When it comes to finding the perfect destination wedding venue in France, romance, fine dining, and breathtaking scenery come together in harmony. From rustic chateaux to luxurious boutique hotels nestled in the French countryside, this country has something for every couple seeking an unforgettable celebration. The south and southwest regions of France are particularly renowned for their stunning venues, making them a top choice for couples from Ireland and the UK.
At One Fab Day, we’ve had the pleasure of visiting these properties firsthand, recommending them to our Real Wedding couples, or featuring them in our inspirational styled photoshoots. Here’s a curated selection of the best luxury wedding venues in France, providing you with endless inspiration for planning your dream destination wedding.
Best Wedding Venues in France
Hotel Chais Monnet & Spa
Nestled in the charming town of Cognac, France – the birthplace of Hennessy and world-renowned for its exquisite brandy – lies a hidden gem. The Chai au Monna Hotel, situated along the picturesque Charente River, offers an unparalleled retreat for couples and their loved ones. This stunning five-star hotel is located just 1.5 hours from La Rochelle airport and 1 hour 50 minutes from Bordeaux airport.
As you step into this magnificent property, you’ll be transported to a world of elegance and sophistication. The hotel’s rich history dates back to 1838 when it was originally an aging Cognac warehouse. In 2018, the venue underwent a breathtaking transformation, becoming a contemporary riverside haven that embodies the warm, earthy tones of its surroundings. Les Foudres, the Michelin-starred restaurant, is a culinary masterpiece within enormous brandy barrels.
This intimate setting can accommodate up to 60 guests for an unforgettable wedding meal experience. Savor Chef Paolo Boscaro’s delectable creations, infused with local flavors and Italian flair, even as you enjoy pre-wedding or post-wedding private dining. Beyond the main ballroom lies Le 1838, a moody jazz bar boasting its own cognac library, perfect for smaller weddings of up to 110 guests.
The rooftop bar, complete with industrial chic design and festoon lighting, offers breathtaking panoramic views over Cognac. For day two, relax on the fabulous poolside terrace or enjoy casual dining at La Distillerie. For an added touch of glamour, treat your bridal party to a pampering session in our stylish Glamour Room, featuring bespoke styling stations designed specifically for the ultimate bridal party prep experience.
And as you unwind, be sure to visit our award-winning spa, which recently received the prestigious Condé Nast Johansens accolade. Accommodating up to 200 guests and sleeping 150, the Chai au Monna Hotel is an idyllic retreat for your special day. Visit [www. chaismonnethotel. com](http://www. chaismonnethotel. com) for more information.
Chateau de Lartigolle
Perched atop a hill just outside the charming town of Auch, approximately an hour’s drive from Toulouse in southwestern France, lies a breathtaking 18th-century chateau. This enchanting venue is perfect for a romantic and relaxed wedding celebration, as evident in the real wedding story of Stephanie and Niall.
Each room within the estate boasts unique, individually designed and exquisitely decorated spaces, while the pool area offers stunning views and tennis courts provide endless entertainment options for guests throughout the three-day exclusive hire period. The ceremony can be held on-site or at a picturesque local church, allowing couples to tailor their special day according to their preferences.
A beautiful garden terrace, overlooking the rolling hills of the Gers countryside, serves as the perfect spot for pre-dinner drinks and mingling. Alternatively, couples can opt for an intimate dinner under the stars in the courtyard, surrounded by the chateau’s tranquil atmosphere. The venue also features a converted cellar with high-vaulted ceilings, providing a rustic yet elegant alternative for inclement weather.
Additionally, Le Club, an underground party space with a dance floor, and L’Atelier, a private bar and pool area, offer endless possibilities for memorable celebrations. This secluded estate can accommodate 120 guests and features 28 bedrooms, with additional options available locally.
Le Mas de So
Nestled in the picturesque Laudun-l’ardoise region of southern France, our beloved venue Le Mas de So is situated approximately equidistant from Marseille and Montpellier. This charming 19th-century Provençal farmhouse, or mas, boasts a unique blend of modernity and tradition. The property’s expansive indoor and outdoor spaces allow for seamless integration with nature, where the team is more than happy to accommodate your every need.
From the vibrant red terrace and swimming pool area perfect for cocktail hour, to the historic exposed stone buildings and lush olive groves ideal for intimate ceremonies, Le Mas de So offers breathtaking views over rolling hills. The farmhouse’s signature red-terrace lounge, complete with a delicate shade canopy, provides a sun-kissed haven from unpredictable weather, allowing your party to bask in the great outdoors at any time.
This versatile space can be tailored to suit your specific vision, accommodating dancing, ceremonies, or fine dining. For larger gatherings, our stunning L’Orangerie du Mas pavilion offers a bright and airy setting perfect for bespoke banquet styling. Accommodating up to 250 guests, Le Mas de So is the ultimate celebration destination. This idyllic retreat can host an intimate gathering of 18 loved ones or a grand affair – all under one charming roof.
For more information, please visit lemasdeso. com.
L’Abbaye Chateau de Camon
Nestled in the charming old fortified village of Camon, southwest France, lies a fairytale-like venue that has earned the nickname ‘Little Carcassone’ due to its proximity to the medieval city of Carcassone. With direct flights from Cork, Ireland available through Ryanair, this enchanting destination is easily accessible.
The Chateau de Camon boasts an ancient Benedictine monastery dating back to the 10th century, which forms part of the castle’s grandeur, situated at the foothills of the Pyrenees mountains. Imagine a romantic and intimate wedding setting amidst stunning scenery. This beloved venue frequently tops ‘best of’ lists for its unique character and warm hospitality.
The property features an intimate dining room adorned with tapestry-like murals, perfect for a family gathering of up to 20 people the night before the big day. For smaller gatherings of 25, the old monk’s kitchen offers a rustic experience. The owners take pride in serving beautifully prepared traditional cuisine and plenty of it.
During the summer months, the reception can be held amidst the breathtaking beauty of the cloisters.
The ornately decorated parlour room provides an ideal backdrop for exquisite bridal portraits amidst antique furnishings. Post-wedding, relax by the pool in the large terraced garden, a perfect setting to unwind and cherish memories.
Accommodations: Up to 70 guests; Sleeping quarters: 29; Chateaudecamon. com. Photo credits: Le Domaine de la Rose.
Le Domaine de la Rose
Further down south, in Provence, lies a haven of tranquility. The airport options include Avignon-Provence Airport and Marseilles Airport, approximately an hour’s drive away by car. Nestled among the rolling lavender fields, Le Domaine de la Rose is a 20-hectare retreat that feels like a charming 17th-century hamlet. This rustic hotel boasts dry stone walls, terraces, and elegant decor with soft hues that blend seamlessly into its natural surroundings.
The culinary experience is equally exceptional, as the chef crafts menus using organic and local produce, as well as ingredients harvested on-site. As you celebrate, take in a breathtaking 180-degree view of the Alpilles mountain range. The property also features an array of amenities to keep everyone entertained: a swimming pool, jacuzzi, golf range, tennis courts, and petanque court. For families, child care services are available, allowing parents to unwind while kids enjoy themselves.
This idyllic retreat can accommodate 150 guests and sleeps 25, with more information available at mas-rose. com.
Chateau de la Valouze
Located in La Roche-Chalais, within the picturesque Dordogne region of southwest France, this enchanting French chateau is a 45-minute drive from Bordeaux Airport. The venue boasts an impressive and romantic atmosphere, reminiscent of a Disney movie set. The Real Wedding couple Vanessa and Xavier’s picture-perfect wedding day, showcased on our site, is a testament to the castle’s magical charm.
This historic estate, previously owned by the family who discovered art legends Manet and Renoir, exudes elegance and sophistication. The chateau’s turrets, gardens, and surrounding parkland provide a stunning backdrop for an outdoor ceremony. The venue’s grand reception hall, beautifully appointed drawing room, grand dining room, 17 bedrooms, and chic basement bar make it the perfect setting for an unforgettable wedding experience.
The Winter Garden, a glass marquee structure on the west façade of the chateau, offers a unique space for cocktail hours, intimate dinners, or spectacular views of the park at sunset. This venue sleeps up to 61 guests and has a guest capacity of 150. For more information, visit chateaudelavalouze. com.
Domaine du Beyssac
Nestled in Cintegabelle, on a picturesque hill overlooking the Garonne Valley, lies this extraordinary wedding venue. Just 35 minutes from Toulouse in southwest France, it’s an idyllic setting for your special day. This hidden gem is situated within a three-hectare park, comprising a 10th-century abbey, an open-sided wooden barn perfect for receptions, and a large farmhouse featuring two charming eco-lodges and a reception room.
With its blank slate design, the venue’s coordinator can help curate a bespoke experience by recommending local suppliers and artisans to create a tailored menu. Take inspiration from our summer wedding shoot for ideas on how to style this stunning setting. One of its most unique features is the pool surrounded by the ancient abbey walls – an unforgettable spot to relax with loved ones after your big day.
This venue can accommodate up to 200 guests, with two eco-lodges that sleep 30, perfect for intimate gatherings and post-wedding celebrations. Visit abcsalles. com to learn more about this extraordinary location.
Hotel Crillon le Brave
Nestled at the foot of Mount Ventoux in Provence, approximately 25 miles northeast of Avignon and easily accessible from Marseille, lies a unique wedding venue. The five-star Hotel Crillon le Brave is situated on a tiny hilltop village surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, offering breathtaking views that will leave your guests in awe. As the hotel boasts exclusive use for a minimum of two nights, couples require a guest list of at least 70 people to book all 32 rooms.
The property’s charming bedrooms are dispersed across seven old village houses connected by bridges, alleyways, and hidden courtyards, creating a romantic ambiance. The region’s sunny climate, renowned Cotes du Rhone wines, and proximity to the famous Chateauneuf-du-Pape commune provide an idyllic backdrop for your special day.
With fresh local cuisine featuring Mediterranean line-caught sea bass or slow-cooked leg of lamb on the menu, you’ll experience a perfect blend of laid-back charm and luxury. A ceremony can be held amidst the hotel’s gardens or at a nearby 19th-century church with a panoramic terrace offering 360-degree views of the surrounding vineyards, olive groves, and mountain – an ideal setting for unforgettable wedding portraits.
Additionally, the property features a small yet perfectly formed spa situated in the old-stone vaulted stables, providing a serene retreat for you and your loved ones. With a guest capacity of 120 and 34 rooms available, this enchanting venue is sure to exceed your expectations.
Tips for Planning a Destination Wedding in France…
When planning a wedding in France, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the country’s laws and regulations. To hold an official marriage ceremony, couples must have been resident in France for at least 40 days prior to the wedding date. Many couples opt for a civil marriage in their home country before having a blessing or ceremony at their French venue.
For those seeking a church wedding, it may be necessary to bring a priest from your hometown or arrange for a local French priest to perform the ceremony. Alternatively, you can choose to have a simple marriage blessing on the grounds of your chosen venue. Many venues in France offer English-speaking pastors or celebrants who can lead this type of ceremony. While language barriers may exist, having a wedding planner can help alleviate any communication issues.
Interestingly, many French wedding venues are run by English-speaking individuals, which can simplify the planning process and reduce cultural and linguistic obstacles. Additionally, these venues often act as wedding planners themselves, taking care of tasks such as sourcing local suppliers in France at competitive prices. For inspiration on creating a stunning destination wedding, explore our collection of real weddings.
