Celebrating Special Occasions At Drostdy Hotel: From Weddings To Anniversaries
While it’s easy to get caught up in the details of planning a gathering – be it big or small – the essence of a get together should always be to share in and be a part of life’s most significant moments. We like to think that here, in the heart of the Karoo, where time seems to slow, there is space to be fully present in the celebrations that matter most, be it a wedding to witness the commitment of two hearts, marking a milestone anniversary or gathering with loved ones for a birthday. The Drostdy Hotel, located in the historic town of Graaff-Reinet, acts as a piece of the past put forward to celebrate the future. Here, we aim to take all the stress out of planning your event, with a talented in-house team to handle the finer details on your behalf. So, are you planning to say I do? Are you looking for a destination to celebrate an upcoming anniversary? Or, are you looking for the perfect venue to toast to another journey around the sun? Below we’ll explore the possibilities at Drostdy Hotel, where we blend timeless charm with modern convenience and luxury to host events worth talking about for many years to come! Your Karoo Wedding When it comes to Karoo wedding venues, few can rival the allure of Drostdy Hotel. Our grand dame, originally built in the 1800s, was painstakingly restored into a luxurious hotel with every modern comfort – a ready-made canvas requiring minimal effort in preparation for your big day. Depending on the season, we have a variety of enchanting spaces for the moment you say ‘I do,’ whether you envision an intimate garden ceremony in the dappled sunlight of Lover’s Lane or a formal reception under high ceilings and chandeliers. Our town is home to a number of churches in which to have your ceremony. Graaff-Reinet’s famous Dutch Reformed Church is within walking distance of our hotel and is a popular option if you’re looking to host your nuptials off-site and join us later for the reception. At the hotel, the elegant décor, historic architecture, and serene surroundings provide a gorgeous backdrop for wedding photographs. A note for the couple… We know that planning a wedding can feel overwhelming. That is why we treat each wedding as a unique event, offering you the support of our experienced in-house team – from menu planning and on-the-day coordination to wine selection from our on-site retail shop. Above Image Credits: Instagram | justjordanphotography We invite you to make use of our in-house décor. Alternatively, we’d be happy to assist you in sourcing what you need from a list of trusted suppliers to create just the look you’ve always dreamed of! Our venue is flexible to suit your vision. Enjoy full exclusivity by booking all rooms and spaces for your special day. If you’re opting for something more intimate, you can also cordon off a smaller section of the hotel for your celebration – the choice is yours! To view our full Wedding Brochure, click here. A Romantic Karoo Anniversary Anniversaries are a time to reflect on shared memories and spend quality time with our partners. Whether you’re celebrating your first year of marriage or toasting to decades together, Drostdy Hotel offers an idyllic setting for an anniversary getaway or celebration dinner. With our tranquil gardens, luxurious stay options, and elegant De Camdeboo Restaurant, the scene is set for couples seeking a romantic escape. For something extra special, chat to our reception desk about the possibility of setting up an intimate dinner in our Vinoteque. Alternatively, should the weather permit, we can organise a picnic basket for you and your partner to take to the viewpoint at the Valley of Desolation. This makes for a wonderful date idea – particularly at sunset. If you like, you are welcome to select a wine from our wine shop to accompany your snacks. The beauty of Graaff-Reinet for an anniversary getaway is the scope it provides for couples to simply be. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in the sunshine, a stroll through Graaff-Reinet’s charming streets, or a couple’s treatment at our Africology Spa. We recommend the Karoo Couples Escape treatment, which includes an aroma oil massage and either a manicure or a pedicure. At night, you can look forward to a special turndown with thoughtful touches to round off the perfect day together! Browse our hotel’s website and start dreaming of your romantic Karoo escape to Drostdy Hotel! Memorable Milestones & Birthday Celebrations Life’s milestones deserve more than a passing nod, they deserve to be celebrated in a place as special as the occasion itself. Whether you’re planning a 40th birthday dinner, a family reunion, or a retirement celebration, Drostdy Hotel offers a setting that turns any gathering into an event in its own right. Host a long-table lunch, enjoy cocktails in the bar area or book out a private dining experience in Vinoteque for a more intimate affair. Our culinary team can tailor menus to suit your style, whether it’s a braai or a multi-course tasting experience. (On prior arrangement.) Adding extra flair to the occasion, our events team will work alongside you to create a celebration that feels effortless and allows you to focus on your guests, being present to soak up every moment. Why Choose Us? Beyond its visual appeal, what truly sets Drostdy Hotel apart among Karoo wedding venues and venues in general is its atmosphere; a unique mix of old-world elegance and warm, Karoo hospitality. Every event hosted here is underpinned by our commitment to excellence, ensuring that your special occasion is not just memorable, but exceptional. Our central location in the Eastern Cape makes us an accessible option for guests travelling from across the country. Book Your Special Occasion Whether you’re envisioning a grand wedding, a romantic anniversary escape, or a milestone celebration, the Drostdy Hotel is ready to breathe life into your vision. To start the process, visit our website and