well as collating our thoughts on why UK couples will fall in love with this part of the world.

Easily mistaken for an island, Gibraltar is located on Spain’s south-coast, you can actually walk into Spanish mainland through border control. The main road into Gibraltar cuts through the airports runway and is occasionally closed throughout the day for incoming and outgoing flights, an exciting event to watch.

What’s in Gibraltar

For such a small place there’s a vast amount to explore, you can easily walk a short mile in Gibraltar and feel like you’ve been transformed into a completely different territory.

The main high street gives clear flashbacks of visiting a local high street back in the UK, complete with M&S, Next and Morrisons but head into the nearby harbour and you feel like you’re in a mini Puerto BanĂșs featuring swanky yachts and elegant cafes. Located on the Southeastern tip of Gibraltar you will come across Europa Point Lighthouse designed in classic British red and white, where you will find breathtaking scenic views.

For those wanting a destination with a beach, Catalan bay features a seaside beach lined with beach huts and seafront tapas cafes, ideal for lazy afternoons and if you like an exclusive sunbathing spot, just a short walk down the coast you will come across Sandy Bay with it’s exotic Western Sahara sand and shallow tidal walk.

The marvel of Gibraltar itself, the famous rock features nature reserves, World War II tunnels, natural caves, a castle and without a doubt the most incredible views across the Mediterranean Sea. Take the daring cable car up to the top and you’ll be greeted by the wild and boisterous Barbary Macaques, an experience you will never forget!

From wondering through exotic botanical gardens to paddle boarding and dolphin watching cruises, Gibraltar includes adventure, history and culture alongside it’s relaxed seaside vibe.

Advantages of getting wed in Gibraltar

The versatility and scope of experiences available in Gibraltar allow you and your guests to choose between a blissful relaxing stay in a picturesque harbour or a full on exploration break away, making it a fascinating place to host your wedding. Guests, regardless of age and personality will certainly have the scope to enjoy their visit during your big day, on the run-up and post celebrations.

Gibraltars sun-kissed summer’s hit 28 degrees offering a glorious Mediterranean climate for ideal alfresco celebrations and with only a short haul flight from the UK, within 3 hours you can be ready to enjoy with your family and friends.

The Legalities

Easy, simple and no fuss, sums up the process of legally getting married in Gibraltar, there’s no residency requirements, no major restrictions and the moment you say ‘I Do’ is the moment you become Mr & Mrs legally back in the UK. So, there’s no need for symbolic ceremonies or having to visit registry offices at home before or afterwards.

Read more | Getting Married in Gibraltar

Where to host your wedding in Gibraltar

There’s a handful of places you can host your wedding in Gibraltar, all offering a variety of styles and budgets. Here’s a couple that we love…

A luxe wedding option, the Sunborn Yacht is moored in one of Europe’s most exclusive locations, Gibraltar’s very own swish harbour. On-board you can exchange vows within the secluded, private terrace offering spectacular views over the glamorous harbour and glistening sea, the ultimate intimate destination wedding.

If you want to go all out on the guestlist, the Sunborn also features a huge very impressive ballroom alongside an impressive collection of rooms and suites to accommodate your invitees. Mouth watering food, service that goes above and beyond and its exciting location make the Sunborn one of Wedinspire’s favourite wedding venues in the world.

Situated right at the top of the iconic Rock, Mons Calpe Suite offers truly unique wedding backdrops with endless views across the Mediterranean Sea. Your guests will be fascinated by the exciting cable car ride to the venue and astonished by the playful monkeys just outside the suite.

Boasting an impressive cocktail menu, delicious food options and dedicated planners, there’s no wonder Mons Calpe Suite was voted ‘The Best Wedding Venue in the Mediterranean’.

If you dream about exchanging your vows nestled in nature, Gibraltar’s Botanic Gardens are a perfect choice. You and your guests can bask in the glorious Mediterranean climate and admire the collection of plants, many said to be over 200 years old.

Located at the base of the rock, the conservation gardens are ideal for intimate soirees without the fuss. Choose between the picturesque ‘Dell’ an Italian style garden featuring two fountains and Koi fish, the Alameda open air theatre or The Lions Pond.

Where to stay in Gibraltar

Our top picks for staying in Gibraltar include;

Saying ‘I Do’ Abroad

If you have your heart set on saying ‘I Do’ in the Mediterranean climate this year, Gibraltar not only offers safety for you and your guests but a breadth of both wedding possibilities and vacation wonders. One thing is for sure once you experience this hidden gem, you will return for many years to come.

For expert help and advice on your wedding planning journey, be it Gibraltar or any part of the world, just get in touch, our friendly team is dedicated to help couples at the start of their planning, suggesting unique places to say ‘I Do’ in the UK, Europe and worldwide.