Imagine gazing at starlit skies with your loved one, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the Eastern Cape rolling out endlessly in wave after wave of green mountains and valleys below your mountaintop idyll. Breathing in the cool, champagne air and the pure goodness as the forest below exhales.
Bellevue Forest Game Reserve, nestled in a malaria-free region of South Africa, within an hour’s easy drive from Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) airport, offers an idyllic retreat for couples seeking romance and adventure. This unique destination combines the vastness of the bush with the allure of the Big Five, located conveniently close to the iconic Addo Elephant National Park. Here, you’ll experience the perfect blend of natural beauty and warm African hospitality—a truly memorable escape.
Cherish Unforgettable Romantic Moments
February is the “Month of Love,” and to honour the person who has travelled your life journey alongside you, Bellevue has curated an exclusive package for couples to celebrate their commitment.
This one-night getaway includes:
- Luxurious accommodation in an elegantly appointed room
- A romantic, private dinner under the stars
- A hearty breakfast by the renowned chef team
- A guided giraffe walking safari – the most sought after activity in the region
- A magical sunset game drive through the bush, looking for a wide range of wildlife species including elephants, buffalo and lions.
Giraffe Walking Safari
This safari offers an exhilarating and authentic African experience. It takes place in a 2,500-hectare private game reserve, allowing you to walk among majestic giraffes in their natural habitat – an adventure you’ll never forget. Feel the thrill as you track these gentle giants, seeing them dominate the treetops of the bushveld.
(This unique activity is included in the “Month of Love” package but is also ordinarily available separately from R810 per person – check our website for details).
Sunset Game Drive
For a serene and romantic adventure, the sunset game drive is a must. Let the enchanting dusk of the African bush set the perfect tone for your evening as you enjoy breathtaking views and quiet moments with your partner.
This activity is also part of the “Month of Love” package and is available for guests seeking a more relaxing bush experience.
End your day around a crackling wood fire, under the stunning Eastern Cape night sky, perfect for stargazing and creating unforgettable memories.
Luxury Accommodation Options
At Bellevue, your comfort is a priority. Choose from a variety of accommodations to suit your style:
- Elephants Lodge: Elegantly designed with Eastern Cape charm, ideal for couples and small families. Rooms are set among an exquisite mature garden full of birds.
- Safari Tents: For those with a sense of adventure, these luxuriously furnished and equipped ‘glamping’ tents provide a unique bush experience. Walking distance from the Lodge, but with enough privacy to ensure an intimate escape.
Each option provides privacy, luxury, and an opportunity to immerse yourself in the serene beauty of nature.
Culinary Delights and Relaxation
Bellevue’s “Month of Love” package takes care of your meals, offering a romantic dinner and breakfast. For added indulgence, opt for a bush dinner or a picnic in the forest (available at an extra cost).
Nearby, the Addo Indlovu Spa offers a range of wellness treatments—perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. For something truly unique, try forest bathing, a calming experience that connects you with nature.
Activities Beyond Romance
Bellevue Forest Game Reserve offers a variety of activities for every interest (kindly enquire and book in advance to ensure availability):
- Big Five Encounters: Witness lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalos, and leopards in their natural habitat.
- Buffalo Encounters: Get a behind-the-scenes look at the care and conservation of these magnificent animals.Addo Elephant Park Safari: Explore the famous national park for unforgettable wildlife viewing.
- Helicopter Tours: Experience the breathtaking Eastern Cape from above.
- Nature Walks: Guided tours to discover the reserve’s unique flora and fauna.
- Community Engagement: Participate in local projects through the Bellevue Foundation and contribute to responsible tourism.
Plan Your Romantic Getaway
Booking your stay at Bellevue Forest Game Reserve is simple. Choose from flexible packages, including bed and breakfast, full board, or all-inclusive rates. The “Month of Love” package is available for R7,500 per couple and includes both the giraffe walking safari and sunset game drive.
A conservation levy of R140 for adults per night supports ongoing wildlife protection efforts. Check-in is at 14:00, and check-out is at 10:00. Be sure to review the terms and conditions, including the cancellation policy. Kindly note that pets are not allowed.
A Commitment to Conservation
Bellevue Forest Game Reserve is more than a destination—it’s a sanctuary for wildlife and a model for sustainable tourism. The Buchner family, owners of the reserve, are passionate about restoring wild areas and protecting wildlife corridors. Their efforts include safeguarding endangered species, like the flightless dung beetle, and ensuring harmonious coexistence between nature and guests.
Through the Bellevue Foundation, the reserve also uplifts local communities by supporting education, environmental conservation, and other vital projects. Guests are invited to participate, transforming their stay into a meaningful contribution to the region.
Why Choose Bellevue Forest Game Reserve?
- Location: A serene blend of natural beauty and remoteness.
- Wildlife: Unique encounters with giraffes, elephants, and the Big Five.
- Luxury: Stylish accommodations tailored to your preferences.
- Activities: A variety of experiences, from safaris to spa treatments.
- Community Impact: Responsible tourism that supports conservation and local communities.