Stunning South Africa
Even when the weather is cooler in the winter months there is plenty to keep you occupied and the local restaurants and bars are well geared up with heaters, blankets and log fires. A city known for having world renown cuisine, topped off by impeccable service, a huge selection of local wines and all at extremely reasonable prices, what’s not to love?!
There is a great hop-on-off bus here that connects all the highlights of the city, including the V&A Waterfront, Table Mountain and Camps Bay. I would also highly recommend a day trip out to Cape of Good Hope, stopping off at Boulders Beach (part of a marine protected area) to meet the African Penguins, which is truly unique. I would highly recommend the wine regions of Franschooek and Stellenbosch. Franschooek is a beautiful quaint village and there’s even a local tram to take you around the wineries. If you prefer somewhere livelier Stellenbosch is a much bigger town to visit. We opted to stay in Stellenbosch and found several wineries to spend our days sampling the local produce, true bliss.
Driving along the garden route, you will really get a feel for the great outdoors, and the beauty of this scenic coastal drive. There are some gorgeous beaches, great walking trails and nature reserves. In the right season there is whale watching, and always plenty of fantastic restaurants to be found. For adrenaline junkies try zip lining, bungee jumping and shark diving. I cannot recommend the accommodation in South Africa highly enough, there is such an emphasis on providing exceptional standards, from boutique 3* guesthouses, to fabulous 5* lodgings.
One of the most popular reasons to visit South Africa are the safari parks, these lodges make the perfect stop over for a few nights to explore the wonder of the Big 5. The lodges are a home away from home, with amazing touches to make any experience truly extraordinary. You will receive fantastic, warm hospitality and very experienced, knowledgeable game leaders to make the most out of your safari. Some of the highlights we encountered were lions, elephants (including babies!), zebras, rhinos, warthogs, and an abundance of bird life.
All of this incredible nature and still time to stop off for a sundowner cocktail whilst looking over the spectacular scenery. As with many other parts of South Africa, our safari lodge did not disappoint with amazing cuisine. This was topped off by having the luxury to enjoy meals whilst keeping an eye over the watering hole for our wildlife friends. A truly spectacular experience and something I will remember for years and years to come.
South Africa is a dream destination for couples and for an extra special trip like a honeymoon, or anniversary, it is possible to combine a stay at a luxury resort either Mauritius or the Seychelles, making it a once in a life time trip to remember.