Cape Town and Winelands

Cape Town is an exceptional city that combines modern sophistication with fascinating native history and culture. Known as “The Mother City” it is flanked by the majestic Table Mountain and witnesses the meeting of two great oceans – the Atlantic and Indian.

Voted one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Cape Town offers a choice of excellent accommodation ranging from budget to deluxe five star options, combined with first class service. In addition to the city centre there are a number of trendy areas around Cape Town that provide a wonderful base for exploration. The seaside areas of Camps Bay, Granger Bay and Seapoint are perfect for a relaxing beachside break, while the centuries old Victoria and Alfred Waterfront enjoys a lively atmosphere. Home to designer boutiques, hip restaurants, cafes and bars it is a great place to leisurely pass the day.

There are numerous activities in and around Cape Town offering an insight into the interesting and colourful culture and history of the African people. Don’t miss the unique cultural experience of an escorted tour of the local townships. In addition, a visit to the famous prison on Robben Island in Table Bay is fascinating. This UN World Heritage Site was used by the South African government to house political prisoners and Nelson Mandela was imprisoned here from 1964 to 1982.

The famous Cape Winelands, situated in the Western Cape are just a short drive from Cape Town and offer spectacular vineyards, with magnificent mountains forming a scenic backdrop. Dating back more than 300 years the wines of the Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl regions offer internationally acclaimed wines. The estates have opened their cellars and properties to visitors who are treated to tastings, cellar tours, fabulously stocked picnic hampers and tours of the farms. Franschhoek for example is fast becoming known as the gourmet capital of the Cape. Stellenbosch is South Africa’s second oldest town and the centre of South Africa’s wine industry. It is also home to some well preserved buildings with Cape Dutch, Victorian and Georgian architecture.

Top tips/recommended tours Day Trips: Hiring a car makes day trips easy and itineraries flexible. However, there is a huge choice of comprehensive escorted day trips available from Cape Town if you do not wish to self-drive. Hermanus: This coastal village on the Southern Cape is one of the most popular places in South Africa to view whales. Either watch from the shore or take a cruise out amongst these awesome creatures. It is an easy drive from Cape Town and makes for a fascinating day trip or overnight extension.    Table Mountain: Take a revolving cable car ride up Table Mountain and enjoy spectacular views of the city, Cape peninsula and the ocean. You may also hike up to the top if you are feeling particularly energetic! Cape Point: The most southwesterly point of Africa is located at the end of the Cape Peninsula, in the Good Hope Section of the Table Mountain National Park. The scenery here is remarkable, with the peak rising 249m above sea level - it can be reached by foot or on the funicular railway.