Original. Unforgettable. Magical. These are things every bride wants her wedding to be, and finding the right venue lays the foundation for the fairytale.
To the more cynical, it may seem that finding a unique venue is too much to hope for. But with the diversity in location, landscape and luxury on offer in South Africa, it really is possible to find the place that will set the right tone for the wedding you want, while still allowing you to inject your own personality.
Below is a list of wedding venues that are unusual, quirky and inspiring to create the memorable occasion we all dream about.
Vindoux Guest Farm (Tulbach)
Accommodation for 50 people
This gem of a venue is a dream location for the increasingly popular un-plugged wedding. The tranquillity of the intimate location lends itself to switching off and completely focussing on the celebration, and the old oak tree makes for a picturesque garden spot to say your “I do’s”.
The farmhouse offers full catering so there is no need to venture further than the romantic tree-top cottages or luxurious spa. But for those looking for some fun activities as part of a weekend celebration, there are plenty of options to choose from with wine tasting, horse riding and even ziplining nearby.
Vindoux Guest Farm can accommodate up to 50 guests and is sure to add a touch of magic to a beautiful wedding getaway.
Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat (Clanwilliam)
Accommodation for 42 people
If it’s a touch of the dramatic that you’re after, then the majestic landscapes and rock formations of Bushmans Kloof might be the ideal backdrop for your big day. The breathtaking natural rock amphitheatre is a spectacular setting to gather for the special occasion, and the luxury offered by the Bushmans Kloof accommodation is second to none.
The flora and fauna of the surrounding area mean that not only is the destination inspiring, but the travel involved to arrive there is an experience in itself and becomes part of the wedding celebration.
Izotsha Creek Estate (Shelley Beach)
Accommodation for 24 people
A venue with a view may be a must-have, and Izotsha Creek Estate has just that. With 180-degree views of the ocean, the spacious deck invites wedding guests to marvel at the natural beauty of the area while witnessing the beautiful union.
With luxurious accommodation, manicured gardens and an infinity pool, guests can completely relax and indulge in the wedding celebrations to come.
For the more adventurous of spirit, there are also plenty of activities that can be arranged including forest hikes, marine excursions and even ziplining over the Oribi Gorge.
Tsala Treetop Lodge and Villas (Plettenberg Bay)
Accommodation for 44 people
Located high above the indigenous forest of the Garden Route, the Tsala Treetop Lodge sets the tone for an intimate and decadent celebration.
All your needs are carefully catered for with luxurious accommodation, and delicious food and drinks options that are tailored to the party. The lodge is stylishly designed and decorated, creating a perfect backdrop that would excite any wedding photographer.
Camelotte (Hartbeespoort)
What little girl doesn’t dream of being a princess and getting married in a castle? Although becoming a princess can be trickier to achieve, you can definitely realise the dream of a castle wedding at Camelotte.
The venue can accommodate up to 200 guests, allowing for the true fairytale wedding that dreams are made of.
Villa Sterne Boutique Hotel (Waterkloof Ridge)
Accommodation for 14 people
A Tuscan wedding may not be within everyone’s budget, but at Villa Sterne, your dreams of an Italian celebration can come true right here at home.
With the charm and architecture that speaks to a bygone era, Villa Sterne offers guests the modern luxury of a 5-star hotel. The spa facilities create the perfect space to prepare for the big day and the focus on fine dining means that the wedding feast will be nothing short of spectacular.
The wedding venue search can be a tricky one, particularly when hunting for something quirky or out of the ordinary (not all venues are enthusiastic to accommodate a canine ringbearer).
But the good news is that the options are almost endless in South Africa and finding the location that matches your unique wedding dream is easier than you think.
– IOL
