Romantic attractions in KZN to visit with someone special

Boats Tours in St. Lucia

KwaZulu-Natal is every couple’s dream holiday destination, especially since it offers many options to suit everyone.

Tourism KwaZulu-Natal shares some ideas:

GO ON PICNIC

Durban and surrounding areas boast an array of picnic spots. Some of them include the Durban, Pietermaritzburg Botanical Gardens, Paradise Valley Nature Reserve and Mitchell Park.

TREAT YOUR BAE TO A GONDOLA RIDE

Travellers get to enjoy a peaceful gondola ride on the Point Waterfront Canal, which gives a fresh take on the Venice tourist bucket list activity. Guests board at the dock situated at the Ushaka end of the Durban Point Waterfront.

Once inside the gondola, the couple will be taken on a scenic journey where they can capture pictures galore. You can increase the time on the gondola for an additional cost. A 15-minute ride costs R60pp. Visit www. gondolas.co.za

DURBAN BEACHFRONT PROMENADE

There's nothing more romantic than a stroll down the Durban Beachfront promenade with your beloved. There are plenty of shops and restaurants along the way to explore. The best times to visit is during sunrise or sunset.

SHONGWENI DAM NATURE RESERVE

Shongweni Dam Nature Reserve is famed for its spectacular natural surroundings. There's plenty to keep you entertained, from scenic walks, game drives, rock climbing, abseiling, mountain bike rides or guided canoe journeys. Visit www. shongwenidamreserve.africa

Boats Tours in St. Lucia

TAKE A ROAD TRIP TO THE MIDLANDS

Just an hour and a half away lies the Midlands Meander where a range of activities await lovers.

Here you can enjoy everything from laid-back farmstyle cuisine to fine dining in stunning, scenic locations.

There is a wide selection of accommodation suited to couples.

Be sure to go for a cookie and wine pairing at Granny Mouse Country Hotel and snap selfies at Howick Falls.

THE NELSON MANDELA CAPTURE SITE

For couples who love to know about the history of the country, specifically about the former president Nelson Mandela, a visit to the Nelson Mandela Capture Site is a must. Nelson Mandela Capture Site commemorates his August 5, 1962 arrest by police at the site.

It was originally a small bricked area with a plaque.

However, to mark the 50th anniversary in 2012, a steel structure depicting Mandela was resurrected.

The 35-metre sculpture has become the backdrop for many Instagram snaps.

ST LUCIA

Lake St Lucia is one of the 10 jewels of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park and Unesco World Heritage Site. It is also Africa’s largest estuarine system and home to over 800 happy hippos, 1 200 crocodiles, pelicans, and flamingos.

The best way to experience it is via a boat cruise at Lake St Lucia. During the cruise, trained guides share their expertise and provide commentary on the workings of Africa’s largest estuarine system.

Of course, the hippos love to put on a show. But you have to keep an eye out for the crocodiles.

GIANTS CASTLE GAME RESERVE IN THE DRAKENSBERG

Giants Castle Nature Reserve is ideal if you want to enjoy quiet time with your partner.

You can go for a game drive, go fishing or go on a self-guided walk, and spend some muchneeded time in nature.

For a small fee, you can also visit one sandstone caves that contain San rock art.

Good for day visitors or an overnight stay. Visit www. giantscastle.info/giants-castle/ giants-castle-game-reserve