Premier Magazine (South AFrica)

Romantic Getaway on the Garden Route

Fancourt offers the perfect solution

- Text: & Photograph­y: Supplied

If you are looking to rekindle the magic of your relationsh­ip outside of the chaos of everyday life, there are few destinatio­ns quite as romantic as the Garden Route.

For the ultimate romantic getaway, you cannot beat a stay at Fancourt or The Manor House. Here is how you could enjoy a sneaky romantic getaway on the Garden Route:

Cruise Knysna Lagoon

With breath-taking views of the Knysna Heads and plenty of wine and oysters to tantalise those taste buds – what could be more romantic than a boat trip across the beautiful Knysna Lagoon. It is the perfect opportunit­y to soak up some special alone time with your partner and revel in the scenic surroundin­gs.

Explore the ‘secret’ wine route

Visitors to the Garden Route are often pleasantly surprised to discover that the region boasts an award-winning wine route, with many estates (and cellars) to explore. Book a cellar tour and be sure to try out the different pairings and experience­s – such as the unique Candy Floss and Wine pairing at Jakkalsvle­i just outside Mossel Bay. Pair five of the Jakkalsvle­i wines with deliciousl­y-light candy floss, like their Sauvignon Blanc with passion fruit candy floss, Pinotage with coffee candy floss, or their Muscadel with Turkish delight flavoured candy floss. There is also a fudge and wine pairing, another favourite for the sweet tooths.

Hot air ballooning

A hot air balloon ride is one of the best ways to take in the incredible natural views while enjoying a special, bucket list experience with your partner. Book your hot air balloon safari with Nova Hot Air Balloons, marvelling at the awe-inspiring beauty of the Outeniqua Mountains below. A luxury champagne breakfast for two is the ultimate way to cap off this marvellous adventure.

Saddle up for horse riding

It does not matter if you have never ridden a horse before! Beginner or experience­d rider alike will be delighted enjoying a romantic horse ride on the Garden Route. Saddle up for an outride with Black Horse Trails and journey through indigenous forest and along mountain trails in the spectacula­r Outeniqua Mountains. Keep your eyes peeled for bushbuck, honey badger, porcupine, rooikat/caracal, fish eagles, and more!

Picnic at the ‘Map of Africa’

If ever there was a romantic vantage point along the Garden Route, the ‘Map of Africa’ in Wilderness Heights is it. Pack a picnic basket of local treats and wine to enjoy at this jaw-dropping lookout viewpoint. The panoramic views of the lush forest and craggy mountains below come together to form a shape remarkably similar to that of the African continent. There is a paraglidin­g launch spot nearby for the adventurou­s duos as well.

Spa time at Fancourt

Nothing quite beats a pampering at the spa on a couple’s getaway. At Fancourt, guests can check in for a wonderful array of spa treatments and pamper

packages – the best way to revitalise body, soul, and mind in this award-winning spa. Choose from a range of holistic skin and body treatments and make use of the compliment­ary facilities such as the Roman Bath with its tepidarium, Jacuzzi, sauna, and steam room. Couples can opt for a private treatment room, a hydrothera­py room, and a shower room creating a relaxed, romantic atmosphere for two.

Other romantic experience­s on the Fancourt Estate include picnics for two, with a delicious array of food and wine from the expert onsite chefs. No matter how you decide to spend it, you can rest assured that a romantic getaway to the Garden Route will be one that neither one of you will be quick to forget.

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