March, April and May have some public holidays that you can maximise to take your loved ones for a long weekend treat. Avukile Mabombo, Group Marketing Manager for Protea Hotels by Marriott® & African Pride Hotels has provided a list to give you some inspiration.
Here are some of his recommendations across the country:
Joburg
The Cradle of Humankind is a perfect day outing Picture: Supplied.
Magaliesburg is just an hour and a half away, and offers plenty of romantic opportunities. Book a romantic hot air balloon experience that gives you unparalleled views of 48 000 hectares of wild countryside. You can see up to 40 species of game on this trip.
In Magaliesburg, you’re also right next to the Cradle of Humankind, thought to be the birthplace of the human race.
Getting out into nature is also a must. But why not pack some adrenaline into it? Canopy Tours offers zip lining through the mountains.
Nothing screams romance like a day at the spa. The tranquil African Pride Mount Grace Country House & Sp a will provide the ultimate state of relaxation with massages, body wraps and facials in a serene, tranquil environment.
Then treat your palate at the Rambling Vine for some award-winning fine dining. Notable for its stunning wine list and ever-changing menu of International cuisine, Rambling Vine is a must-visit restaurant for foodies.
Durban
Nothing beats a little snorkel in Durban. Picture: Supplied.
For those Joburgers wanting to drive a few extra hours, or for those Durbanites who need some couple downtime, why not head to Umhlanga?
Uhmhlanga Ridge is known for its sandy beaches and some of the area’s best surfs. The warm Indian Ocean allows for the ultimate snorkelling experience just outside the breakers and yes, you might see dolphins! Diving into the big blue may seem daunting, but not with your partner by your side.
For those who want to splurge (or seriously need to make it up to their loved ones), a helicopter ride and picnic will surely get you out of the woods. This treat will definitely make it to the top of the most romantic date’s list. Grassland and ocean views can be seen on the trip, followed by a picnic along the mountainside.
Top it off with sundowners on the rooftop pool at the Protea Hotel by Marriott, Umhlanga Ridge. They are known for their delicious Martini.
Cape Town
The views at African Pride Arabella Hotel and Spa is out of this world.
Just over an hour outside Cape Town lies the town of Hermanus, packed with a range of activities to suit everyone.
Kick off your weekend with a Horseback Ride in the Hemel en Aarde Valley, which by the way, is also one of the country’s top, but slightly lesser known wine routes. You can also cycle the up the valley, from farm to farm, if you’re a strong weekend kind of couple.
Sticking with sports, there’s something quite bonding about learning a new one together. The African Pride Arabella Hotel and Spa is one of South Africa’s top golf courses, so you’ll be in good company getting your first lesson on the same greens that Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player have frequented.