The most popular corner on the South African subcontinent, the Western Cape has a long list of attractions which draw travellers from around the globe, again and again. From mountains to vineyards, beaches to cityscapes, as well as the lesser-known wilderness of the Karoo, there is a huge variety of opportunities for the discerning visitor. Be as sedate or as active as you’d like, from foodie escapes to adrenaline-filled holidays, we’ve selected the best places to stay in the Western Cape to see it all including secluded lodges, chic city centre boutique properties and family friendly B&Bs.
THE BEST PLACES TO STAY IN CAPE TOWN
Cape Town, with the striking Table Mountain as a backdrop, beautiful beaches and a relaxed cosmopolitan atmosphere is the first port of call for most travellers to the Western Cape. From upmarket to trendy, there is something to suit every traveller. Whether you want to be amidst the action along the V&A Waterfront, the colourful cottages of Bo Kaap and trendy Woodstock, the liveliness of Long Street, or in the upmarket Clifton, Camps Bay, Oranjezicht, and Tamboerskloof, our collection of the best places to stay in Cape Town, really does boast something for everyone taste, budget, and locale.
THE BEST PLACES TO STAY IN CAPE TOWN IN THE SOUTHERN SUBURBS
A little further afield, some travellers prefer the residential peace and tranquillity of the Southern Suburbs, where you’re within easy access of Cape Town’s inner-city attractions, whilst still being able to explore the surrounding countryside and Winelands with ease (namely, without stuck in a traffic jam). Some of our favourite neighbourhoods include Constantia, Newlands, and Hout Bay for their open countryside, excellent walking and riding trails, inviting beaches, and world-class sports facilities.
THE BEST PLACES TO STAY IN THE CAPE WINELANDS
Or, if your idea of a holiday is pairing a bottle of your favourite red with 28-day aged rump steak, then a journey through the Cape Winelands might be more up your street. Franschhoek, forever the most popular and with the most critically acclaimed restaurants (not to mention some world-class hotels) quite rightly receives a lot of attention, but more low-key Paarl is also home to some superb restaurants and award-winning vineyards. Historic Stellenbosch is well worth a visit, as is the quaint town of Robertson, Worcester, and Wellington. Our picks of the best places to stay in the Cape Winelands ensure that your glass need never run dry.
If you fancy a self-drive exploration of the Western Cape, then The Garden Route is one of the most scenic ways to explore some of its most picturesque locations. Starting from Mossel Bay traverse much of the Indian Ocean’s coastline, right the way along to Storm’s River in the Eastern Cape – if you decide to drive that far. From antiquated towns to shark cage diving, superb dining and sleepy coastal villages (with just a few hundred inhabitants) – there is so much to be seen and explored along The Garden Route, it’s no wonder it’s one of the most popular ways to explore this part of Africa. Some of our favourite places to visit include Mossel Bay, George, Wilderness, and of course the ever-popular Knysna and Plettenberg Bay.
Some of our Western Cape Collections:
WHAT NOT TO MISS
- Climb Table Mountain from Cape Town to reach the summit and bask in the breath-taking views from the top. If you’re feeling particularly energetic the trails are also good for an early morning run!
- Robberg Nature Reserve is a fantastic coastal park through which you can hike whilst keeping the sea in sight! A great place for some gentle exercise.
- Look out for blue whales in Hermanus during the season (between July and November) or catch the surf when it’s up.
- Tenikwa Wildlife Awareness Centre is far from a zoo. The centre was set up to rehabilitate injured wildlife and it now sponsors conservation around South Africa. The perfect place to see some of the country’s most impressive wildlife whilst supporting its longevity.
- Take a scenic drive to Cape Point, the most southerly tip of the African continent, home to baboons and some of its most epic vistas.
- The beautiful bay of Knysna Heads is best visited by boat as this opens up the possibility of whale spotting (season dependant). Stunning scenery and a terrific place for a day trip.
- The Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden sits on the Eastern slopes of Table Mountain and is renowned for being one of the most magnificent botanical gardens in the world and this reputation is well-earned. Rare and endangered species live in this vibrant paradise and there are also a few restaurants for when your legs need a break!
- Explore the Cango Caves or get up close and personal with meerkats, ostrich, crocodiles and much more in the Klein Karoo.
- Shark cage diving in Gansbaai is an unforgettable experience and a ‘must-do’ for any committed adrenaline junkie.
