Dunafon Castle Wedding | Colorado’s Hidden Castle Venue in Idledale Near Denver

/ Colorado Weddings / By

Tucked into the hills just outside of Denver, Dunafon Castle is one of Colorado’s most magical wedding venues. With stone bridges, waterfalls, winding forest paths, and the quiet grandeur of a private castle estate, it’s the perfect location for couples who want a wedding that feels straight out of a storybook.

This is a place for intentional celebration — secluded, sacred, and utterly breathtaking.

A Private Estate Full of Wonder

Built in the 1940s and styled after Irish castles, Dunafon Castle sits on 140 private acres in the Bear Creek Canyon area. It’s surrounded by water on three sides and offers couples exclusive access to the estate for the day.

Visit the Dunafon Castle website
Address: 24020 Hwy 74, Idledale, CO 80453
Phone: (303) 526-7036

Why Couples Love Dunafon Castle

This venue is truly one of a kind. It’s perfect for couples who want something intimate, awe-inspiring, and completely private. Highlights include:

  • Outdoor ceremony site with forest, stone, and waterfall surroundings
  • Castle gardens and courtyards for cocktail hour or tented reception
  • Indoor castle rooms for getting ready and romantic portraits
  • Stone bridges, turrets, and walkways for guest exploration
  • Exclusive access to the estate — no other events on your day
  • BYO bar and flexible vendor options

It feels enchanted, but it’s real — and yours for the day.

Ceremony and Reception Flow

Outdoor Ceremony

The ceremony lawn is nestled beneath towering trees with the sound of waterfalls nearby. Stone pathways lead guests through a lush forest to your vows.

Castle Grounds Reception

Cocktail hour typically flows into the gardens or courtyards. Tented receptions are common, though the castle interior can be used for intimate gatherings or special toasts.

Getting Ready in the Castle

Couples prep inside the castle’s romantic suites, complete with wood-paneled walls, large windows, and Old World charm.

Photo Locations

This venue is a dream for photographers — bridges, towers, streams, gardens, and castle facades provide endless inspiration.

Best Seasons for a Dunafon Castle Wedding

Dunafon Castle is a seasonal venue, open May through October:

  • Spring: Lush greenery and flowing water
  • Summer: Vivid gardens and long golden hours
  • Fall: Autumn colors and crisp mountain air
  • Winter: Closed for events

The outdoor-first layout makes warm-season planning essential.

Why I Love Photographing at Dunafon Castle

I’m Ben — lead photographer at Boxcar. Dunafon Castle isn’t just beautiful — it’s immersive. From the moment guests arrive through the stone gate, there’s a sense of stepping into another world. I love photographing here because the energy is reverent, the landscape is layered, and the emotion runs deep.

What I bring:

  • Direction that allows you to stay present while capturing the setting’s magic
  • Experience balancing castle architecture with natural light
  • Storytelling that blends romanticism with authenticity
  • Editing that enhances detail, tone, and texture

Planning a castle wedding and want calm support along the way? Explore our wedding planning guides and resources for couples for thoughtful tips.

Similar Enchanted Colorado Venues

If you love Dunafon Castle, you may also enjoy:

Let’s Photograph Your Dunafon Castle Wedding

If you’re planning a Dunafon Castle wedding and want the day documented with wonder and intentionality, reach out to connect.

Where is Dunafon Castle located?

In Idledale, Colorado — just 30 minutes west of downtown Denver, tucked into the foothills.

What’s the guest capacity?

Accommodates up to 150 guests.

Is the venue open year-round?

Primarily a warm-weather venue, with bookings from May through October.

Are there both indoor and outdoor spaces?

Yes — outdoor ceremony and reception areas, with castle interiors used for getting ready and select moments.

What’s the vibe?

Fairytale, forested, and exclusive. Think private castle meets enchanted woodland.

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