If ever there was a year to rediscover your love for local travel, 2020 was it. Valentine's Day 2021 is just around the corner, and there has never been a better time than now to check in for more romance in Mzansi.
Here are our Flight Centre team's top South African romantic getaways:
Carefree in the Wild Coast
The Wild Coast is as wonderfully wild and unspoilt as its name suggests. Get swept into the down to earth, raw charm of dramatic coastline, stunning beaches and traditional isiXhosa culture.
Chances are you'll have the entire area to yourself, save for a few cows, the friendly locals and perhaps a backpacker or two. Sure, the roads may be potholed and the cellphone signal patchy, but that's precisely its charm.
The famous rocky outcrop of Hole in the Wall is a must-see. Base yourself in Coffee Bay if you want to be right in the heart of the action and don't mind 'roughing it slightly.' If you want more creature comforts, check into the Wild Coast Sun. It's located just 2 hours' drive south of Durban, right on the beach with lush tropical surrounds. Browse our hottest Wild Coast holiday package deals.
A dinner for two in the Winelands
The Cape Winelands are always a fantastic option for a weekend away for two.
Settle down in one of the many fabulous accommodation options on offer in Franschhoek or Stellenbosch. Enjoy wining and dining, visiting the art galleries and quaint shops for a quick culture fix or get pampered in the spa.
Opt for time out at the famous Spier Hotel, one of South Africa's oldest wine farms. Choose from relaxing in one of the tranquil garden terrace rooms surrounding six quiet courtyards, each with their communal swimming pool, or a room overlooking the Eerste River.
If you aren't able to leave the kids with Granny and Gramps, bring them along. Spier is also a family-friendly hotel with a host of kid-friendly activities and facilities to keep them entertained. Browse our hottest Cape Town holiday package deals.
Cosy up in Clarens
Pack a suitcase and make the easy road trip to charming Clarens in the Free State, an easy drive from both Johannesburg and Durban.
The town is the perfect match for nature lovers, adventure seekers, hikers, artists, photographers, and frankly anyone looking for a little romantic retreat. Browse our hottest Free State holiday package deals.
Sea views to knock your socks off
We may not be able to have that sunset walk on the beach at the moment, but here's hoping we'll be able to safely do so come Valentine's Day. But even if not, you'll still get to enjoy soaking up the incredible sea views from these epic properties. Splurge on a romantic stay at the Twelve Apostles in Cape Town or the Oyster Box in Durban.
The only property to be nestled on this spectacular stretch of cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the 12 Apostles Hotel and Spa is a dreamy secluded retreat in Cape Town.
In Durban, check into the iconic Oyster Box and relax in your superbly appointed white shuttered room, breezy Palm Court, under the trademark red umbrellas on the Pool Terrace or enjoy a couples treatment in the spa. For a more price-conscious pick, consider The Square Boutique Hotel in Umhlanga. Browse our hottest Durban holiday package deals.
Step back into yesteryear
It's said that 2021 will be the year of the bucket list trip. Confirmed at home for months, travellers are longing for an epic escape, and many are willing to splurge on finally ticking that dream holiday off the bucket list.
How about the romance of a bygone era of travel? Climb onboard one of South Africa’s luxury trains. Between the dining cars, conductors and scenery, the nostalgic appeal is difficult to beat.
The Blue Train provides views of the country's spectacular landscapes, stopping at several attractive locations along the way. The extravagant Rovos Rail train is considered one of the most luxurious trains on earth, with spacious suites and five steam locomotives.
Both will whisk you back into the golden era of travel, to a time when travel signified getting away from it all. After all, isn't that what a romantic retreat is all about?
Looking for something else to make your heart skip a beat? More romantic Mzansi destinations:
· KwaZulu-Natal's Midlands Meander - misty mountains with English countryside charm. Browse our hottest KwaZulu-Natal holiday package deals.
· Plett Wine Route - four slightly off the usual beaten track wineries. Browse our hottest Western Cape holiday package deals.
· Northern Cape - no-one else just you two, the dunes and stars. Browse our hottest Northern Cape holiday package deals.
