Look up the word ‘honeymoon’ and you will get some variant of: “a holiday spent together by a newly married couple“. Yet, all too often, honeymoons turn into expensive trips that add unnecessary stress to the newly married couples’ life.
And I have a gripe with that. Because a honeymoon shouldn’t have to break the bank to be amazing.
Incredible Western Cape Honeymoon Offerings
I know of some incredible, budget honeymoon accommodation in the Western Cape alone. That’s before you even tackle the rest of South Africa!
In this post, I wanted to share some romantic, luxurious honeymoon spots to suit every budget.
Because you don’t have to travel halfway across the world to an exotic beach island – you just need a relaxing, romantic escape with the love of your life. 🙂
Some of the Cape’s Best Budget Honeymoon Accommodation
Each destination in this post offers a romantic couples’ getaway, natural Cape beauty and best of all, affordable pricing.
This ensures a luxury honeymoon experience that is accessible to all – not just the fortunate few.
Because if 2020 has shown us anything, it is that less is more. And the time-honoured values of love, family and precious life’s memories really do take precedence in our hearts above all else.
So here, in no particular order, are my suggestions for the best budget honeymoon accommodation (and experiences) in the Western Cape:
1) Thali Thali Game Lodge
Tucked away in the West Coast, near Langebaan, Thali Thali Game Lodge is one of my favourite places in the Cape.
This family-owned- and run-farm offers a unique farm experience, far removed from the city. With warm hospitality, good food and gorgeously appointed accommodation, it’s a dream.
When we visited a few years ago, Thali Thali made an instant, lasting impression. It was definitely one of the most romantic couples’ getaways we have enjoyed to date.
What it offers:
Thali Thali is ideal for couples, friends and families to enjoy together.
Yet, despite this, at no point do you feel your quality time or intimacy is encroached upon as a couple. It’s fun, romantic and freeing.
Fun activities ideal for couples:
One of the best couple activities at Thali Thali are the immersive game drives. With over 250 mammals calling this nature farm home, guests are spoilt with animal and bird sightings. (Even just when walking from your accommodation to the farm’s restaurant!)
You can see everything from a solitary camel to black wildebeest when visiting this farm. Especially if you go on a game drive.
When we visited, one of the most special moments was seeing the resident giraffe family close by in the bushes. We kept our distance out of respect – but it was incredible to see these elegant creatures up close like that.
I also loved that the sable antelope graze in between the accommodation and out buildings, unafraid.
Another fun, more competitive couples’ bonding activity is their archery. Lessons are by appointment only though.
Romance factor:
The B&B luxury tents and self-catering chalets are the biggest romance factor at Thali Thali. As we visited it in winter, I opted for the chalets but these are absolutely gorgeous and comfy.
We had a braai inside our chalet on our first night. Then on our second night, we opted for a romantic, candlelit dinner at the restaurant.
The luxury tents also look amazing. In fact, if I ever visit again I will definitely book one of these for the experience.
The tents offer a real glamping vibe, with all the creature comforts you could want. The tents even have sliding doors for an extra element of comfort and privacy.
Where:
Cape West Coast, near Langebaan, Western Cape.
Contact info:
+27 (082) 372 8637, info@thalithali.co.za
Website:
2) Jan Harmsgat
Found a few kilometres outside of Swellendam, Jan Harmsgat is a tranquil oasis in the Cape countryside. Here, couples can enjoy a romantic honeymoon escape on this historic Cape farm.
What it offers:
Not only does Jan Harmsgat have beautifully appointed, five-star accommodation that comprises of ten exclusive rooms – but it also has a gorgeous fine-dining restaurant, Just Amy.
Breakfast is included in the room booking – but guests can also enjoy lunch or dinner separately.
At Just Amy, you enjoy the very best in local cuisine – and the farm’s quality wines – in a lovely setting. The outside gardens and nearby orchards make for an even more enchanting setup.
Fun activities ideal for couples:
Although a stay at Jan Harmsgat is an experience in and of itself (as is a meal at Just Amy) – other fun activities are offered on the farm. These include a Backlands Farm Tour, where you can enjoy a stunning sunset picnic and wine tasting.
For the more adventurous couples, why not take a drive through the winelands? Nearby, you can explore rich nature reserves, hiking trails, farm stalls and other attractions Swellendam and the surrounding towns – such as Bonnievale, Robertson, Ashton and Montagu.
During summer, guests can also enjoy a cooling dip in the farm pool, sip refreshments or tuck into a picnic under the pecan nut trees.
Another exciting development at Jan Harmsgat is their new Oena Spa, which launched in November 2020.
Open from Monday to Sunday, the new spa provides the perfect pamper for visiting guests.
For more information on Oena Spa and its spa offerings, please contact: +27 (087) 012 5356, spa@oena.co.za.
Romance factor:
As for the accommodation itself, well, it’s positively beautiful. When we stayed there for a media trip, I was lucky enough to stay in one of the country house’s stunning loft rooms. (This comes equipped with an opulent en-suite bathroom and a stand-alone Victorian bath…) It was possibly one of my favourite overnight stays anywhere.
Aside from the obvious stunning accommodation, it was the small, thoughtful touches here that stayed with me…
A welcome letter waiting in my room, a dessert sweet on my bedside table and even a fresh rose bloom resting on my pillow, after my bed covers had been turned down by the wonderful staff. Even the geranium flower waiting on our dinner napkins was a lovely touch.
These all made the experience so much more special to me.
It is the tiniest things that add up to a truly memorable travel or accommodation experience. And this is something Jan Harmsgat have down to a tee.
The country house offers four rooms in total, as well as two communal lounges. While Jan Harmsgat’s other rooms are dotted around the farm.
There is even a dedicated executive/honeymoon suite, housed above the original wine cellar. This offers two rooms in Rooms 5 and 6.
A further two rooms are also housed in the old van Eden house – with another two serving as the executive family suite.
Couples can ideally book out the honeymoon suite. Although, honestly, any of the rooms make for an incredibly pampered, romantic stay.
Dinner or a charming breakfast at Jan Harmsgat only cements your secluded country getaway.
The lunch and dinner menus change frequently, as the kitchen uses its own garden to source ingredients and produce. So you know you are guaranteed the season’s best.
Where:
R60 District, Bonnievale/Drew, Western Cape.
Contact info:
+27 (087) 012 5356, +27 (079) 207 0777, reservations@janharmsgat.com.
Website:
3) Cascade Country Manor
Cascade Country Manor is one of the most beautiful places you will find anywhere in South Africa.
This luxury boutique hotel in Paarl lies tucked away against the Drakenstein mountains, in a hidden valley on a picturesque farm where beauty, calm and excellence thrive.
What it offers:
This century-old manor house is named after the nearby falls, which cascade some 300 metres away from the manor house. The falls offer a tranquil natural sound system that permeates the grounds year-round.
Surrounded by olive groves and the mesmersing waterfall, Cascade Country Manor is a blissful city escape.
It is arguably one of the most excellent, romantic accommodation offerings around.
Fun activities ideal for couples:
Aside from its opulent Deluxe and Classic Suites, Cascade Country Manor offers guests a host of wonderful experiences to enjoy.
For a start, lovebirds can take a peaceful stroll together to see the cascading falls; visit Cascade Country Manor’s on-site day spa for a luxurious pampering (there is even a riverside massage and picnic for two, priced at R2500); enjoy a sumptuous buffet or breakfast come morning – or simply enjoy the tranquil, pristine beauty that Cascade so effortlessly offers its guests.
The hotel garden is a delight, as is the short, but scenic waterfall walk.
For those keen to explore Paarl at large, there are a host of excellent wine farms, restaurants and activities to savour both in the town and its surroundings.
Why not go for a hike to the famous Paarl Rock?
Or enjoy a delightful wine tasting at one of the local estates in picturesque Paarl? Some of my personal favourites include Glen Carlou, Rhebokskloof, Fairview, Nederburg and Avondale.
Romance factor:
Like I said, Cascade Country Manor is a dream venue – both for weddings and/or your romantic honeymoon escape.
Personally, Cascade has always been top of my list for best honeymoon or wedding locations in the Cape.
I really found our stay wholly special and romantic. It was faultless, in fact. Definitely honeymoon-worthy, if any place is.
Aside from the rooms, which offer every possible comfort and luxury, Cascade’s waterfall walk is also very romantic and fun for couples to enjoy together.
There’s a stillness and sacredness near the falls that makes every step you take feel as though one is inexplicably treading on hallowed ground. It is intimate and healing all at once.
Where:
Waterval Road, Paarl, Western Cape.
Contact info:
+27 (021) 868 0227, welcome@cascademanor.co.za
Website:
4) !Khwa ttu
!Khwa ttu was our first romantic getaway in the West Coast. So it remains one of the most special to me.
The accommodation and overall experience here took my breath away. It was unexpectedly healing, beautiful and relaxing.
Found a few kilometres out of the charming coastal town of Yzerfontein, !Khwa ttu is well-positioned. It offers a great country escape without being too far removed from civilisation.
Although, to be honest, when you stay here, you feel like the only people on earth. That is part of the reason why I fell so instantly in love with this unique place.
Aside from its gorgeous self-catering farm cottages and the more exotic bush camp, which offers the ultimate camping experience, !Khwa ttu is also an important cultural centre that educates and inspires with its San history.
What it offers:
I fell in love with our cosy, rustic farm cottage that was both modern and yet, endlessly charming.
With an indoor fireplace, huge, luxurious shower and lovely outdoor braai and porch area, it made for a truly memorable stay.
I woke up feeling so refreshed and alive – the stillness of a night at !Khwa ttu is immense and so invigorating after the sounds of the city that normally punctuate one’s uneasy sleep. Here, you wake up truly refreshed and ready for your next adventure.
Beyond its great accommodation options (the tented camp is equally thrilling from what we saw), !Khwa ttu offers homely restaurant fare, an educational outing – thanks to their Heritage Centre Museum -, San guided tours and experiences, a lovely on-site shop and a host of great outdoor activities on the farm.
With everything from game (including zebra and rich birdlife), MTB, hiking walking trails and more to see and do, it offers couples a great taste of West Coast magic.
Fun activities ideal for couples:
Apart from the obvious pleasures of your accommodation and the chance to explore every inch of this educational, historically rich farm, guests can also explore the greater West Coast region.
Pop into Yzerfontein for a little coastal small town charm, stop at one of the quaint farm stalls along the roadside for some snacks and provisions.
Or even head to the gorgeous West Coast National Park, famed for its rich wildlife, beautiful beaches, unique accommodation and seasonal wild flower spotting.
The West Coast offers some of the best outdoor experiences, beaches and pristine scenery around. So it’s the perfect playground for everyone to enjoy.
Romance factor:
The farm cottages at !Khwa ttu are endlessly cosy and homely. I also loved the little joint kitchen and lounge area, perfect for morning coffee or late night chats by the fire.
The bathroom is also incredible and one of the most minimalist, yet beautiful I have seen.
Even taking a shower here feels like a special experience because you feel so close to nature and removed from humanity.
The porch and outdoor braai are also great options for a hearty, yet intimate meal, as you rustle up something tasty together.
Our cottage stay was extremely romantic and definitely ideal for a secluded honeymoon. Even in winter when the weather is at its worst.
Where:
R27, West Coast, Western Cape.
Contact info:
+27 (022) 492 2998, info@khwattu.org
Website:
5) Windfall Guest Cottages
Hidden away on an umassuming dirt road in the Agterkliphoogte Valley, just outside Robertson – otherwise dubbed the Valley of Wine and Roses – Windfall Wine is one of many delightful surprises you discover when visiting the famous Route 62.
When we stayed here for one memorable night, I found I loved everything about this wine farm. From the people to the generous, warm hospitality, the wines and above all, the farm’s colourful farm cottages that pop with cheery colour.
That’s right. Aside from its selection of quality wines and potsill brandy, Windfall Wines offers incredible, self-catering cottages.
They are perfect for a secluded, altogether calm honeymoon escape.
What it offers:
Windfall’s guest cottages are perfect for both families and couples. They offer a soothing country getaway, each equipped with their own braai area and other creature comforts.
The cottages are thoughtfully decked out with everything you could need. Although, with their cosy charm and the surrounding farm and Agterkliphoogte mountain views, you really want to do very little but soak up the peaceful beauty of this place.
The five cottages, each painted a different bright shade, are named after Windfall wine varieties – think: Chenin, Sauvignon Blanc, Barrel 41, Mendola and Cabernet Sauvignon.
At Windfall Wine, guests can enjoy a romantic, private escape in the countryside in style and comfort thanks to these cosy cottages.
Fun activities ideal for couples:
Aside from the on-site swimming pool, guests can also explore the property on which the cottages are found.
I went for an early morning walk down to the dam and it was sheer bliss. The silence of the misty morning was disturbed only by the joyful birdsong and sunrise stillness so true of our magical Cape countryside.
Guests can also enjoy a winetasting or brandy tasting by arrangement. It is another great way to acquaint yourself with the best Windfall that has to offer.
Beyond the farm, the surrounding towns of Robertson, McGregor, Montagu and even Ashton offer a chance to see the rural heart of the Western Cape’s patchwork farmlands while also exploring some of the province’s most iconic, characterful small towns.
There is wine tasting, good food and warm hospitality here aplenty. As well as a variety of outdoor hikes, nature walks and MTB trails to enjoy too!
Romance factor:
To me, the cottages are dreamy not just because of their optimistic colouring – but because of their stunning simplicity. They offer a real chance to recharge and enjoy some downtime.
When I stayed here, I ignored my phone and the TV. I instead woke up staring at the special pink sunrise, eager to answer my nagging wanderlust with a quiet, solitary walk outside.
Windfall Wines and their delightful cottages are cosy, welcoming and soothing – perfect for some quality time with your new partner. Especially as they are hidden away from all of life’s (largely unnecessary) distractions.
Here, life feels great because it is simple, stripped and raw… And to me, that is also the pleasure of true romance: it grounds you, heals you – and gives you a sense of hope and peacefulness like nothing else can.
Where:
Agterkliphoogte Valley, Robertson, Western Cape.
Contact info:
+27 (083) 320 8473, stay@windfallcottages.co.za
Website:
6) Dunstone Country Estate
Although Dunstone – like Cascade – is one of the more expensive options on my list, it is worth every penny.
Dunstone Country Estate near Wellington is one of the most gorgeous farms I have ever been to – and honestly, an overnight stay here is something straight out of a dream.
Everything feels perfect, professional and stunning without even trying. From the relaxed farm setting, with the Hawequa mountains as the imposing backdrop to the beautiful, homely self-catering accommodation that wows – Dunstone is a delight from start to finish.
What it offers:
Aside from Dunstone Country Estate in Wellington, which offers six Country House accomodation suites, three self-catering cottages (in Guava, Acorn and the Manorhouse) and the Stone Kitchen Bistro – Dunstone also offers a dreamy beach house in Jacobs Bay and a city escape in their De Waterkant Cottage.
The accommodation at Dunstone is the last word in old-school elegance, with every modern need quietly attended to as well.
I love the mix of quaint and modern – and how the two blend seamlessly together here.
Each cottage or suite at Dunstone feels absolutely exquisite and it is the thoughtful, personal touches – a welcoming note, bougainvillea petals dusted across each bedcover – that make you feel both at home and like you are on the most promising holiday getaway yet… Which, in fact, you are.
Fun activities ideal for couples:
Dunstone’s accommodation each offers something uniquely fun for couples to enjoy.
Be it Acorn Cottage’s cosy fireplace made for wintertime cuddles and hot chocolate or its plunge pool designed for sweltering summer days – or Guava Cottage’s lovely porch overlooking the vines (a perfect sunset spot ) or its own private, tempting pool.
If you manage to leave your cottage (we stayed in Guava Cottage and we scarcely wanted to leave the next morning…) or suite, you can enjoy some excellent meals at the Stone Kitchen, a popular eatery found on the farm.
This winery restaurant is perfect for sampling some of Dunstone’s classic, home-style meals and warm atmosphere, as well as trying some of their fine wines.
A romantic dinner or hearty breakfast are perfect ideas and something we certainly relished.
You can also walk around the farm, soaking up the beauty as you say hello to the resident farm animals and estate dogs.
Country walks around the farm, especially near sunset, are enchanting.
Otherwise, branch out and explore Wellington. There are a host of excellent wine estates, local eateries, attractions and hikes to enjoy in this scenic Cape Winelands town.
A drive up Bainskloof Pass is also worthwhile, as it offers amazing, heart-in-mouth twists and turns and incredible scenery as far as the eye can see.
Romance factor:
There is a romantic, luxury undertone throughout that makes Dunstone magical – whether you book into the honeymoon suite or opt for any of the other offerings. Every option is both romantic and wonderful.
Everything about Dunstone feels like a idyllic, secret country getaway – it’s hard to put into words – but you will understand if you decide to check-in here. 🙂
Where:
Bovlei Road, Wellington, Western Cape.
Contact info:
+27(021) 864 1504, (078) 860 9721
stay@dunstone.co.za
Website:
7) Struisbaai: Rent a Beach House
This might seem like an unlikely honeymoon suggestion – but I love the thought of a unfussy seaside escape.
Years ago, when I was in school, we went on a weekend away to Struisbaai. We stayed in a private beach cottage there and it was glorious!
Nowadays, you can find some great options on local travel accommodation sites (like these charming examples) – and enjoy uninterrupted privacy during a weekend or extended stay.
Struisbaai is a gorgeous little seaside village in the Cape Overberg – but the ocean and beaches look like something planted directly from the Greek Isles.
Growing up, Struisbaai was always my favourite small town to visit and even today, it remains one of my favourite, most special places to explore.
What it offers:
As a town, Struisbaai offers a sleepy seaside experience, with safe beach fun and good, warmer swimming for young and old.
The beaches and ocean views are sublime, with clear, mesmerising aqua waters and white, soft sandy coastline that beckon one nearer with a siren’s call.
Struisbaai is also a good hub from which to explore the nearby farmlands and neighbouring towns such as Arniston and Bredasdorp.
Just past Struisbaai, you find Agulhas, a quaint costal village made famous for Cape Agulhas, which is where the two oceans – Indian and Atlantic – meet.
Fun activities ideal for couples:
Struisbaai and surrounds offer lazy beach days, gorgeous coastal scenery and good hospitality.
For the more adventurous, you can also visit the Agulhas National Park and pose for a photo where the two oceans meet; enjoy seasonal whale watching in Arniston; explore some of the local wineries (like Black Oystercatcher Wines or Strandveld Vineyards) and much more.
Romance factor:
What could be more romantic than stealing away to a private seaside cottage with the one you love most in the world?
Once you are settled in, dine out at one of the local eateries – or plan a quiet, romantic candlelit dinner at home.
Enjoy peaceful strolls along the beach as you cherish the raw, unspoilt beauty of the uniquely diverse Cape Overberg Region.
If you decide to rent a cottage in Struisbaai for your romantic beach honeymoon – my tip would be to book well in advance.
Struisbaai is very popular on weekends and especially in summertime, over the Festive Season.
If you are planning to visit in December or January, I would say that you should book at least two to three months in advance as accommodation fills up very quickly for then!
Where:
Cape Overberg Region, Western Cape.
Contact info:
+27 (028) 424 2584, +27 (028) 424 2883, agulhas@discovercapeagulhas.co.za
Website:
8) Rent a Charming Self-catering Cottage through Afristay or AirBnB
Another simple, yet excellent honeymoon option is renting a self-catering getaway through a site like Airbnb or Afristay.
On previous couple getaways, I have used both sites – and only had positive experiences.
We have stayed everywhere from Simon’s Town to Kommetjie and even more recently, Gordon’s Bay – and every time, it was a wonderful, romantic escape that you, as a couple, are fully in control of.
If you are a planner like me, book a getaway in a place you are dying to visit – whether it’s a seaside escape or city thriller – and tailor your food, experiences and activities to yours and your partner’s adventure pleasure.
What it offers:
When you book a place of your choosing, you can enjoy a romantic, altogether peaceful stay without really even seeing your hosts.
Every time we have booked in the past, we have only seen the owners when we arrived (to secure the keys) and when we left (to return the keys) – and really, it is ideal.
You can enjoy true closeness with your new spouse without having to stress too much about what to do next. You can simply be.
Want to lie in bed and sleep half the day away in contented bliss? Do it!
Want to explore every inch of the new neighbourhood or town over the course of a few days? Do it!
The choice is yours. That is the real beauty of a honeymoon like this.
There is no pressure to do anything – except enjoy yourselves and be together.
Fun activities ideal for couples:
Whether you love winetasting, spa treatments, good food and fine dining, high tea experiences or even fun outdoor hikes and adventures, the Western Cape has it all.
You simply need to decide where you want to book your getaway. Then do a bit of research and find a mixture of ideas that resonate with you both. 🙂
It’s also a great way to learn more about each other as travellers – and to truly bond as a newly married couple.
Leave the stress behind, it’s time to unwind.
Romance factor:
Whether it’s a romantic sunset beach stroll; lavish fine dining dinner and/or winetasting pairing or even a thrilling MTB experience together in the countryside, the options for romantic, yet obvious fun as a couple are endless in the Cape.
Best of all? You don’t really even need to do much because the comfy accommodation, beautiful mountain and/or sea views and natural Cape beauty are usually a reward in and of themselves.
Where:
Anywhere in the Western Cape – the choice is yours!
Contact info:
Contact the applicable booking site and/or host for more information.
Tip: Your hosts and even the booking sites often have great, local recommendations – I have discovered several great hidden gems this way!
Website:
9) Knorhoek Guesthouse
Situated in the beautiful Stellenbosch Winelands, Knorhoek Guesthouse and Wine Farm is a truly romantic farm for all to enjoy.
Not only are they hugely family- and pet-friendly but they offer luxurious accommodation and wedding venues perfect for couples.
What it offers:
Knorhoek has everything from accommodation (a mix of en-suite guest rooms to self-catering cottages) to gorgeous hiking, MTB or running trails.
There is also a stunning, natural-looking pool at the bottom of the garden.
The farm also usually has an on-site restaurant. However, in early 2022, this was under renovations. I am not sure when those will be finalised.
Luckily, the guesthouse offers nice breakfasts and the accommodation has great coffee and tea stations.
For lunch and dinner, you can dine at Quoin Rock’s stunning Gäte Restaurant.
Gäte offers everything from picnics to jawdropping lunches and dinners. They are quite pricey but definitely worth a honeymoon splurge.
Fun activities ideal for couples:
Knorhoek has several trails – suitable for MTB, trail running and hiking. They range in length from two to seven kilometres. For a scenic, yet easy hike, I recommend their forest trail.
Trails are free to enjoy but you may want to grab a map and notify reception before setting off.
They also have an incredible garden pool to enjoy.
The Stellenbosch Winelands also offer incredible wine farms, restaurants, hikes and gardens to enjoy. It is a nature lover’s playground.
Romance factor:
The rooms – which include a dedicated honeymoon suite – are gorgeous. They are appointed with every creature comfort from complimentary WiFi to lovely balconies or porches and stunning baths or showers.
For that extra romance factor, order a bottle of the Knorhoek MCC to enjoy in your room.
Otherwise, guests may add drinks from the in-room bar fridge to their account.
Even though I stayed at Knorhoek alone (with my kitty), it was such a pampering stay. I can only imagine how romantic and lovely it would be shared with the love of your life.
For an even more intimate, special experience, book one of their gorgeous, self-catering farm cottages.
The accommodation is also reasonably priced and in my mind, great value for money. Plus, the staff and service is faultless.
It doesn’t hurt that the farm is incredibly dreamy either!
Where:
Knorhoek Wine Farm, Stellenbosch Winelands, Western Cape.
Contact info:
+27 (021) 865 2114, info@knorhoek.co.za
Website:
Conclusion
These are just a handful of excellent, budget-friendly honeymoon accommodation stays you can enjoy in the Western Cape.
In time, I hope to add to the list as I find more romantic treasures made for couples – but I really believe every one of these options has the potential to ensure an unforgettable honeymoon… without the worry of debt afterwards. 🙂
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