Eloping in Style — A Luxury Elopement at Airelles Gordes, La Bastide

When it comes to eloping in Provence, few places capture the magic of southern France quite like Airelles Gordes, La Bastide. Perched on the cliffs overlooking the Luberon valley, this elegant château feels like a peaceful escape — full of classic Provence character, views over Gordes, high privacy, and beautiful details, decorations and furniture in both the common areas and the rooms/suits.

This summer, I captured the elopement of Belle & Kenny, a couple who chose to exchange vows here — a day filled with soft golden light, solemn vows and touching moments when they looked at each other.

The Day of the Elopement

We began early at the panoramic viewpoint of Gordes, catching the soft light just as the sun rose behind the hills. Belle & Kenny walked through the quiet village, holding hands and laughing between the stone alleys, passed by a panoramic viewpoint over the Luberon Valley, and finally ending the shooting at a classic Provencal fountain of the main square. We didn’t rush — just took our time, stopping wherever the light felt beautiful. These kinds of moments are always my favourite to capture.

Later in the afternoon, the two of them got ready in a lovely vintage-style suite inside the hotel. It was calm and quiet. We did some quick detailed shots of the ring, the bouquet and the veil along with some solo and couple portraits in the room. There was a big french window overlooking the signature Gordes view and it was perfect as the backdrop of some of the photos.

The ceremony took place on a private terrace of the hotel with the signature view of the valley behind. The hotel team set everything up with her favourite white Hydrangea flowers decoration. It was just the two of them, their officiant, and the sound of a soft breeze through the trees. No big crowds, no stress — just a peaceful moment, full of meaning.

Why Airelles Gordes Is Perfect for Elopements

La Bastide isn’t just a hotel; it’s an experience. For couples who dream of combining luxury, privacy, and elegance, it offers everything:

• Breathtaking views with panoramic terraces of the Luberon Valley — perfect for a private vow exchange at sunset

• Gordes village at your doorstep, one of Provence’s most picturesque spots

• Exquisite interiors (no matter common areas or suites) with vintage-style furniture, and elegant suites for those pre-ceremony moments

• World-class service — every detail is flawlessly taken care of, from florals to Michelin-starred dining

• Seclusion and intimacy — the property feels tucked away from the world, ideal for couples who want privacy without compromising on luxury

• Convenient 45 min drive from the main high-speed train station Avignon

Making the Most of Your Provence Elopement Photoshoot

An elopement in Provence isn’t just about the ceremony; it’s about immersing yourself in the landscape.

I often design full-day shoots that blend your vow exchange with cinematic portraits across multiple Provençal backdrops:

• Lavender fields in Sault (mid-July) or Valensole (early-July) at sunrise/sunset

• Ochre cliffs of Roussillon or town buildings for bold, vibrant tones

• Hidden cobblestone streets in Gordes and Menerbes

• Vineyards and olive groves for a rustic, intimate feel

This way, you can have a full experience of Provence, from beautiful small villages to the famous vibrant lavender fields.

Why More Couples Are Choosing Elopement Over a Traditional Wedding

Planning a wedding can feel exciting — but also overwhelming. Between the guest list, venue, schedule, and budget, many couples start to feel like they’re planning for everyone else, instead of just focusing on themselves. That’s why more and more couples are choosing to elope.

Elopement doesn’t mean running away in secret anymore. Today, it simply means having a small, intimate celebration — just the two of you (and maybe a few close loved ones) — in a place that feels meaningful. Whether it’s in Paris, Provence, or somewhere else in Europe, it’s about making your wedding day feel calm, beautiful, and personal. Here are some reasons why couples choose to elope instead of having a big wedding:

1. It’s Less Stressful

There are no long guest lists, no complicated seating plans, no pressure to “perform” on the day. You get to enjoy the moment fully — without feeling like you're hosting a big event. Everything can be simple, quiet, and focused on just the two of you.

2. You Can Celebrate Anywhere

One of the best things about elopement is the freedom to choose your location. Whether it’s the cliffs of Gordes, a Parisian café, or a lavender field at sunrise, the whole day is yours to create. You’re not limited by big venues or group logistics.

3. It Feels More Personal

Without a large crowd, you can really take your time — write your own vows, enjoy a slow breakfast together, walk hand-in-hand through beautiful streets, or share a quiet ceremony at sunset. You don’t have to follow a fixed timeline. The day becomes a memory you’ll keep close to your heart.

4. You Can Spend on What Matters Most to You

Many couples realise that they'd rather invest in things that truly matter to them — like a meaningful trip, a beautiful gown, a good photographer, or a private dinner with a view — instead of spending on a big venue, food for hundreds of guests, or wedding favours that people might forget.

5. It Gives You Time Together

Sometimes, traditional weddings can feel like a blur. Elopement gives you time. Time to breathe, to take it all in, to be present with each other. No rushing. No timelines. Just the two of you, enjoying one of the most special days in your life.

Coordination and Arrangements

For couples seeking a luxury elopement in Provence, there are few places as enchanting as Airelles Gordes, La Bastide.

If you’re dreaming of an elopement or prewedding shoot here, I’d love to help you capture the magic of Provence in a way that feels uniquely yours. To make your day truly effortless, I can coordinate everything from make-up artist to a personalised ceremony with an experienced officiant — leaving you free to savour every moment.

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I'm Teresa, a photographer based in Paris who travels to different parts of France every year for photoshoots and who knows all the insider tips on exactly where and when to shoot at those pretty spots. For the upcoming destination schedule please consult HERE.

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