If you’re dreaming of a wedding surrounded by soaring peaks, dramatic skies, and a sense of peace you just can’t find in the city, then a Drakensberg wedding venue might be perfect for you. These easily accessible mountains are one of South Africa’s most breathtaking backdrops, and after 15 years as a wedding photographer (including winning South African Wedding Photographer of the Year 2025), I can tell you that Drakensberg wedding venues photograph like a dream.

In this guide, I’ll take you through some of my favourite Drakensberg wedding venues in South Africa, share real wedding stories from the mountains, and give you practical tips to help you decide if this is the right setting for your big day.

Why Drakensberg weddings are so incredible

There’s something undeniably special about the Drakensberg. The sheer scale of the mountains adds instant grandeur, while the quiet rivers and valleys bring calm and intimacy. Whether you’re planning a glamorous black-tie celebration, a colourful alternative party, or a simple mountaintop micro-wedding, Drakensberg wedding venues have a way of making every moment feel bigger, richer, and more memorable.

For South African couples, it’s a destination without leaving the country. For international couples, it’s a hidden gem: a wedding location that rivals the Alps or Rockies, but with a uniquely African feel. And as someone who grew up learning about weather and light, I can honestly say that these mountains deliver some of the most dramatic, joy-filled wedding photographs imaginable.

Beautiful Wedding Venues in The Drakensberg

I’ve had the joy of photographing several weddings in the Drakensberg, and each one has been completely unique. Here are a few highlights:

Champagne Sports Resort – Central Drakenberg Wedding Venue

Champagne Sports Resort is a Drakensberg golf course and venue, perfect for larger weddings. It offers all the amenities you’d expect alongside those unforgettable views. Think classic black-tie elegance set against the mountain backdrop. The most memorable wedding I photographed at Champagne Sports Resort was all about Autumn glamour! A celebration that felt straight out of a timeless film.

Champagne Castle – Champagne Valley Wedding Venue

If you’re leaning toward a more intimate celebration, Champagne Castle is a brilliant Drakensberg wedding venue option. Their incredible glass-fronted chapel looks out onto the mountains and grazing horses. I captured a beautiful micro-wedding here, where the mountains framed every moment. This is a Drakensberg wedding venue that celebrates the mountains at every turn, and that you can really make your own

Lake St Bernard – Southern Drakensberg Wedding Venue

This was a standout wedding for me: a true mountaintop micro-wedding. Emma and Fourie wanted to say their vows high above the world, and that sense of adventure shaped the whole day. Their Drakensberg mountaintop wedding blog post continues to pull a lot of traffic to my blog, which tells me just how many adventurous couples are searching for this kind of experience. Lake St Bernard partnered up with St Bernards Peak across the road make this dream wedding happen!

Dragon Peaks Lodge – Rustic Drakensberg Wedding Venue

This venue has a really relaxed Boma-feel. The couple I photographed here totally leaned into their personalities! Emily’s bright blue hair and floral hand-embroidered veil combined with Bern’s velvet suit jacket set the tone for a wedding that was relaxed, colourful, and anything but ordinary. Dragon Peaks has a wonderful, budget-friendly balance of rustic charm and mountain views.

What You Need to Know About Drakensberg Weddings

Weddings in the mountains are breathtaking, but they do come with unique considerations. Here are a few to keep in mind:

The Weather Factor

The Drakensberg is famous for its unpredictable weather. Clear skies can turn into dramatic storms in minutes — and those storms can then clear into some of the most magical sunsets you’ve ever seen. It’s all part of the charm, but it does mean couples need to be flexible. (I’ve written a full post about the challenges of choosing a unique outdoor wedding venue in South Africa if you’d like to dive deeper into this topic.)

Seasons in the Drakensberg

Every season has its own mood here. I’ve written a full guide on the best time of year for Drakensberg photography, but here’s a quick overview:

• Summer: Lush greens, dramatic thunderstorms, and flowing rivers.
• Autumn: Colourful trees, soft golden light and cooler, more settled weather.
• Winter: Crisp air, brown landscapes, and sometimes even snow on the peaks.
• Spring: Fresh wildflowers and clear skies.

No matter when you choose, the mountains always bring something magical to your photos!

Accessibility & Guest Experience

Some venues are easy to reach by car, while others are more remote. Think about your guest list and whether you want the adventure of a hidden gem or the convenience of a resort.

My Style and How I’ll photograph Your Drakensberg wedding

Over the years, I’ve learned that the Drakensberg rewards couples who lean into the joy of the moment. My style is easy-going and focused on real laughter, real connection, and the magic of light.

Because I grew up learning about weather and light, I know how to use the unpredictability of the mountains to your advantage. My job is to make sure that no matter what the weather does, we make the right moves and that you get the best photos possible!

Finding the Right Drakensberg Wedding Venue

I really believe that finding the right setting is all about matching a venue to your wedding vision. Ask yourself:

• Do you picture a large celebration with all your friends and family, or a micro-wedding with just a handful of guests? This will narrow down your wedding venue by capacity.
• Do you want grandeur and glamour, or rustic intimacy? This will narrow down your wedding venue options by look.
• Do you see yourself dancing under fairy lights, or saying vows high on a mountaintop? This will narrow down your wedding venue options based on their ceremony and reception spaces.

Final Thoughts

The Drakensberg is one of South Africa’s most magical wedding destinations. Whether you’re drawn to its sweeping mountain views, its cosy lodges, or the sheer sense of adventure it inspires, this is a place where your wedding can truly feel one-of-a-kind.

If you’re planning a Drakensberg wedding, I’d love to chat about how we can capture your day in a way that feels natural, effortless, and joy-filled. Get in touch with me and let’s start planning your mountain wedding story.

Frequently Asked Questions About Drakensberg Photography