So, not everyone can afford Ellerman House - where Gemima Khan and Hugh Grant were recently holed up for days on end, but if you’re looking for romance there are a number of options in South Africa.
There is nothing quite like a beach holiday to ease the soul and serenade the senses. The Long Beach Residence and Villa situated in Kommetjie (Western Cape) boasts five luxury suites and the scenic serenity and wide-open spaces of the Southern Cape Peninsula. Have the entire villa to yourselves and sip on the fantastic views of the ocean, ocean and more ocean.
Another ‘barefoot’ tourism option is the Oystercatcher Lodge. This superb establishment is situated along the West Coast. Try out a beach villa or the honeymoon suite. In terms of activities, nature rules – try bird watching, whale watching or long walks as the sun goes down. The West Coast is renowned for its seafood so enjoy feasting on freshly-caught crayfish and spectacular Cape wines.
The winelands of the Western Cape are also pretty romantic – especially the smaller towns such as Franschoek, Paarl, Bonnievale and Montagu. In Franschoek you will find The Auberge du Quartier Francais - a country-style retreat inspired by the surrounding vineyards and the Huguenot settlers who arrived here many moons ago. Auberge du Quartier Francais is a Victorian residence that is known for its excellent cuisine and gorgeous décor. Last year, it was voted the Best Small Hotel In the world by Tatler Magazine United Kingdom. Say no more.
Heading off to the mountains is another option and in South Africa there are a number of getaway spots to choose from including the Drakensberg, the Cedarberg, the Magaliesberg – and all the other bergs (mountains) in-between.
Blue Mountain Lodge is the ultimate in winter-time getaways. Situated in Kiepersol, Mpumalanga, Blue Mountain Lodge is all crackling fireplaces and robust merlots. Set on hectares of indigenous bushveld, the Lodge is simply magnificent in every sense. Victorian Suites are luxurious yet not intimidating and a chapel on the grounds means that mean spontaneous weddings are easily arranged. The cuisine is also pretty spectacular, using fresh herbs and produce are grown on the Blue Mountain Farm.
When it comes to assaulting the sense, there is no place more seductive than the African bush. If you’re slightly offbeat in your view of the world then Jaci’s Tree Lodge may be the place for you. Situated in the Madikwe Game Reserve (North West Province) Jaci’s is all Moroccan-chutzpah meets South African chic…and then some. Think bright oranges and burnt reds, mosaics and eclectic items mixed into the African bush scenario. Game drives are the order of the day or lounge about the decks and get lazier by the minute.
The KwaZulu Natal Midlands is a great spot for city dwellers to escape the bright lights of Durban or Johannesburg. Known for its quaint B&B’s and exquisite guesthouses, the Midlands has a charm all of its own. One of the most charming properties in the region is the aptly named Granny Mouse Country House. Found in the Balgowan region, Granny Mouse has de luxe cottages on offer with private balconies and fireplaces.
A good couple of hours away from the Midlands one finds the spectacular Garden Route. And if romance is the order of the day, then visit Plettenberg Bay. Here, Tsala Treetop Lodge offers the ultimate in laid-back luxury in the Tsitsikamma Forest. Exclusive timber suites with their own deck and infinity pool are yours for the taking. Another spot in ‘Plett’ that is worth a visit is the Phantom Forest, again its wooden decks, endless views and the sounds of nature all around you.
Still in the Garden Route area, Lily Pond Country Lodge, in Nature’s Valley is the sweetest spot. Situated amongst colourful lily ponds and indigenous forests Lily Pond is an unfussy getaway for those seeking solitude and space. The four garden suites offer the ultimate in romantic holidays. No cynics need apply.
Other romantic notables to look out for:
- Bartholomeus Klip, Tulbagh
- Cleopatra Mountain Farmhouse, Drakensberg
- Cranberry Cottage, Clarens
- The Artists’ House, Hemel-en-Arde Valley
- River Bend Lodge, Addo Elephant National Park
- Kings Walden, Haernetsburg
- Cape Cove Guest House, Fresnaye
- Sediba Private Game Lodge, Welgevonden
- Lion Sands, Mpumalanga
- Etali Game Lodge, Madikwe Game Reserve
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