Explore 15 exquisite outdoor and indoor venues to book to hold your marriage ceremony in Cape Town, Johannesburg, Gauteng, and other cities.
South Africa is known across the globe as a country of endless beauty and warm hospitality. Tourists have been flocking to the shores of this diverse land in search of adventure, scenery, luxury, and wine. For foreign brides, South Africa is an excellent choice for a destination wedding.
While many flock to SA for their big day, in the realm of wedding planning in the country, the allure of luxurious venues has become a growing trend, defying the conventional preference for budget-friendly options.
While many couples seek to tie the knot without breaking the bank, a considerable number are drawn to extravagant settings that might cost them a fortune. In South Africa, this trend is particularly evident in the choice of venues that exude opulence, from coastal hideaways to upscale hotels, breathtaking beaches, and enchanting safari lodges, often nestled in the most exclusive corners of the country.
Well, in our previous article, JanaTribe talked about some of the beautiful and affordable venues in South Africa. For any couple on a budget, click here to explore the different options.
Embracing Extravagance: The Allure of Expensive Weddings
Underneath the glimmering surface of lavish ceremonies lies a profound motivation for couples who opt for expensive weddings. Beyond the practicalities of budget considerations, there is a desire to transform the wedding day into an extraordinary, unforgettable experience.
These opulent celebrations often unfold in the bustling heart of the country’s most expensive cities or against the backdrop of nature’s grandeur in coastal retreats or safari escapes.
The allure of exclusivity, impeccable service, and awe-inspiring surroundings become the driving force behind the choice of luxurious wedding venues, making the investment in these once-in-a-lifetime moments undeniably worthwhile.
15 architectural and intimate wedding venues in South Africa
Join us on a journey through some of South Africa’s most enchanting and extravagant wedding venues, where dreams are transformed into reality amidst the lap of luxury.
Below is a list (in no particular order) of our favorite wedding venues in most cities in South Africa that promise luxury.
1. Bosjes Estate
For couples looking for a plush wedding venue, Bosjes Estate is one of the many luxury wedding locations to make your dream come true.
Bosjes is situated in the fertile Breedekloof Valley and celebrates award-winning architecture on a working farm. This estate was designed by Steyn Studio, an architectural company in London.
In this location, you can choose the astounding Bosjes Chapel, part of the Bosjes Wine Estate in the beautiful Breede Valley, South Africa, as your wedding venue. The remarkable chapel, with its distinctive undulating white roof, appears to float on a pool of water at the heart of the quiet and peaceful chapel gardens and comes alive when the sun goes down.
It is framed by the Waaihoek and Slanghoek mountains, and the farm is surrounded by vineyards, orchards, and fynbos. It has a capacity of 80 guests.
It boasts sensational views of the surrounding Breede Valley. A wedding at Bosje Estate will see the couple say “I Do” in The Chapel and have their reception in Bosjes Kombuis, the estate’s fine-dining restaurant, which boasts high ceilings and walls of glass.
According to SA Weddings, Bosjes offers a wedding or function package priced from R50,000. The outlet adds that the venue’s accommodation rates start from R2500 per luxury room or R3500 per night for the family room that sleeps 2 adults and 3 children.
2. Cathedral Peak Hotel, South Africa
The Cathedral Peak Hotel is one of the best mountain wedding venues for couples who have always dreamt of having their marriage happen in such locations.
The Cathedral Peak Hotel, situated in the picturesque Drakensberg Mountains of South Africa, stands out as one of the most renowned mountain retreats.
As a family-owned and operated establishment, the hotel has built a solid reputation as the ultimate scenic mountain wedding venue, boasting a rich history that adds to its allure.
Nestled within a World Heritage Site, the venue’s standout feature is its enchanting stone-and-thatch chapel, complete with panoramic windows behind the pulpit, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain range.
The grandeur of the Cathedral Peak Hotel extends beyond its captivating chapel. The dedicated banqueting team pledges to deliver not only a dreamy venue but also luxurious guest accommodations and delectable cuisine, perfectly complementing the unparalleled location. Embracing the hotel’s ethos that “no adventure is greater than the one you start with the one you love,” couples can expect a truly memorable wedding experience at Catacombe Peak.
Choosing this plush hotel for your wedding comes with added perks. Guests enjoy spacious rooms, ranging from standard to family and superior rooms, each offering unparalleled views of the striking landscapes and mountains. For wedding receptions with a minimum of 30 guests booking 15 double rooms, special discounted rates apply.
Furthermore, the chapel, reception venue, and honeymoon suite for the wedding night are included at no extra charge. To ensure a seamless celebration, wedding coordinators are also provided at no cost, assisting couples in realizing the details of their dream wedding.
3. Babylonstoren Wine Estate
Based in the scenic Cape Winelands, Babylonstoren Wine Estate is home to a renowned garden, wine shop, farm store, restaurants, and other Winelands serenities.
Located in the Winelands Region of the Western Cape, Babylonstoren is a wine estate located only an hour outside of Cape Town. It is one of the oldest farms in the Franschhoek Valley and sits proudly at the base of the Simonsberg mountain.
Babylonstoren can be personalized to create the perfect wedding for any couple looking for a historic yet contemporary venue.
The farm is well-known amongst locals for its large and very diverse garden, which is the perfect place for wedding pictures!
4. Blaauwklippen
Blaauwklippen’s Glass Cathedral is a true show-stopping venue for couples that want the added wow factor in their wedding.
At sunset, guests will be able to gaze out of the windows at the beautifully illuminated Stellenbosch mountain.
Blaauwklippen offers couples four choices in venues: The Cathedral, the Manor House Terrace, the Manor House Lawn, and The Greenhouse. Every venue can be designed and styled to suit your theme perfectly by the experienced Events Team at Blaauwklippen.
5. Lion Sands River Lodge, South Africa
Facbook / Lion Sands Game Reserve
Lion Sands River Lodge, one of the best safari wedding venues, is part of the MORE Family collection along with Marataba.
It is situated in the renowned Lion Sands Game Reserve, an award-winning private reserve. Positioned at the juncture of the private Sabi Sand Game Reserve and the world-renowned Kruger National Park, Lion Sands stands as one of the last authentic and unspoiled wilderness areas. This pristine location offers an unmatched setting for couples seeking a deeply connected and nature-inspired place to exchange vows.
A wedding at Lion Sands promises a once-in-a-lifetime experience, combining luxury, intimacy, and the beauty of nature. The safari wedding experience not only holds a romantic allure but also provides an extraordinary opportunity for quality time with friends and family in a spectacular setting. Couples can choose from four five-star signature lodges for their special day, with all wedding facilities exclusive to guests staying a minimum of two nights.
Among the lodges, Lion Sands River Lodge accommodates 38 guests in its 18 rooms, while Lion Sands Ivory Lodge offers eight luxurious suites and a two-bedroom residence for 20 guests. Additionally, Lion Sands Narina Lodge and Tinga each provide nine suites, accommodating 18 guests, ensuring a range of options for couples to create their dream wedding in the heart of the African wilderness.
6. Boschendal Wine Estate
Yet another lovely wine estate on our list! Boschendal is perfectly placed between the Wineland regions of Paarl, Stellenbosch, and Franschhoek, and offers couples a secluded slice of paradise. The estate offers five venue options, which can accommodate from 40 to 250 guests. Take pictures amongst the vines or underneath the brightly shining stars in the night sky. Boschendal will give you a wedding that you and your guests will never forget.
7. The Belmond Mount Nelson
If you are looking for a historic, centrally located wedding venue, then the Belmond Mount Nelson is the place for you. Imbued with South African history, the signature pink walls of the hotel have been a Cape Town staple since 1918. The hotel offers a serene oasis of peace and calm in the otherwise busy Mother City. Any couple that chooses the Belmond Mount Nelson for their special day will always remember the award-winning service, sensational amenities, and five-star accommodation that goes along with it!
8. Tintswalo Atlantic Lodge
Discover the perfect blend of ocean and mountain magic at Tintswalo Atlantic, an exclusive and romantic wedding venue tucked away in Cape Town. Located on a pebbled beach at the foot of Chapman’s Peak in Table Mountain National Park, this 5-star boutique lodge promises to bring your wedding dreams to life. Picture saying your vows on a spacious wooden deck with the rhythmic crash of waves or enjoying the coziness of indoor celebrations with wood-burning fireplaces.
At Tintswalo Atlantic, the Executive Chef collaborates with the bridal couple to curate a locally sourced and sustainable menu, ensuring a culinary delight for every palate. The lodge offers a variety of wedding packages tailored to different preferences, from intimate ceremonies for the bride and groom to grand affairs accommodating up to 100 guests. The five packages include options like ‘Just the 2 of us,’ ‘Intimate wedding package,’ ‘Under the Milkwoods,’ ‘Edge of the Ocean,’ and ‘2-Night Exclusive Use,’ catering to a range of wedding styles and sizes. For more details on each package, a comprehensive wedding brochure is available upon request.
9. The Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa
Nestled at the base of the iconic Twelve Apostles mountain range, this hotel is a perfect choice for couples who love the ocean but do not want to compromise on the level of luxury at their wedding. The hotel is the only development on a 6 km stretch of road, offering panoramic views of the wild Atlantic Ocean, and has enough room capacity to accommodate the majority of the wedding party. Enjoy one-of-a-kind sea views, complete privacy, and the level of service for which South Africa is known at The Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa.
10. Zeitz MOCAA
The Zeitz Museum of Contemporary African Art is arguably one of the most recognizable buildings in Cape Town. Build in the remnants of an old grain silo at the V&A Waterfront, the Zeitz MOCAA is the perfect place for modern couples who want a venue with a memorable edge. Couples can stay at the beautiful Silo Hotel, owned and operated by The Royal Portfolio, for an added touch of elegance.
11. Oyster Box Hotel, Umhlanga South Africa
Experience opulence at the Oyster Box in South Africa, renowned as one of the leading wedding destinations and also the best place for ocean-themed ceremonies.
The iconic red-and-white striped hotel on Umhlanga’s coastline has received accolades such as a nomination from Pink Book Weddings in 2021 as one of the top three beach wedding venues. Luxury Lifestyle Awards named Oyster Box the best luxury seaside hotel in South Africa for 2018 and 2019, and the UK-based money.co.uk recognized it as the number one wedding destination in the country.
The Oyster Box, surrounded by lush sub-tropical gardens and stunning coastal views, provides an idyllic setting for romance. The venue’s natural beauty, with fig trees, ancient milkwood trees, princess palms, orchards, and vibrant hibiscus flowers, eliminates the need for excessive decor. Alongside these features, the hotel is celebrated for its legendary service and exceptional gastronomy, offering a flawless backdrop for weddings of all sizes.
For couples planning their special day, The Oyster Box’s hospitality team is committed to creating a faultless and cherished experience. The dedicated wedding planner ensures attention to the smallest details, warm hospitality, and the utmost professionalism. The hotel’s wedding coordination and banqueting teams further assist in planning every aspect, from the wedding cake and photography to decor, music, and the selected menu, making it a seamless and memorable occasion.
12. Marataba Lodge
Escape the ordinary and embrace the wonders of nature at a remarkable safari lodge situated in Marakele National Park, South Africa. Named Marakele, meaning ‘place of sanctuary’ in Tswana, this stunning venue is an ideal choice for bushveld weddings. Couples can exchange vows surrounded by loved ones in the enchanting African bushveld, creating a unique and memorable setting. Marataba, nestled in a malaria-free, privately managed section of Marakele National Park, spans 21,000 hectares in the Limpopo Province, with Thabazimbi as the nearest city.
The lodge, positioned beneath the highest peaks of the Waterberg mountain range, offers a gradual transitional zone, forming an ecozone. Couples can choose between two luxury lodges for their celebration, whether opting for an intimate or extravagant affair. Exclusive wedding facilities are reserved for guests staying a minimum of two nights. Marataba Mountain Lodge provides five luxury rooms for a party of 10, while Marataba Safari Lodge offers 15 luxurious canvas tents in an “Out of Africa” style, accommodating up to 38 guests, including charming tree houses.
Marataba assists with wedding planning and coordination, offering the option for couples to enlist a professional wedding coordinator. Three wedding packages, “Be Mine,” “Be Magical,” and “Be MORE,” are available. The comprehensive “Be MORE” package covers every detail, from legal fees to a dedicated function coordinator, a two-tier wedding cake, a bridal bouquet, a groom’s buttonhole flower, a photographer, a hairdresser, makeup, flowers for the ceremony, and more, ensuring a dreamy and romantic safari wedding experience.
13. Lukimbi Safari Lodge
Lukimbi Safari Lodge offers a unique and memorable destination for intimate weddings in the Kruger National Park of South Africa. Specializing in personal celebrations, the lodge can accommodate up to 32 wedding guests, requiring a minimum two-night stay for groups of six or more adults. The lodge manager collaborates closely with the bride to tailor every aspect of the wedding, ensuring a perfect day from venue setup to flowers, music, and the minister.
What sets Lukimbi apart is the opportunity to seamlessly transition from wedding to honeymoon without the need for additional travel. With years of experience in crafting exceptional honeymoons, Lukimbi ensures an unforgettable post-wedding retreat. The lodge’s opulent suites, featuring high ceilings, dreamy mosquito nets, king-sized beds, indoor and outdoor showers, and scenic stone baths, provide a romantic stay with breathtaking wildlife views. A complimentary bottle of sparkling wine on the private deck adds the perfect touch to enjoying a beautiful African sunset.
14. Four Seasons Westcliff, Johannesburg
Marvel at the iconic ‘pink lady’ atop a Johannesburg hillside, resembling an enchanting Amalfi coast villa. The Four Seasons Hotel offers a breathtaking urban oasis with panoramic views, vibrant jacaranda blossoms, and mesmerizing sunrises. Each spacious room or suite features a private balcony for a picturesque experience, and guests can indulge in ultimate relaxation at the renowned Après spa.
At the Four Seasons Westcliff, discover 16 glamorous indoor venues with unique charm, accommodating up to 200 guests, and four well-positioned outdoor venues fit for royalty. The hotel presents enticing special offers, including ‘stay longer – third night free’ and ‘Joburg getaway – enjoy 15% off’. Experience the perfect blend of elegance and relaxation at this premier city wedding destination, where the allure of the ‘pink lady’ sets the stage for an unforgettable celebration.
15. Lavender Hill Country Estate
Lavender Hill Country Estate is located between Clarens and Bethlehem in one of the most beautiful settings in the eastern Free State area.
Nestled in 25 hectares of pure beauty, travelbuddieslifestyle reports Lavender Hill provides its guests with amazing views of the Ash River and Maluti Mountains. The gardens at this venue have numerous flowers, including lavender and roses, for those nice wedding photos.
Lavender Hill offers three beautiful chapels for the vow exchange ceremonies: Hillsong, Boskerkie, and Garden Chapel. Hillsong, the largest chapel, can seat up to 200 guests, while the Garden Chapel can accommodate up to 100 guests. Each chapel has its unique character and charm, including full glass fronts that provide unobstructed views of the beautiful outdoors. In addition, it is fully equipped with air conditioning, sound systems, and microphones.
Lavender Hill goes beyond providing a picturesque setting for your special day. With their professional coordinator (at an additional cost), you can design your dream wedding and ensure your guests enjoy the French country lifestyle.
Lavender Hill offers a choice of four reception halls: Vivaldi, Chateau, Garibaldi, and Mozart. From Vivaldi Hall, which can seat 250 guests, to the intimate Mozart Hall, seating 60 guests, you will find the perfect space for your special celebration.
Guests can overnight in one of their 28 individually themed chalets or the self-catering manor house, which can accommodate up to 10 guests.
Escape to the lavender fields of Provence, a breathtaking natural sight that has captivated people worldwide. Experience the beauty of endless rows of purple flowers stretching into the horizon.
Five considerations for a wedding venue
The destination venue you choose will impact your (1) guest list, (2) theme, (3) food, (4) date, and (5) budget.
Planning your wedding or vow renewal can be overwhelming with so many choices. But it’s also the most exciting part!
Making the right choice is crucial. Your wedding venue sets the stage for everything you’ve dreamed of for your special day. Start exploring destination wedding options early to ensure your wedding is everything you’ve ever wished for.
Conclusion
Discover the magic of South Africa as the ultimate wedding destination.
If you picture yourself exchanging vows on a sun-kissed shoreline or saying “I do” in the heart of the African bush veld, South Africa is your answer!
We showcased venues with stunning beaches and majestic mountain views to thrilling Big 5 wildlife safaris, country escapes with panoramic views, and a glamour urban affair.
With endless possibilities and the only limit being your imagination (and budget), let South Africa be the backdrop for your unforgettable wedding or honeymoon.
