Nikoklis Inn, Cyprus

Venue vibe: This 100-year-old inn, tucked away in a peaceful Cypriot village 15-minutes from Paphos, oozes Mediterranean rustic charm – think lemon and olive groves dotted around and stunning views of the Troodos mountains, seascapes and courtyards filled with vines.

The package: Have a sunshine-filled ceremony in the courtyard followed by a relaxed BBQ reception for 20 guests with a selection of salads and dips for start and a meatier selection for the main course – think souvlaki kebabs, grilled chicken, and sheftalia with grilled pitta bread, fried potatoes and pourgouri-Cypriot couscous. A photographer is also able to provide CD negatives with 50 photos.

The budget: €2995 for 2012 with a €282 licence fee.

By Stephanie Stafford

Melissani Lake, Kefalonia

Venue vibe: As far as ‘something blue’ goes, the turquoise waters of the Melissani lake, tucked inside a grotto with sky-high walls and 20,000-year-old rock formations is pretty amazing. Exchange vows as you sail through on a decorated rowing boat, with mandolin and guitar musicians on board to serenade the wedding party.

The package: After sailing through your ceremony, the reception can be held at your chosen villa or beach with private catering. You’ll be given a traditional Greek wedding gift and a basket of fresh flower petals and rice for the guests. Enjoy two bottles of champagne and a tasty menu – think meatballs with tzatziki dip, penne rigatoni and roast lamb in red wine sauce. A photographer will be on-hand throughout the day and you’ll be given an album with 30 photos afterwards, as well as CD negatives for extra prints.

The budget: €4195 for 2012 with extra guests at €50 each.

Achillion Palace, Corfu

Venue vibe: Imposing colonnades, mosaic flooring and breathtakingly high, hand-painted ceilings make up the wow-factor grandeur of Achillion Palace. Originally built as a summer retreat for the Empress of Austria, it’s perfect for a princess-style wedding. Hire a traditional horse-drawn carriage and arrive in style before sipping champagne in pretty, landscaped gardens surrounded by endless sweeps of Corfu coastline.

The package: A wedding co-ordinator is available to help plan the ceremony and reception as well as assisting throughout the day and you’ll be given a decorated car to whisk you from the town hall to your hotel. A wedding photographer is provided for the ceremony and for a session after the ceremony (you’ll be given a keepsake CD afterwards). A buffet menu for a minimum of 20 guests and unlimited white wine and soft drinks will keep your nearest and dearest partying through the reception.

The budget: €5995 for 2012 with extra guests at €35 each.

Near Paphos, Cyprus

Venue vibe: If you’re looking for a venue with old-time charm, this 17th century monastery is totally charming. Surrounded by acres of Cypriot countryside, you can marry in a small chapel or al fresco in tropical gardens. The reception can take place throughout the resort or by candlelight in the wine cellar.

The package: A three course meal with coffee and cake will be provided for 20 guests (there are barbecue or buffet options too) and decorations on the day include a gazebo, chairs and a red carpet. Your hair will be styled aisle-ready and a photographer will provide 24 photos in an album (more available upon request).

The budget: €3990 for 2012 with a €282 licence fee.

Near Paphos, Cyprus

Venue vibe: Say 'I do' with the sand between your toes in this secluded cove near Paphos, hidden within a picturesque fishing harbour. The reception takes place in a nearby beachfront taverna with a meze meal for 20 guests made up of local cuisine like Greek salad, grilled halloumi and moussaka.

The package: Ceremonies are decorated with an arch, a podium, two flower stands, 40 white chairs, 20 lanterns and 40 parasols to keep guests cool throughout the day. A decorated car will transport you in style and a photographer will provide CD negatives with 50 photos.

The budget: €2995 for 2012 with a €282 licence fee.

Head to ionianweddings.co.uk for more hot wedding venues abroad or start planning your trip to paradise with our hot new honeymoon destination reviews...