South Africa is a pretty romantic place. With beautiful wine regions to raise a glass of Pinotage together, national parks for that quintessential safari experience and beautiful beaches to escape to, there’s no shortage of romantic destinations in South Africa.

Here are our ten favourites for your next romantic retreat in South Africa.

1. Kruger National Park
Is there anything more romantic than sweeping your love off for a break at a safari lodge, keeping a look out for the big five and cuddling up at night listening to the sounds of the wildlife outside? We think not, and a trip to South Africa’s most famous wildlife park is one of the best places for a romantic and exciting break in South Africa.

Suggested stay: Hamilton’s for your quintessential tented safari camp experience. It’s the rustic charm of camping, with all the luxury of a safari lodge.

2. Camps Bay
South Africa boasts many stunning and romantic landscapes, but perhaps none more so than the beautiful Camps Bay region near downtown Cape Town. With pristine white beaches to swim in while taking in the views of the imposing Twelve Apostles mountains, it’s a stunning place, and perfect for exploring hand-in-hand with your loved one.

Suggested stay: POD Camps Bay, for unparalleled service and gorgeous views, all near to the sea shore.

3. Stellenbosch
Wine regions are inherently romantic, with their rolling hills and vast vineyards stretching into the distance. Then, of course, there’s the delicious red and white wine that’s in ample supply, perfect for toasting to your love and the future. Stellenbosch, near Cape Town, is the perfect spot for a relaxing escape to a winery.

Suggested stay: MolenVliet Oosthuizen Family Vineyards for a luxurious stay amongst a working vineyard.

4. Knysna
The Garden Route – just the name of it sounds romantic! Along the plant-filled Garden Route lies the town of Knysna, which is surrounded by unspoiled natural beauty that just calls to be explored. Couples who love outdoor activities will find much to do together here, from hikes to kayaking journeys.

Suggested stay: Roseroc Garden Lodge is a magical guest house with a truly incredible view – perfect for romantic retreats.

5. Hermanus
Hermanus’ beaches are so beautiful that they’re favourites not only of loved up couples, but also of playful whales. It’s the perfect location for a beachside romantic getaway and also offers the chance to do some whalewatching while you’re enjoying the views!

Suggested stay: Auberge Provence, for a little bit of French charm with uninterrupted sea views.

6. Magaliesberg
Mountainous Magaliesberg is a dramatic and beautiful area that is perfect for those looking for a romantic getaway from Johannesburg. It has a great selection of mountain lodges and guesthouses, where you can snuggle up with your loved one and admire stunning mountain scenery. Another amazing and romantic way to take in the scenery is via a hot air balloon.

Suggested stay: Blue Roan Country House, for genuinely warm hospitality amongst a beautiful
unspoiled setting.

7. God’s Window, Mpumalanga
With a name like ‘God’s Window’, you know you’ve found a pretty special place to enjoy on your romantic getaway in South Africa. Looking out over the Blyde River Canyon, it’s a particularly beautiful spot, but there are also other romantic options in the area. There are several private game reserves which are perfect for whisking off on a romantic safari.

Suggested stay: Kapama Southern Camp is close to God’s Window and also offers romantic safaris

8. Cape Town
Yes, city breaks can be romantic too – especially when they’re set in a city that’s as picturesque as Cape Town. With the impressive Table Mountain to one side and the sea to the other, there’s no denying Cape Town’s natural beauty. Plus, Cape Town boasts a wonderful selection of fine dining restaurants and romantic cocktail bars for a romantic city date.

Suggested stay: the Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel is centrally located and very glamorous.

9. Paternoster
There’s something about quaint and historical towns that just go hand-in-hand with romantic breaks. Paternoster is one of the oldest settlements on the West Coast, and one of the oldest fishing villages in all of South Africa. It has plenty of charm and, thanks to its fishing heritage, has an abundance of delicious, fresh seafood (especially lobster) to enjoy.

Suggested stay: Gelukkie for its rustic farmhouse charm.

10. Flycatcher Castle, Graskop
It doesn’t get much more romantic than a stay in a real-life castle – it’s like it was plucked right from the pages of a fairytale. Built in the 18th century, Flycatcher was styled on the classic Italian architecture style and today has been tastefully renovated to offer five suites that have all the antique charms as well as modern conveniences for the perfect romantic break.

Suggested Stay: you must stay at the Flycatcher Castle, of course!