Planning your honeymoon, anniversary, proposal or just to whisk that special person in your life off to an unforgettable romantic getaway?  Then look no further than South Africa to find that special place.

South Africa has many hidden gems that can offer that unforgettable romantic experience. Whether you prefer a beach or luxury safari getaway or looking for spectacular scenic views, culinary cuisine or iconic tourist destinations – you will definitely be spoiled for choice.

Here is my take on 6 romantic cities and town in South Africa.

1. Cape Town

Hailing from this beautiful city, Cape Town, undoubtedly tops my list of romantic cities in South Africa.  This vibrant and diverse city is one of the top tourist destinations in the world.  Cape Town offers its residence and visitors quality attractions and memorable experiences.

Thing to do whilst in Cape Town

Explore Cape Town by hopping on a Red Sightseeing Bus with stop overs at Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, Groot Constantia Wine Estate, Hout Bay and Camps Bay.  If lazing on the beach is what you have in mind; this city boasts 10 blue flag beaches. Have a romantic picnic at Cape Point Vineyards with its breathtaking views or opt for sundowners or a Sunday jazz brunch at the Winchester Mansion. Book a romantic sunset cruise for two along the Atlantic Seaboard coastline. Looking for something more cultural, there are museums, theatres and art galleries to visit. When it comes to food, Cape Town ranks high with the finest in the world. With its many award winning restaurants your taste buds will surely go on a culinary expedition.

Accommodation in Cape Town

Cape Town has a wide selection of accommodation on offer to suit everyone’s needs. Ranging from 5-star hotels, boutique hotels, lodges, guest houses and self-catering accommodation that can offer that dreamy romantic retreat for couples. Accommodation ideas include the Camps Bay Retreat Boutique Hotel, African Pride 15 on Orange Street and The Table Bay Hotel.

2. Franschhoek

Only 81 kilometres from Cape Town, the town of Franschhoek has a lot to offer when it comes to a romantic getaway. This exclusive winelands town is characterised with vineyards and mountains. The exquisite scenery of the Franschhoek Valley will take your breath away.

Things to do in Franscchoek

To experience the beauty of the Valley, take the Wine Tram which will give you a serene journey through the Valley and its wine farms. Franschhoek is known for its culinary cuisine and has many street cafés, bistros and award winning restaurants.

Accommodation in Franschhoek

Accommodation that I would recommend is the Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa and if it’s self-catering accommodation you are looking for then the Chamonix Cottages will not disappoint.

3. Tsitsikamma

Tsitsikamma is a Khoi word meaning “place of abundant water”.  Nestled between the Tsitsikamma Mountains and the Indian Ocean in the Eastern Cape. This beautiful area is covered in lush indigenous forests, rivers and gushing waterfalls. The beauty of the surrounds sets the tone for a romantic couple’s getaway.

Things to do in Tsitsikamma

To create romantic memories within this magical forest, there is so much to do. The Tsitsikamma National Park is a Marine Protected Area, however within the park an array of birds, mammals as well as fauna and flora can be spotted. Experience a guided snorkling trip within the Tsitsikamma National Park.  Take a romantic hike to catch the sunrise or if you and your partner are up for a challenge then hiking up to the Suspension bridge trail or Tsitsikamma Waterfalls will be an excellent way to explore the scenic landscapes. For those who enjoy adventurous activities you can abseil or zipline which is operated by Tsitsikamma Falls Adventures. The Crags Winelands offers horse drawn carriage trails where you and your partner can explore the beauty of the boutique wine farms within the area.

Accommodation in Tsitsikamma

Look no further than the Tsitsikamma Lodge, Misty Mountain Reserve or The Fernery Lodge for a romantic stay

4. Umhlanga

Umhlanga is an affluent resort town north of Durban and situated on the Kwazulu Natal coastline. With subtropical temperatures all year round, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in South Africa. It is also the ideal romantic destination for a couple’s getaway.

Things to do in Umhlanga

Outdoor enthusiast can enjoy snorkling, hiking, river rafting and horse riding on the beach. If you opt for a more relaxed feel, then a couple’s spa treatment, sunset stroll on the beach, a picnic or visiting the art galleries will do. Other attractions include the Sibaya Casino, Aqua Spa and Umgeni River Bird Park. For a romantic dining experience, visit the award winning restaurants like Little Havana and the Oyster Box Hotel.

Accommodation in Umhlanga

Umhlanga offers a range of expensive as well as affordable accommodation. Accommodation ideas include the Cabana Beach Resort, Oyster Box Hotel and the Beverly Hills Hotel.

5. Johannesburg

Johannesburg is better known as the economic hub and golden city of South Africa. Although it does not have a coastline, this city is popular for its vibrant nightlife.

Things to do in Johannesburg

To explore the city take a Johannesburg Sightseeing bus. Have a romantic picnic at Zoo Lake or  Walter Sisula Botanic Gardens with its incredible views. To take the romance a step further book a hot air balloon ride over the Cradle of Mankind or the Magaliesburg Mountains be sure to pack a bottle of bubbly. Have a relaxing dinner and sundowners at The San Deck at the Sandton Sun and enjoy the views from above. Watch a show at the Joburg theatre or theatre at Montecasino.

Accommodation in Johannesburg

For a peaceful and tranquil stay book in at Lethabo Estate in Fourways. Alternatively if you looking for timeless elegance then opt for The Winston Hotel or The Michelangelo Hotel.

If you are not residing in Johannesburg then don’t stress Travelstart offers cheap flights to Johanneburg so that you can have the ultimate romantic experience.

6. Hazyview

Hazyview is a lush subtropical farm town situated in the majestic Lowveld of Mpumalanga.  To experience the perfect romantic bushveld setting then this is definitely the place to be. It borders the Krugar National Park and offers spectacular views of God’s Window and the Blyde River Canyon.

Things to do in Hazyview

Book a Safari Day tour at the Kruger National Park or interact with elephants at the Elephant Sanctuary. Pack a basket and have a romantic picnic at the Mac Mac Falls. If you are an adventurous couple then try abseiling down a 25m rock next to the Sabie Falls. Controlled safely by experienced guides. Go for a sundowner guided horse trail ride to see the sunset over the Lowveld region.

Accommodation in Hazyview

Hazyview has a number of high quality lodges for that memorable romantic getaway experience. Be sure to check out Hippo Hollow Country Estate, Summerfields Rose Retreat and Spa and Sabi River Sun Resort.

I hope that this post helped you find that perfect romantic destination for you and your significant other.

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**This post is in collaboration with Travelstart however the views expressed in this post are my own.