Eclectic Wedding Venues - The Nutcracker

South Africa competes internationally as a top wedding destination. The magnificent beaches, untamed game reserves and endless vineyards are brimming with picture perfect sites and accommodating service. However, bridal couples are now seeking something just a little bit different from the mainstream – a mixture of old-school tradition, South African nature and modern amenities. They want an eclectic wedding venue that will remain in the memories of guests forever. Here are our top 5 eclectic wedding venues to consider.

5 Eclectic Wedding Venues

Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat (www.bushmanskloof.co.za)

For a really dramatic setting, you can’t go wrong with Bushman’s Kloof, complete with its natural rock amphitheatre that will transport you back in time. Situated in the foothills of the Cederberg Mountains in the Western Cape, the area boasts an ecological oasis of open plains, sandstone formations and ancient bush art sites dating back 10 000 years. The breathtaking beauty of the historic natural world is eclectically coupled with modern comfort and world-class service. The venue sleeps 42 guests in a spectacular selection of rooms, suites and private villas. A superb eclectic wedding venue.

The Nutcracker Country Wedding Venue (www.thenutcracker.co.za)

For a truly unique experience, you could hold your wedding on a pecan nut estate, located along the banks of the beautiful Vaal River just outside of Parys in the Free State. There is an eclectic combination of farmland and forest, with nature incorporated into the design of every element. This captivating countryside wedding venue with its quaint chapel and tasteful reception space also provides bridal couples with the option of an open-air ceremony and reception. The owners ensure personalised attention to every wedding and there is beautiful accommodation on site for 30 guests. For day out excursions, the venue is also in close proximity to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Vredefort Dome.

Tsala Treetop Lodge (www.tsala.hunterhotels.com)

Located between the coastal towns of Knysna and Plettenberg Bay in the Western Cape, this uniquely African eclectic venue is set amidst treetops of an age-old indigenous forest. Tsala’s impressive stone-masonry entrance, flanked by water features, leads to a magnificent foyer supported by Blackwood columns. This eclectic fusion of styles – ruins of central African civilisation and modern finishes – create an enviable matrimonial setting. There are endless views from the exotic dining room, intimate glassed-in lounge, or large open decks high above the forest floor. Bridal couples can also opt for the intimate ‘Chapel in the Forest’ venue, with weddings tailored to individual needs.

Lord Milner Hotel (www.matjiesfontein.com)

This glorious Western Cape eclectic wedding venue is another eclectic site consisting of historical architecture and modern facilities. Picturesque and quirky, the Lord Milner Hotel is suited to all bridal couple needs, from a lavish, old-school affair to a basic shotgun wedding! The venue boasts a number of ceremony and reception options, luxurious accommodation and enviable Karoo-style cuisine and local wines. In addition to the gorgeous venue, the area has beautiful gardens for relaxation, historic museums to explore and a gorgeous Victorian-style village.

Springgrove Estate Shed (www.springgrove-estate.com/the-shed/)

Another eclectic combination of historic décor and modern sophistication makes Springgrove one of Mpumalanga’s most dynamic Eclectic wedding venues. The original sheep-shearing sandstone shed, dating back more than a century, has been converted into a classic country venue. The elegant décor includes captivating chandeliers adorning timber trusses complete with a massive fireplace for warmth and ambience. In addition to the beautiful wedding venue, there is also charming accommodation on site. Positioned very close to the Swaziland border, guests have the option of popping across for a day visit to another country – just remember your passport!