Jatinga Country Lodge

I appreciate that I’m only 23 but it doesn’t stop me dreaming about who I’ll end up with and where I may one day get married (don’t tell me you haven’t done the same because I won’t believe you).

I don’t want to freak Rog out by this (!) because believe me, I’m not in any way ready for marriage just yet, but I think I may have found my location. That is if I end up getting married in South Africa!  I always fantasised about a ceremony and reception at a beautiful stately home in the English countryside. My sister and I always dreamt of getting married to two men like the Bennett sisters in Pride & Prejudice and who knows, maybe that dream will still come true!

But for now, the location that is topping trumps is Jatinga Country Lodge in White River, Mpumalanga.

We were lucky enough to be invited for lunch at this beautiful lodge and while Rog was engrossed in conversation with Mornay, I went off exploring.

I hadn't been gone long when I came across a sweet little gate with behind it a magical place that can only be described as something from The Secret Garden. Once I had passed through the gates, I was totally captivated and just wanted to delve further into this beautiful Eden. And that is exactly what I did. 

Set among a vast lushness of willowing trees is the sweetest little chapel I've ever seen. It is draped with ivy and is quite exquisite. Silence permeates the entire garden and for a moment I forgot where I was. I sat down on a little bench for a while and simply enjoyed the stillness, contemplating what a stunning venue this would be for a wedding.

So if in a few years you’re invited to my wedding and are put off by the fact that it is taking place in South Africa, please re-think as you would be sad to miss out on this place, I can tell you.