Clients looking for a more cost-effective Valentine’s getaway will fall in love with KwaZulu Natal’s hidden gems, according to Phindile Makwakwa, acting CEO of Tourism KZN.

“The Midlands Meander is positioned as one of our prime romantic destinations in the province. It boasts romantic boutique-style hotels and lodges that have amazing spa treatments,” said Makwakwa.

She added that the area also had unique craft outlets where travellers could buy a number of handmade and one-off finds such as Ardmore Ceramics, Tsonga leather goods, candles, woven mats, and tasty treats from the cheese and chocolate farms.

“Couples can also enjoy romantic picnics and hot air balloon rides at the Howick Falls, just outside Pietermaritzburg,” said Makwakwa.

Romantic weekends and overnight stays are the most popular for Valentine’s getaways to KZN, according to Makwakwa. She said there were unique family-friendly offers for clients who were unable to take an adults-only trip: “A wide range of the KZN tourism offerings (accommodation, activities) provide nanny services and have adjoining rooms so that adults can stay close to their children.”

Giving an example of a winning Valentine’s booking, Tracy Teichmann, Manager of Sure Adcocks Travel, said: “A stunning, cost-effective option is a two-night stay at Sycamore Avenue Treehouses in Mooi River followed by a day visit to Hawklee Country House, just outside Pietermaritzburg. The treehouses are rustic and romantic and include breakfast and a three-course dinner. Hawklee Country House is secluded, with a beautiful river on site. They offer a picnic basket for two that clients can set up anywhere along the river. It’s idyllic.”