22 September 2023

Best European-Inspired Wedding Venues in SA 2024

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The Vibe of a European Summer Wedding in the Heart of South Australia

Chances are you’ve seen what feels like everyone on social media making the annual pilgrimage north to experience the Eurosummer. My feed has been a plethora of old towns, yachts speeding along coastlines, narrow streets lined with pastel-coloured houses, and the clearest aqua-blue waters. Safe to say, I can feel the warmth and c’est la vie mindset just looking at these images. However, there are some incredible wedding venues right here in South Australia that evoke those similar feelings without the travel.

Many of these images also featured euphoric brides and grooms in the throws of their wedding day. Strutting their stuff next to those adorable little Fiats with a negroni in hand, of course. It’s provided me with endless wedding inspiration, regardless of having spent most of this winter closer to home.

If you’ve been pining for a Eurotrip but haven’t been able to escape the Australian winter, why not transmute that inspiration into your planning and pop these wedding venues on your shortlist!

Some benefits to keeping your wedding venue local vs going the European route:

  • You and your families save on flights, accommodation, and transportation
  • Being in the same time zone as your wedding vendors, making communications and meeting throughout the planning process  easier
  • Less stress and unexpected surprises
  • Saving time on travel and having more flexibility
  • Avoids any passport, visa or documentation requirements

While you may not experience the full cultural immersion that travel offers when keeping your wedding local, one thing you don’t have to compromise on is having a stunning location and wedding venue for your day.

I’ve curated a list of some of the most beautiful European-inspired wedding venues right here in South Australia that will have you feeling like you’ve landed in Tuscany minus the jetlag.

Villarica Estate

Villarica, ‘rich village’ in Spanish, is a luxury Tuscan-inspired hideaway located in South Australia, just 40 minutes from Adelaide Airport. This is one of the most exclusive wedding venues in Australia, I count myself very grateful to have shot here. The property offers two fully stocked kitchens, entertaining areas, and a private dining experience. Guests can arrange for chauffeur transport or helicopter transfers. The estate is surrounded by vineyards, olive groves, and native bushland. It is a truly secluded and tranquil place, making it the perfect setting for you to say ‘I do’.

Mandalay House & Garden

This coveted wedding venue combines elegant, European-style gardens set against quintessential Australian landscape. Mandalay House and Garden is an excellent choice for bespoke weddings wanting lush grounds and an extravagant garden party theme. Over on the Fleurieu Peninsula, Mandalay House boasts lush gardens and a villa-style residence. This venue captures the essence of European elegance, offering a romantic and intimate setting for weddings and elopements. Head here to watch and relive Meg and Oliver’s glorious December wedding.

Le Mas Barossa

Le Mas, in the heart of the Barossa Valley, has recently entered the zeitgeist as a luxury wedding venue here in SA. They’ve also partnered with Small Luxury Hotels of the World welcoming guests to the heart of Australian wine country. Perfectly positioned amid the rolling hills of the Barossa Valley hides an unexpected Francophile’s paradise. The spirit of Provence lives and breathes in Le Mas Barossa. A boutique retreat where rustic farmhouse meets French chic, this is a getaway from your getaway. Private dining, a handful of rooms, and a level of hospitality that’ll make you feel like family. 

Eurilla Estate

Built in 1884, Eurilla Estate is a historic estate boasting vast beautiful grounds and private lodging nestled within the Adelaide Hills. Eurilla was home to the Bonython family for 70 years. Lavington Bonython purchasing the property in 1917 and Kym Boynthon being in residence from 1972 until the house was burnt out in the Ash Wednesday bushfires in 1983. The centrepiece of the house is a stately staircase that exudes grandeur. A replica of the original and a window into a bygone era when Adelaide’s wealthiest and most influential spent their summers in the cooler Adelaide Hills. And now, in an exclusive collaboration with One Rundle Trading Co, Eurilla Estate is a picturesque South Australian venue for your European-inspired wedding.

Kingsford the Barossa

Keeping it in the Barossa Valley, experience a quintessentially South Australian heritage wedding at Kingsford the Barossa. Dating back to 1856, this venue, which can now sleep up to 32 guests, has undergone a multi-million dollar transformation. Nestled amidst gumtrees and rolling hills, Kingsford offers an immersion into the Australian countryside in an idyllic and elegant escape. Exchange vows amidst the vineyards, followed by fireside cocktails and a night of celebration. Blending heritage stonemasonry, modern luxe, and a touch of contemporary, the Homestead offers a seamless fusion of tradition and style. With added luxuries like a pool, it’s the epitome of refined elegance.

Maison de Moon

Located in Clarendon, Maison de Moon is a captivating French provincial farmhouse, perfect for couples envisioning a quaint fairy-tale wedding. This venue boasts a rustic yet elegant European style, complete with enchanting gardens, a barn, and a reception area with exposed wooden beams. Maison de Moon emanates a timeless allure, offering couples a versatile space to customise the space to create their dream wedding.

Carrick Hill

An exquisite heritage estate in Adelaide, South Australia, Carrick Hill offers a charming venue for weddings. Set amidst stunning gardens and historic architecture, it provides a romantic backdrop for ceremonies and receptions. The gracious Haywards Room accommodates up to 90 guests, while the enchanting gardens offer endless outdoor options. Exclusive use of the estate allows couples to create a bespoke celebration. Carrick Hill’s timeless beauty and elegance make it a coveted choice for couples seeking a refined South Australian wedding. With its rich history and picturesque surroundings, it promises an enchanting matrimonial experience.

Padthaway Estate

Head down the Limestone Coast and you’ll find English elegance and charm at Padthaway Estate. The estate exudes an elegant and timeless aesthetic, characterised by its refined architecture and natural surroundings. With a focus on minimalist sophistication, Padthaway Estate combines modern elements with that rustic vineyard charm. The expansive outdoor area, surrounded by rolling vine-covered hills, offers that European feeling right here in South Australia.

Al Ru Farm

Adelaide’s very own enchanting garden gem, Al Ru Farm redefines what’s on offer for wedding venues in South Australia. Established in 1979 by a local couple, the Irving family has cultivated this space into a quintessential garden oasis. Offering stunning backdrops, from the ethereal garden draped in wisteria, to the iconic glasshouse, everywhere you look, you’ll have a frame-worthy imagery. With spaces for 35-350 guests and French-inspired on-site accommodations, Al Ru Farm ensures you’ll have a seamless celebration. Embodying French-inspired allure, weddings here exude an ineffable romantic charm for couples seeking an idyllic union in South Australia.

Coriole Vineyard

Situated in the McLaren Vale region, Coriole Vineyards will transport you to the rolling vine-covered hills of your Tuscany-inspired dreams. The estate features a charming blend of vineyard views, rustic architecture, and Mediterranean gardens. With warm terracotta tones and a scenic backdrop, Coriole offers an enchanting setting for weddings oozing in Tuscan romance. Head here to read more about Coriole and relive Elly and Jason’s stylishly stunning summer wedding.

Chateau Yaldara

Nestled in the Barossa Valley, Chateau Yaldara exudes European charm with its vineyards, rustic architecture, and serene surroundings. Just an hour from Adelaide with on-site accommodation, this venue offers a perfect blend of South Australian beauty meets provincial allure, making it an ideal choice for a European-inspired wedding.

The Lane Vineyard

The Lane Vineyard embodies understated luxury in the Adelaide Hills. With its modern, chic design and breath-taking vineyard views, it offers an exclusive setting for discerning couples. The elegant dining room, paired with exceptional cuisine and world-class wines, creates an intimate atmosphere for a sophisticated celebration.

Okay, Time for a Limoncello

If you weren’t already envisioning a European-inspired wedding I bet you are now! No matter if you fly to the other side of the globe or host your celebration right here in South Australia, there’s no need to compromise on incorporating those quintessential elements that bring European elegance to a wedding day. If this post has only inspired to actually go to Europe, I have all the information you need in my ultimate guide to planning a destination wedding.

As a seasoned wedding photographer based in Adelaide, I’d love to be a part of bringing your European-themed wedding dreams to life.

Let’s craft your perfect day together. Get in touch, and let’s bring your vision to life.

Evelina x

Best European-Inspired Wedding Venues in SA 2024

Planning

22 September 2023