Romance does not always mean a luxury hotel or a weekend at a wine estate. Sometimes, it means sleeping beneath a sky full of stars, waking up to birdsong or spending an evening in a hot tub surrounded by mountains.
iam luisao / Pexels / Illustrative purposes only
From secluded treehouses to natural hot springs, these Western Cape escapes offer couples a chance to trade the usual weekend away for something a little more memorable.
Sleep beneath the stars at Kagga Kamma
Cederberg
The Cederberg’s sandstone formations are striking by day, but after dark, the star-filled sky steals the show.
At Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve, couples can choose between cave suites built into the rock formations and open-air suites that let them sleep beneath the stars. Spend the day exploring the reserve before returning to watch the sun disappear behind the mountains.
For couples who would rather stargaze than spend the evening in a busy restaurant, it’s a memorable escape.
Best for: Stargazing and dramatic landscapes.
Retreat to a treehouse at Melozhori
Overberg, near Bonnievale
Set within a private game reserve, Melozhori’s Treehouse is designed for two. It comes with a wood-fired hot tub, outdoor shower, fireplace and private deck, as well as a pizza oven and barbecue for evenings spent cooking together.
Guided game drives offer opportunities to spot wildlife, but there is no need to plan every moment. A slow morning followed by a soak in the hot tub and dinner beside the fire sounds like a pretty good weekend.
Best for: Anniversaries and secluded wilderness escapes.
Unwind beside a forest stream at Southern Yurts
Botrivier
Southern Yurts offers a different kind of countryside escape, with unusual accommodation tucked into a natural setting near Botrivier.
The River Cabin features an A-frame bedroom, self-catering kitchen, indoor fireplace and outdoor pizza oven. There is also a private wood-fired hot tub, with the surrounding riverine forest adding to the sense of seclusion.
Bring groceries, prepare an easy dinner and spend the evening soaking in the hot tub. Sometimes, a quiet cabin and nowhere else to be are all you need.
Best for: Forest lovers and private, self-catering escapes.
Soak in natural hot springs at The Baths
Citrusdal
Near Citrusdal, The Baths offers naturally heated mineral springs surrounded by mountain scenery. The spring water reaches approximately 43°C at it’s source, feeding the resort’s hot pools.
Between soaks, couples can explore walking trails, swim in the cold pools or simply enjoy the outdoors. Accommodation ranges from self-catering units to campsites, making this an option for different budgets.
It’s an uncomplicated escape built around one very good reason to visit: time to unwind together.
Best for: Hot springs and relaxed mountain weekends.
Stay in a treehouse at Vindoux
Tulbagh
Surrounded by orchards and countryside, Vindoux Guest Farm and Spa offers treehouse accommodation for couples looking for something different in the Winelands.
Spend the day exploring Tulbagh’s wine farms or book a treatment at the on-site spa. Vindoux has also offered romance packages featuring experiences such as couples’ massages and starlight hot tub sessions. Check availability when booking.
It’s a countryside escape with the added advantage of having the valley’s attractions close by.
Best for: Spa time, wine farms and countryside views.
Escape into the forest at Teniqua Treetops
Between Knysna and Sedgefield
At Teniqua Treetops, elevated accommodation made with timber and canvas places couples among the trees, with decks overlooking the surrounding forest.
Selected units offer outdoor bathing or wood-fired hot tubs. Spend the day exploring the Garden Route, or stay in and enjoy breakfast on the deck with birdsong for company.
The accommodation is self-catering, so stock up on groceries before arriving and settle in for a quieter kind of getaway.
Best for: Forest stays and couples who love the outdoors.
A little time away
Whether it’s a night beneath the stars, a secluded treehouse or a soak in natural hot springs, the Western Cape offers plenty of ways to make a weekend together feel different.
You do not need an elaborate itinerary or an extravagant hotel. Sometimes, all it takes is an unusual place to stay, a little time away and the freedom to enjoy each other’s company.
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