SOUTH AFRICA – SAFARI, CAPE TOWN & WINELANDS
I first visited South Africa in 1997, when I completely fell in love with the country. I loved it so much that I ended up buying a house there with my sister and her husband in 2000 and have been visiting the country ever since.
A typical visit for me to South Africa is to fly into Cape Town, which is one of the most iconic cities in the world and offers such a diverse range of attractions and experiences that make it such a fantastic destination.
I usually stay at the small boutique hotel Kensington Place. This is a chic hotel perched on the slopes of Table Mountain. This stylish retreat offers panoramic views of the city, harbour, and surrounding mountains, making it an idyllic base for exploring Cape Town. Each of the eight rooms is elegantly designed creating an intimate and tranquil atmosphere.
When I’m in Cape Town I like to visit The Zeitz Museum, explore the colourful streets of the Bo-Kaap, take a scenic drive along Chapman’s Peak, visit one of the markets and try out some new restaurants.
I then head out to the Winelands, where there are so many fabulous vineyards to visit, but my all-time favourite place is Babylonstoren (sister hotel to The Newt in Somerset, UK).
Dating back to 1692, this historic fruit and wine farm was skilfully reimagined by its current owners more than a decade ago. It is loved and best known for its magnificent formal fruit and vegetable garden. Every single aspect of Babylonstoren – including the contemporary Farm Hotel and Garden Spa, the Farm Shop, winery, farm-to-fork restaurants, Scented Room and Bakery – is led by the ever-changing tapestry and botanical diversity of the garden. It has just been voted the No.1 hotel in Southern Africa by Conde Nast Traveller readers for the 3rd consecutive year.
For sundowners, take a landrover up into the mountains to take in the magnificent views as the sun slips beyond the horizon. Take a guided walk, fly fishing up at the dam, take a tour of the wine museum or sit down to a nine wine cellar tasting experience, maybe visit the water buffalo or simply take a dip in the pool and take time to wander and learn more about the varied and specialist horticultural gardens. There is always something new to discover or find, which is why I have to visit at least once a year! They have also recently added Soetmelksvlei – a beautiful living history experience where you can see how life would have been in the 18th century.
Next, my journey continues to Hermanus, famous for its whale-watching opportunities and stunning coastal scenery. Grootbos Private Nature Reserve is an eco-luxury lodge offering an extraordinary experience of South Africa’s natural beauty. It is owner run by Michael Lutzyer who is a real character and unbelievably passionate about helping the local community.
Perched above Walker Bay, Grootbos offers sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding fynbos-covered hills. The reserve is dedicated to conservation, offering guests luxurious accommodations in spacious suites. Grootbos offers a variety of nature-based activities, including guided hikes, botanical tours, marine safaris, birdwatching, horseback rides through the fynbos and whale-watching (Southern Right) from June to November
I then drive along the Garden Route to Plettenberg Bay which offers pristine beaches, stunning coastal scenery, and diverse outdoor adventures, from hiking the Robberg Nature Reserve and wildlife safaris to whale watching and watersports, kayaking along the Keurbooms river, not to mention wine tasting at 16 vineyards.
If I wasn’t staying in my house, then I would definitely choose to stay at Walkers Beach Lodge, where luxurious beachfront living offers unobstructed views of the Indian Ocean. This intimate lodge is set in a tranquil area where the sound of the waves and the soft sea breeze create a peaceful retreat. With direct beach access, you can enjoy early morning walks, sunbathing, or simply relaxing in the comfortable surroundings.
Babylonstoren will shortly be opening a new place just outside Plettenberg Bay in Keurbooms so this is definitely one to watch out for!
I always like to finish a trip to South Africa with a safari and a wonderful malaria free safari in the Eastern Cape is Kwandwe Private Reserve, which offers an exclusive, immersive safari experience in a pristine wilderness.
This 22,000-hectare reserve with breathtaking landscapes offers intimate lodges and exceptional game viewing opportunities. Kwandwe is home to the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo), as well as cheetah, giraffe, and a rich diversity of birdlife. Stay in one of Kwandwe’s luxurious lodges, where modern comforts blend with African-inspired design.
Kwandwe also offers walking safaris, birdwatching, and visits to local conservation projects.
South Africa is a destination that promises endless possibilities for travellers seeking both adventure and indulgence. From cosmopolitan cities to breathtaking coastlines, lush vineyards, and wildlife-filled savannahs, this extraordinary country offers a blend of rich culture, stunning landscapes, and world-class experiences, not to mention good value for money.
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