The Best Romantic Getaways in South Africa
If are you looking for romantic getaways in South Africa you are in the right place!
While there’s never a bad time to celebrate your relationship, a romantic getaway to South Africa whether it’s Gauteng, Western Cape, or Johannesburg is just what your relationship needs and gives you the perfect excuse to sneak away on a romantic getaway.
The links in this post may be affiliate links. That means that if you click them and make a purchase, this site makes a commission. It will have no impact on the price you pay or the experience of your purchase.
Exploring a new place with your significant other can be an exciting experience, and it offers an opportunity to break free from your normal routine and have some much-needed fun together.
Upgrade from the standard box of chocolates or long-stem roses with a romantic getaway to South Africa to sweep your wife off of her feet.
From romantic city escapades to relaxing beach vacations, tasting South African wines, or indulging in the local cuisine – South Africa is just what you need for your next romantic getaway.
If you haven’t planned your romantic getaway in South Africa yet or if you are looking for a little travel inspiration once we are allowed to vacation again, I’ve got you covered.
I’ve included some of my favorite luxury hotels in South Africa if you are looking to splurge in 2023 because well, you didn’t get the chance to vacation anywhere over the last few years due to Covid.
Here are my Top Romantic Getaways in South Africa!
You’ll fall in love all over again when you make plans to enjoy one of these romantic Valentine’s Day getaways.
From breathtaking views to spas and places that offer some of the most delicious food, I will provide you with the best list of luxury hotels that will spoil your partner rotten this Valentine’s Day, especially after the year we’ve had.
Best Romantic Getaways For Valentine’s Day
1. One & Only Cape Town
Providing a unique blend of location and luxury, One & Only Cape Town is an urban chic resort in the heart of the city. Set within the secure and vibrant Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, the property is framed by the towering natural wonder of Table Mountain, mesmerizing waterways, and the traditional harbor.
An array of spacious rooms offer the choice to wake up on an inner-city island sanctuary, or aloft the superb seven-story ‘Marina Rise’, gazing upon a ‘Wonder of the World’, Table Mountain.
Featuring private balconies and floor-to-ceiling windows, rooms, and suites have bathrooms with intricately carved African wood screens, egg-shaped bathtubs, rain showers, and two marble vanities.
Cuisine spans fine dining from Michelin-starred Nobu to the local flavors and heritage from Ochre. While Isola provides an alfresco Mediterranean-inspired restaurant by the pool, nestled in the heart of the resort’s own private island. Check Prices Here!
While you’re there:
- Explore some of the world’s most celebrated wineries
- Dine on palm-lined terraces at Nobu and Ochre, or recline in style at Isola, overlooking the infinity pool
View this post on Instagram
2. Belmond Mount Nelson
The Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel is the most iconic luxury hotel in Cape Town situated within a sprawling lush garden estate in the heart of the city’s vibrant cultural center and close to the bustling V&A Waterfront and some of Cape Town’s best beaches.
The hotel is an urban sanctuary with a romantic heritage, a unique sense of style, and a commitment to unparalleled service excellence.
Belmond Mount Nelson is the perfect place to call home if you are in search of a romantic getaway in South Africa.
The Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel is an elegant oasis in a world where privacy is the new luxury and pleasure is all about peace and serenity. Check Prices Here!
While you’re there:
- Body Clinic includes facials, massages, body wraps, and La Stone therapy
- In the midst of wine country, numerous wine tours are available
View this post on Instagram
3. Saxon Hotel & Villas
The Saxon Hotel & Villas redefines the ultimate in luxurious African elegance. From the moment you arrive at this magnificent home away from home within its breathtakingly landscaped garden setting, you are enveloped in a world that belies its close proximity to Sandton, Johannesburg.
Here time ceases to be relevant. No intrusions, no interruptions, while your every wish is met with discreet service that leaves nothing to be desired.
The architectural design has made extensive use of water features, the central point being the spectacular infinity swimming pool. The stately entrance hall exudes an air of majesty, with its feature staircase sweeping around a huge glass dome that allows an abundant flow of natural light.
Looking towards the piano lounge, smoking library, and dining room, there are magnificent contemporary African artifacts. Check Prices Here!
While you’re there:
- Grei & Qunu offer chef-created fine dining journeys within the hotel
- The Saxon Spa provides a relaxing sanctuary nestled in its unique surroundings of cascading water features, with a signature fireplace and influences of copper and Himalayan salts.
View this post on Instagram
4. Mont Rochelle Hotel & Vineyard
Nestled at the foot of the Klein Dassenberg mountain range, Mont Rochelle Hotel and Vineyard is a luxury hotel providing a superb culinary experience and outstanding wines.
Set in the Western Cape Province, the property is in a traditional vineyard town within the French Corner of the Cape, in what is revered as the food and wine capital of South Africa.
Offering 22 rooms and six suites, all accommodations are arranged around the main building. There are five different types of rooms, including Shiraz Rooms with king beds and courtyard or valley views, as well as the six Cabernet rooms with private terraces overlooking the valley.
The largest rooms are the two Cap Classique suites, each with its own private terrace and plunge pool. For families or guests seeking the ultimate in serenity, the Manor House is a four-bedroom available year-round.
Within each of the rooms and suites, there are Africology branded bathroom amenities, tea and coffee facilities, Nespresso machines, postcards with stamps, well-stocked inclusive minibars, flat-screen TVs, and Bose sound systems. Check Prices Here!
While you’re there:
- Plenty of hiking options through the hills, valleys, and vineyards.
- Vineyard on-site with a cellar and wine tastings.
View this post on Instagram
5. The Oyster Box Hotel
From the moment the Oyster Box opened its doors in 1947 the hotel rapidly became one of Africa’s best-loved and most distinguished hotels.
The combination of colonial charm, impeccable service, lush tropical gardens, and breathtaking seaside setting swiftly gained it a reputation that was legendary the world over.
This iconic landmark has been lovingly refurbished to offer guests a vibrantly contemporary experience, whilst still evoking feelings, memories, and the warm nostalgia of days gone by.
Meticulous attention to detail ensures that former guests will be delighted to discover the old glory has not just been retained but carefully enhanced.
All of the warm hospitality and gracious elegance that guests so fondly remember are harmoniously blended with a wealth of modern facilities and contemporary touches to satisfy today’s most discerning tourists and those in search of a romantic getaway in South Africa. Check Prices Here!
While you’re there:
- Play a few rounds on some of South Africa’s finest fairways excellent golf courses are a mere minutes’ drive away.
- The 24-seater cinema and screening room to watch your favorite films whilst enjoying Popcorn, candies, ice-creams, and rich drinking chocolate or a milkshake of the day served to you without missing a frame.
View this post on Instagram
6. Grande Roche
Situated on a working farm in the heart of the Cape Winelands, Grande Roche is within easy reach (45 mins) of the world-class city of Cape Town. The hotel with its historic manor house is the epitome of luxury and traditional hospitality.
Set on the gentle slope of Paarl Mountain, it offers panoramic vistas of the mountains and valley, spectacular sunsets, and a tranquil atmosphere – food for the soul!
As a matter of course, our chefs at the award-winning Bosman’s Restaurant whip up gourmet fare – light, healthy, mouth-watering dishes using only the finest, local ingredients and fresh produce.
From a superb wine cellar, our sommeliers select wines to match the cuisine and suit your taste.
All this is coupled with friendly, unobtrusive, and professional service from the staff, whose main objective is to ensure that you will have an unforgettable experience. Check Prices Here!
While you’re there:
- Sailing, surfing, and scuba diving is a short 40-minute drive away from the beaches
- Parachuting and sunset cruises
View this post on Instagram
7. Views Boutique Hotel & Spa
The Views Hotel and Spa is the perfect setting for a romantic vacation in South Africa. The Views has much to offer in addition to the eighteen 5 Star Hotel Suites. Elegant dining in the intimate, sophisticated Flagship restaurant.
This too is where Hotel guests will feast on exceptional breakfasts. Sails offer more informal meals either inside the glass-fronted restaurant or outside on the deck – both of which overlook the pristine Wilderness beach.
A real gem is the rooftop Cocktail Deck. Here, high above the ocean, is the perfect venue for light meals or sunset cocktails.
Despite the beach being just below Views, guests may prefer the privacy of the roof-top Pool Deck and sun terrace.
Indoors, the Sea-view Lounge takes full advantage of the seascape, while offering great style and comfort. Tea and a good book in the Library Lounge are perfect for a lazy afternoon enjoying your spouse. Check Prices Here!
While you’re there:
- The warm Indian Ocean waters play at the feet of the exquisite VIEWS Boutique Hotel & Spa.
- There are 9 golf courses within easy reach of Views Boutique Hotel & Spa.
View this post on Instagram
8. Four Seasons Hotel Westcliff
The Four Seasons Hotel Westcliff Johannesburg promises an iconic hotel reborn with a fresh approach to luxury. Expect a totally new experience, featuring a newly built spa and two new restaurants, and a bar focused on local cuisine and fine South African wines.
In this stylish urban resort, Four Seasons service delivers Johannesburg’s best hotel stay. Located just 30 minutes from O.R. Tambo International Airport, The Westcliff is the most prestigious address for doing business in Johannesburg.
The hotel boasts a dedicated Business Wing comprising 32 rooms tailored to meet the specific needs of business travelers. Check Prices Here!
While you’re there:
- Experience the cuisine of Chef Dirk Gieselmann, former executive chef of three-Michelin-starred French restaurant L’Auberge de l’ill, who creates a South African culinary journey focused on seasonality and local provenance.
- Take a run through the local neighborhood.
View this post on Instagram
9. Plettenberg Hotel
The Plettenberg Hotel is built on a rocky headland with breathtaking vistas of the sea, mountains, and miles of golden sand is one of the most spectacular resorts in Africa.
The five-star hotel, with its 35 beautifully appointed rooms and two family-style villas, showcases the most breathtaking vistas in Southern Africa, with views of the ocean, mountains, and endless stretches of golden sand.
Guests may enjoy world-class cuisine courtesy of Group Executive Chef Peter Tempelhoff’s SeaFood at The Plettenberg, where fresh seafood is the order of the day.
The adjoining Lookout Villas are decorated with simplicity and crisp elegance in natural creams and blues and have their own sparkling swimming pool. Check Prices Here!
While you’re there:
- Experience fabulous sightings of dolphins and whales in the bay from the hotel terraces.
- Plettenberg Bay boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in South Africa, where activities such as surfing, kayaking, and skimboarding are popular. Beaches can be visited year-round, with some just a short walk from the hotel’s doorstep.
View this post on Instagram
10. Portswood Hotel
Originally built as part of the convict’s station, today, The Portswood is the type of place where you are more likely to want to extend your stay.
This elegant hotel not only offers superior accommodation and a relaxed atmosphere, but a uniquely personal approach to service.
This commitment to service excellence extends far beyond the needs of the leisure traveler, providing all the amenities international business travelers demand.
The Portswood Hotel consists of 103 rooms of which 9 are suites.
This city hotel welcomes its guests in an elegant lobby, which features a 24-hour reception desk, a safe, a currency exchange facility, a cloakroom, and a number of lifts. Check Prices Here!
While you’re there:
- Quarterdeck Restaurant Cocktail bar
- Pamper yourself in the fully-equipped Health and Wellness center at our adjacent sister hotel the Commodore and cool off in our sparkling pool.
View this post on Instagram
11. Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa
Offering a country hotel sanctuary, Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa is a luxury hotel located in the Sandton suburb of Morningside Manor, about two miles from major business hubs and shopping centers.
Ideally located for business and leisure travelers, the boutique property has 41 opulent suites, each individually decorated with luxury Euro-styling.
For fine dining, Amuse-Bouche serves a sophisticated a la carte menu with an award-winning wine list. The Manor House Bistro offers casual dining in a contemporary setting, including classic high tea, and the Strawberry Daiquiri tea trolley serving sweet treats.
While Muse Champagne Bar is a mix of elegant and contemporary furnishings for Champagne cocktails with an adjoining courtyard.
This property is perfect for honeymoons or reconnecting with your spouse. Check Prices Here!
While you’re there:
- The Balinese-style spa provides a range of signature Asian-inspired treatments and therapies to help guests find a state of calm and natural well-being.
View this post on Instagram
12. Michelangelo Hotel
A member of the Leading Hotels of the World, The Michelangelo Hotel guarantees lovers a five-star stay whether you are on your honeymoon, wedding anniversary, or just looking for a romantic destination in South Africa.
The splendor of the hotel’s Renaissance architecture in the heart of Sandton’s as well as the service excellence and world-class facilities on offer sets The Michelangelo apart from other luxury hotels in the area.
The Michelangelo offers a host of leisure options on offer within the hotel, but for those wanting to venture outside our doors, we offer direct access to some of the best shopping facilities in the world. Check Prices Here!
While you’re there:
- Horseback riding
- Tennis Court
View this post on Instagram
13. Boschendal Wine Estate
Boschendal (Dutch for bush and dale) is one of the oldest Wine Estates in South Africa and is located between Franschhoek and Stellenbosch in South Africa’s Western Cape. Boschendal is by far my favorite Stellenbosch wine farm.
This Iconic wine farm is nestled in one of the most picturesque valleys in the Cape Winelands. With a winemaking tradition spanning over 330 years, Boschendal Wine Estate offers a veritable treat for wine lovers everywhere.
Boschendal Farm provides luxury boutique accommodation on one of the oldest farms in South Africa’s Cape Winelands. The estate is situated close to Franschhoek and Stellenbosch and its delightful cottages are the perfect base from which to explore the area.
It comprises 26 elegant and spacious cottages ranging from the historical Herbert Baker-designed Rhodes Cottage to beautifully restored farm laborer cottages.
I stayed in the Mountain Villa and lawd ham mercy!
This private wine farm villa sleeps twelve people and is perfect for a luxurious, adventurous, or relaxing family getaway. The villa has a fully equipped kitchen, two lounges, and a large terrace that wraps around the whole property.
Two master bedrooms with ensuite, four additional bedrooms, and two bathrooms all with air conditioning and mountain views.
Set up to entertain with an outside bar area, braai, pizza oven, and large swimming pool. Beautifully kept gardens, lawns, and a private lake.
View this post on Instagram
14. Jabulani Lodge
Jabulani Game Reserve is situated on a Big 5 private game reserve in the Greater Kruger area, this is one of the finest places on earth for viewing and photographing wildlife.
Experienced rangers can host guests on game drives and bush walks for close sightings of predators and other iconic African species living wild.
The Jabulani Elephant Experience affords Jabulani guests the opportunity to meet and spend time with the herd.
Highlights of the experience include meeting the elephants close up and hearing their stories; watching playful splashing and spraying during the midday swim; tracking the herd on foot in their own territory, and participating in field research.
The Jabulani Elephant Experience is a very personal and highly immersive interaction, where man and elephant meet one another on equal terms.
Other optional activities include hot-air ballooning, canyon helicopter tours, and a game of golf. No itinerary is fixed, as Jabulani Safari offers a tailor-made experience according to its guests’ specific interests. Click here for the Jabulani Safari packing list.
View this post on Instagram
Is South Africa Safe?
Is South Africa safe? It’s one of the questions every visitor to the country asks before they come, and it’s one of the most common questions I got after telling friends and family I was visiting South Africa.
The answer depends on what you mean by safe, though—it’s certainly safer than Detroit, but that doesn’t mean it’s risk-free!
South Africa is currently among the countries grouped as third-world or developing nations. Such economic classification takes into account a country’s economic status and other economic variables.
If you visit South Africa you will either find yourself in luxury accommodations or what we call in the U.S. “the hood” there is no in-between.
You will be surrounded by either state-of-the-art technology, the arts, or dilapidated buildings that have not seen a touch of paint in 30-plus years.
South Africa is an exciting, dynamic, and vibrant country that has severe socio-economic problems but that doesn’t mean you should count South Africa out.
American tourists can be misled into thinking South Africa is not safe but is South Africa any more dangerous than most metropolitan cities in the United States?
Did any of my favorite luxury hotels make your bucket list for Spring 2023?
The best times to visit South Africa for ideal weather are March 5th to May 27th or September 24th to December 30th.
Average temperatures in South Africa vary somewhat. Considering humidity, temperatures feel nice most of the year, excluding some cold weeks in the winter, with a low chance of precipitation most of the year.
If you’re looking for the very warmest time to visit South Africa, the hottest months are January, February, and then December. The warmest time of year is generally late January where highs are regularly around 84.9°F (29.4°C) with temperatures rarely dropping below 63.1°F (17.3°C) at night.
Conclusion of the Best Romantic Getaways in South Africa
Whether you want to chill out and decompress from real life and social media or just escape to a romantic destination to clear your head these South African luxury resorts have something for every couple.
There are some amazing romantic destinations in South Africa that guarantee luxury, adventure, and fun all in one place. Get ready to rekindle your love amidst the mesmerizing views of the country.
Ready to plan your trip, grab my FREE Vacation Planner to help you plan your trip in the time it takes to watch your favorite TV show!
If you would like to donate to Passports and Grub click here!
Additional Articles For Couples
Is Cape Town Safe for American Tourists
Luxury Picnic at Boschendal Winey
What romantic destination sounds like the best fit for you? Leave a comment below or on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Are you also on Pinterest?
Why not save this post to your Pinterest board for later? I am also on Pinterest so feel free to follow Passports and Grub boards and get the latest pin directly.
So St. Augustine, FL I have heard is very nice and if you are history buff this is a great place to visit. I love romantic trips during VDay keep the flowers and chocolates and take me on a trip somewhere new
So St. Augustine, FL I have heard is very nice and if you are history buff this is a great place to visit. I love romantic trips during VDay keep the flowers and chocolates and take me on a trip somewhere new
New York is always a go to for romance anytime. Endless creative things everywhere . Central Park..River cruise..Broadway and luxury hotel tryst afterwards (or prior)
I love NYC as well. It’s something about the city that makes you want to fall in love
New York is always a go to for romance anytime. Endless creative things everywhere . Central Park..River cruise..Broadway and luxury hotel tryst afterwards (or prior)
I love NYC as well. It’s something about the city that makes you want to fall in love
I would love to visit a lowkey, quiet city like Savannah or Denver. Now that would be super romantic. I’d especially like to visit a log cabin in a state like Colorado.
I would love to visit a lowkey, quiet city like Savannah or Denver. Now that would be super romantic. I’d especially like to visit a log cabin in a state like Colorado.
These are all amazing suggestions, I think spending Valentine I some quiet place is such a great idea.
we don’t always have to be in the thick of things.
These are all amazing suggestions, I think spending Valentine I some quiet place is such a great idea.
we don’t always have to be in the thick of things.
I so wish we could do a weekend away for Valentine’s Day. That would be nice, I love New York and it is close. Savannah is on my list of places to visit. It is so rich in history and I have never been.
I so wish we could do a weekend away for Valentine’s Day. That would be nice, I love New York and it is close. Savannah is on my list of places to visit. It is so rich in history and I have never been.
NYC is such a romantic city, so many hidden gems and places to see. You can get swept up into each other the surroundings of the city.
NYC is such a romantic city, so many hidden gems and places to see. You can get swept up into each other the surroundings of the city.
I love visiting NYC. My husband is from the East Coast. We won’t make it for Valentine’s day, but we will be making it for a summer get-away. I haven’t been to Florida or CA in a while either. I’m definitely going to look up these destinations and see what we can pull off for a get-away without the kids. Thank you for this post.
I love visiting NYC. My husband is from the East Coast. We won’t make it for Valentine’s day, but we will be making it for a summer get-away. I haven’t been to Florida or CA in a while either. I’m definitely going to look up these destinations and see what we can pull off for a get-away without the kids. Thank you for this post.
I’ll have to keep these places in mind next year for Valentine’s Day. I’ve heard a lot of great things about Savannah!!
I’ll have to keep these places in mind next year for Valentine’s Day. I’ve heard a lot of great things about Savannah!!
I need to plan a vacation / romantic getaway for me and my husband. The water in the pictures look amazing
I need to plan a vacation / romantic getaway for me and my husband. The water in the pictures look amazing
We got married in Savannah. It’s a beautiful city. So much history and great food. For our 10th anniversary, I’m hoping we can make it to Malibu, CA then Las Vegas,
We got married in Savannah. It’s a beautiful city. So much history and great food. For our 10th anniversary, I’m hoping we can make it to Malibu, CA then Las Vegas,
I am a fan of all these destinations for valentine’s day or any day! New York city is one of my favorites and I try to visit at least once a year. I think I should treat myself!
I am a fan of all these destinations for valentine’s day or any day! New York city is one of my favorites and I try to visit at least once a year. I think I should treat myself!
Great choices for a valentines day or any day getaway! We (my husband and I) went to Jacksonville a couple of years ago and drove to St. Augustine its so beautiful there
Great choices for a valentines day or any day getaway! We (my husband and I) went to Jacksonville a couple of years ago and drove to St. Augustine its so beautiful there
These all sound like great choices for a get away! I think my boyfriend and I would like to go to St. Augustine or Big Sur so we could be nice and warm.
These all sound like great choices for a get away! I think my boyfriend and I would like to go to St. Augustine or Big Sur so we could be nice and warm.
Savannah is at the top of my list. I have been wanting to go there as well and Charleston SC for years. I feel like those places have so much personality. And I’ve actually wanted to do either a solo trip or girls trip to one of those places.
Savannah is beautiful girl! It’s great for girls weekend and the food in Charleston is to die for.
Savannah is at the top of my list. I have been wanting to go there as well and Charleston SC for years. I feel like those places have so much personality. And I’ve actually wanted to do either a solo trip or girls trip to one of those places.
Savannah is beautiful girl! It’s great for girls weekend and the food in Charleston is to die for.
I would love to have a V-day baecation! These are fun I would love to go out the country for Vday!
I would love to have a V-day baecation! These are fun I would love to go out the country for Vday!