We’ve rounded up South Africa’s favourite Valentine’s Day destinations based on YOUR bookings from last year! Now you can make this Valentine’s Day the most memorable by spoiling your loved one with a weekend away. It’s a great way to spend quality time together without being distracted by daily routines, dirty dishes, and pesky emails. It’s a pleasure!

1. Paternoster, West Coast

Paternoster

We love Paternoster for its quiet, laid back, Mediterranean charm. Paternoster is one of the last traditional fishing villages on the West Coast and it is certainly the most romantic and serene. White washed cottages, traditional fisherman architecture, and foot-printed beaches overlooking the endless blue ocean make for a perfect weekend away. Valentine’s accommodation in Paternoster

 

2. Hartbeespoort, Magaliesberg

Hartbeespoort

We love Hartbeespoort  because it’s a quick, country style, waterside escape for Gauteng’s city slickers. Couples can enjoy a weekend of country markets, dining out, water sports, mountain trails, golf, wildlife encounters, canopy tours, hot air balloon rides, and the aerial cable way. Or simply enjoy doing as little as possible! Valentine’s accommodation in Hartbeespoort.

 

3. Clarens, Eastern Free State Highlands

Clarens

We love Clarens because it’s done well to earn a reputation as the “Jewel of the Free State” and world renowned artistic haven. With wildlife, golden mountains, winding rivers, flower-strewn gardens, and quirky spots, it’s a fairytale town waiting to be discovered. Valentine’s accommodation in Clarens.

 

4. Parys, Northern Free State

Parys

We love Parys because it’s a small town that’s big on adventure. Whether your loved one enjoys a lazy weekend of sunbathing on the river banks or the thrill of leaping out of an airplane, you’ll make many happy memories in Parys. Valentine’s accommodation in Parys.

 

5. Dullstroom, Mpumalanga

Dullstroom

We love Dullstroom because it’s dull without being dull. Dullstroom is a natural paradise with little more to do than relish the mountain and wild flower vistas. It’s a popular trout fishing destination, but since this is best done in the cold winter months, your fishing-fanatic partner will have few distractions from you. Valentine’s accommodation in Dullstroom.

 

6. Knysna, Garden Route

Knysna

We love Knysna because there’s no reason NOT to love Knysna. After a beautiful drive along the Garden Route you’re rewarded with a peaceful lagoon, beautiful beaches, thick mountain forests, good weather, and a tangible sense of “holiday”. Whether you prefer opulence or rustic stays, Knysna has it all. Valentine’s accommodation in Knysna.

 

7. Bela-Bela, Waterberg

Bela-Bela

We love Bela-Bela’s hot springs! Need we say more? Valentine’s accommodation in Bela-Bela.

 

8. Hermanus, Overberg

Hermanus

We love Hermanus for its seaside charm and indulgent wining and dining spots. Meander along the beautiful Hemel-en-Aarde Wine Route, enjoy a candlelit dinner overlooking the ocean, and top the day off with a romantic stroll on the beach. The weather changes so frequently that you can experience an entire year’s worth of seasons in a single weekend – you’ll feel as if you’ve been away for ages!  Valentine’s accommodation in Hermanus.

 

9. Langebaan, West Coast

Langebaan

We love Langebaan because it’s a breath of fresh, sea-salted air from the chaos of everyday life. The calm lagoon, soothing bird calls, and untouched flora of the West Coast National Park make it an idyllic nature haven. But don’t be fooled into thinking this is a completely sleepy town. You’ll have to book long in advance to get a spot at the popular Strandlopers beach restaurant! Valentine’s accommodation in Langebaan.

 

10. Margate, Hibiscus Coast

Margate

We love Margate for its subtropical, Hawaii-wannabe, beach vibes. If your ideal weekend wardrobe consists of a cozzie and flip flops, you’ll love Margate’s palm-speckled beaches and warm Indian Ocean waters. When the sun gets too much, Margate also has great shops, art galleries, craft markets, pubs, and quaint restaurants to visit. Valentine’s accommodation in Margate.

 

Which of these top spots do you love?