NEXT STOP: HELSINKI AND MONTPELLIER
As we continue our tour around our favorite European Wedding destinations, today we will stop in a design-centric Scandinavian capital and a wine-soaked French metropolis.
Helsinki, Finland
Ever since 2012 when Finland was the World Capital of Design, the creative cognoscenti have made this charming Scandinavian city a must-visit destination. From the traditional Finnish sauna experience to the hubbub of the city's new waterfront attractions, there's a speed for everyone visiting Helsinki.
Start or end your day (or spend the whole day!) at the Kulttuurisauna one of Helsinki's newest saunas. It is all shades of Finnish with a touch of Japanese rolled up in a minimalist architectural statement.
Once done shvitzing, take in some design, architecture and art. Our favorite design shop is: Lokal. For a taste of the city's most interesting architecture, check out Kamppi Chapel or the Chapel of Silence. And, make sure you make your way to the Cable Factory for a look into the city's contemporary art scene.
We love the Hotel Kamp for a bit of Scandinavian pomp and circumstance, but for a vibe that is a bit groovier, stay at the Hotel Fabian.
And, consider Helsinki as an ideal spot at which pop the question or spend part of your honeymoon.
Montpellier, France
Located in the SW of France, Montpellier can be described as a miniature Paris by the sea. Well, almost. 15 minutes from the center of Montpellier finds you lounging on the beach by the Mediterranean.
Get thee to Montpellier in the summer to make the most of this city's wine and music experience. The Estivales de Montpellier finds many of the regions winemakers showcasing their finest vintages in the gracious Esplanade. And, with wine in hand, make sure you take in the Festival Radio France Montpellier et Languedoc Roussillon for an unparalleled music festival.
Take in sites such as the Château d’eau monument, the Hotel de Varennes and the Cathédrale Saint-Pierre. And for something a bit more contemporary visit the art space La Panacée.
And, because you are a stone's throw, get thee to the beach for some R&R (said with a growly French accented R) at the White Beach beach club.
Once you've taken in all that the private beach clubs have to offer, let your dreams take flight at the Domain de Verchant hotel, an exquisite guest house/B&B moment.
We say Montpellier should be at the top of your list for a destination wedding.
Stay tuned for the next stop on our tour around Europe.