See profile
The Willows
Gqeberha, Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality
The Willows Events Centre offers two informal venues for weddings accommodating up to 250 guests.
Read more
- 250
- Moderate ($$)
Romantic Wedding Venues in Eastern Cape, South Africa
Discover the most romantic wedding venues in the Eastern Cape. This diverse province blends wild coastlines with tranquil country estates and secluded forest hideaways. Whether you envision exchanging vows on a serene beachfront or within a historic farmhouse, the Eastern Cape offers an enchanting backdrop. Its natural beauty and timeless charm create the perfect setting for a truly memorable celebration. Read more
See profile
ATKV Klein-Kariba
Bela-Bela
An unforgettable Bushveld wedding ….
Read more
- Moderate ($$)
See profile
Groenvlei Guest Farm
Stellenbosch,, Sarah Baartman District Municipality
The wedding venue is nestled between the vineyards and offers breathtaking views of Table Mountain with its romantic sunset.
Read more
- Moderate ($$)
See profile
Bamboo Garden Exclusive Venue
Gqeberha, Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality
BAMBOO GARDEN IS THE PERFECT PLACE TO MAKE YOUR WEDDING A MAGICAL EXPERIENCE
Read more
- 120
- Moderate ($$)
See profile
MyPond Stenden Hotel
Port Alfred
The Perfect Wedding Venue. With riverside views and full equipment, your next meeting will impress
Read more
- 100
- Moderate ($$)
See profile
2 Swans
East London, Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
2 Swans is a wedding venue in a picturesques setting with a beautifully designed white marquee on the banks of a huge lake.
Read more
- 2000
- Moderate ($$)
See profile
Estate 28
Gqeberha, Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality
Estate 28 is perfect for all weddings.
Situated on the outskirts of Colleen Glen within the Gqeberha metro, our unique wedding location allows for spectacular photo opportunities in and around the property!
Read more
- 80
- Moderate ($$)
See profile
Palm Villa
Port Elizabeth, Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality
Palm Villa Wedding and Conference Venue is an all in one wonderland, offering the perfect setting for weddings. Set in a leafy forest estate, this 6 hectare property is a hidden treasure.
Read more
- 190
- Moderate ($$)
See profile
Kariega Game Reserve Main Lodge
Kenton on Sea
Kariega Game Reserve is the perfect destination for a safari holiday, but it may also provide the ideal setting for weddings.
Read more
- Moderate ($$)
See profile
Intaba Lodge
Khowa, Chris Hani District Municipality
A wedding at Intaba Lodge is a day to remember…
We have both the expertise and facilities to turn any occasion into something truly memorable.
Read more
- 120
- Affordable ($)
See profile
Lombardini Game Farm
Jeffreys Bay, Sarah Baartman District Municipality
Situated on the picturesque Lombardini game farm, just outside Jeffreys Bay, on the banks of the Seekoei River, Lombardini is the perfect backdrop for intimate wedding occasions to lavish celebrations.
Read more
- 220
- Moderate ($$)
See profile
Zuurberg Mountain Village
Addo
Zuurberg Mountain
Read more
- Moderate ($$)
Everything you need to know about weddings in Eastern Cape
The Eastern Cape is defined by its raw, natural beauty, offering a truly unique setting for a romantic wedding.
- Coastal Romance: Venues along the Sunshine and Wild Coasts provide dramatic sea views and golden beaches for unforgettable ceremonies.
- Country Charm: Historic farmhouses and Karoo lodges offer rustic elegance and vast, starry skies.
- Forest Hideaways: Find secluded spots in areas like the Amatola Mountains for incredibly intimate celebrations.
Marriage Requirements: To legally marry in South Africa, you'll need to present valid identification (passports for non-residents) and complete the necessary paperwork with a registered marriage officer. There are no residency requirements.
Local Expertise: Consider hiring a local planner who knows the region's best suppliers and hidden gem venues, especially for more remote locations.
Venue hire for a romantic Eastern Cape wedding can range from ZAR 30,000 to over ZAR 150,000, depending on the location, exclusivity, and package inclusions.
- Budget Venues: ZAR 30,000 - ZAR 60,000
- Mid-Range Venues: ZAR 60,000 - ZAR 100,000
- Luxury Venues: ZAR 100,000+
Remember that catering is often a separate cost, averaging ZAR 450-950 per person.
What's Often Included:
- Exclusive use of the property for the day
- Tables, chairs, and basic linens
- Standard staffing for setup and service
Potential Extras to Budget For:
- Decor and floral arrangements
- Bar services and beverages
- Marquee hire for outdoor spaces
- Accommodation
The Eastern Cape's climate is varied, making it a beautiful destination year-round.
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm and sunny, this is the peak season for classic coastal weddings. Expect average temperatures of 25-30°C.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Often considered the best time to marry. The weather is mild and stable with beautiful golden light, perfect for photography.
Winter (Jun-Aug): Cooler and sometimes wet, especially near the coast. Ideal for intimate indoor weddings at venues with cosy fireplaces and a dramatic, moody atmosphere.
Spring (Sep-Nov): Wildflowers bloom across the province, creating stunning natural backdrops. The weather can be changeable but is generally pleasant and fresh.
The province's main travel hubs are the airports in Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth) and East London, which connect to major cities.
Hiring a car is the best way for you and your guests to travel, providing the freedom to explore the scenic routes and access more secluded romantic venues. Major roads like the N2 are well-maintained and easy to navigate.
Guest accommodation is as diverse as the landscape itself.
- Luxury Game Lodges: Many game reserves have incredible wedding facilities and offer a unique safari experience for guests.
- Boutique Guesthouses: Quaint towns like Graaff-Reinet, St Francis Bay, and Port Alfred are filled with charming places to stay.
- On-site Options: Many venues offer on-site cottages or hotel rooms for the wedding party and close family.
FAQ's
What makes the Eastern Cape a romantic wedding destination?
Its dramatic and unspoiled landscapes. From the rugged cliffs of the Wild Coast to the tranquil beaches of the Sunshine Coast and the vast plains of the Karoo, the province offers breathtaking, private backdrops that feel a world away from the everyday, perfect for an intimate celebration.
Can I have a legal beach wedding ceremony in the Eastern Cape?
Yes, beach ceremonies are possible but require a permit from the local municipality. Many coastal venues have private beach access or elevated decks overlooking the ocean, which simplifies the process while still providing that romantic seaside atmosphere. Always confirm logistics with your chosen venue.
What are some unique romantic venue types in this province?
Beyond traditional venues, consider a luxury safari lodge where you can combine your wedding with wildlife viewing, a historic Karoo farmhouse for rustic charm, or an exclusive-use coastal reserve for ultimate privacy and spectacular ocean views.
What is the best time of year for an outdoor romantic wedding in the Eastern Cape?
For a warm, sunny outdoor wedding, summer (December to February) is ideal, especially for coastal settings. However, for more temperate weather and beautiful light, autumn (March to May) is often preferred by couples and photographers alike.
How far in advance should we book a romantic venue in the Eastern Cape?
For popular and exclusive-use romantic venues, it's recommended to book 12 to 18 months in advance, particularly if you are planning a wedding during the peak summer or autumn seasons. This ensures you secure your preferred date and gives ample time for planning.
Are there all-inclusive romantic wedding packages available in the Eastern Cape?
Yes, many venues, especially game lodges and larger country estates, offer all-inclusive packages. These typically cover venue hire, catering, basic decor, and sometimes even accommodation. They are a great way to streamline planning and manage your budget effectively.