Part Two: Incredible romantic destinations in South Africa

You don’t have to wait for the month of love to enjoy a romantic trip with your loved one! We’ve rounded up some great romantic destinations in the Western Cape, Northern Cape and Mpumalanga, voted by you on our Ultimate Journey website.

Western Cape

Towering over the V&A Waterfront, the Silo is one of the Mother City’s “in” destinations. Built in the grain elevator portion of the historic grain silo complex, the hotel occupies six floors above the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA), which houses Africa’s largest collection of contemporary African art.

With its beautiful art, style, design and glamour, the Silo Hotel offers luxury rooms, stellar service, and beautiful views.

When you type Grootbos into the Ultimate Journey website, you’ll be met with outstanding reviews for this eco-lodge.

With multiple awards to its name, Grootbos has two 5-star luxury lodges situated on fynbos and forested hills overlooking Walker Bay.  The reserve has more than 740 different plant species, as well as wonderful hospitality, excellent cuisine and wines, and superb accommodation.  

Even without its breathtaking views of the sea, mountain and stretches of sand, The Plettenberg is a luxurious haven. The food, rooms and service are stellar, and when you need a break from all the indulgence, there’s a spa you can head to for even more pampering.

Mpumalanga

A Dullstroom landmark, Walkersons Hotel & Spa offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills, trout dams, fine country dining and country manor rooms with all the modern comforts. There’s space to walk, explore and unwind, and in winter it’s a real treat cozying up next to a fireplace with a big glass of red wine.

You’ll be hard pressed for choice at Lion Sands Game Reserve, with its four lodges situated in Kruger National Park and Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve. Whichever you choose, you’ll get the chance to see the Big Five, plus you’ll be spoilt with incredible cuisine and accommodation.

According to Lion Sands, Ivory Lodge Villas are the most exclusive – individual in every way. River Lodge, with its many open guest areas, has the ambiance of an informal dinner party. While Tinga and Narina Lodges strike a good balance between convivial and tranquil. 

This secluded spot in the Mpumalanga Escarpment is a nature-lover’s haven. If you’re not a fan of bird watching, star gazing and going on hiking trails, you can get pampered at the spa, read a book outside, have a bush bath, or indulge in a picnic.

There’s also a self-catering option, but you’ll still be able to eat at the lodge if you need a break.

Northern Cape

On so many bucket lists, Tswalu Kalahari is South Africa’s largest private game reserve. While conservation is key at Tswalu (they wish to “restore the Kalahari to itself”), so is providing the most exclusive accommodation and experience for guests.

There are two lodges to choose from – Motse, with nine secluded suites, each with their own private deck and open fireplace, and Tarkuni, a homestead with its own dedicated team, including a private chef and host. Aside from game drives, there are walking safaris, walking trails, horse riding, dune picnics and involvement in their wildlife projects.

Even when the Namaqualand daisies aren’t in season (around late July to early August), Agama Tented Camp is worth a visit for its tranquil

The bush camp is based 20km north of Garies and accommodates 14 people. Each tent has an ensuite bathroom and a spacious deck from where you can enjoy this relatively unexplored part of the country. Whether it is an early morning drive, sundowners with breathtaking views, a hike or huddled around a fire in the Kookskerm (Boma), Agama Tented Camp offers a magical and off-the-beaten-track getaways. It’s good to know that Agama was named an Afristay Best Value Establishment in 2018. 

Explore the Ultimate Journey website and discover your own romantic adventure

For two years now, South Africans have been adding their favourite destinations to MotorHappy’s Ultimate Journey website. Visit our website and explore the road trips we’ve created, featuring destinations that received the most votes from visitors to our site.