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Drostdy Hotel
Graaff-Reinet, Sarah Baartman District Municipality
Blending timeless elegance with modern luxury, The Drostdy proudly offers one of the most historic and charming wedding venues in South Africa.
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- Moderate ($$)
Romantic Wedding Venues in South Africa
Discover the most romantic wedding venues South Africa has to offer. From intimate vineyard estates in the Cape Winelands to dramatic coastal settings and exclusive safari lodges, this stunning country provides a breathtaking backdrop. Explore a handpicked selection of venues that specialise in creating unforgettable, love-filled celebrations, each with its own unique charm and elegance. Read more
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Intiem
Pretoria, City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality
Intiem weddings are all about small details, executed with perfection. Located just outside of Pretoria, at the foot of the beautiful Magaliesberg, we strive to create a memorable start to your life together.
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- Moderate ($$)
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Ilanga Estate
Bloemfontein, Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality
Your Wedding Day… The most precious and beautiful day of your life! Thank you for considering Ilanga Estate for this special event!
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- 300
- Moderate ($$)
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African Leaves & The Hothouse
Dullstroom, Ehlanzeni District Municipality
Situated at the foot of the mountains of the Zuikerboschhoek Bewarea and with a view of water, forest and countryside, The Hothouse venue has become known as one of the most intimate and private wedding venues in the area.
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- 120
- Moderate ($$)
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Mount Edgecombe Country Club
Mount Edgecombe,, eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality
We have world-class wedding facilities with the ability to cater for varying group sizes in our various wedding venues.
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- 250
- Moderate ($$)
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Santa Paloma Guest Farm
East London, Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
Our wedding venue is flexible and offers couples a one-stop wedding destination. Our farm offers beautiful natural vistas and quiet secluded hideaways where photographers can record your special day forever
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- 120
- Moderate ($$)
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The Glades Farm
Balgowan, uMgungundlovu District Municipality
Avenues of trees, glades, forests, mountain scenes, 2 dams and a scattering of Nguni provide a natural balance between charm and variety when it comes to planning wedding activities and the photographers schedule.
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- 160
- Moderate ($$)
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Bosveld in die stad Venue
Alberton, City of Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality
Are you searching for a cozy wedding venue where you can truly make your wedding your own?
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- 60
- Moderate ($$)
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L'Avion
East London, Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
L’Avion Wedding Venue is set in the peaceful and tranquil surrounds of Wings Park Airfield, situated only 19km from Merrifield School on the N6 towards Stutterheim. We can host and cater for any variety and size of weddings.
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- 130
- Moderate ($$)
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Bell and Blossom
Pretoria, City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality
Bell & Blossom is a one-of-a-kind wedding venue in Pretoria, nestled in a forest-like surrounding with a translucent roof, exposed timber trusses and impressive chandeliers.
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- 200
- Moderate ($$)
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Venue D'Aria
Durbanville,, City of Cape Town Metropolitan Municipality
Situated in the heart of the Durbanville Wine Route lies Venue D’ Aria, a 4-star wedding venue. Venue D’ Aria promises a unique wedding experience to guests, one that they will cherish and remember for years to come.
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- Moderate ($$)
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Vrede en Lust Estate
Cape Town, City of Cape Town Metropolitan Municipality
Vrede en Lust Estate, one of the most renowned wedding destinations in the Cape Winelands, and our talented team of wedding coordinators will be sure to provide you with the wedding you’ve always dreamed of.
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- 120
- Moderate ($$)
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Villa Villekula
The Crags, South Africa, Garden Route District Municipality
The Eco friendly building is raised on 18 pillars leaving a minimum footprint and stunning views - making it a great location for a small wedding.
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- 30
- Moderate ($$)
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Karkloof Safari Spa
Pietermaritzburg, uMgungundlovu District Municipality
Are you searching for your dream game lodge wedding venue in South Africa? We’re so glad you’re here.
Get married under the wide, African sky.
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- 100
- Moderate ($$)
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Villa Rosa
Pretoria, City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality
Looking to have your wedding in picturesque surroundings?
Villa Rosa, surrounded by the Magaliesberg mountain range is your answer!
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- 250
- Moderate ($$)
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Eensgezind
Cape Town, South Africa
Voted as one of the top wedding venues in South Africa, Eensgezind is the perfect wedding venue for your special day, situated in the beautiful Durbanville countryside.
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- 250
- Moderate ($$)
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Harmonie Proteas
Rayton, eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality
Modern design mixed with farmstead chic, the new wedding venue at Harmonie Proteas is a mix of old and new, a modern structure with rustic character. It’s a versatile, bright, open space that’s ready to house whatever wedding you need it to.
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- 150
- Moderate ($$)
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Silver Mist
Kaapschehoop, Ehlanzeni District Municipality
Fairy-tale Weddings is a leading wedding venue and is located in the historical village of Kaapsehoop, Mpumalanga.
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- 120
- Moderate ($$)
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Glenburn Lodge and Spa
Muldersdrift Johannesburg Gauteng, West Rand District Municipality
VOTED AS ONE OF THE TOP WEDDING VENUES IN GAUTENG, GLENBURN LODGE & SPA HAS MULTIPLE WEDDING VENUES WITH GUEST CAPACITIES RANGING BETWEEN 10 AND 250 GUESTS.
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- 250
- Moderate ($$)
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De Meye Farm
Stellenbosch, Cape Winelands District Municipality
Your journey towards the perfect wedding starts here. Nestled beneath the oaks in the tranquil lanes of the Stellenbosch winelands, you will find the exquisite De Meye Wine Estate, home to the Myburgh family for five generations.
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- 120
- Moderate ($$)
Everything you need to know about weddings in South Africa
Embracing Romance in South AfricaWedding Costs & PlanningBest Seasons for a Romantic WeddingGuest Travel & Accommodation
Iconic Romantic Settings
- Cape Winelands: Rolling vineyards, historic manor houses, and gourmet cuisine create a classic, elegant atmosphere perfect for a fairy-tale wedding.
- Coastal Escapes: Pristine beaches along the Garden Route or the dramatic cliffs of the Western Cape offer stunning ocean backdrops for your vows.
- Safari Lodges: The untamed wilderness of the Kruger or private reserves provides a uniquely adventurous and intimate setting.
Unforgettable Experiences
Many venues offer more than just a space. Think private wine tastings for your guests, sunset game drives with the 'Big Five', or intimate beach ceremonies followed by a bonfire. The natural beauty of the country, from Table Mountain to the Drakensberg, becomes an integral part of your celebration, creating incredible photo opportunities and a magical ambience.
Average Venue Costs
The cost for a romantic wedding venue in South Africa can vary widely based on location and exclusivity.
- Exclusive-use Venues: Expect to pay from R80,000 to R300,000+ for venue hire, especially in prime locations like the Winelands or private game reserves.
- Per-Person Packages: Many venues offer all-inclusive packages, typically ranging from R800 to R2,500 per guest.
Key Planning Tips
Book in Advance: Popular romantic venues, particularly for the peak season (September to April), get booked 12-18 months ahead of time.
Local Planners: Consider hiring a local wedding planner. They have established relationships with top suppliers and can navigate logistics, which is especially helpful for couples planning a destination wedding.
Spring & Summer (Sep - Feb)
This is the peak wedding season, offering long, sunny days and lush, vibrant landscapes. It's perfect for:
- Outdoor ceremonies in the Winelands.
- Warm-weather beach weddings.
- Garden receptions that last late into the evening.
Be mindful of the 'Cape Doctor' wind in Cape Town during summer months.
Autumn & Winter (Mar - Aug)
Often overlooked, these seasons offer unique romantic possibilities.
- Autumn: The Winelands are spectacular with golden foliage and milder weather.
- Winter: Think cosy receptions with roaring fireplaces in the Midlands or enjoy dry, pleasant weather for a safari wedding up north. This is often a more budget-friendly time to marry.
Getting Around
South Africa is a large country. Major international airports are in Johannesburg (JNB), Cape Town (CPT), and Durban (DUR).
For guests travelling between regions or to remote venues, domestic flights are efficient. Car hire is highly recommended for exploring areas like the Garden Route or the Winelands. Advise guests to book transport well in advance of their travel.
Accommodation Options
Most premier wedding venues offer on-site accommodation for the wedding party and close family.
- For larger guest lists, nearby hotels, guesthouses, and boutique B&Bs are plentiful in popular wedding areas.
- Consider arranging a room block or providing a curated list of recommended local stays for your guests to make their planning easier.
FAQ's
What makes a South African wedding venue romantic?
The romance lies in the diversity and drama of the landscapes. You can marry on a vineyard estate with mountains as your backdrop, on a secluded beach at sunset, or in the heart of the African bush. This natural beauty, combined with world-class hospitality, creates a uniquely magical and intimate atmosphere.
What are the legal requirements to get married in South Africa?
A legal wedding ceremony in South Africa must be conducted by a registered marriage officer. Most venues can recommend trusted local officers who can officiate your ceremony and handle the legal paperwork, for both local and international couples. You will need to provide identification and complete some forms.
What are the most popular regions in South Africa for a romantic wedding?
The Cape Winelands (Stellenbosch, Franschhoek) are incredibly popular for their classic, elegant romance. The Garden Route and Western Cape coast are sought-after for breathtaking ocean views. For a unique and adventurous romance, private game reserves near the Kruger National Park are an exceptional choice.
Is South Africa an expensive country for a wedding?
Costs vary significantly. While exclusive luxury venues can be on par with international prices, South Africa generally offers excellent value, especially for international couples due to favourable exchange rates. You can find stunning romantic venues to suit a wide range of budgets, from intimate guesthouses to grand estates.
What kind of cuisine can we expect at a South African wedding?
South African wedding cuisine is a highlight, often focusing on fresh, local, and seasonal produce. Expect world-class food and wine pairings in the Winelands, fresh seafood along the coast, and traditional 'braais' (barbecues) given a gourmet twist. Venues pride themselves on creating bespoke menus.
Can we plan a romantic South African wedding from abroad?
Absolutely. South Africa is a top destination wedding location. Many venues have dedicated coordinators experienced in working with international couples. Hiring a local wedding planner is also highly recommended to manage logistics, time zones, and suppliers, ensuring a seamless planning process from afar.