Last week we had the pleasure of driving out to Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek to visit a few wedding venues in the area. Part of the Western Cape's Winelands region, these towns lie in the shadow of the Cape Fold Mountains, which creates incredible scenic backdrops for myriad vines, rolling hills and bold mountain vistas. Below are the venues we visited and can highly recommend to couples looking to get married in the Winelands.

 

Ex Nihlo

       

Ex Nihilo, our first stop on our trip through the Cape Winelands.  Here we were welcomed by Annuscha who works alongside Carissa - your go-to person when planning your dream day. This being my first visit to the venue, I was blown away by how the ceremony and reception venues bring the beauty of the outdoors inside. The all-embracing, landscaped gardens provide the perfect setting for photographs and – for those of you who wish – the ideal outdoor ceremony area.

The Atelier however was one of my favourite features of the overall great expanse which is the Ex Nihilo Estate. A simple, functional structure surrounded by lush olive groves, The Atelier accommodates several forms of occasions with ease: ceremony, pre-drinks area, dinner reception or even a separate ‘after reception’ party area.

The Main venue, a contemporary glass palace surrounded by magnificent scenery, can be used to host your reception.  The modern interior with its floor-to-ceiling glass windows, concrete floors and metal beam finishes, allows for couples to create a magical ambience. And why not use the venues in-house décor and design company Grand Room Designs to assist with your décor and flowers on the day?

With the accommodation just up the road, you and your closest friends and family can stay in close proximity to the estate.

For more information on Ex Nihilo visit their website.

 

Freedom Hill

       

Arriving at Freedom Hill, we were greeted by a spectacular view of the Simonsberg Mountains and the beautiful surrounding landscape. From the get-go we experienced a sense of freedom and joy – something the estate boasts of – hence its name.

The main venue is situated at the top of the estate among the vineyards and offers guests endless views of the valley below. The spacious venue is kept modern with its neutral interior and modern furniture pieces – a perfect canvas for bridal couple to create as they wish. With the option of manicured lawns or the amphitheatre area, couples have two ideal options for their ceremony.

Specialising in intimate, boutique weddings, the friendly staff at Freedom Hill go the extra mile to make all weddings faultless and flawless.  A must-see for couples looking for a venue in the winelands which offers complete exclusivity, delicious food and good wine.

For more information on Freedom Hill visit their website.

 

Landtscap

       

Driving to Landtscap, we were treated to a part of Stellenbosch one doesn’t often see.

Situated in the mountains of Devonvale, Landtscap embraces sweeping views and embodies the tranquillity of its surroundings.  We were greeted and shown around by the lovely Tammy during our visit. From the cutlery and crockery, to the lounge furniture provided as part of the venue hire, every aspect of Landtscap is modern, chic and specifically selected.

The manicured lawn area on the left of the venue provides the perfect area for a garden ceremony – and the views from this spot are second to none.

The modern, industrial facilities and sustainable design, presents a contemporary and spacious wedding and event venue. With sustainable goals set, and by adopting the practices and behaviours that support such goals, Landtscap has set the standard for venues in and around South Africa. With its impressive, notable philosophy and the brilliance of the venue itself, brides-to-be, this venue should be at the top of your list.

 For more information on Landtscap visit their website.

 

Clos Malverne

       

The Restaurant at Clos Malverne is a hidden culinary hotspot. The restaurant and venue offers guests endless views of breath-taking views of the Devon Valley with its wraparound balconies and floor-to-ceiling glass walls.

With many charming chapels in the area, bridal couples are spoilt with choice. Alternatively, should you wish to get married on-site, the ceremony area is set at the Prichard Family’s opulent pool area, on lush green lawns and overlooking beautiful mountain tops.

Clos Malverne is renowned for its repertoire of quality-driven, food friendly wines and with this in mind they now also offer a four course food and wine pairing menu which makes for the perfect wedding menu.

The friendly and professional staff, relaxed atmosphere, awe-inspiring views, and excellent food and wine at Clos Malverne make this a top recommendation to couples in search of the ideal wedding venue. Sit back, relax and let us the staff at Clos Malverne take care of your special day.

Thank you to Anita who took the time to show us around the venue and its various facilities – we will definitely be back to try the food and wine pairing!

For more information on Clos Malverne visit their website.