A South African Perfect Twin-Centre Escape
Cape Town & The Winelands: A Perfect Twin-Centre Escape
My first visit to South Africa was at the age of 16, when I travelled with my family and experienced both Cape Town and the Kruger National Park. From early-morning game drives in search of the Big Five to the sheer scale and beauty of the landscapes, it remains one of the most memorable trips of my teenage years. Those experiences left a lasting impression and sparked a desire to return someday—something I hope to share with my own children in the future.
Years later, the opportunity to revisit South Africa as a Travel Counsellor was one, I simply couldn’t pass up. This trip allowed me to rediscover Cape Town and explore the renowned Winelands with some of my colleagues.
We travelled business class with British Airways via London Heathrow, a seamless journey made even more comfortable by the minimal time difference between Ireland and Cape Town. With lie-flat seating and plenty of space to relax, we arrived refreshed and ready to explore immediately—an important consideration for travellers planning a packed itinerary.
During our stay in Cape Town, we were based at the 4-star Commodore Hotel, ideally located in the heart of the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. The hotel offers wonderful views of Table Mountain and provides easy walking access to shops, restaurants, and key attractions, making it an excellent base for first-time visitors.
With just three nights in the city, our itinerary was ambitious but ticked all of our boxes. We followed one of Cape Town’s most scenic coastal routes, taking in Camps Bay, Chapman’s Peak Drive, Hout Bay, Cape Point Nature Reserve, the Cape of Good Hope, and the penguin colony at Boulders Beach. This journey showcases the dramatic meeting point of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans and highlights the region’s remarkable natural beauty.
A visit to Cape Town would not be complete without ascending Table Mountain. Weather conditions are key, so it’s advisable to plan this early in your stay. We were fortunate to enjoy clear skies and took the cable car to the summit, where panoramic views over the city and coastline offered a truly iconic experience.
Robben Island was another standout highlight. Advance booking is essential due to its popularity. Departing from the Nelson Mandela Gateway at the V&A Waterfront, the ferry journey takes approximately 40 minutes—keep an eye out for whales en route. The guided tour is particularly powerful, as many guides are former political prisoners or prison guards. Visiting Nelson Mandela’s cell and hearing first-hand accounts made for an emotional and humbling experience that left a lasting impression.
On our second day, we ventured into the Western Cape Winelands, starting in Stellenbosch, just under an hour from Cape Town. Here, we enjoyed a culinary walking tour with Bites and Sites, exploring the historic town centre while sampling artisan breads and local wines. Stellenbosch’s vibrant atmosphere, shaped by its university culture, offers a perfect blend of history, gastronomy, and energy.
From there, we travelled to Franschhoek and visited the exquisite 5-star Mont Rochelle, a 26-room boutique hotel and vineyard owned by Sir Richard Branson. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Franschhoek Valley, Mont Rochelle is a tranquil retreat renowned for its exceptional food, wine, and scenery.
We then boarded the famous Franschhoek Wine Tram, a wonderful way to experience the valley’s vineyards from a unique perspective. The open-sided tram stops at several of South Africa’s most historic and prestigious wine estates. Rickety Bridge stood out as a favourite, and we couldn’t resist bringing a few bottles home to Ireland.
Our final day was dedicated to an immersive cultural experience in Cape Town, allowing us to connect with local communities in a meaningful way. We explored the vibrant suburb of Woodstock and its striking street art, visited ceramicist and scientist John Bauer at his studio, and enjoyed a private musical performance by composer and musician Hilton Schilder at his home in Grassy Park. We also visited Langa, the oldest township in South Africa, gaining valuable insight into the country’s history and contemporary life.
We finished off our amazing three-night trip with a few sundowners at the stunning Twelve Apostles Hotel in Camps Bay, the perfect setting to reflect on an extraordinary journey.
South Africa has so much to offer and I feel there is something for everyone in this amazing country. Please feel free to reach out to me to chat about what there is of offer for you and your travelling companions.
I would be delighted to hear from you.