Top European destinations for a Summer proposal *

AD | It will probably come a no surprise that summer holidays are the most popular options for proposals.  That’s according to a recent survey, which has them taking the top spot from the festive season.  Apparently, up to 38% of people opt to propose on foreign shores these days.  And no wonder, a holiday can provide a welcome break from busy work schedules.

Couples can enjoy some quality time in their favourite spot or explore somewhere new together.  Europe has a gorgeous array of locations to choose from, and there’s no need to go far.  So where could you go?  If you’d like a few ideas, Angelic Diamonds *, who create custom wedding rings, have chosen their top European destinations for a Summer proposal.

La Réserve, Nice

Away from the hustle of the chic, vibrant streets, Nice is the perfect setting for your summer proposal.  La Reserve is tucked away from the tourist buzz, and it is typically a beach reserved for locals.  It does attract a reasonable number of loungers though, so get down early to find the perfect spot overlooking the crystal-clear sea.  No towel bagging though, please!  Why not take a picnic with you and choose the perfect moment?  After your special someone says yes, celebrate with a dip in the sea and pop open the champagne afterwards.

The Prater, Vienna

Make your summer proposal feel like a true fairy tale by proposing in front of Vienna’s magical giant Ferris wheel.  Or perhaps you could book tickets for a private cabin if you don’t want to share your moment with some unsuspecting tourists!

The Austrian capital has an array of gorgeous hotels and you can sample all of the local cuisines whilst you’re there.  Don’t forget to enjoy a Viennese Apfelstrudel, a delicious apple pudding, spiced with sugar, cinnamon and a sprinkling of raisins.

Los Bunkers del Carmel, Barcelona

Los Bunkers del Carmel in Barcelona is a real hidden gem.  Once part of the anti-aircraft battery used during the Spanish Civil War, it’s now a wonderful viewing platform.

If you want to reach the very top then take the metro to Alfons X and walk 30 minutes from here.  Or you could get the bus from the city centre which takes you closer to the top and walk again for 10 minutes.  The outstanding view of the city is best at sunrise, but if you’re not early risers (guilty as charged) head there for sunset instead.  With a panoramic view of the city behind you, popping the question will be a moment to remember.

Petřín Hill, Prague

Prague might be an infamous destination for stag and hen parties, but it’s also one the most the perfect choices of European destinations for a Summer proposal.  And there are many sights to see that don’t involve the local pubs either.

You can hop on a funicular from Ujezd Street in the Malá Strana to arrive at the top of Petřín Hill.  There’s an observation tower here that’s designed to be a mini version of the Parisian Eiffel Tower.  And yes, you do have to climb all 299 steps to be rewarded with 360-degree views.  You could pop the question in any of the beautiful landscaped gardens, or head to a restaurant in Petřín Park, such as Nebozizek which overlooks the Old Town, Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and Vltava River.

The Dome, Victoria Square, Belfast

Belfast could be the ideal place to ask your partner the big question, and in the summer months the city really comes to life.  Such as during Rose Week (16-22 July), a gorgeous botanical display at Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park.  Or why not head to the Dome at the top of Victoria Square in the city centre.  The 360-degree views of Belfast, featuring the Prince Albert Clock and Scrabo Tower, will be a hard backdrop to top

Don’t forget to take in some of the surrounding area while you’re there. Book a trip to the northern coast of Ireland where you can cross the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge with your loved one, or retrace the steps of a giant at the causeway.  Don’t miss the nearby Dark Hedges either.  This romantic passageway of intertwined trees was planted in the 18^th century and recently featured on Game of Thrones.

The Lake District, UK

The Lake District is the most popular national park in the UK – and it’s easy to see why.  With an array of scenic walks, the chance to go for gondola rides on the lakes, and great literary connections, this popular destination is sure to inspire your romantic side.  For a moderately easy hike, Cat Bells mountain near Keswick offers breath-taking views over Derwentwate.  With the recent surge in popularity of scenic country house weddings, you could also start planning a return trip one day.  After all, there’s a reason the Lake District is one of the most popular destinations to get married in the UK.  Although the weather isn’t one of them, so if an overseas wedding is your preferred option, do check out Lucy’s post on walking down the aisle abroad.

European destinations for a Summer proposal

So there we are, six wonderful destinations for a short haul summer proposal.  Have you visited any of them before?  Where would you like to be proposed to?  Are any of these locations on your list?

* This is a sponsored post.