THE 8 BEST PLACES TO PROPOSE ON VALENTINE’S DAY

It’s Valentine’s Month, and love is in the air. If you’re planning to get engaged, you’re not alone – 43% of millennials in a recent survey chose February 14th as their ideal day to pop the question (or be proposed to). Once you’ve found the perfect diamond engagement ring, all you need to do next is figure out where, exactly, to do it. Fortunately, South Africa is brimming with some of the world’s most idyllic and romantic locations to make your dream proposal a reality. Take a look at our top 8 places to propose in South Africa, on Valentine’s Day.

1. WINE FARM

Whisk her away on Valentine’s weekend to one of the countless charming wine farm hotels in Franschhoek, Stellenbosch, or Paarl. Here, you are spoilt for choice with stunning scenery as the backdrop to your proposal – amidst the mountains or even in the actual vineyards. The best part is there will be plenty of wine or bubbles at your disposal to celebrate the resounding ‘yes’! 

2. ON WATER’S EDGE

From Clifton in Cape Town to Umhlanga in Durban, there is no shortage of beautiful beaches to get down on one knee. There is just something about watching the sunset on the horizon along with the crashing sound of the ocean, the sand between your toes, and the breeze in your hair, that makes the beach a surefire-winning destination. 

If the beach isn’t quite your cup of tea, a proposal out on the shimmering Lake Jozini in KwaZulu-Natal during a sunset cruise is hard to top. This is an especially great idea if you are planning to include family and friends on board to celebrate the momentous occasion. 

3. SAFARI GAME RESERVE

South Africa boasts some of the world’s most luxurious safari game lodges with unspoiled nature, gorgeous African sunsets, and unrivalled wildlife viewing. Take advantage of the unique opportunity to propose on a scenic game drive, or around an evening bonfire under the stars with the sound of lions roaring in the background.

4. AMIDST THE MAGICAL MOUNTAINS

From Cederberg to the Drakensberg to Table Mountain, South Africa features some of the most jaw-dropping mountain ranges. Whether you plan a romantic picnic during a hike, or take the cable car to the top of one of the world’s seven natural wonders, being surrounded by such dramatic scenery is all you need for the perfect proposal (along with a sparkling diamond ring, of course!).

5. CAPE POINT

What better place to join two lives, than where two oceans meet? Cape Point in the Western Cape is a spectacular location that offers plenty of dreamy spots and clifftop strolls for a Valentine’s proposal. 

6. THE CAPE TOWN DIAMOND MUSEUM

There are few more convenient places to propose than in a beautiful jewellery store. Suggest a tour through the Cape Town Diamond Museum at the V&A Waterfront, where you can experience the fascinating world of diamonds like you’ve never seen before. At the end of the tour, you’re shown into the Shimansky Showroom, which features an exquisite selection of diamond jewellery and internationally patented cuts. Suggest that she try on a few rings, before asking her which one she likes the most. This is your cue to go down on bended knee and make it official. Shimansky’s diamond experts will be on hand to arrange any special requests to make the moment even more special.

7. GONDOLA RIDE

It may not be Venice, but proposing while floating down the Durban Point Waterfront canals in your very own Gondola is definitely a close second! It is especially magical at night, surrounded by the city’s colourful lights.

8. GOD’S WINDOW, BLYDE RIVER CANYON

This breathtaking scenery sets the mood to ask that life-changing question. From God’s Window, you can see all the way to Mozambique and into the incredibly lush clad ravine.