Where Heritage Meets Heart - A Karoo Fairytale Wedding Destination

In the heart of Graaff-Reinet, one of South Africa’s oldest and most charming towns, the Drostdy Hotel offers couples a wedding venue unlike any other, with a legacy spanning over two centuries, embraced by the beauty of the Camdeboo National Park, and brought to life by exceptional service and heartfelt hospitality.  

It’s a living piece of South African history, where each courtyard, corridor, and cottage whispers stories of the past, while celebrating the infinite possibilities of the future. 

A Historic Setting with Timeless Romance 

Graaff-Reinet, founded in 1786, is a national treasure known for its Cape Dutch, Victorian, and Karoo architecture, cobblestone streets, and warm country charm. The town is almost entirely surrounded by the Camdeboo National Park, where wildlife and dramatic landscapes, including the famous Valley of Desolation, provide a breathtaking backdrop for wedding photographs. 

The Drostdy Hotel itself dates back to the early 1800s. Originally the magistrate’s residence, it has evolved into a National Monument and 5-star boutique hotel after meticulous restoration. Today, it is a place where history blends seamlessly with modern elegance, offering couples the chance to exchange vows in a setting that feels both grand and intimate. 

Your Wedding, Your Way 

Whether you dream of an intimate elopement for two or a grand celebration for up to 120 guests, the Drostdy’s dedicated wedding coordinator will craft your day to perfection. From entertainment and tailored menus to floral design, table décor, spa treatments, and even curated excursions for your guests, every detail is thoughtfully taken care of. 

Couples can choose from a variety of venues within the property: 

• Lovers Lane – A romantic, tucked-away ceremony space for smaller groups, perfect for a serene and meaningful “I do” 

• De Camdeboo Restaurant & Lawns – Indoor-outdoor elegance with an expansive terrace, lush lawns, and the option for a starlit pop-up dance floor 

• Imibala Gallery – A unique art-filled setting for 20 to 60 guests, ideal for intimate receptions 

• Stretch’s Court & Poolside – Perfect for canapés, cocktails, and lawn games, offering guests space to mingle and relax between formalities 

A Bride’s Story – My Drostdy Wedding 

For bride Luzaan, the magic of booking the Drostdy for exclusive use was the freedom to flow through multiple spaces on her wedding day: 

“I got ready in my lovely room, steamed, bathed with my blomme meisie, and relaxed while my bridesmaids finished up. My ceremony was in Lovers Lane, just steps away from my room. Guests enjoyed canapés in Stretch’s Court and by the pool, playing lawn games and freshening up in their rooms whenever they liked. The reception was held under the enchanting stars of the Karoo, outside the restaurant, and we danced in the courtyard until midnight, with the bar staying open until 3 am. It was perfect.” 

The peace of mind was just as important: 

“If it had rained, we could have moved everything into the Gallery or the restaurant and lounge. The staff served butler-style, the menu was customised to our tastes, and having LX Events as our planner meant I did nothing but enjoy it.” 

Exclusive or Non-Exclusive – Your Choice 

The Drostdy offers exclusive use for weddings of 61–120 guests with a minimum of 40 rooms booked, ensuring complete privacy for your celebration. Smaller weddings can opt for non-exclusive use, choosing from the hotel’s flexible spaces without minimum room bookings. 

The Finishing Touches  

Every wedding package includes: 

• A complimentary bridal suite on the wedding night 

• Couples’ massages at the spa the day after 

• A discounted first anniversary stay 

• A 25% discount on spa treatments for the bridal party 

Optional extras include fairy lights, dance floors, and the flexibility to work with your own décor suppliers. Menus range from canapés to decadent multi-course feasts, with wine selections from the hotel or its own De Camdeboo Wijnkamer. Dietary requirements are accommodated with care, including outsourced kosher or halal options if needed. 

Relax, Indulge, and Prepare in Style 

The Africology Spa at the Drostdy makes pre-wedding pampering unforgettable, offering treatments at 25% off for the bridal party. From the Himalayan Salt Sauna to private hair and make-up bookings, up to three members can be treated at once while the rest relax in the garden’s hanging nest chairs or by the pool. 

What Sets Drostdy Apart 

What makes Drostdy Hotel a stand-out wedding venue is its rare blend of heritage, versatility, and heartfelt hospitality: 

• Historic Soul – A National Monument with over 200 years of history 

• Natural Beauty – Set in a town surrounded by Camdeboo National Park 

• Personalised Service – A dedicated coordinator to make your vision reality 

• Multiple Venues in One – Move effortlessly between spaces for each part of the day 

For all reservations inquiries, please contact reservations by telephone at +27 (0)49 892 2161 or by email at reservations@drostdy.co.za, or visit the website www.drostdy.co.za