Bernie Van Der Linde 
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What is a vow renewal ceremony?
Are you dreaming of a romantic wedding or a vow renewal ceremony in South Africa? Imagine exchanging vows in the breathtaking African bush veld, on a picturesque sunset beach, in a charming mountain chapel, or even in a glamorous city hotel surrounded by your loved ones.
A destination wedding in one of South Africa’s top locations is the perfect way to celebrate your union. And don’t worry about your budget – with some smart planning and our tips and recommendations, these amazing destinations can be within your reach. So, prepare for an exotic wedding that will take your breath away.
We nominated the 10 best luxury wedding destinations! Among them is a mountain haven in the Drakensberg, a magnificent countryside escape in Muldersdrift, a glamorous city location in Johannesburg, Big 5 safari bush escapes in the Kruger National Park and Marakele National Park and romantic beach settings in Kwa-Zulu Natal and Capetown and let’s not forget the dreamy lavender farm in our South African Provence, the Free State.
Find your dream wedding destination location from our hand-picked selection of exquisite locations. Whether you are planning a first-time wedding, a vow renewal or a honeymoon, this article is for you!
Vow renewals are wedding-like ceremonies for married couples wanting to reaffirm their love.
A vow renewal ceremony gives a couple the opportunity to openly express their love, reignite the flame of love, and reaffirm their commitment to each other in a ceremonial setting. The ceremony often includes the children. Many couples find it strengthens their relationship. Vow renewal often coincides with milestones such as the 10, 15, 25 or 30th anniversary.
Reasons for renewing vows include never having the opportunity to have an elaborate wedding, sharing their love with family and friends after an elopement, rebuilding bonds after infidelity, or going through difficult times in the marriage. Others choose to renew their vows after one partner overcomes an illness, or the couple overcomes something significant together. We believe you don’t need a reason to celebrate love. Go for it and plan the ceremony of your dreams in South Africa!
Sandals.com published the ultimate vow renewal guide. Best for Brides also published a beginner’s guide to your vow renewal.
Get inspiration from your favourite celebrities who recently renewed their vows in US Magazine and People Magazine.
Experience the magic of a destination wedding
Discover South Africa’s top wedding destinations with stunning views, unforgettable experiences, and mouthwatering cuisine – all just a click away! We’ve got you covered whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an adventure-filled escape. And the best part? Each venue’s prices are tailored to fit your preferences, considering factors like duration of stay, seasonality, group size, menu selections, and special additions. Brides.com offer expert advice and helpful guidelines on planning the destination wedding of your dreams.
Five key considerations when choosing a destination wedding
Planning your wedding or vow renewal can be overwhelming with so many choices. But it’s also the most exciting part! The destination venue you choose will impact your (1) guest list, (2) theme, (3) food, (4) date, and (5) budget.
Making the right choice is crucial. Your venue sets the stage for everything you’ve dreamed of for your special day. Start exploring your options early to ensure your wedding is everything you’ve ever hoped for.
Milk Books provides 20 expert wedding planning tips to achieve your dream wedding. The most important tip, in our opinion, is “Find the wedding supplier who gets your vision for your wedding”.
Brides.com provides a complete guide to planning your wedding. We love that their number one tip is “Set your wedding budget and stick to it”!
The wedding spot blog gives 25 steps to plan a wedding. Their step number 9 is to decide on the wedding’s theme, decor and details. The article differentiates between a romantic, formal, winter, rustic and nature-inspired wedding theme.
PRO TIP
Small and intimate (and affordable) can still be beautiful!
Top 10 luxury destination wedding locations in South Africa
Note: Destinations are listed in no particular order
Best ocean destination wedding: Oyster Box Hotel
“Where there is love, there is life.”
Experience true opulence at the Oyster Box, where your dream wedding becomes a reality. The iconic red-and-white stripes hotel on Umhlanga’s coastline is one of our favourite coastal hotels.
The Oyster Box, one of the leading wedding destinations in South Africa, has received several awards and accolades in recognition of their weddings. In 2021, Pink Book Weddings nominated this charming hotel as one of the top three beach wedding venues. Luxury Lifestyle Awards (2018 and 2019) nominated Oyster Box as the best luxury seaside hotel in South Africa. Another leading financial analysis firm in the United Kingdom, money.co.uk also recognised the Oyster Box Hotel as the number one wedding destination in South Africa.
Whether you are planning an intimate or extravagant wedding, The Oyster Box’s hospitality team pledges to make your special day cherished and faultless by providing a dedicated wedding planner that will pay attention to the smallest of detail, ensure warm hospitality, and give you the utmost professionalism.
*Luxury Lifestyle Awards is a global award selecting, recognizing, celebrating and promoting the best luxury goods and services all over the world.
The Oyster Box signifies romance and sets the perfect scene for blossoming romance. With its lush sub-tropical gardens filled with fig trees, ancient milkwood trees, countless princess palms, wild orchards brimming in trees, and bright hibiscus flowers, there is hardly a need to add excessive décor to this flawless wedding setting. Notwithstanding the exquisite gardens, the Oyster Box is celebrated for its exquisite coastal views, legendary service, and exceptional gastronomy.
To create your perfect wedding day, The Oyster Box offers a dedicated wedding coordination team to help plan your dream wedding. Moreover, the hotel’s banqueting team assists with all the important details, including the wedding cake, photography, decor, music, and your selected menu.
We can think of no better way to deal with the anticipation of your wedding day than to enjoy a day at their award-winning day spa. This is one of the best day spas we ever visited (and we have visited many of the top spas in the country – check out our Instagram page). From their well-trained therapist utilising an understanding of a range of wellness traditions to the tranquil surrounding, you are certain to leave feeling relaxed, excited, and ready for your big day.
The Oyster Box has five distinctive venues: The Pearl Room, the Shell Room, Colony Room, Durban July Room and Union Castle Rooms.
The pearl room is one of the most sought-after venues offering breathtaking ocean views with the icon lighthouse as the backdrop and floor-to-ceiling glass doors and windows. With its mirrored wall and exquisite crystal chandeliers, the scene is set for a modern yet swanky wedding.
What makes the Oyster Box Hotel unique ?
- Picturesque coastal views from the hotel
- Two heated pools, the main pool is set against the backdrop of the iconic lighthouse
- The famous red and white lighthouse for incredible photos
- Five-star accommodation for the wedding couple and discerning guests; some suites have private plunge pools and incredible vistas
- Their classic sea-facing rooms offer exceptional sea views from the balconies
- Passionate staff that go the extra mile for guests
- An award-winning spa in lush, secluded gardens
- Furry four-legged family members are welcome and specially catered for
- A state-of-the-art 24-seater private cinema
Guest experiences at or near the Oyster Box Hotel:
- Walk along the Beachwood boardwalk
- Victoria street market in the city centre is open six days a week
- Guests can discover Durban with its diverse culture
- Durban Botanical Gardens is one of Africa’s oldest gardens, established in 1849
Nearest town: Durban city centre and Umhlanga Rocks
Contact details: +27 31 514 5000
Email: conferencemanager@oysterbox.co.za
Visit their website for bookings and more information.
Best mountain destination wedding: Cathedral Peak Hotel
“Love has nothing to do with what you are expecting to get—only with what you are expecting to give—which is everything.”
Cathedral Peak Hotel is one of the most well-known mountain retreats in Drakensberg, South Africa. With its rich history, this family-owned and run hotel earned its reputation as the most scenic mountain wedding destination.
The highlight of this grand venue, located within a World Heritage Site, is its magical stone-and-thatch chapel with panoramic windows behind the pulpit offering awe-inspiring views of the mountain range.
The banqueting team vows to present a dreamy venue, luxurious guest accommodations, and delectable food to match the unsurpassed location.
“No adventure is greater than the one you start with the one you love”
What makes Cathedral Peak Hotel unique?
- Guests are accommodated in spacious rooms ranging from standard rooms to family and superior rooms with unsurpassed views of the striking landscapes, some with mountain views.
- When you book 15 double rooms (for a minimum of 30 guests) for your wedding reception, the rooms will be provided at a special rate (discounted); the chapel, reception venue and honeymoon suite (for the night of the wedding) will be included without charge.
- Wedding coordinator to assist you with the details of your dream wedding.
Guest experiences at Cathedral Peak Hotel:
- Guided Hikes
- Mountain and Quad Biking
- Helicopter Rides
- Horse and Pony Rides
- Tennis, Badminton, Squash and Bowls
- 9-Hole Golf Course, Floodlit Mini Adventure Golf
- In-Season Children’s Entertainment Programme.
With more than 80 years of experience in hospitality and personal attention, Cathedral Peak Hotel can guarantee you memories to last a lifetime!
Nearest town: Winterton
Contact details: +27 (36) 488 1888
Email: events@cathedralpeak.co.za
Visit their website for bookings and more information.
Best safari destination wedding: Marataba Lodge
“Love does not consist of gazing at each other, but in looking outward together in the same direction”
Escape from the ordinary and immerse yourself in the wonders of nature at this incredible safari lodge in the Marakele National Park. Marakele is a Tswana name meaning ‘place of sanctuary’. This breathtaking landscape is ideal for destination weddings.
Say your vows surrounded by loved ones in the African bush veld. Marataba is also a haven for honeymooners, with abundant wildlife, awe-inspiring mountain views, and unforgettable romantic experiences.
Where is Marakele National Park?
Marataba is located in a malaria-free, privately managed section spanning 21,000 hectares in the Marakele National Park (part of SANParks) in the Limpopo Province. The nearest city is Thabazimbi.
Marataba is nestled beneath the highest peaks of the Waterberg mountain range in a gradual transitional zone, creating an ecozone.
Why should your have your wedding at Marataba?
Choose between two luxury lodges for your special union, whether you desire an intimate or extravagant celebration. All wedding facilities are exclusive to guests staying a minimum of two nights.
Marataba Mountain Lodge boasts five luxury rooms, ideal for a party of 10. Meanwhile, the sister lodge, Marataba Safari Lodge, offers 15 luxurious canvas tents in an “Out of Africa” style, accommodating up to 38 guests across two lodges, including enchanting tree houses.
The lodge can assist with wedding planning and coordination, but the wedding couple can enlist the help of a professional wedding coordinator to bring their dream wedding to life.
There is a choice between three wedding packages: “Be Mine”, “Be Magical”, and “Be MORE”. The “Be MORE” package includes everything a bride could dream of for a romantic safari wedding – from legal fees for the marriage certificate to a dedicated function coordinator, a two-tier wedding cake, a bridal bouquet, a groom’s buttonhole flower, a photographer, a hairdresser, makeup, flowers for the ceremony, and much more.
What makes Marataba unique?
- Experience your dream getaway at Marataba’s Thabametsi treehouse. This two-level oasis offers a bedroom, shower, lounge, and a beautifully furnished deck in the heart of the bushveld. Here you can immerse yourself in the African wilderness as lions, leopards, hyenas, and other wildlife roam below. With only solar power for lighting, you can enjoy a peaceful night under the stars, creating unforgettable memories with your loved one. A safari vehicle will transport you to this enchanting hideaway in the late afternoon to embark on a truly unforgettable experience.
- Bush walks
- Located in a Malaria free area
- Easily accessible, only a 3.5-hour drive from Johannesburg
Guest Experiences at Marataba Lodge:
- Twice daily game drives (duration 3 hours)
- Bush walks after breakfast (duration 1.5 to 2 hours) depending on guests’ fitness levels.
- Miss Mara Water Safari: a morning and sunset water safari cruise on the Matlabas River.
- Wildlife lectures by field guides and trackers when the weather is unsuitable for other safari activities.
- Local community experience: Guests are invited to a local community to engage with locals and positively impact their lives. This is a life-enriching experience not to be missed.
- Stargazing
- A selection of spa therapies can be enjoyed in the comfort of your suite.
- Mack & Madi kids’ adventure experiences
Nearest town: Hartbeesfontein
Contact details: +27 (10) 109 4900,
Email: concierge@more.co.za
Click here to view Marataba’s wedding packages and price lists.
Visit their website for bookings and more information.
Best safari destination wedding: Lion Sands
“The best thing to hold onto in life is each other”
Lions Sands belongs to the same group as Marataba, the MORE Family collection. We featured their Narina and Tinga lodges in a previous article, “Top 10 luxury private lodges in the Kruger National Park”. This article focuses on the Lion Sands River Lodge and Ivory Lodge.
The Lion Sands Game Reserve is an award-winning private reserve and one of the last authentic, unspoiled wilderness areas where the private Sabi Sand Game Reserve meet the world-renowned Kruger National Park.
There is no better place to exchange your vows than a place deeply connected to nature. Your wedding will be a one-in-a-lifetime experience not only for you but also for your guests. Lion Sands spells lavish, intimate, luxury and nature at its best. Besides the fact that there is something deeply romantic about a safari wedding, it is also a great way to spend quality time with friends and family in a spectacular setting.
What can you expect from Lion Sands?
You can choose between four five-star signature lodges to exchange your vows. Note that all wedding facilities are exclusive to guests staying a minimum of two nights.
Lion Sands River Lodge boasts 18 rooms, ideal for a party of 38. Lion Sands Ivory Lodge offers eight luxurious suites and 1 Two Bedroom Residence for 20 guests.
Lion Sands Narina Lodge offer nine suites for 18 guest, and Tinga offers nine suites for 18 guests (read our feature about these lodges in a previous blog)
How can Lion Sands create the perfect wedding for you?
Lions Sands is committed to plan your secret elopement, intimate nuptials or vow renewal ceremony down to the last wildly romantic detail as you envisioned.
Lion Sands follows the same policies as Marataba Lodge. They can assist with wedding planning and coordination, but you are also welcome to enlist the help of a professional wedding coordinator to bring your dream wedding to life.
Lion Sands have the same three wedding packages as Marataba Safari Lodge: “Be Mine”, “Be Magical”, and “Be MORE”. The “Be Mine” (starter) package includes legal fees for the marriage certificate, a minister, a dedicated function coordinator, a one-tier wedding cake, an elegant wedding venue set-up, specially created canapes, a private game vehicle, sparkling wine for the toast, and a few other extras.
What makes Lion Sands unique?
- Experience your dream hideout at Chalkley Treehouse nestled in an old leadwood tree or Kington Treehouse built off an old rocky outcrop or Tinyeleti treehouse. These utterly romantic tree houses are light at night by lanterns to create a soft glow and the least disturbance to nature.
- MORE Creative lab. For professional or novice photographers, a lab assistant will help you turn your images into artwork by offering guidance on enhancing your precious shots with professional editing software, including printing your most valuable captures on canvas on their state-of-the-art printers.
- MORE Gallery. The beautiful art gallery with original paintings, sketches and photographs for purchase.
What are the guest experiences like at Lion Sands?
- Twice daily game drives (duration 3 hours)
- Riverbed dining under African skies with the soft glow of lanterns and the cracking of a wood fire or boma dinners
- Safari coffee stop in the heart of the bush veld
- Bush walks with highly trained and experienced guides
- A selection of spa treatments is available in a world-class therapy room.
Email: concierge@more.co.za
Visit their website for bookings and more information.
Click here to view Lion Sand’s wedding packages and price lists.
Best safari destination wedding: Lukimbi Safari Lodge
"Experience the beauty of small and intimate without breaking the bank!"
Lukimbi understands that your wedding day must be a memorable celebration. What better way to make it unforgettable than to seek a unique destination such as a private game lodge in the Kruger National Park of South Africa?
Lukimbi Safari Lodge specialises in intimate and personal weddings. The lodge can accommodate 32 wedding guests. To ensure your wedding celebration is adorned with your exclusive requirements, the lodge needs a minimum two-night stay for groups of six or more adults. The lodge manager will work closely with the bride to create her perfect day, from the venue set up to flowers, music, and the minister.
“The secret of a happy marriage is finding the right person. You know they’re right if you love to be with them all the time”
What makes Lukimbi Safari Lodge unique?
- It is a private lodge in the heart of the Kruger National Park
- The Chapel of St. Francis, a romantic Baroque-styled chapel in the bush veld
- An authentic and rustic bush veld chapel located under an ancient Jackalberry Tree
- An African choir or rhythmic drumming can serenade the wedding party as the bride walks down the aisle.
- A romantic dinner for two at one of their secret locations in the bush veld
- Well-stocked bar, wine cellar and boma.
The best part of having your wedding at Lukimbi is that you can also have the most extraordinary honeymoon at Lukimbi without spending the extra money to travel to another destination. Due to Lukimbi’s years of experience making honeymoons exceptional, you can rest assured that yours will be unforgettable.
Their opulent suites with high ceilings, dreamy mosquito nets, king-sized beds, indoor and outdoor showers, and breathtaking stone baths guarantee a romantic stay with scenic wildlife views. A complimentary bottle of sparkling wine on your private deck is the perfect way to enjoy a beautiful African sunset.
Nearest town: Malelane
Contact details: +27 (0) 13 735 8000
Email: res@lukimbi.com
Visit their website for bookings and more information
Best ocean and mountain destination wedding: Tintswalo Atlantic Lodge
“A great marriage isn’t something that just happens; it must be created.”
Exclusive, luxurious, romantic, and private - no location comes close to Tintswalo Atlantic!
Are you looking for a truly special wedding destination? Look no further than Tintswalo Atlantic. This hidden gem in Cape Town offers an exclusive, romantic, and private experience. Nestled on a pebbled beach at the base of Chapman’s Peak in Table Mountain National Park.
Tintswalo Atlantic is a 5-star boutique lodge that will bring your wedding dreams to life. Imagine saying your vows on an expansive wooden deck with waves crashing at your feet or cosying up indoors by the wood-burning fireplaces.
The Executive Chef will meet the bridal couple before the wedding to discuss a locally sourced and sustainable menu to please every palate.
Tintswalo Atlantic offers a range of wedding packages to meet your expectations and make your wedding unforgettable. From intimate ceremonies for the bride and groom to a grand and dramatic wedding for up to 100 guests, there is something for everyone. You have a choice of five packages ranging from ‘Just the 2 of us’ (for the bride and groom), ‘Intimate wedding package’ (up to 12 guests), ‘Under the Milkwoods’ (up to 18 guests), ‘Edge of the Ocean’ (50 to 70 guests 1-day event), ‘2-Night Exclusive Use’ (60-120 guests 2-day event). A wedding brochure describing each package in detail is available on request.
No need to look for an alternative honeymoon destination, as Tintswalo Atlantic is celebrated as one of the most romantic destinations in South Africa. Each individually decorated Island Suite features a luxurious king-size bed, a cosy lounge area with a fireplace, and a mini-bar and coffee station. The spacious en-suite bathrooms offer stunning sea views and include a walk-in shower, double basins, and a luxurious Victorian bath. And let’s not forget the private terrace on the water’s edge, where you can relax and enjoy the breathtaking views.
The venue options at Tintswalo Atlantic:
- Breathtaking views at the lookout point: Just a short 150m walk from the lodge, you’ll immerse yourself in the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Sentinel. This magical location can accommodate up to 120 guests.
- Relax by the pool deck and guest lounge: Located on the rocks at the base of Chapman’s Peak; this spot offers a unique atmosphere with the mountain on one side and the crashing waves on the other. The mix of nature and the ocean creates a fabulous vibe. This venue can host up to 80 guests; if needed, the lodge can provide a stage over the pool at an additional charge.
- Unforgettable sunset views at the main lodge: Experience the most incredible sunset views at the main lodge. The retractable pergola provides a perfect backdrop for chandeliers and satin drapes. Plus, it’s perfect for those hot Cape Town days.
- An elegant dining experience: Enjoy an interactive view of their kitchen in the elegant dining room. With fold-away doors, guests can seamlessly enjoy indoor and outdoor spaces. The dining room can accommodate up to 120 guests for a seated dinner or 120 for a cocktail party.
- Intimate weddings at the Lamu suite: This venue is ideal for a small, intimate ceremony. The balcony is the perfect location to say “I do” against the backdrop of the ocean and mountain. It can accommodate up to six guests for a private, intimate, unforgettable experience.
What makes Tintswalo unique?
- Their location on the water’s edge of the Atlantic Ocean
- The best of both ocean and mountainside views
- World-class hotel with eight luxury suites and one impressive 2-bedroom lavish suite with exquisite ocean views
- Four exquisite venues to choose from, each with inimitable settings and views.
- The heated swimming pool on the oceanfront and private beach.
- The unprecedented mountain and ocean views from the main deck
Nearest town: Hout Bay
Contact details: +27 (0)21 773 0900
Email: reservations@tintswalo.com
Visit their website for bookings and more information
Tintswalo has a FABULOUS winter warmer special until the end of August 2023.
“When we love, we always strive to become better than we are. When we strive to become better than we are, everything around us becomes better too.”
Best countryside destination wedding: Oakfield Farm
Oakfield Farm’s buildings have a long history, some dating back to 1940. This lavish country wedding destination is in Muldersdrift. This romantic venue is set on 72 acres of English countryside, with picturesque gardens and majestic, deep-rooted trees. Nguni cows and horses roam the fields while geese and guineafowl forage the immaculate gardens.
This venue prides itself in offering the bridal couple one-stop detailed wedding packages, which include every imaginable item from hand-picked décor to practical dressing rooms, a selection of romantic chapels and a mythical horse-drawn carriage.
This countryside venue offers three superior venues:
The Homestead with Forest Chapel – This duo is located in an enchanted, indigenous forest and can accommodate 350 guests. The Homestead is ideal for a winter wedding because the cosy fireplaces give it an elegant rustic charm.
The Summerhouse with Conservatory Chapel – This unconventional combination is our favourite. It caters for a maximum of 180 guests in an unrestricted setting. The conservatory is a contemporary structure featuring crystal chandeliers, floor-to-ceiling glass panels, giving the space a chic yet elegant feel. The Summerhouse unveils a romantic setting with crackling fireplaces adding to the warm ambience. The welcoming Summerhouse includes a bridal suite and guesthouse.
The Dairy and Dairy Chapel – This enchanting duet allows for the most amazing sunsets in expansive golden fields and caters for not more than 120 guests. The graceful chapel with white is nestled in an olive grove and pink rose arch to welcome the newlyweds.
What makes Oakfield Farm unique?
- a choice of thee chapels, one being a mystic forest chapel in the grove of Cottonwood trees
- an exclusive conservatory with matchless floor-to-ceiling glass
- a horse-drawn carriage
- manicured gardens for unmatched photo opportunities
With their vision and 30 years of wedding experience, you are bound to have the wedding of your dreams.
Although the venue does not have adequate guest accommodation, there are several beautiful guesthouses in the immediate vicinity:
They highly recommend the following nearby accommodation:
- Avianto Hotel (6 km from Oakfield Farm)
- Cradle Valley boutique guesthouse (6.7 km from Oakfield farm)
- Monchique Guesthouse (3 km from Oakfield farm)
- Random Harvest Cottages (2.2 km from Oakfield farm)
Nearest town: Muldersdrift
Contact details: +27 (11) 933 3465
Email: info@oakfield.co.za
Visit their website for bookings and more information.
Best vibrant city destination wedding: Four Seasons Westcliff, Johannesburg
“You don’t marry the person you can live with—you marry the person you can’t live without.”
Come marvel at the iconic ‘pink lady’ poised on a hillside, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Johannesburg. Nestled atop a cliff, this magnificent Italian-style Villa may trick you into believing you’re on the enchanting Amalfi coast.
Immerse yourself in a breathtaking urban oasis at the Four Seasons Hotel. Experience the stunning sight of vibrant purple jacaranda blossoms from the comfort of your spacious room or suite, each offering a picturesque garden or panoramic views from your private balcony. Don’t miss out on the mesmerising sunrises over the city, a signature feature of this 19th-century style mansion. And indulge in the ultimate relaxation at their renowned Après spa – (read more about it on our Instagram page).
Discover the Four Seasons Westcliff, where you can choose from 16 glamorous indoor venues, each with unique charm, accommodating up to 200 guests. The Four Seasons Westcliff offers four well-positioned outdoor venues fit for royalty.
Take advantage of their amazing special offers, including ‘stay longer – third night free’ and ‘Joburg getaway – enjoy 15% off’. Experience this premier city wedding destination’s perfect blend of elegance and relaxation.
Visit their offers page for great specials.
What makes The Four Seasons Westcliff unique?
- Their signature restaurant, Flames, is famous for its incredible city views.
- Celebration dining menu Thursday to Saturday
- The Cellar Door offer panoramic city views and serves delectable dishes
- An on-site jogging trail
- Hospitality lounge and 24-hour business centre
- Aprés-spa with magnificent views over Johannesburg
Nearest town: Westcliff
Contact details: +27 (0) 11 481 6000
Visit their website for bookings and more information.
Best countryside destination wedding: Lavender Hill Country Estate
Escape to the lavender fields of Provence, a breathtaking natural sight that has captivated people worldwide. Experience the beauty of endless rows of purple flowers stretching into the horizon.
Read our blog article about our unforgettable trip to the stunning Lavender fields of Provence in France (June 2022)
But what if we told you that you don’t have to travel to France to immerse yourself in the charm of lavender fields? Lavender Hill Country Estate, nestled in the Eastern Free State near Bethlehem, offers the enchantment of the French countryside in South Africa. With stunning views of the Maluti Mountains and Ash River, Lavender Hill Country Estate boasts rows of exquisite lavender fields that rival Valensole, Provence, in France.
Lavender Hill goes beyond providing a picturesque setting for your special day. With their professional coordinator (at an additional cost), you can design your dream wedding and ensure your guests enjoy the French country lifestyle.
Lavender Hill offers three beautiful chapels: Hillsong, Boskerkie, and Garden Chapel. Hillsong, the largest chapel, can seat up to 200 guests, while the Garden Chapel can accommodate up to 100 guests. Each chapel has its unique character and charm.
Lavender Hill offers a choice of four reception halls: Vivaldi, Chateau, Garibaldi, and Mozart. From Vivaldi Hall, which can seat 250 guests, to the intimate Mozart Hall, seating 60 guests. You will absolutely find the perfect space for your special celebration.
Guests can overnight in one of their 28 individually themed chalets or the self-catering manor house, which can accommodate up to 10 guests.
What sets Lavender Hill apart?
- Extend your evening wedding until 2:00 am at no additional charge.
- Enjoy uninterrupted views from their stunning glass-fronted chapel.
- Explore their exquisite gardens, home to lavender fields, rose gardens, Arabian horses, and exotic geese.
- Benefit from hiring the venue, including a hall for pre-wedding gatherings.
- Stay in the honeymoon suite, with breakfast included the next morning.
- Customise your menu to fit your budget and taste preferences.
- Relax and unwind with treatments at their on-site wellness centre and day spa, including a hair salon.
Good to know: Lavender Hill currently offers a winter special with 30% off venue hire for weddings until August 2023. Don’t miss out on this incredible deal. Click here to view their wedding brochure and start planning your dream wedding today.
Nearest town: Bethlehem
Contact details: +27 (0) 58 303 1637
Email: bookings@lavenderhillestate.co.za
Visit their website for bookings and more information.
Best romantic ocean destination wedding destination: The Marine, Hermanus
You only get one chance to create the wedding of your dreams – which is why it’s important to choose the right location and the right wedding coordinator.
The Marine Hotel is one of the most sought-after wedding destinations in South Africa. This stunning hotel is perched on rugged, ocean-hewn cliffs overlooking Walker Bay in Hermanus, providing breathtaking ocean views and surrounding mountains. The hotel is the perfect location for couples looking for a picturesque and romantic wedding venue that will leave their guests in awe. There are magnificent photo opportunities on the cliff path from the hotel to the beach below. This breathtaking scenery is guaranteed to create an unforgettable wedding day.
The Marine offers an event coordinator to assist you with planning your dream wedding. The management team assure you of (1) exceptional service, (2) a unique setting, (3) world-class cuisine, and (4) exquisite accommodation.
Exceptional service: The Marine promises impeccable hospitality with attention to detail without being intrusive.
Unique setting: Guests can enjoy year-round marine life, with whale watching between June and December.
World-class cuisine and wine: The head chef will meet with the bridal couple before the wedding day to discuss their preferences and to create a personalised menu. This can be anything from fine dining to a champagne breakfast or stylish lunch.
Exquisite Accommodation: The marine has 40 individually themed rooms and suites, each with unique views and amenities. The Honeymoon suite features a large bay window, a lounge area overlooking Walker Bay, and a loft bedroom with views of the gardens towards the sea.
The Marine offers you a choice of four stylish locations: The Pavilion, The Greens, The Sun Lounge or the Hotel Pool Area. The venues range from a fine dining location for 60 guests to an expansive outdoor venue that can accommodate 120 guests or an indoor setting for 80 guests. The pool area can also be booked exclusively for your wedding ceremony.
A lovely spa on-site offers a selection of beauty and wellness treatments.
With its luxurious accommodations, breathtaking views, and endless activities and attractions, Hermanus is a perfect place to create beautiful memories that will last a lifetime.
We reviewed The Marine on our blog in May 2023.
What sets The Marine apart?
- The marine offers outdoor and banquet-style wedding ceremonies.
- The Marine offers two packages, the ‘Elope to the Marine” and the ‘Wedding Ceremony’. More details on their website.
- The ‘elopement package’ focuses on the bride and groom to ensure they enjoy an intimate and romantic wedding day.
- Whale watching is a popular activity that can be enjoyed from the privacy of your hotel’s rooms or on a boat tour.
- Guests can enjoy the Fernkloof Nature Reserve offering hiking trails, bird watching, and breathtaking coastline views.
BONUS listing: Fit for royalty bush experience: Singita
A top 10 nomination for the best destination wedding locations is incomplete without mentioning Singita. With no limitations on budget, this is the ultimate choice for those who want nothing but the best.
Any of the following lodges are available for an entire wedding take-over.
- Singita Ebony, Sabi Sand
- Singita Castleton – villa four bedrooms – Sabi Sand
- Singita Sweni (6 rooms) or Lebombo (13) rooms or combined for a bigger group – lodge buyout.
- Singita Kataza House – Rwanda – Villa 4 bedrooms
- Singita Sabora Tented Camp – Grumeti – 8 tents
- Singita Sasakwa Lodge
- Singita Malilangwe House – Villa 5 rooms – Zimbabwe
Conclusion
Discover the magic of South Africa as the ultimate wedding destination.
If you picture yourself exchanging vows on a sun-kissed shoreline or saying “I do” in the heart of the African bush veld, South Africa is your answer!
We showcased venues with stunning beaches and majestic mountain views to thrilling Big 5 wildlife safaris, country escapes with panoramic views and a glamour urban affair.
With endless possibilities and the only limit being your imagination (and budget), let South Africa be the backdrop for your unforgettable wedding or honeymoon.
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Very insightful article. I have a friend looking for venues, and I think she will find this insightful.