Hotel Wedding Venues in Umgungundlovu District Municipality, South Africa

Discover an array of stunning hotel wedding venues in the uMgungundlovu District Municipality. This scenic region, known for its lush Midlands Meander and dramatic Drakensberg foothills, offers elegant hotel settings for every style. From grand ballrooms to intimate garden venues, you'll find spaces that combine luxury with the natural beauty of KwaZulu-Natal. Explore a curated selection of premier hotels ready to host your unforgettable celebration. Read moreEach hotel provides comprehensive wedding packages, including on-site accommodation, catering, and experienced planning teams to ensure a seamless day. Whether you envision a sophisticated city affair in Pietermaritzburg or a tranquil countryside retreat, these venues offer exceptional service and picturesque backdrops. Browse through diverse options to find the hotel that perfectly matches your wedding vision in this captivating part of South Africa.
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Umthunzi Hotel and Conference

Umtentweni
Out of this world ROMANTIC weddings and gorgeous RECEPTIONS on this tropical coastline! Awarded “Best Coastal Wedding Venue” by Top Vendor Awards recently Umthunzi is a wonderful venue offering all you need to begin your married journey.
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  • 220
  • R 39 500 – R 55 000
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Fern Hill Hotel

Howick
More Pricing Inside
Exquisite, Unique and memorable Weddings don’t need to be a stressful experience. Put your trust in our team to help carry the load and produce the wedding of your dreams.
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  • 150
  • R 3 000 – R 8 000
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ANEW Hotel Hilton Pietermaritzburg

Hilton
Modern & Upmarket Wedding Venues. Say “I do” in the Midlands Meander Conveniently situated on the outskirts of the Midlands Meander, ANEW Hotel Hilton offers discerning couples the perfect venue for both wedding ceremonies and reception celebrations.
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  • 200
  • Moderate ($$)
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Champagne Castle Hotel

Champagne Valley
It’s the perfect Drakensberg wedding venue. With millions of years old Champagne Castle and Cathkin Peak watching over you and witnessing your vows, this is one of the most beautiful and romantic locations in the Drakensberg.
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  • 80
  • 12 Bedrooms
  • Moderate ($$)
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First Group Midlands Saddle and Trout

Mooi River
Located in the tranquil setting of the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, surrounded by rolling green pastures and fresh country air, Midlands Saddle & Trout is the perfect wedding venue near Mooi River for your wedding.
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  • 48
  • 93 Bedrooms
  • Moderate ($$)
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ANEW Hotel Hluhluwe

Hluhluwe
Celebrate your wedding day in the heart of the African wilderness at ANEW Hotel Hluhluwe. Our picturesque wedding venues, personalised service, and unique experiences ensure your special day is as wild and memorable as your love story.
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  • 120
  • Moderate ($$)
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Fordoun

Nottingham Road, uMgungundlovu District Municipality
Weddings at Fordoun are a truly special occasion. At Fordoun, we understand the importance of your hopes and dreams, and are dedicated to providing you with the most memorable day that will last a lifetime.
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  • 200
  • Moderate ($$)
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Halliwell Country Inn

Howick, uMgungundlovu District Municipality
This special wedding venue, opens up onto our beautiful gardens and allows our guests to either use the neighbouring chapel for your ceremony or if you prefer, a beautiful, intimate garden wedding with the Karkloof Valley as your backdrop.
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  • 250
  • Moderate ($$)
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Hill Billion Estate

Port Shepstone
Hillbillion Estate hosts the most spectacular weddings in the region, the property boasts an array of photo-ready spaces, from lush gardens and pools to beautifully decorated rooms and walkways.
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  • Moderate ($$)
Everything you need to know about weddings in

Opting for a hotel wedding venue in the uMgungundlovu District brings unparalleled convenience. These venues are experts in hosting events and typically offer:

  • All-inclusive packages covering catering, decor, and staffing.
  • On-site accommodation for you and your guests.
  • Experienced wedding coordinators to manage every detail.
  • A variety of spaces, from ballrooms to gardens, under one roof.

The region itself adds a special touch to your day. You can choose from:

  • Boutique hotels along the charming Midlands Meander.
  • Elegant city hotels in the historic capital, Pietermaritzburg.
  • Resort-style hotels with spectacular views of the Drakensberg foothills.
  • Venues that blend luxury with the serene beauty of the KwaZulu-Natal countryside.

The cost of a hotel wedding venue in uMgungundlovu can vary. On average, couples might expect to spend between ZAR 800 and ZAR 1,500 per guest.

This price often includes:

  • Venue hire for the ceremony and reception.
  • A multi-course meal and welcome drinks.
  • Tables, chairs, standard linens, and cutlery.
  • Service staff and setup.

Key factors influencing the final cost include:

  • Guest Count: The single biggest factor affecting your budget.
  • Time of Year: Peak season (spring and summer) is generally more expensive.
  • Day of the Week: Saturday weddings are premium; consider a Friday or mid-week date for potential savings.
  • Package Inclusions: Upgraded menus, bar options, and decor will add to the cost.

The uMgungundlovu district enjoys a pleasant climate but has distinct seasons.

  • Spring (Sept-Nov): Warm and vibrant, with blooming flowers. A popular and beautiful time to get married.
  • Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot and humid with afternoon thunderstorms. The landscape is lush and green.
  • Autumn (Mar-May): Mild temperatures and beautiful colours, especially in the Midlands. Often considered the ideal season.
  • Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool and dry with crisp, clear days. Perfect for cosy, indoor hotel weddings with fireplaces.

The region's variable weather, especially summer thunderstorms, makes hotels an ideal choice. Most hotel venues offer:

  • Seamless transitions between outdoor ceremony spots and indoor reception halls.
  • Covered verandas or elegant indoor spaces as a built-in Plan B.
  • Climate control for guest comfort, whether it's air conditioning in summer or heating in winter.

Always confirm the venue's specific contingency plans for inclement weather.

One of the biggest advantages of a hotel wedding is the built-in accommodation. Your guests can relax and enjoy the celebration without worrying about travel after the event.

Travel Links:

  • The region is easily accessible via the N3 highway.
  • Pietermaritzburg Airport (PZB) serves the district capital.
  • King Shaka International Airport (DUR) is approximately a 90-minute drive away.

Encourage your guests to explore the beautiful surroundings. Top attractions include:

  • The Midlands Meander: A famous route of craft shops, art galleries, and restaurants.
  • Howick Falls: A spectacular waterfall known by the Zulu people as KwaNogqaza.
  • Karkloof Canopy Tour: For the more adventurous guests.
  • The Drakensberg Foothills: Offering stunning hikes and breathtaking scenery.
FAQ's

What is the best time of year for a hotel wedding in the uMgungundlovu District?

Autumn (March to May) is often considered the best season, offering mild, stable weather and beautiful scenery. However, spring (September to November) is also popular for its blooming landscapes. Winter provides a great opportunity for cosy, indoor hotel celebrations, often at a lower cost.

Do hotels in uMgungundlovu offer wedding packages?

Yes, almost all hotels specializing in weddings offer comprehensive packages. These typically include venue hire, catering, basic decor, and staffing. Many also include the services of an in-house wedding coordinator to help streamline your planning process.

Can I use my own suppliers if I book a hotel venue?

This varies by venue. Most hotels have a list of preferred or exclusive suppliers for services like catering and bar services. For other suppliers like florists, photographers, and entertainment, many venues are flexible, though it's always best to confirm their policy beforehand.

What kind of photo opportunities are available at hotel venues in this region?

The uMgungundlovu District is incredibly picturesque. Hotel venues often feature beautifully manicured gardens, elegant interiors, and verandas with views. Depending on the location, you may also have access to rolling hills, forests, dams, or views of the Drakensberg foothills for stunning wedding photos.

How do we handle accommodation for our wedding guests?

A major benefit of a hotel venue is the on-site accommodation. Most hotels will offer a block of rooms at a discounted rate for your wedding guests. It’s best to arrange this with the hotel's event coordinator as soon as you have confirmed your booking.

Are there transport links for guests travelling to the uMgungundlovu District?

Yes, the area is well-connected. The N3 highway runs directly through the district, making it easily accessible by car from Durban and Johannesburg. For flying guests, Pietermaritzburg Airport (PZB) is nearby, and King Shaka International Airport (DUR) is about a 90-minute drive away.