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Home | Elegant Traveller | Escape To The Cape - What To Do in South Africa

Elegant Traveller

Escape To The Cape - What To Do in South Africa

schedule4 Minute Read

21-Feb-2024 Lou Fox

Escape To The Cape - What To Do in South Africa

Our top five favourite things to do in South Africa...

Nestled at the southern tip of Africa, Cape Town beckons with its majestic Table Mountain, pristine beaches and vibrant cultural scene. A city where the old meets the new in perfect harmony, a luxury holiday to Cape Town offers a playground for luxury travellers seeking adventure, relaxation and indulgence.

From savouring world-class cuisine to exploring the rich history and breathtaking landscapes, embark on a journey with us as we explore South Africa's 'Mother City' and discover the best things to do in and around the Western Cape.

Five Incredible Experiences

1| Explore the V&A Waterfront

At the heart of Cape Town's social and cultural framework lies the V&A Waterfront, an enchanting destination that seamlessly marries history with contemporary allure, making it a must-visit for travellers of all tastes. Stroll along the bustling waterfront promenade lined with trendy shops, gourmet restaurants and lively bars or hop on a boat tour to admire the stunning views of Table Mountain and the surrounding harbour.
Considered one of the most visited tourist attractions in South Africa, there's also plenty to see and experience here.
V&A Waterfront
V&A Waterfront
Immerse yourself in the rich maritime heritage at the Victoria and Alfred Basin, discover the diverse marine life of South Africa's coasts at the Two Oceans Aquarium and visit iconic landmarks such as the Clock Tower and the Chavonnes Battery Museum to learn about Cape Town's maritime history and heritage. The V&A Waterfront is also home to the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa which showcases a diverse collection of modern African art.
From shopping and dining to learning something new or simply soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, the V&A Waterfront is a vibrant hub of activity that promises something for everyone.

2| Make Time for a Beach Day

South Africa boasts an array of breathtaking beaches that cater to every type of traveller, from sun-seekers to adventure enthusiasts. Whether you seek tranquillity, adventure or a touch of luxury, South Africa's beaches offer a slice of paradise for all who visit.
St. James Beach, with its iconic colourful beach huts and calm waters, invites visitors to relax and unwind in a serene setting reminiscent of a bygone era. Hout Bay, nestled between towering cliffs and the shimmering ocean, offers not only stunning views but also a range of outdoor activities such as kayaking, surfing, and beach horseback riding, perfect for the adventurous at heart.
Beach with Cape Town in Background
Beach with Cape Town in Background
Boulders Beach
Boulders Beach
Boulders Beach captivates with its colony of adorable African Penguins, providing an enchanting opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts to observe these delightful creatures up close in their natural habitat. And there's also the celebrated Camps Bay, renowned for its pristine white sands, trendy beachfront cafes and stunning sunsets against the backdrop of the Twelve Apostles mountain range.

3| Visit the Winelands and Explore the Vineyards

The Winelands region is a must-visit for wine lovers and those looking to explore the picturesque vineyards of South Africa. Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl are just a few of the charming towns that make up this renowned wine-producing area.
Visitors can enjoy wine tastings at world-class estates, indulge in gourmet cuisine at award-winning restaurants and take leisurely strolls through lush vineyards surrounded by majestic mountains. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or simply looking to relax in a stunning natural setting, a visit to the Winelands is sure to be a memorable experience.
Cape Winelands - Vineyard
Cape Winelands - Vineyard
But for those who don't want to venture far from Cape Town, Constantia is another excellent wine region to explore, offering historic wine estates and beautiful scenery that is just a short drive from the city centre.

4| Find the Best Place To Watch a South African Sunset

With its diverse landscapes ranging from rugged coastlines to towering mountains, South Africa offers an abundance of breathtaking vantage points to watch the sun go down beyond the Atlantic Ocean.
One of the best places to watch a South African sunset is in the city of Cape Town, atop the iconic Table Mountain. Choose to ascend via the cable car or take a scenic hike to the summit, where you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the city, coastline and surrounding mountains, all bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun.
Sunset in Mont Rochelle, South Africa
Sunset in South Africa
The view from Signal Hill
The view from Signal Hill
Alternatively, head to Signal Hill or Lion's Head for a different perspective as the sun dips below the horizon. For a more secluded experience, head to the beach in Camps Bay or Clifton, where you can watch the sunset while listening to the gentle lapping of the waves. No matter where you choose to watch the sunset, you're sure to be treated to a breathtaking display of natural beauty.

5| Discover the Beautiful Outdoors

Whether you're someone who prefers a relaxed wander along a promenade or a challenging hike up a mountain, Cape Town offers a plethora of outdoor activities for nature lovers.
Nestled at the eastern foot of Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden stands as a lush oasis of indigenous flora, offering enchanting trails and scenic picnic spots beneath the canopy of ancient trees. Make the time to meander through the garden and marvel at the diversity of plant species and the wide variety of indigenous birds - from colourful fynbos and dramatic strelitzias to the distinctive Cape Sugarbird and the Orange-breasted Sunbird.
Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
For another serene outdoor experience, venture along the city's stunning coastline, where rugged cliffs give way to pristine beaches and sparkling waters. Walk along the Sea Point Promenade, where palm-lined pathways and sweeping ocean views provide the perfect backdrop for a relaxing afternoon stroll or a refreshing jog. Or head to the Cape Peninsula to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Cape Point Nature Reserve, where dramatic cliffs plunge into the sea and rugged trails lead to hidden coves and secluded beaches. You might even be lucky enough to squeeze in some whale watching!
Alternatively, for those seeking an adrenaline rush, the iconic Table Mountain presents the ultimate challenge with opportunities for heart-pounding pursuits like abseiling down its sheer cliffs or hiking its rugged trails for panoramic views of the city below.
Are you looking for more travel inspiration? Filled with first-hand travel tales, expert destination guides and more, our luxury online travel blog can help.
Lou   Fox

Lou Fox

Content Executive

Ready with a guidebook and my camera, I've been lucky enough to travel all over the world. From learning to dive in Egypt to traversing the theatres and museums in NYC, I'm passionate about exploring the planet and writing about what the world has to offer.