Cape Winelands Archives

In Venues

Enchanting Wedding Venues Across South Africa: From Vineyards to Safari

November 21, 2025 No Comments

South Africa is a land of breathtaking beauty and diversity, making it a truly magical place to say “I do.” Whether you’re dreaming of a vineyard sunset, a forest ceremony, an elegant ballroom, or a wild safari, South Africa has a wedding venue to match your vision. Here are some of the most enchanting wedding venues around the country, each offering its own unique charm and character.

Vineyard Romance in the Cape Winelands

The Cape Winelands is synonymous with romance, and its wine estates are among the most sought-after wedding venues in South Africa.

Boschendal Estate

Steeped in history, Boschendal combines pastoral elegance with grand architecture. Their event spaces allow for both intimate gatherings and large celebrations, while guests can stay in on-site cottages surrounded by mountain views.

Webersburg Wine Estate

With its restored Cape Dutch homestead, rolling lawns, vineyards, and a peaceful dam, Webersburg provides a classic Winelands backdrop for your ceremony.

Klein Welmoed Estate

A more intimate option, Klein Welmoed offers a beautifully restored “barn” space in landscaped gardens, framed by the Helderberg Mountains and olive groves.

Johannesdal 1207

For a modern yet serene venue, Johannesdal 1207 blends architectural finesse with sweeping mountain vistas, ideal for a refined, design-forward celebration.

Domaine Brahms (Paarl)

A fairy-tale venue in Paarl with charming gardens and elegant spaces, perfect for couples wanting a quintessential country-chic celebration.

Luxurious Cape Town Settings

If you’d like a wedding close to or within Cape Town, the city and its outskirts offer an array of glamorous venues.

Babylonstoren

A working wine farm that feels like stepping into a garden dream, with its beautifully designed gardens, historic Cape Dutch architecture, and farm-to-table dining.

Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel

Known for its old-world glamour, lush gardens, and classic ballrooms, this iconic pink hotel is a Cape Town institution and a favorite for timeless, elegant weddings.

Tintswalo Atlantic

Perched dramatically on the cliffs of Chapman’s Peak, Tintswalo Atlantic offers seaside intimacy, spectacular ocean views, and an exclusive lodge feel, ideal for a small, unforgettable destination wedding.

Laurent at Lourensford Wine Estate

This glass and marble venue set at the foot of the Helderberg Mountains offers a modern, sophisticated setting with a panoramic natural backdrop.

Bosjes Chapel

For couples drawn to bold architecture, Bosjes offers a glass-and-steel chapel framed by vineyards and mountains, a ceremony space that feels like a work of art.

Charming City & Heritage Venues

Urban settings and heritage buildings bring elegance and character for couples who want city sophistication.

Morrells Boutique Estate (Johannesburg)
With manicured gardens and French Provencal-inspired architecture, this estate is a romantic gem in Johannesburg.

Shepstone Gardens (Johannesburg)

Known as the “Secret Garden,” it offers historic stone architecture and lush green spaces, perfect for an intimate, enchanted wedding.

Villa d’Este (Johannesburg)
A heritage villa styled like an Italian villa, complete with formal gardens, statues, and fountains. Its old-world charm makes it a luxurious choice for a city wedding.

Safari & Wild Settings

If your heart is set on adventure and nature, Africa’s wilderness offers breathtaking wedding backdrops.

Private Game Lodges
Many luxury safari lodges across South Africa (especially in the Kruger or private reserves) provide all-inclusive wedding packages, combining the beauty of the bush with high-end comforts.

While not always publicly advertised, safari weddings can create deeply personal, memorable experiences under the African sky, exchanging vows surrounded by wildlife and natural landscapes.

Garden & Public Spaces

Arderne Gardens, Cape Town
For couples who want a lush, botanical setting without the farm or estate feel, Arderne Gardens in Claremont is a hidden gem. Its giant Norfolk Pine, koi ponds, and expansive lawns make for serene photo moments.

Why South Africa Is a Dream Wedding Destination

Stunning Variety: From vineyards and mountains to ocean cliffs and safari plains, South Africa offers an extraordinary range of landscapes in one country.
World-Class Hospitality: Whether you’re in a boutique wine estate or a luxury lodge, service tends to be top-notch , deeply personal and warm.
Accessibility: Major wedding hubs like Cape Town and Johannesburg have international airports, making it easy for destination guests to attend.
Value for Luxury: Compared to some global wedding destinations, South Africa can offer more affordable luxury, especially at boutique estates and lodges.

Tips for Choosing the Right Venue

Visit In Person: Nothing replaces seeing the venue yourself (or via virtual tours) — this way you can feel the space, light, and layout.
Book Early: Popular wine estates and safari lodges can be booked more than a year in advance, especially for peak wedding seasons.
Consider Guest Accommodation: Venues like Boschendal or Tintswalo Atlantic offer on-site stays, which is great for destination weddings.
Work With a Planner: Especially for remote or high-end venues, a local wedding planner can make all the difference in navigating logistics.

With such a wealth of breathtaking venues, planning your South African wedding can feel like curating your own love story across landscapes. Whether you envision rustic elegance, modern luxury, or wild romance, there’s a venue in this beautiful country that’s sure to match your dream.

Featured Image: Discover Paarl

In Venue

The Most Breathtaking Wedding Venues in Stellenbosch: Where Love Meets the Cape Winelands

November 20, 2025 No Comments

Few places in South Africa can match the romantic allure of Stellenbosch. With its rolling vineyards, mountain views and old-world charm, the Cape Winelands town has become one of the country’s most sought-after wedding destinations. Whether you dream of exchanging vows in a centuries-old chapel, under a canopy of oak trees, or beside a sleek glass pavilion, Stellenbosch offers a venue for every kind of love story.

Here are some of the most enchanting wedding venues that promise a perfect blend of luxury, nature and South African warmth.

Zorgvliet Wines: Romance in the Valley

Hidden in the Banghoek Valley, Zorgvliet Wines feels like a fairytale come to life. Framed by the Simonsberg and Drakenstein Mountains, this wine estate pairs breathtaking views with understated elegance. Couples can say their “I dos” in a charming chapel before moving to The Oak Room for a refined reception, complete with vineyard views and soft candlelight.

The nearby Country Lodge sleeps 36 guests, making it easy for loved ones to linger for a weekend of celebration. From picnics on the lawns to sunset braais under the stars, Zorgvliet knows how to turn a wedding into an experience.Image Sources: Zorgvliet Wines

Eikenhof Estate: Where Nature Meets Style

Situated just off Bottelary Road, Eikenhof Estate offers a tranquil escape while remaining close to Stellenbosch, Brackenfell and Kuilsriver. The venue’s Cap Classique Hall combines rustic charm with modern touches—wooden pergolas, natural stone walls, chandeliers and a warm indoor fireplace.

The lawn and patio area are perfect for cocktails or a marquee-style celebration, while the on-site manor and guest villa make it ideal for multi-day festivities. As locals say, Eikenhof blends “nature and perfection” in the most effortless way.Image Source: Eikenhof Estate on Instagram

Landtscap: A Modern Canvas in the Winelands

For couples craving a contemporary touch, Landtscap offers a light-filled venue overlooking the vineyards and mountains. The floor-to-ceiling glass windows frame 180-degree views, ensuring nature remains part of the décor.

The venue can host up to 190 guests and provides stylish designer tables, crystal glassware, and oak furnishings. With multiple spaces—including ceremony lawns and decks—it’s an adaptable venue for couples who want a bespoke celebration. The on-site accommodation, Fransmanshuijs and Fransmans Cottage, add a touch of luxury with wood-fired hot tubs and panoramic patios—perfect for pre-wedding relaxation.
Image Source: Landscapt on Instagram

Highberry Vineyards: For Lovers of Privacy and Beauty

At Highberry Vineyards, nature takes centre stage. The 60-hectare farm sits among lakes, paddocks and the Hottentots Holland Mountains, offering endless backdrops for photos. Known for restoring 12 hectares of indigenous Renosterveld, Highberry radiates a sense of peace and authenticity that’s hard to find elsewhere.

Couples love the venue’s intimacy, with its elegant farmhouse and manicured gardens serving as the perfect bridal prep space. It’s a favourite among nature-loving couples who want an eco-conscious yet luxurious wedding.Source: Highberry on Instagram

Middelvlei Wine Estate: Authentic Stellenbosch Charm

Family-owned since 1919, Middelvlei Wine Estate brings a timeless warmth to any celebration. Just 4km from Stellenbosch town, this working wine farm exudes old-world charm with its rustic Wine Barn that accommodates up to 120 guests.

Known for hearty South African dishes, fine wine, and genuine hospitality, Middelvlei’s relaxed atmosphere captures the heart of the Winelands. For smaller weddings, the Barrel Cellar offers an intimate space that feels both romantic and real—a place where stories are made to last generations.

Cultivar Guest Lodge: Elegant Simplicity

Nestled in the heart of the Winelands, Cultivar Guest Lodge offers couples the flexibility of hosting both ceremony and reception on-site. Whether you choose a garden ceremony by the pool or a reception in the elegant Napoleon Hall, every detail is curated to suit your style and budget.

With a focus on stress-free planning, Cultivar’s in-house team can handle everything from décor and catering to sound and photography. The panoramic mountain views from the balcony seal the deal for couples seeking an intimate yet unforgettable setting.

Hazendal Wine Estate: Grandeur Meets Modern Design

Blending history with innovation, Hazendal Wine Estate is one of Stellenbosch’s most versatile wedding venues. Each space offers its own character—from the ethereal Floating Pavilion set on a pond to the sophisticated Grand Hall that can host 250 guests.

Couples can also exchange vows in The Glasshouse or celebrate outdoors on The Lawn with mountain views. The estate’s boutique hotel, The Hazendal, adds a luxurious stay for guests, while the estate’s mix of architecture, art, and fine dining creates a truly world-class experience.

A Winelands Fairytale Awaits

Whether your heart leans toward modern minimalism, rustic romance, or classic elegance, Stellenbosch’s wedding venues promise something unforgettable. Each estate tells its own story—a story of heritage, landscape and love.

As one recent bride shared on social media, “There’s something magical about saying ‘I do’ where the vines meet the mountains—it’s the kind of beauty that stays with you forever.”

So, as you plan your special day, remember: in Stellenbosch, love isn’t just celebrated—it’s beautifully cultivated.

Featured Image Source: Matthias Wesselmann on Unsplash

In Celebs

From Zozibini Tunzi to Natasha Joubert: Miss South Africa Queens Celebrate Love in Style

August 19, 2025 No Comments

Mzansi’s favourite beauty queens are proving that 2025 is the year of love. Within weeks of each other, Miss Universe 2019 Zozibini Tunzi and former Miss South Africa Natasha Joubert tied the knot in lavish Cape Winelands weddings, while the current Miss SA, Mia le Roux, revealed her engagement. Fans have called it the “season of fairytales” — and judging by the glamour and romance, they’re not wrong.

Zozibini Tunzi: A Fairytale at Belair Pavilion

Source: TK Nala on X

On 22 March, Zozibini Tunzi gave her fans a glimpse into what many are calling the wedding of the year. Held at the scenic Belair Pavilion in the Cape Winelands, her big day was elegant yet deeply personal.

The wedding video, shared online, captured every moment of emotion: from her father walking her down the aisle to her husband, Luthando Bolowana, declaring his love in a recorded message that had South Africans reaching for tissues. “You are the love of my life, you are my best friend, keeper of my heart,” he said.

The atmosphere was as polished as it was heartfelt. Guests followed a cream and black-tie dress code, while musicians Manana and Muneyi provided live performances that turned the evening into an unforgettable celebration.

Tunzi’s guest list was a who’s who of South African celebrity culture — Connie Ferguson, Nomzamo Mbatha, Basetsana Kumalo, Ama Qamata, and Anele Mdoda were all in attendance. Social media quickly lit up with clips and photos, with fans comparing the lavish production to the golden era of Top Billing. “This is exactly what the country has been missing — pure Top Billing energy,” one user posted.

Natasha Joubert: Three Dresses, One Dream

Source: Pop Pulse on X

Just down the road at another Cape Winelands venue, former Miss SA Natasha Joubert, now Natasha Vermaak, celebrated her own love story in style. Her wedding to Enrico Vermaak at Cavalli Estate was nothing short of breathtaking.

Known for her eye for glamour, Joubert stunned in not one but three designer gowns by Jolandie Fouche. She began the day with a floor-length beaded gown that whispered timeless elegance, switched into a playful short reception dress with a statement bow, and closed the evening in a sleek satin gown paired with a feather boa. Each look went viral, cementing her status as one of the most stylish brides Mzansi has ever seen.

The event, orchestrated by Alon Events, was polished to perfection. From the décor to the Cape sunset setting, every detail matched the high standard fans have come to expect from Miss South Africa royalty. Joubert herself admitted she cried through most of the day — “out of joy,” she later wrote on Instagram.

Fans were quick to react online, with many pointing out how Joubert’s bridal fashion raised the bar for South African weddings. “Three gowns in one night? She’s officially the Beyoncé of brides,” joked one follower.

Mia le Roux: An Engagement That Stole Hearts

Source: Pop Pulse on X

While Tunzi and Joubert shared their vows, the reigning Miss South Africa Mia le Roux quietly revealed her own milestone: she’s engaged to longtime partner Luke Tenoever.

Le Roux shared dreamy engagement photos showing off her emerald-green ring, while wearing a series of chic white dresses. Her heartfelt caption struck a chord with fans: “My heart will choose you over and over again.”

The post attracted hundreds of comments, from friends to fellow beauty queens, with many calling it the perfect way to round off a month of Miss SA love stories.

Why It Matters: Miss SA and Mzansi’s Love Affair with Weddings

Miss South Africa winners have always held a special place in the country’s heart. From their crowning moments to their personal milestones, fans see them as national icons. This wave of engagements and weddings has sparked nostalgia for an era where glamorous events were national talking points — something once captured weekly on Top Billing.

But in 2025, it’s social media doing the job. Instagram reels, TikToks, and wedding film snippets are giving South Africans a front-row seat to the glamour, and the reaction shows just how invested the public remains in these queens’ journeys beyond the crown.

For now, one thing is certain: love is trending, and Miss South Africa’s leading ladies are setting the tone for a season of romance in Mzansi.