Best places to stay:
A five-star retreat in the heart of the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve, the Arabella Hotel is located in one of the world’s richest plant kingdoms and surrounded by lagoons, a nature reserve and mountains.
Every room comes with breathtaking views across the shimmering lagoon or lushly-wooded mountains; there’s a feeling of infinite space and peace that’s wonderfully relaxing.
Alongside the gorgeous, coastal golf course, there’s a world-class spa, horse-back riding along the beach, and some of the best restaurants on the whole of the Garden Route.
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Bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first
Hermanus, Western Cape, South Africa[16.9 miles]
See southern right whales at this stylish holiday town, offering some of the best land-based whale-watching in the world. Also see them from boats and kayaks.
Best for ages: 4+ | Free | Any
Franschhoek, Western Cape, South Africa[49.3 miles]
The ‘French Corner’ of the Cape Winelands is a bucket list destination for bacchanalian adventures.
Best for ages: 18+ | Free
Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa[50.2 miles]
One of the world’s greatest wine regions, home to more than 150 wineries producing numerous world-class wines, gorgeous Cape Dutch architecture, superb restaurants and top-notch art galleries.
Best for ages: 6+ | Free
Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa[54.6 miles]
Get up close to man’s most feared predator, the infamous great white shark, diving in steel cages just off the back of the boat.
Best for ages: 13+ | £100 | 5
Other worthwhile experiences in this destination if you have the time or the interest, closest first
Hermanus, Western Cape, South Africa[15.1 miles]
Held in late September/early October each year – the peak season for whale watching – this usually sleepy-town is host to a colourful festival of art, adventure and fine food across a festive long weekend.
Best for ages: 4+ | Free | One weekend
Franschhoek, Western Cape, South Africa[50.1 miles]
Gardeners and food-to-table devotees would love the 8 acres of bountiful gardens at Babylonstoren, one of the oldest Cape Dutch farms. They offer daily walking tours guided by the estate horticulturists. There’s also an excellent on-site restaurant, and an elegant farm shop that sells local foods and homewares.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Franschhoek, Western Cape, South Africa[50.1 miles]
Showcasing over 200 classic cars from the Rupert family’s private collection, petrolheads can delve into a century of motoring history, from South Africa’s first Model T Ford to the rare Ferrari Enzo. It’s open daily, but you must book an appointment via the website before you go. You can also book a ride in a classic car.
Best for ages: 4+ | £5
Franschhoek, Western Cape, South Africa[52.5 miles]
This scenic hop-on hop-off tram operates on eight routes connecting 24 wine estates in the Franschhoek Valley. It’s a charismatically convenient way to get around, and you can stop at your own pace for wine tastings, vineyard walks and cellar tours. The routes begin/end at the Franschhoek Terminal and the Groot Drakenstein Terminal. Kids allowed.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Round-ups that include this placetostay
Multiple countries
Golf expert, journalist and avid golfer Fionn Davenport recommends the best golfing hotels and resorts around the world – each offering something unique and special – for everyone, from amateurs to scratch players.
