Princess Märtha Louise of the Norwegian royal family has access to a number of beautiful homes, from the Royal Palace in Oslo to Gamlehaugen in Bergen and Leedal in Stavanger.

Despite her incomparable beauty, Martha Louise decided to hold her wedding to Durek Verrett at the Hotel Union in the village of Geiranger in western Norway.

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Martha explained her decision to use the Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as the backdrop for her wedding photos.

“We are incredibly lucky to be able to celebrate our love in the beautiful surroundings of Geiranger,” she wrote. “It means so much to us to gather our loved ones in a place so rich in history and intense natural experiences. Geiranger is the perfect place to embrace our love.”

Nestled in the dramatic hills and close to a tranquil waterfall, the four-star hotel features a spa with a large sauna and Japanese hot tub, indoor and outdoor pools with views of the fjord and mountains, three restaurants, its own nightclub and even a vintage car museum.

The building was built in 1891 and was originally designed in the classic Swiss style of wood on the outside. However, it has been extended and remodeled several times.

“The remains of the wooden hotel were removed in 1979,” the website states, and current photos show numerous stained glass windows that offer guests an unobstructed view of the picturesque landscape.

The hotel’s surroundings are ideal for weddings, so it’s no surprise that it’s a popular spot for couples tying the knot.

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Brides and grooms can choose between several event spaces, but Geirangersal is the largest and can accommodate up to 500 guests. Special features include a stage that can be raised or lowered, high ceilings and plenty of natural light thanks to the panoramic windows.

After the ceremony, the couples are spoilt for choice when it comes to photo opportunities, with Flydalsjuvet, Ørnesvingen and the peak of Dalsnibba mountain on their doorstep.

They can then enjoy a delicious wedding breakfast made with local ingredients before heading to the nightclub to celebrate with friends and family.

Durek’s move

Instagram

Martha and Durek confirmed their romance in May 2019 and announced their engagement in June 2022. Having recently moved from America to Norway, he raved about the natural beauty of his new home.

Alongside a photo of his boat trip with his fiancée, Durek wrote on Instagram: “Living in Norway has given me a newfound sense of happiness, my lovelies! Picture this: cruising through the stunning fjords with your love @iam_marthalouise and your friends @toregrimstad @wambui73 @drmariannevestnes, the sun kissing your face and a selection of delicious food and drinks at your fingertips.”

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“If you ever visit us, you must get on a boat! Life is fun when shared with soulful, uplifting people – no time for moaners or gossips here. Remember, tribe, the secret ingredient to a fabulous life is those good vibes and good company!”

Wedding schedule

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Crown Prince Haakon’s older sister will marry the shaman on Saturday, August 31 – the last day of their three-day celebrations.

Guests will fly to Ålesund Airport and head to the garden of Hotel 1904 in the heart of Ålesund town on Thursday for the meet-and-greet party, where a “sexy and cool” dress code will apply.

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On Friday, guests enjoy a boat trip along the Geirangerfjord to the village of Geiranger. In the evening, they travel to Hotel Union where they attend a Latin-style pre-wedding party.

The next day, guests such as the bride’s parents, King Harald and Queen Sonja, and daughters Maud, Leah and Emma will gather for the ceremony when Martha and Durek will be married by parish priest Margit Lovise Holte.

Afterwards, the bride and groom and their loved ones enjoy the wedding breakfast and reception in the hotel, which is exclusively financed by HELLO!

The Norwegian Royal Wedding will be covered exclusively in HELLO! magazine. Visit the website and get the latest HELLO! issues with the latest news and photos.

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