Cape Town has many advantages for a winter break … direct flights, very little time difference, beautiful weather, great restaurants - and a beach lifestyle to match. If sunning on the beach is not a priority, there is plenty more to do!
For example, a five minute ascent by cable car to the top of Table Mountain offers a spectacular 360° view of Cape Town, from the ocean to the neighbouring peaks or, for the more energetic, Lion’s Head is another spectacular way to enjoy the views. If taken at a slow pace, the average hike takes just under an hour. Chartered yachts and motor boats are also a great way to see the city and coastline from the sea, perhaps incorporating a trip to Robben Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of hope, where South Africa’s first democratically elected president, Nelson Mandela spent 18 years in prison.
Located at the foot of Table Mountain, in the heart of Cape Town’s working harbour, the V&A Waterfront offers visitors an enormous choice of both indoor shopping and dining options, as well as the Two Oceans Aquarium, with around 80 different species.
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is acclaimed as one of the great botanic gardens of the world. Few gardens can match the sheer grandeur of the setting of Kirstenbosch, against the eastern slopes of Cape Town’s Table Mountain. Don’t miss the Centenary Tree Canopy Walkway, nicknamed the "Boomslang" after the tree-dwelling snake. Take a walk along the tree tops for a magical experience.
Boulders Beach remains the only place in the world where visitors can get up close to African penguins. Viewing is made easier by the boardwalks which lead visitors across the beaches, as well as to an information centre. Visiting Boulders Beach is a very special experience and highly recommended!
On our recent trip to Cape Town, we also visited a selection of vineyards within the famous Cape Winelands, an area of stunning beauty, set against the backdrop of Cape Town’s impressive mountains. Out of the incredible choice of vineyards available to visit, and also enjoy a superb lunch, we can particularly recommend Babylonstoren and Maison Estate in Franschoek, Jordan Wine Estate in Stellenbosch and last, but not least, the beautiful Beau Constantia, a 22 hectare, boutique wine farm at the top of Constantia Nek, with views of the Stellenbosch and Helderberg Mountain ranges and over False Bay as far as Hangklip.
Villas currently still available for the Christmas/New Year period include:
3rd Beach Bungalow,: 4-5 bedrooms - 8-10 people
This stunning beach bungalow sits in a prime location with direct access to Clifton 3rd Beach. Benefitting from great views of the sea and mountains, it is a house is designed for entertainment and relaxation.
The Meadows, Camps Bay: 6 bedrooms - 12 people
A lovely six-bedroomed villa to rent in Camps Bay sits nestled in a quiet section of Camps Bay close to The Glen. The Meadows is a comfortable, ocean-side retreat that is ideal for families and groups of friends.
Lion’s Head, Clifton: 4 bedrooms - 8 people
This spectacular villa sits in an equally spectacular location at Clifton beach, adjacent to the Lion’s Head nature reserve. It enjoys panoramic views of Clifton’s famous beaches and the vast Atlantic ocean.
Bakoven Beach Cottage, Bakoven: 4 bedrooms - 8 people
This very charming beach bungalow has a very desirable location, right on the sands of Bakoven, perfect for anyone who dreams of a holiday rental accommodation this close to the sea.
April 2018