This year, we want to show some love by showing you a few local spots where you can indulge in Valentine’s celebrations. This holiday can be somewhat one-sided and only focus on love between romantic couples, but love comes in all forms, so we also made sure to include options for those who might be flying solo right now and would want to gift themselves or those who would love to celebrate the love between friends or family.
A delicious lunch or supper is most probably on the table, so why not try something different at the multiple award-winning Taste of Thai Restaurant and Spa in Hilton? Their chefs have created exclusive menus for Valentine’s Day, whether you want to have lunch with your best friend or a candlelit dinner for a more romantic touch with your partner in a peaceful environment. They will also be serving a new cocktail with their menu on Valentine’s night. It will be a sweet, floral drink available in both alcoholic and virgin. Make sure to book a table soon!
If you’re not quite in the mood for Thai food and want something more personal and outdoorsy, a picnic at Hawklee Country House in Lions River might be your thing. What more can you ask for with a secluded and cosy setup next to a gentle river with blankets, pillows, and a picnic basket filled with foods from local artisans and producers? From savoury to sweet treats, Hawklee’s picnic baskets include artisanal cheeses, handmade preserves, biscuits, salami, fresh fruit, a delicious, sweet treat, and a bottle of sparkling wine. The romantic picnic package is ideal for those looking to spend quality time together in the tranquillity of nature. You can unwind with a relaxing walk along the river or indulge in more adventurous fun after your picnic by playing a round of golf on the four-hole Bundu Mashie course. Bookings can be done directly through Hawklee Country House.
Valentine’s Day is always celebrated with chocolates, and we won’t want it any other way, especially for the chocoholics out there! Chocolate Heaven offers a range of 50 chocolate bonbons and truffles with flavours like Strawberry, Caramel, Turkish Delight, Milk Tart, Rocky Road, Hazelnut, and even Biltong! They are made from premium cocoa beans from one of Belgium’s oldest roasteries, and they only include the best ingredients—avoiding palm oils, vegetable, and anhydrous fats. You can also try the fun Chocolate Dipping experience and play around with your favourite chocolate flavours and round it off with a delicious Belgian waffle, ice-cream or a chocolate shooter! Chocolate Heaven has been around for 17 years and has a shop in Nottingham Road and Piggly Wiggly. You won’t want to miss this spot for a delicious treat!
Gifts on Valentine’s Day are always welcome, so while you have the romantic setting all ready, let’s look at some gift ideas for him and her. The Nguni Guy is described as having “rugged elegance meets unmatched luxury”, offering the optimal combinations of style and function. There are a couple of items that can go a long way like their handcrafted Nguni hide leather wallet. It’s perfect for the man in your life, to add that extra stylised touch. But if you want to spoil your special person, why not opt for something cosier like their sheepskin slippers or a plush sheepskin to drape over a couch or place at the bedside? These are always a winner and perfect prep for the oncoming cold season. Other goodies are their chic leather backpacks and handbags, which can function for work or leisure, and they will last you a lifetime! Men, this is one for the woman in your life.
DE TIAMO, located on Curry’s Post Road and at Netherwood Farm in Nottingham Road, is a luxury linen womenswear brand renowned for its quality and elegance—perfect for a thoughtful Valentine’s surprise. Recommended gift options include premium waterproof Batela Spanish jackets, available in a selection of practical styles that add a touch of Spanish flair to any outfit. Complement your gift with accessories from their SVZ Jewellery collection, crafted from the finest materials, featuring striking gemstone pendants and bold earrings. Other available items include exquisite handbags, Phelan leather sandals, Art of Soule espadrilles, and the luxurious Poppy Divine sleepwear.
For both the adventure and peace seekers, if your idea of a Valentine’s gift looks more like an activity, we have you covered! The Karkloof Canopy Tour zipline takes you through the Karkloof Mistbelt Forest and will be a fun challenge for all participants, and couples can get to know each other on a new level, quite literally! But there’s no pressure, this occasion is all about fun and the surrounding forest offers the best walks, especially if you would like to keep to the ground, along the stream that goes up to a nearby waterfall. You can have a picnic and soak up the fresh air. Couples have also chosen Karkloof Canopy Tours to pop the question (wink wink).
Looking for the ultimate escape to rest and rejuvenate? Fordoun Spa‘s Amore Package in Nottingham Road is perfect for couples, friends, or a solo trip to spoil yourself. This getaway replenishes your mind, body, and soul with boutique accommodation, a three-course dinner at the acclaimed Skye Bistro restaurant, and luxurious pampering. Your spa indulgence begins with a soothing Royal Zulu Mud Bath—a blend of African mud, salts, and herbal extracts for deep relaxation. This is followed by a 60-minute Signature Ndlovu Massage and a 25-minute Phumuza iKhanda Head Massage to melt away tension. Drift into bliss with a floatation session before enjoying an evening of rest, complete with a romantic rose petal turndown. Wake up refreshed and enjoy a delicious breakfast to complete your tranquil retreat.
For a Romantic Valentine’s weekend away, Sycamore Avenue Treehouses in Mooi River offers six unique and artistic-themed Treehouses. Each Treehouse has a spa-bath, private balcony, and fireplace. The price includes a three-course dinner and breakfast served in the dining-room with stunning views of the Drakensberg.
Take our Special Occasions package for a small extra fee and have champagne on ice, chocolates, and flowers waiting in your room.
When booking directly with us, you will receive a 10% discount for Valentine’s weekend.
We hope whatever you plan to do (or eat) on Valentine’s Day this year, will be filled with love and enjoyment whether you spend it with your significant other, your besties or yourself!
Contact Details:
Taste of Thai Restaurant and Spa: https://www.instagram.com/tasteofthaisouthafrica/
Hawklee Country House: https://www.instagram.com/hawklee_country_house/
Chocolate Heaven: https://www.instagram.com/chocolateheaven_za/
The Nguni Guy: https://www.instagram.com/thenguniguy/
DE TIAMO: https://www.instagram.com/deti.amo/
Karkloof Canopy Tours: https://www.instagram.com/canopytoursa/
Fordoun Spa: https://www.instagram.com/fordounhotel/
Sycamore Avenue Treehouses: https://www.facebook.com/SycamoreAvenueTreehouses/
Photo Credit:
The Nguni Guy: Ruby Jean Photography
DE TIAMO: Pagiel Chetty