Location, location, location. What could be more important when planning your perfect gay-friendly wedding in South Africa? The backdrop to your big day is imperative to capture those picture-perfect photographic moments. It also plays a role in the overall experience for all your loved ones celebrating your loving commitment as a couple. Well, if you're already hearing those wedding bells, you've come to the right place! Here's where to go for a gay-friendly wedding in South Africa.
Magical backdrops set the mood for romance
Our Top Destinations for a Gay-Friendly Wedding in South Africa
So, where is the ideal gay-friendly wedding location? Close your eyes and picture magical landscapes, marvellous sunsets, romantic venues, exquisite cuisine, plenty of excellent wines, and vibrant cultures waiting with open arms to welcome people from all walks of life. A place where every angle is Instagrammable and adventure awaits around every corner. Say hello to stunning South Africa, with plenty of gay-friendly wedding venues. Here are our fabulous favourites.
1. Sea and Sunset Views in Cape Town
Set along the scenic Atlantic Seaboard, the Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa boasts one of the most enviable positions in Africa's gay capital, Cape Town. With Table Mountain National Park's mountain range on one side and the majestic Atlantic Ocean on the other, this consistent, award-winning retreat is surrounded by natural beauty. From fairytale fynbos gardens to romantic gazebos and terraces, you and your partner will find the perfect spot to say your "I dos".
Gazebo at sunset overlooking the stunning Atlantic Ocean, Image Credit: Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa
2. A Grand Affair at the Foot of Table Mountain
Steeped in history when high-class extravagance was held in the highest regard, the Mount Nelson Hotel has a mind-boggling reputation for refined opulence. Tie the knot with Table Mountain as your witness in exquisitely maintained gardens or fit-for-royalty banquet halls. From sun-splashed terraces to grand ballrooms, the Mount Nelson Hotel will certainly make your special day one to remember.
The famous Mount Nelson Hotel, Image Credit: Belmond Mount Nelson
3. Pure Farm Bliss in the Cape Winelands
Sporting several sumptuous venues, Boschendal provides an idyllic farm-like setting surrounded by beautiful mountain vistas. Ideally situated smack dab in the heart of the verdant Cape Winelands, the farm is not only perfect for weddings but pre- and post-Wineland adventures too! Picture scenic trails, dreamy picnic spots, rose gardens, and horses and carriage rides. This dazzling wine estate is straight off the pages of a romance novel.
Celebrate with loved ones in an idyllic farm setting, Image Credit: Boschendal
4. Secluded Mountainside Gay-Friendly Wedding
Tucked away on Chapman's Peak mountainside, Tintswalo Atlantic is the epitome of a secluded sanctuary. A seaside hideaway neighbouring the quiet hamlet of Hout Bay, it's a short drive away from the Constantia Wine Valley. The magnificent location offers an idyllic retreat for intimate celebrations and provides a dramatic backdrop for those emotional moments. Without a doubt, Tintswalo Atlantic is one of the most romantic settings in South Africa.
A secluded ceremony at the water’s edge, Image Credit: Tintswalo Atlantic
5. Bush with Some Bubbly in Kruger National Park
Add a bit of safari flair to the beginning of the rest of your lives together. Set in the Makalali Private Game Reserve just outside the Kruger National Park, Garonga just LOVES love and offers a paradise filled with romance, nature and wildlife. Choose between three stunning settings, namely the Safari Camp, Little Garonga or MCH. Whether you prefer under-canvas ambience, exclusive tented luxury or an authentic thatch atmosphere – you're bound to find your perfect love nest with that adventurous safari feel.
An authentic safari setting, Image Credit: Garonga Safari Co.
6. A Chic Clifftop Celebration in Hermanus
Offering a delightful mix of eclectic style and Great Gatsby elegance, Birkenhead House is a treasure when it comes to a unique wedding venue. The sprawling retreat sits on a cliff edge overlooking Walker Bay, Hermanus' whale-watching hotspot. The décor is classy and contemporary, with components that look like Elton John had a hand in it (in a good way!). Feel like a fabulous celebrity as the ocean's champagne air swirls in celebration as you say your forever vows.
One of the most unique venues along the Whale Route, Image Credit: Birkenhead House
7. Your Big Day with the Big 5 in Thornybush
Celebrate your nuptials with an enthralling cast of wildlife as your witnesses. Thornybush Game Reserve has been the setting of many milestone events, so why not your wedding? As a world-class Kruger concession, Thornybush houses a variety of unique and breathtaking venues. Take your pick from an array of luxury lodges and elegant camps, or opt for a whimsical reception in the middle of the bush – whatever you decide, Thornybush ensures a wedding experience of a lifetime.
Forget vintage cars, a 4x4 safari vehicle is the way to go, Image Credit: Thornybush Game Reserve
8. Happy Hearts in the Garden Route
Resting on a rocky headland overlooking the warm Indian Ocean, The Plettenberg Hotel is a luxury seaside escape on the Garden Route. Boasting the most breathtaking vistas in Southern Africa, this stunning hotel provides the perfect setting for heartfelt gatherings. Get hitched on one of Plettenberg Bay's many white sandy beaches, or choose from an array of romantic settings on the hotel's grounds. Your guests will be in absolute seaside bliss – and (bonus!) your fur babies are welcome too!
The indoor dining section offers beautiful views of the pool and ocean, Image Credit: The Plettenberg
A Wealth of Destinations for Your Gay-Friendly Wedding in South Africa to Explore
South Africa's wedding locations afford a wide variety of stunning settings for your dream wedding. And we've only scratched the surface!
Contact one of our Travel Experts today to find your perfect wedding location in South Africa. Whether looking for stunning vineyard valleys, majestic mountain ranges, breathtaking beaches, untamed wilderness or cosmopolitan hotels, South Africa has a place for you to begin your happily ever after.
