WHY GET MARRIED IN THE SOUTH OF FRANCE?
The south of France exudes beauty, glamour, and luxury. From the breath-taking French Riviera with its panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea, colourful architecture, and amazing cuisine, to the romantic countryside of Provence, with its natural beauty, olive groves, hilltop villages, and relaxed charm; it’s easy to see why it’s a popular choice for destination weddings in France. This region of France has some stunning luxury wedding venues, from private villas and castles, to the finest hotels, private estates, and vineyards. Here’s my pick of some of the most amazing venues that will provide the perfect backdrop for your dream wedding;
THE PERFECT VENUES FOR YOUR DREAM WEDDING
Chateaus on the French Riviera
CHATEAU DE LA NAPOULE, MANDELIEU LA NAPOULE, FRENCH RIVIERA
The Chateau is a stunning restored 14th century castle, located near Cannes. It was lovingly rebuilt by American artist Henry Clews and his wife in 1918, and the elegant architecture and personal touches that the couple added to the build only add to the romance of this breath-taking venue. Say your vows in an intimate ceremony in the beautiful French garden, or on the terrace above the Mediterranean Sea. Enjoy a seated dinner for up to 400 guests in the chateau’s courtyard or in one of the spectacular rooms then carry on the celebrations as one of the chateau’s rooms becomes your own party venue.
Château de La Napoule
Boulevard Henry Clews
06210 Mandelieu-La Napoule
France
Tel: +33 (0)4 93 49 95 05
Fax: +33 (0)4 92 97 62 71
http://www.chateau-lanapoule.com
CHATEAU SAINT GEORGES, GRASSE, COTE D’AZUR
You’ll enjoy complete luxury and privacy when you celebrate your wedding at one of the Cote d’Azur’s hidden gems. You can have exclusive use of the chateau and there’s an all-inclusive wedding planning service available to help you plan your perfect day. There’s all the ingredients for a dream wedding; a ceremony with stunning views of the sea, drinks reception on the terrace overlooking the Cote d’Azur, and a gourmet dinner to follow. This is no one size fits all venue, everything is tailored to making your day special.
Château Saint Georges
Avenue Francis de Croisset,
06130 Grasse, France
Tel: +33 6 68 88 87 19
info@chateausaintgeorges-grasse.com
www.chateausaintgeorges-grasse.com
CHATEAU DE LE CHEVRE D’OR, EZE, COTE D’AZUR
Hold your wedding ceremony in the stunning gardens or on the terrace of Café du Jardin, with its panoramic sea views, enjoy a cocktail reception on the terrace, then a gourmet dinner or private reception in one of the venue’s amazing restaurants. There’s room for 80 guests for a ceremony in the gardens, and 50 guests at Café du Jardin. You can hire the venue for your celebrations from 7000 Euros, and this will vary depending on your requirements.
Chateau de le Chevre d’Or
Rue du Barri – 06360 EZE VILLAGE
Tel: +33 (0)4 92 10 66 66
Reservation@ChevredOr.com
www.chevredor.com
CHATEAU SAINT-TROPEZ, ST. TROPEZ, FRENCH RIVIERA
This castle could be the setting for your very own fairytale wedding on the French Riviera. It’s only 300m from the port and shops, yet its impressive gates and trees gives the castle a completely secluded feel. The beauty of the landscaped gardens and palm trees outside is well-matched by the elegant furnishings and chandeliers indoors. You’ll notice black and white photographs of the castle’s previous guests, which includes the likes of Mick Jagger and Brigitte Bardot.
Have your wedding ceremony in the gardens followed by cocktails around the pool, and dinner on the large terrace or in a marquee in the garden. Carry on the celebrations well into the evening in a club that will be created for you in one of the chateau’s impressive rooms.
Chateau Saint Tropez
3 avenue du General Leclerc – 83990 Saint Tropez
Tel: +33 4 94 43 43 55
Chateaus in Provence
CHATEAU DE CASTELLARAS, PRIVATE ESTATE, MOUANS-SARTOUX, FRANCE
The stunning Château de Castellaras is located on a private estate which was built in 1927. It’s close to the quintessentially French villages of Mougin and Valbonne, and it’s only 9km from the unashamedly glamorous Cannes.
Say ‘I do’ in the Chateau’s 11th century chapel, celebrate with dinner and dancing in the castle, and marvel at the sheer beauty of your surroundings.
I was lucky enough to shoot two amazing weddings at this venue, which you can see on my blog. Peter and Florentina’s celebration was expertly planned by Lavender and Rose and Ester and Kevin’s perfect day was made possible by the tireless hard work of Rock my Love.
Le Club du Château de Castellaras
333 Allée du Domaine – 06370 Mouans-Sartoux, France
Tel: + 33 (0)4 92 28 15 51
Fax: + 33 (0)4 93 75 58 40
Email: ClubduChateau@gmail.com
http://www.chateaucastellaras.com
CHATEAU DE ROBERNIER, PROVENCE
Chateau de Robernier is like something from a fairytale. This 16th century private chateau sits among vineyards and olive groves, and it combines beautiful period charm with plenty of modern features.
Marry in the chapel, celebrate in the courtyard, then take the party into the magnificent ballroom. The chateau is an exclusive venue that only hosts a few weddings each year, so the advice is to book early if you want to celebrate at this dream location.
Château de Robernier
83570 Montfort sur Argens
France
Tel: +33 494 047 849
Fax: +33 494 047 849
Email: info@ChateauDeRobernier.com
http://chateauderobernier.com
CHATEAU DITER, GRASSE, PROVENCE
This amazing Renaissance property in the beautiful countryside of Provence has its own vineyard and produces its own wine. The themed gardens, fountains, and ornamental ponds give it a romantic feel, as does the Italian-inspired architecture.
The chateau is close to St Tropez, Cannes, and Monaco, and Nice airport is only 30 minutes away. It even has 2 helicopter pads should any guests wish to make a grand entrance!
You can dine with up to 300 guests in the garden and inside the chateau, there’s an area which can be transformed into a nightclub, so you can celebrate into the early hours.
I shot Namita and Matt’s dream wedding here, with the amazing support of Wanderlust wedding planners.
Chateau Diter
52 du Chemin du Vivier
06130 Grasse
http://www.chateauditer.com
CHATEAU GRIMALDI, PROVENCE
The historic Chateau Grimaldi is located in the picture-perfect Provence-Alpes-Cote d’Azur region of France, a stone’s throw from Mediterranean Sea and from the city of Aix-en-Provence. The property dates back to the 12th century, and though it has been renovated, it still retains its charm and a definite sense of history.
In many ways, this venue is perfect for your dream wedding in Provence. There’s a historic chapel for your ceremony, terraces for drinks, beautiful gardens, and a stunning marquee. You’ll have exclusive use of this exquisite venue on your special day, surrounded by the beauty of the Provencal countryside.
I shot a beautiful wedding here, and the expert wedding planners Lavender and Rose made it all happen. See it on the blog.
Chateau Grimaldi
155 Chemin du Château d’Alpheran, 13540 Aix-en-Provence, France
Tel: +33 (0)4 42 28 05 05 – +33 (0)6 62 21 20 37
cl@chateaugrimaldi.com
www.chateau-aix-en-provence.com
HOTELS ON THE FRENCH RIVIERA
HOTEL DU CAP FERRAT, FRENCH RIVIERA
This iconic Four Seasons hotel opened in 1908, and it’s one of the most chic and exclusive venues on the French Riviera. Whether you want to marry in its beautiful gardens, by the sea, or in one of the Hotel’s stunning halls, your day will be one to remember.
I did a wonderful pre-wedding shoot here for an amazing couple who went on to have their wedding at the equally grand Villa Ephrussi de Rothchild.
Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat
71 Boulevard du Général de Gaulle
06230 Saint-Jean Cap-Ferrat
Côte d’Azur, France
Tel: +33 (0) 4 93 76 50 50
https://www.fourseasons.com/capferrat
HOTEL HERMITAGE, MONTE CARLO, MONACO
If it’s luxury you want, look no further than this 5* venue which effortlessly combines beautiful classic architecture and modern design. The hotel was built in the 1900’s and was refurbished in 2011, and it’s located in the heart of Monaco, only 30 minutes from Nice Airport.
Unparalleled views and amazing hospitality make this a perfect venue for a luxury wedding on the French Riviera. Have your ceremony on the beautiful crystal terrace which overlooks the Mediterranean Sea, enjoy drinks on the terrace overlooking the stunning harbour, then have your wedding dinner with up to 300 guests in the magnificent Belle Epoque ballroom.
Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat
71 Boulevard du Général de Gaulle
06230 Saint-Jean Cap-Ferrat
Côte d’Azur, France
Tel: +33 (0) 4 93 76 50 50
https://www.fourseasons.com/capferrat
HOTEL BELLE RIVES, CAP D’ANTIBES, COTE D’ AZUR
This venue is a 1930’s inspired hotel and a perfect setting for a luxury wedding. You can almost feel the glamour and romance of days gone by. The sumptuous fabrics, beautiful features, and rich colours used throughout the building create a sophisticated yet relaxed feel. During the 1920’s, it was renowned for decadent celebrity parties, until it was later bought by a family who transformed it into the first seaside hotel on the French Riviera. With panoramic views of the sea and nearby mountains, it’s a perfect choice for a romantic and elegant wedding. Say your vows on the beautiful terrace and enjoy your wedding dinner on the large terrace at sunset, or in the Michelin star restaurant.
Hotel Belle Rives
33, bd Edouard Baudoin
06160 Juan-les-Pins
Cap d’Antibes
France
Tel: +33 4 93 61 02 79
Email: info@bellesrives.com
www.bellesrives.com
HOTEL DU CAP-EDEN- ROC, ANTIBES, FRENCH RIVIERA
If a stylish wedding is what you want, then this exclusive hotel is the perfect venue for your wedding. The entire hotel, with its magnificent gardens, private coastline, 117 guest rooms, and 2 private villas can be hired for your celebrations. There’s a private terrace overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, an exquisite dining space for 200 guests, and an elegant ballroom. This venue epitomises the luxury and glamour of the French Riviera.
Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc Antibes – France
Boulevard J. F. Kennedy, 06601, Antibes, France
Tel: +33 4 93 61 39 01
reservations.hdcer@oetkercollection.com
https://www.oetkercollection.com
Villas on the French Riviera
VILLA EPHRUSSI DE ROTHSCHILD, CAP FERRAT, FRENCH RIVIERA
If you want luxury and all-out glamour on your wedding day, this venue has it all. It’s located on the Cap Ferrat peninsula, one of the most exclusive parts of the French Riviera and boasts some of the most amazing views over the Mediterranean that you’ll ever see. This opulent palace is a listed building which dates from 1905 and it has some of the finest themed gardens that provide the perfect backdrop to your dream wedding. The French Garden can be transformed into a sophisticated dining area for your guests, and there are fountains which can be illuminated and made to ‘dance’ to the music of your choice. You can carry on the party on the patio while your guests can relax on the terrace and there’s a separate room for children.
The Ephrussi de Rothschild Villa & Gardens is a museum during the day, and your guests will never tire of admiring the beautiful works of art and luxurious setting.
I photographed an out of this world celebrity wedding at this venue, planned to perfection by the amazing Lavender and Rose.
Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild
06230 Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
Tel: 04 93 01 33 09
Fax: 04 93 01 31 10
Email: message@villa-ephrussi.com
www.villa-ephrussi.com
VILLA SCHIFFANOIA, VILLEFRANCHE SUR MER, FRENCH RIVIERA
From the moment you approach the Villa, you’ll fall in love with it. As you enter through the magnificent iron gate and make your way up the avenue lined with trees, you’ll see why this venue is considered a dream location for a French Riviera wedding.
Classic Italian architecture meets modern luxury in every detail, from the white columns surrounding the villa, to the marble bathrooms and luxurious guest suites.
Get your celebrations started with cocktails on the terrace above the swimming pool and gardens, or on the guesthouse terrace where you get panoramic views of the beautiful bay. You can have a religious ceremony at this venue in a separate building. Enjoy a wedding dinner with guests in the garden and carry on the celebrations in the evening when the first floor of the villa is transformed into a sophisticated lounge.
Villa Schiffanoia
Address: 41, AV Albert 1ER, 06230 Villefranche sur Mer
Tel: +33 4 93 76 49 10
VILLA LA VIGIE, MONTE CARLO
Villa la Vigie is a 19th century Italian style villa which is set in its own parkland and surrounded by groves of pine trees. It was owned by the fashion designer, Karl Lagerfeld, for 10 years, so you would expect this venue to be elegant and chic, and it most definitely is.
Enjoy a cocktail reception in the gardens which boast stunning sea views, dine with your guests in the villa, and party in the evening inside the villa or on the large terrace. There’s also accommodation for up to 12 guests on site.
Hotel Operations Department
Contact: Christelle André
Tel: (377) 98 06 89 01
Fax: (377) 98 06 59 08
E-mail: c.andre@sbm.mc
http://www.montecarlosbm.com
Estates and Vineyards in Provence
HOSTELLERIE DE L’ABBAYE DE LA CELLE, HOTEL, VINEYARD, PROVENCE
This 12th century Benedictine Abbey is a charming and intimate setting for your wedding. Despite being close to Marseille and St Tropez, it has a serenity about it with its views of the surrounding mountains and vineyards. The estate boasts beautiful gardens full of cypress trees, cherry trees and fruit bushes, and the venue’s restaurant has a Michelin star, so you can be sure that the food will wow your guests.
Hotel Operations Department
Contact: Christelle André
Tel: (377) 98 06 89 01
Fax: (377) 98 06 59 08
E-mail: c.andre@sbm.mc
http://www.montecarlosbm.com
LES DOMAINES DE PATRAS, ESTATE, PROVENCE
The 17th century stone mansion has been remodelled by various different owners before becoming the elegant and charming building it is today.
The mansion’s lounges and reception rooms can accommodate up to 300 guests, and up to 40 guests can stay overnight in the estate’s suites, houses, or apartments.
The venue’s events planning team can recommend some fantastic suppliers for your wedding, including caterers, florists, hairdressers, and makeup artists, which gives you piece of mind that some of the key details are taken care of.
You can rent the entire estate for your wedding celebrations from 2pm on a Saturday until 5pm on a Sunday from 8,800 Euros.
Les Domaines de Patras
2300 Route de St Paul – 26130 SOLERIEUX
Tel: 00 33 (0)4 75 00 13 89
Email: lesdomainesdepatras@gmail.com
www.lesdomainesdepatras.com
LE GALINIER DE LOURMARIN, COUNTRY HOUSE, LOURMARIN, PROVENCE
This 18th century country house sits at the foot of the Luberon mountain range in what is arguably one of the most beautiful villages in France. The house is in a 3-hectare park and has an outdoor swimming pool and a beautiful terrace. You can have private use of the estate for your wedding celebrations, and you’ll be surrounded by beauty and elegance at every turn.
Le Galinier de Lourmarin
Avenue du 8 mai 1945
84160 Lourmarin
Tel: + 33 (0) 4 90 08 92 46
Mob: + 33 (0) 7 82 47 05 57
www.legalinier.fr
HOTEL BELLE RIVES, CAP D’ANTIBES, COTE D’ AZUR
This venue is a 1930’s inspired hotel and a perfect setting for a luxury wedding. You can almost feel the glamour and romance of days gone by. The sumptuous fabrics, beautiful features, and rich colours used throughout the building create a sophisticated yet relaxed feel. During the 1920’s, it was renowned for decadent celebrity parties, until it was later bought by a family who transformed it into the first seaside hotel on the French Riviera. With panoramic views of the sea and nearby mountains, it’s a perfect choice for a romantic and elegant wedding. Say your vows on the beautiful terrace and enjoy your wedding dinner on the large terrace at sunset, or in the Michelin star restaurant.
Le Galinier de Lourmarin
Avenue du 8 mai 1945
84160 Lourmarin
Tel: + 33 (0) 4 90 08 92 46
Mob: + 33 (0) 7 82 47 05 57
www.legalinier.fr
GETTING MARRIED IN THE SOUTH OF FRANCE:
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
CLIMATE
The south of France is so popular for weddings because it has a distinctly Mediterranean climate; lots of sunshine, very warm summers, and mild winters. The most popular months for destination weddings in France are May, June, and September, and some venues are booked up to two years in advance.
TRANSPORT
Walking and cycling are great ways to get around in the south of France, especially in the more rural regions of Provence. You can hire electric bikes in Monaco so you can make light work of the hills, and if you want to hire a car, Avis offer a prestige car hire service. Some of the most prestigious wedding venues are located within 30-45 minutes of a major airport.
PLANNER RECOMMENDATIONS
There are some amazing wedding planners in the South of France who’ll help you plan your dream wedding and make sure your day is better than you had ever imagined. Here’s my pick of the best:
Lavender and Rose
The Wedding Planners MonacoRock My Love
Sumptuous Events
Wanderlust Wedding
Haute Weddings
White Eden Weddings
By Mademoiselle C
Lucy Till French Weddings
LAWS
If you want to get married in France, you have two options:
- Get legally married in your country of residence with a civil ceremony, then have a religious or more personal wedding in France. Remember to take your wedding certificate with you to prove you are legally married.
- Legally marry in France with a civil ceremony, then have a religious or personal ceremony on the same day or a few days later.
French law only recognises civil marriage, and the bride or groom to be needs to live in the area in which you intend to marry for over a month. Only then can you make an application to the town hall, so you can legally marry. The town hall will need to see some legal documents, including your passport and birth certificate.
When you complete the necessary paperwork, it has to be signed by the British Consulate, then translated into English by an official translator before it is sent to the town hall.
DOCUMENTS YOU’LL NEED
- Utility bills showing proof of address
- Certificate of celibacy to prove that you aren’t married (if you aren’t a French national)
- Passport
- Birth Certificate
- Divorce certificate if you have been married previously
FRENCH CIVIL CEREMONIES
Couples are required to marry in the town hall prior to any other type of ceremony taking place. The mayor, or one of their representatives will conduct the ceremony then you’ll sign a register to legalise the marriage. The ceremony is conducted in French, though you may be able to have a translator present.
LANGUAGE
In the south of France, especially in the rural regions, people sometimes speak in a rural dialect. In some places, you might notice road and street signs in two languages and you might see it in rural newspapers.
PRACTICAL ADVICE
Think about the weather when you’re planning your wedding. Yes, even the glorious south of France can be unpredictable in the Spring, so the best time to go is between May and October. Peak tourist season in France is July and August, so factor this in if you’re going to be getting married in a busy resort.