Whether you’re planning a cosy staycation or a spontaneous mini-break this Valentine’s weekend, some cities in South Africa are simply made for romance. With City Lodge Hotels properties located in the heart of the country’s most popular destinations, planning a romantic Valentine’s getaway has never been easier.

Johannesburg

• When’s the last time you went to the movies and held hands in the dark, enraptured by a thrilling storyline? In addition to mainstream Nu Metro and Ster-Kinekor theatres, why not take in a classic movie at The Bioscope at 44 Stanley, Milpark, or check out their Comedy Sundays lineup.
• The revamped planetarium, now called the Wits Anglo American Digital Dome, offers exciting adventures exploring from deep within our Earth to journeying the cosmos. Reveal the mysteries of the universe and adventure to new lands beyond our solar system.
• Visit the famous Soweto Towers, a budget-friendly vertical adventure centre offering bungee jumping scad freefall, zipline, paintball and more. Add on a guided tour of this iconic township with a reputable tour guide and tap into its renowned buzz and history.

Cape Town

• In addition to walks along one of Cape Town’s magnificent beaches, also make a stop at the city’s Two Oceans Aquarium and spend a relaxing and fun few hours marvelling at its diverse range of sea creatures.
• The wonderful winelands is a huge attraction for local and international travellers to the Western Cape. If you want to sip and savour at a wine estate close to the city, try out Groot Constantia open seven days a week from 10:00 to 17:00.
• The City Sightseeing Cape Town Hop-on Hop-off red bus is a great way to explore the city from the lofty top floor, take great selfies with famous landmarks as a backdrop, and learn more about the Mother City.

Durban

• Join the throngs of joggers, dog walkers, and strollers along the famous Marine Parade and enjoy the fresh sea breeze while working up an appetite for our famous buffet breakfast.
• uShaka Marine World never fails to deliver a fun day out, complete with range of activities and adventures, like the Sea World aquarium, Wet n Wild slide park, creature encounters, promenade walks, and shopping.
• The Moses Mabida Stadium is an architectural masterpiece and visible from around the city. Tap into sporting fever with one of its inexpensive tours and, for the adventurous, climb to the top of the arch for an unforgettable view.

Pretoria

• If you’ve only seen the Union Buildings in pictures, make a point of strolling through its impressive gardens and tour this iconic curved building.
• The Pretoria National Botanical Gardens are a beautiful space to walk in nature and admire indigenous and exotic flowers, shrubs and trees. You can book a guided walk or simply marvel at the biodiversity on display.
• Go game and bird spotting with a self-drive experience through Rietvlei Nature Reserve. Tariffs are very reasonable and you’ll feel like you’ve gone on a proper safari.

Gqeberha

• Where there’s a beach, there’s an urge to kick off one’s shoes and let the waves lap over your feet and ankles. Summerstrand and Humewood Beach are a great choice in Gqeberha and we have three properties to choose from along the beachfront – a Courtyard Hotel, City Lodge Hotel, and Town Lodge.
• The Donkin Heritage Trail links 51 sites of historical interest in the old Hill area of central Gqeberha. From 1820 settlers’ history to buildings of architectural significance, it’s worth taking in a self-guided walking tour using the easily downloadable Donkin Heritage Trail map.
• If you’re keen to get your heart racing, pay a visit to Adrenalin Addo Adventure Park and sign up for one of their thrilling packages that includes the zipline, giant swing, and bungee trampoline.

Tips for Planning the Perfect Valentine’s Getaway

• Ask your hotel about their romantic room drops and turndown options over the Valentine’s weekend.
• Book your table at our comfortable restaurants and enjoy a delicious meal. Don’t forget to try our Sommelier’s Choice house wines, EASY Red and EASY White – easy by name, easy by price.
• Plan one special activity, whether it’s a sunset walk along the beach or in a botanical garden, an historical site seeing tour or scenic drive, or adrenalin junkies can sign up for a thrilling adventure.
• Keep it simple. Sometimes the most meaningful moments come from slowing down and enjoying time together. That’s why our mantra at City Lodge Hotels is “Life is hard. Check into easy.”

Wherever you choose to celebrate, City Lodge Hotels offers comfortable accommodation, convenient locations, and great value, making it easy to enjoy a romantic Valentine’s escape without the stress.

To check out the various savings on accommodation, food and beverage available during the romantic Valentine’s Weekend, go to our Specials.