There is definitely demand for romantic holidays where exclusivity and privacy are high on the list of priorities for discerning customers. Whether it’s a honeymoon or a weekend away to reconnect with loved ones, a whole lot of less is more for the savvy traveller.
For tour operators looking for romantic getaways that are off the well-beaten tourist trap and are definitely not ‘cookie-cutter’ experiences, there are some great options in Southern Africa.
An African Anthology is a hospitality management company that specialises in destinations and properties offering something unique for their guests, both in accommodation and in experiences. The group represents a variety of lodges and hotels in Southern Africa, including Iganyana Tented Camp in Zimbabwe. This luxury tented camp is located on a pristine concession close to Hwange National Park, offering great comfort and a range of amenities along with space and solitude. The camp looks out over a dry riverbed with wildlife passing regularly en route to the various waterholes. Evenings are spent under twinkling stars listening to the sounds of the wild.
Ruth Bassett, Sales and Marketing Director of An African Anthology, says romantic getaways are not always about the most popular or luxurious establishments.
“It depends on the couple’s definition of romance. Canvas suites can provide an ideal romantic reprieve from the everyday hustle and bustle of mainstream life and properties.”
The Blue Train takes romance to a whole new level and is the perfect honeymoon or special anniversary getaway. There are three main routes to choose from: Cape Town, Hoedspruit and the Kruger National Park. It’s pure luxury all the way, with butlers waiting on every need, delicious meals served up in elegant dining cars and accommodation in luxury and De Luxe suites. There is nothing casual about The Blue Train, and every moment offers a sense of occasion.
Ghost Mountain Inn in scenic Zululand in KwaZulu Natal offers two Romantic and Honeymoon packages that include champagne breakfasts, candle-lit dinners, forest walks, special spa treatments and bushveld sundowners. Its Share the Romance package includes all of the above and a private candle-lit dinner for two at the end of the jetty with an inky night sky for company. The three-night ‘Romance Package’ includes all of the above, as well as a boat cruise on Lake Jozini and a morning spent in uMkhuze Game Reserve.
(Ghost Mountain Inn took 18th place in the 2019 TripAdvisor Travellers Choice Awards in the Top 25 Hotels in South Africa category.)
Cape Town has been voted one of the most romantic cities on earth, and if you are looking for the perfect honeymoon getaway for clients, look no further than Tintswalo Atlantic. This property has an exquisite location off Chapman’s Peak Drive, with views overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The hotel offers a three-day honeymoon package with all the little extras, including sparkling wine on arrival, a romantic turn-down at bedtime, sunset canapés, a special gift and one intimate dinner.
