There is absolutely no doubt about it — South Africa is a dream honeymoon destination. And why’s that? Well, it offers some of the most luxurious accommodation in the world, so much to see and do, an incredibly rich and diverse culture to experience, and plenty of adventure to be had. Oh, and with the ridiculously weak Rand at the moment, it also offers unrivalled value.

Here are our favourite honeymoon destinations in South Africa.

1. The Clarendon, Bantry Bay

If you are looking for a boutique and stylish retreat with views of the Atlantic Ocean and a stylish, sophisticated feel, the Clarendon in Bantry Bay should be on your list. Minimalist, impeccable and so relaxing, this is a place that will WOW.

2. South Africa honeymoon: Ellerman House, Bantry Bay

Perched on the slopes of Lion’s Head, you will find this magnificent stately home, Ellerman House. Panoramic views, tiered terraces, sunset cocktails and a widely celebrated art and wine collection, Ellerman House could be the place for you to relax after your Big Day.

Relax at Ellerman House

3. O on Kloof, Bantry Bay

If on honeymoon, choose the luxury suite at O on Kloof Boutique Hotel and Spa in Bantry Bay. The suite has its own jacuzzi, hammock and panoramic sea views. Every attention to detail is made here and you are only a stone’s throw from some of the best beaches in South Africa. Enjoy an indoor pool, a celebrated spa and breath-taking sunsets.

O on Kloof

4. Mont Rochelle, Franschhoek

Owned by Sir Richard Branson, the five-star Mont Rochelle overlooks the spectacular Franschhoek valley. Only an hour away from Cape Town, this is a wonderful place to enjoy peace and tranquility and also to explore the winelands in all its glory. Wine farms, mountain biking, golf and more are all on your doorstep.

The beautiful Mont Rochelle

5. Cloud’s Estate, Franschhoek

Overlooking the Drakenstein and Simonsberg Mountains, Cloud’s Estate is a small boutique vineyard estate. The guest house is magnificient with just seven elegant bedrooms, all with wonderful views and their own private patios. Cloud’s Estate is really rather special – a place you will want to never leave.

How will you be able to leave? Clouds Estate.

6. Grand Dédale Country House

One of the most exquisitely restored Cape Dutch properties, the Grand Dédale Country House is a hidden gem in the Cape winelands. There are only six rooms and a special honeymoon annex and it is simply a beautiful, private place to stay whilst exploring all the nearby winefarms although it’s difficult to get away from that crystal blue pool!

Relax by the pool

7. Delaire Graff, Stellenbosch

Highly exclusive, Delaire Graff offers some of the most luxurious hospitality you can imagine. With two restaurants, a gallery, two boutiques, a spa, and a world class winery, no stone has been left un-turned and anyone who visits or stays can expect to be dazzled! If you love art, this is the place to stay.

South Africa honeymoon

8. Lanzerac, Stellenbosch

If history, heritage and old world charm is what you are after, Lanzerac is a wonderful place to stay when on honeymoon. The Lanzerac Estate is 300 years old and you will enjoy a sublime retreat with extensive lawns and vineyards, superb views from every room, four pools to dip into and numerous restaurants to choose from. A lovely spot if you want to hike, explore the region and soak up all the winelands has to offer.

South Africa honeymoon

9. Phinda, Kwa-Zulu Natal

A luxury safari is one of the most memorable ways to spend a honeymoon in South Africa. Malaria-free, Phinda Game Reserve is just a three hour drive from King Shaka Airport in Durban. You will experience the wild African bush, the Big Five and unbelievable bird life but also the luxury that comes from plunge pools, exquisite food, private game drives and more. This is once-in-a-lifetime stuff.

Phinda Mountain Lodge

10. Madikwe Hills

The Madikwe Game Reserve is also in a malaria-free area and offers over 75,000 hectare of African bush, teeming with life. Here you will enjoy a five star retreat, the ultimate in luxury safari experiences, glass-fronted suites all with their own verandah and dipping pool. Oh and there is a spa too – sound like fun?

Madikwe

11. Royal Malewane

In the Thornybush Private Game Reserve you will find the Royal Malewane Safari Lodge, one of the best honeymoon destinations in South Africa and, without doubt, one of the most luxurious safari experiences in South Africa, if not the entire African Continent. The climate is near perfect all year round and no expense has been spared here in providing visitors with an experience they will never ever forget.

Royal Malewane bathroom

Honeymoons are one of the most memorable holidays of a lifetime and we simply love putting together the perfect itinerary for any couple – based on what they enjoy doing, their tastes and interests. Do get in touch – we would love to hear from you.

About the Author

Richard is the Founding MD of Greatest Africa & Richard Hilton Vineyards. He lives in Somerset West with his wife and two daughters. He is passionate about the Cape, travel, global wines, wine education and sharing his experiences of this beautiful country that he calls home.