Love in the luxe lane: Destination proposals and elopements

A white sand beach and endless blue horizon that’s peppered by a handful of swaying palm trees and bungalows above the twinkling Indian Ocean: a postcard setting is guaranteed on one of the Maldives’ private islands. Hidden corners make for the perfect proposal spots but can also host serene wedding ceremonies.

Although you cannot legally marry in the Maldives, the symbolic blessings are just as beautiful which is why this archipelago is also popular for vow renewals. Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort offers an excellent setting for proclaiming your love... on the resort's sugar sand under a canopied faree tent. We recommend ending your day with a private candlelit dinner on the beach and then starting your honeymoon in style on board a luxury yacht surrounded by spinner dolphins playing in the waves.

Italy is a great location for taking your vows, and the dramatic cliff setting on the Amalfi Coast takes some beating. The small village of Positano is ideal for intimate weddings while the pretty setting of Ravello has venues which provide 360° views of the coast. What’s more, weddings in Italy are legally recognised for UK residents, so there’s no need to visit the registry office first. And when it comes to proposing, the possibilities are endless. How about onboard a classic Italian Gozzo while touring the Tyrrhenian Sea? Or on the balcony of your private suite overlooking Sorrento’s marina?

As for accommodation, there are so many stunning resorts so our advice is to try them all! Le Sirenuse is an icon on Positano's cliffs. Caruso, A Belmond Hotel is fantastic when in Amalfi. And if you hop over to Capri, check in to Jumeirah Capri Palace.

The Amalfi Coast is featured in our expert Honeymoon Guide, along with more suggested destinations for every season.

The marriage capital of the world, Las Vegas has ample choice of chapels, hotels, and quirky locations that are ideal for an elopement. The most famous is, of course, The Little White Wedding Chapel where an Elvis minister or saying ‘I do’ in a pink Cadillac are possible. However, you could choose to marry your love with a backdrop of vintage neon signs at The Neon Museum, amongst breathtaking red sandstone formations in the Valley of Fire State Park or on a balcony at The Bellagio with the fountains dancing behind you.

Alternatively, head skyward and take your vows in a helicopter over the Grand Canyon or Las Vegas strip. If you can dream it, Vegas can probably make it happen. After exchanging rings, enjoy dinner and a show at The Mayfair Supper Club or go celeb-spotting at Delilah inside The Wynn.

Santorini’s sunsets cast a magical spell across the island; one that will be etched in your memory forever if that’s also the precise moment you propose or kiss your new bride or groom. And the best part is that the striking red and orange hues can be viewed from so many scenic spots across the island. However, these places are just as magical under the allure of the night sky as they are under the setting sun.

Some of our top recommendations include Amoudi Bay, anywhere along the popular six-mile hike from Fira to Oia, Red Beach, and for the super adventurous, Skaros Rock. For your Santorini stay, we love Nobu Hotel, and also Cavo Tagoo Santorini. It’s worth noting that in order to legally marry in Greece you must publish your intent to marry in the local newspaper or at the town hall before your nuptials.

Santorini makes for a fantastic honeymoon too. See more honeymoons you'll want to commit to.

Wedged between Queenstown and Christchurch, Lake Tekapo in New Zealand is a place for all seasons. During the Southern Hemisphere’s early summer months, the lake is edged by a blanket of pink and purple lupins which offers a stunning backdrop for going down on one knee. For more adventurous couples, visit outside of summer where the night sky is so clear you can see the Milky Way, the southern lights or Aurora Australis.

Similarly, this is a perfect location for pledging your love for one another. Whether that’s in the colder months to a backdrop of snow-capped peaks, or within the flora come summer; just keep everything crossed for dry skies. There's also a small church on the edge of the lake named Church of the Good Shepherd which is a popular choice for wedding ceremonies. Then, enjoy your first night in wedded bliss at one of Lake Tekapo's boutique hotels, each unique and embracing its lakeside setting.