Travel Guides
When it comes to attractions you are really spoiled for choice in South Africa. There are amazing natural and man made attractions to fulfill your fantasy.
There are Cultural, historic and religious attractions, entertainment and leisure attractions and an abundance of natural attractions.
There are lots of arts and culture festivals where many South African and international artists tussle for admiration and respect from their hordes of fans. There is sizzling night life even in the smallest of towns. There is an abundance of natural beauty to explore, from pristine beaches and magnificent waterfalls to serene scenery and awesome mountain views.
Then there is lavish entertainment and leisure just waiting to be enjoyed. From bush spa massage relaxations and long routes of wine tasting to watching a soccer, rugby or cricket match or simply touring a coffee farm.
There is a lot that will attract you to South Africa.
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Western Cape
"The Western Cape is one of South Africa’s premier tourist attractions, and for good reason. It is home to the famous Table Mountain, vast winelands, magnificent beaches, world-class restaurants and cosmopolitan entertainment haunts.Overview
Situated on the south-western tip of Africa,the Western Cape is the meeting point of the cold Atlantic and the warm Indian Oceans. Its capital city Cape Town, is dominated by the flat-topped bulk of Table Mountain.
The story of the Republic of South Africa began in the Western Cape, some 350 years ago, when it was inhabited by the Khoi, San and other Bantu-speaking groups. In the late 15th century European seafarers arrived here in search of a halfway stop on trade routes to the East and thereby changed the face of South African history forever.
Today, the province boasts South Africa’s fifth largest population, numbering in the region of 4.5 million inhabitants."
(C)Copyright Southafrica Tourism | (Source: southafrica.net)
Regions
* Cape Peninsula - on the Southwestern tip - one of the most beautiful places in the world
* Cape Winelands - east of Cape Town and easily visited in a day trip from Cape Town
* West Coast - less crowded with tourists this region offers beautiful scenery for the nature
lover
* The Overberg
* The Garden Route - lovely scenery and one of South Africa`s tourist hot-spots
* The Little Karoo - nowadays popular semi-desert region easily reached on the R62
* The Cape Karoo
Popular Cities
"There is never a dull moment in the South African city life. During the day and night the cities are warm and vibrant as the people that live in them. The cities are so diverse that it would be difficult for any kind of person not to find some place where they completely feel at home.
Every South African city has something unique about it. Johannesburg is a city that was literally founded on gold when the country discovered gold, Cape Town also known as the Mother City is where modern day South Africa started with the arrival of Dutch settlers in 1652 while Pretoria is home to most influential politicians. Durban is known for its balmy weather and fascinating cultural contrasts.
There is everything of entertainment for everybody, young, elderly and of course the young and the restless in every major South African city."
(C)Copyright Southafrica Tourism (Source: southafrica.net)
* Cape Town - one of the world`s top destinations
* Stellenbosch - a university town in the winelands
* Paarl
* George - gateway to the Garden Route
The Cape Peninsula is in Western Cape of South Africa, encompassing the Cape Town metro area, Cape Point and the False Bay area.
Cape Town Highlights
"Cape Town is known as one of the best cities in the world, and for good reason. Boasting fantastic shopping, excellent restaurants, miles and miles of wine estates, adventure activities, superb beaches….and that’s just for starters.
Jazz Hounds
Cape Town jazz-lovers are an insatiable lot, and there a few choice venues in and around the City Bowl.
• One simply can’t visit Cape Town without popping into The Green Dolphin. Superb musicians such a Sylvia Mdunyelwa, Dave Ledbetter and Gavin Minter frequent the place and you are guaranteed of a good meal along with great African and traditional jazz. "
(C)Copyright Southafrica Tourism (Picture and text source above: southafrica.net)
Cape Town is the second largest city in South Africa and is the capital of the Western Cape Province, as well as being the legislative capital of South Africa (the Houses of Parliament are here). It is located in the south-west corner of the country near the Cape of Good Hope, and is the most southern city in Africa. It is a stone's throw from South Africa's world-famous Cape Winelands around Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek.
This is a World Cup 2010 host city with games to be played at the new African Renaissance Stadium.Cape Town is also known as the Mother City in South Africa.
Popular Areas
Camps Bay:Originally known as Kamps Baai it was once considered to become Cape Town's harbour. It has become a tourism hot spot because it offers a great combination of restaurants, bars, amenities, accommodation and a fantastic beach, all very close to each other.
Clifton:An exclusive residential area and is home to some of the most expensive real estate in South Africa, with dwellings nestled on cliffs that have sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean.The area has a set of 4 beaches which are frequently used destinations for both locals and tourists.
"Most fabulous Beaches in the World"
There’s a beach to suit every mood in Cape Town: Clifton for those who want to see and be seen, Sandy Bay for the nudists, Muizenberg with its colourful bathing boxes for a good swim in warmer waters, Kommektjie for watersports, Fishhoek – a quaint seaside village, Houtbay – a colourful fishing harbour and craft market, Kalk Bay for antique hunters and Boulder’s Beach at Simon’s Town is home to a colony of Jackass penguins. "
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Climate
Known to some as sunny South Africa, the country has a warm to hot climate, making it one of the best year-round destinations in the world. Most provinces enjoy a summer rainfall with occasional afternoon thunderstorms, which are spectacular to see. Snow sometimes occurs, especially on the mountain peaks. Some areas have such mild winters, that visitors will never guess it’s winter at all.
"Culture historic and religious sites
South Africa has a rich culture, amazing history and a variety of religions. These are the things that form the fibre of any society and there is no better way of learning about South Africa than visiting these sites.
The country has historic buildings, museums and monuments that define its origin. Take a tour to the townships, cultural villages, mission stations and learn more about the intriguing history of this country.
Where Two Oceans Meet
The wrecks of some 130 seafaring craft – yachts, Spanish galleons, Dutch East Indiamen, the legendary Birkenhead, even modern-day fishing trawlers – have found a watery grave around the notorious Cape of Storms.
Some have been immortalised in the names of Overberg towns like Arniston, while others are remembered only by the furniture, artefacts, figureheads or cannon given up by the capricious sea and preserved in South Africa’s only shipwreck museum at Bredasdorp.
Gale-force winds still batter this stretch of coast that has been home to humans for more than 300 years, but these days it’s a lot safer exploring the Overberg, sandwiched between the sea and the mountains and dotted with quaint towns rich in history.
Stone Cairn
The Overberg region is best known as the southernmost tip of Africa as well as the geographic point at which the cold Atlantic and warm Indian oceans meet. A simple stone cairn, constructed in 1986, marks the exact spot off the littlevillage of l’Agulhas.
The 150-year-old lighthouse at Cape Agulhas, modelled on the Pharos at Alexandria, has been replaced by a more modern warning light and today serves as a museum and one of the area’s main attractions.
But Cape Agulhus – the name means Cape of Needles and was given to the region by 16th-century Portuguese explorers – offers far more than history to the visitor, though there is plenty of that.
Scenic Drive
Just a two-hour drive from Cape Town, one reaches Napier via the Elgin Valley (the apple capital of South Africa) on a road that skirts a belt of Cape fold mountains. It is the gateway to a treasure trove of indigenous fynbos, horse and hiking trails, 4x4 coastal safaris, quaint fishing villages, nature reserves, marine birdlife, whale-watching and a host of annual festivals linked to the traditional fishing and farming nature of the area.
Bredasdorp, the main Overberg centre founded in 1838, has undergone dramatic changes since the 1980s, when residents first received electricity. Thanks to an influx of crafters, visitors can now shop for hand-made candles and ceramics, dine on traditional Cape cuisine at any number of restaurants and bistros or stay overnight in the myriad guesthouses that dot the coastline.
Whales and other Wonders
But it’s the natural wonders of Cape Agulhas that offer a unique experience: the 300-year-old middens, or refuse heaps, formed by the indigenous Khoi-Khoi from discarded shells; the coastal cave at Waenhuiskrans (Arniston) with its lime-green interior that can be accessed only at low tide; the Southern Right whales that return to breed in these waters every year from May to October; the 2 000 species of indigenous plants, some 100 of them found only here; the rich birdlife and fur seals on the offshore islands; the magnificent milkwood trees at Renosterfontein; and the highly prized nautilus or argonaut shellthat washes onto the beaches between April and August.
Eco-tours are available on foot, by quad bike or in 4x4 vehicles, allowing tourists to explore the many nature reserves that have sprung up along the coast.
Fishing villages as picturesque as anything to be found on a Greek island welcome visitors. The whitewashed cottages of Kassiesbaai, home to fisherfolk for some 200 years, have been declared a national monument, as has Elim, a Moravian mission station established in 1824.
Annual Festivals
While it is possible to visit the region and see many of the main attractions on a day trip, those who stay longer can enjoy the full Overberg experience by timing a visit to coincide with one of the many annual festivals honouring such local delicacies as yellowtail and sweet potatoes, or the horse and cart,and the natural flora.
First settled by Dutch farmers in 1710, the area around Bredasdorp was the original centre of Merino sheep farming in South Africa and agriculture is still the lifeblood of the region, though wheat and canola are now the main crops produced.
However, wool tours are available to visitors and events such as lambing, shearing, ploughing and grain harvesting remain firmly marked on the Overberg calendar as annual highlights.
The intimate relationship between the sea and those who rely on it for survival is also marked by annual events such as a rubberduck contest, National Marine Week in October and a yellowtail derby.
Landmark
One the loveliest landmarks among the guesthouses and holiday homes along the coast is the Arniston Hotel, from where guests can set off on a leisurely stroll to explore the many rock pools that are home to periwinkles, starfish and purple sea anemones. In 1996, Time magazine voted the hotel oneof the world’s Top 10 hideaways.
The seas off Cape Agulhas are no less dangerous than they ever were, but the land where two oceans meet has long since been tamed and the welcome mat is firmly out for visitors seeking a combination of spectacular natural attractions and warm hospitality.
Arts and Crafts of South Africa
One literally trips over creativity on any visit to South Africa, whether you are negotiating a deal with a local wire-artist on a city street in Jozi, or becoming familiar with the beautiful beaded works made by the rural women in Kwa-Zulu Natal, there is a wealth of imagination wherever you look.
San Inspiration
One cannot mention the arts and crafts of the Northern Cape without making reference to the indigenous people of the region. The San have found a way of uniquely expressing their place in the world, through their art. Using the magic of traditional San imagery, a visit to the art centre at Platfontein is a mystical experience like none other. Here, crafters use the voices of their ancestors to create a wide range of spiritually unique products ranging from wall- hangings to basketry to enormous canvas etchings, and so much more.
Cape Creativity
The Western Cape is full of wonderful community enterprises that boast spectacular arts and crafts. Some notables include:
* The Montebello Craft Design Centre in Newlands - where you can pick up a variety of goods - pottery, paper, textiles and beading all made on site premises).
* The Monkeybiz bead project was started in Cape Town to empower local women through beadwork and has proved a great success. The works on offer are just like the name, cheeky, inspirational and loads of fun.
* Also look out for Streetwires, a consortium of some 80 crafters selling some of the world's more exceptional (and functional) wire art. Wildly ArtisticThe ‘Wild Coast’ area (on the boarder of the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu Natal) boasts one of the country's most rugged and rustic coastlines, AND a wealth of arts & culture treasures.
* The Amampondo Community Art Centre offers up some of the best traditional works around - local beadwork, pots, weaving and fantastic wooden sculptures.
* Mawawa Crafts (a roadside one-stop-shop along the way to Coffee Bay) offers up famous wooden carved fish (typical of the area).
* At Skilinkindi, you will also find the influence of the ocean amongst community artists.Another great stopover is a visit to Pondo People for beautiful beaded waistcoats, tablecloths, cushion covers, all made by the local Xhosa community…you won't find wares like this anywhere else in the world.
Zulu Attitude
For art lovers, traditional Zulu crafts are a major draw card to the province of KwaZulu Natal. Bright and bold beadworks, traditional baskets and mats, huge pots made solely for Zulu beer are all up for grabs. There are a number of community craft projects on the go in this province. In fact, these creative projects bring in a significant livelihood contribution to many of the rural in areas like Kosi Bay and the Valley of a Thousand Hills. Look out for:
* Village Weavers for handmade wall hangings in mohair (made up in the a huge array of colours and themes).
* Ladysmith Cultural Centre offers some of the best Zulu pots and the beadwork is simply phenomenal.
* The Thandanani Mazizi Handcraft Centre offers up some fantastic grasswork - weaved baskets in bright colours.
(C)Copyright Southafrica Tourism (Picture and text sourceabove: southafrica.net)
To See:
Bo-Kaap This neighborhood, located on a hill south-west of downtown is the area historically inhabited by mainly Muslim descendants of slaves from South-East Asia (hence an older term for the area - 'Malay Quarter'. It's a common location for film shoots, as there are some very colourful buildings, quaint streets and mosques.
The Castle of Good Hope, Buitenkant Street, Popularly called 'The Castle' by locals, it has extensive displays of historical military paraphernalia, a history of the castle, an art collection and the William Fehr Collection (including old Cape Dutch furniture). You can eat inside the Castle at the restaurant or café, as well as buy wine. R20 entrance free.
Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, Rhodes Drive, Newlands,Open daily 8AM to 6PM (7PM September to March). View the hugely diverse and beautiful plants and flowers of the Cape flora in one of the most stunning botanical gardens in the world.
Robben Island is located just off the coast from Cape Town, this was the location used during the apartheid days to hold political prisoners, including Nelson Mandela and the late Walter Sisulu. Some of the tour guides were themselves political prisoners so they have plenty of insight about what went on there. Tours run several times per days, seven days a week from the Nelson Mandela Gateway at the V&A Waterfront. R150.
South African Parliament,Cape Town is the legislative seat of South Africa (the Presidential seat is in Pretoria and the Supreme Court is at Bloemfontein). A tour of this compound will acquaint you with South Africa's recent history and its political system.Free entrance and tours.
Two Oceans Aquarium, V&A Waterfront,Open 9:30AM to 6PM. An excellent modern aquarium. R70 entrance fee.
Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, A huge shopping and entertainment area at the slopes of Table Mountain, next to the harbour. High density of shops, restaurants and amusement possibilities, like the Aquarium or the Marine Museum. Harbour tours and trips to Robben Island start from here, as well as helicopter flights to the Cape Peninsula.
Museums and Galleries
Bo-Kaap Museum, 71 Wale Street, Bo-Kaap,Open 9:30AM to 4:30PM Monday to Saturday. R5 entrance fee.
District Six Museum, 25A Buitenkant Str The museum provides information about the area, the eviction, the Group Areas Act, and the people who used to live there. The director of the museum is a former resident. There is a small bookstore with an excellent selection of books on South Africa's history, District Six and apartheid. Admission is free.
Slave Lodge, cnr Adderley and Wale Streets Open 8:30AM to 4:30PM Monday to Friday and 9AM to 1PM on Sunday. One of the oldest building in Cape Town R7 entrance fee.
South African Jewish Museum, 88 Hatfield Street,Open Sunday-Thursday 10AM to 5PM and Friday 10AM to 2PM. Closed Saturday. The Museum is interactive and hi-tech, using different media to present highlights of South African history, and examining the Jewish community's story of individual and organisational roles and contributions. R35 adults, R15 students.
South African Maritime Museum, Union Castle Building, V&A Waterfront
South African National Gallery, Government Avenue, Gardens,10AM to 5PM Tuesday to Sunday. Located in the Gardens area of Cape Town off Government Ave (about a 20 minute walk from downtown). Contains extensive displays of South African art, as well as information on the history of censorship of art during apartheid R10 entrance fee.
Performing arts
Artscape Theatre, D F Malan Street, Foreshore, Cape Town,
Armchair Theatre, 135 Lower Main Road, Observatory,
Baxter Theatre, Baxter Theatre Centre, Main Road, RondeboschTheatre performances, comedy, jazz and others
Labia Screen, 68 Orange Street, Gardens, Has an African Screen showing African-made and African-oriented films all year round.
On Broadway, 88 Shortmarket Street, Cape Town
Townships tours
Touring a township may seem strange, even inappropriate, but it is a good way to learn about South Africa's history, and the poverty that many people continue to live in. Tours can be booked through us!
Wildlife
There are a number of small nature reserves in and around Cape Town
Koeberg Nuclear Power Station and Nature Reserve The 3000 hectare buffer zone around the power station has been converted to a nature reserve with Bontebok, Genet, Steenbok and many other antilope.
Table Mountain National Park,Table Mountain National Park forms part of the Cape Floristic Region UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park covers a large area of the Cape and incorporates a number of park areas. Most of it is free access; the only places you need to pay are at the Cape of Good Hope, Silvermine and Boulders
Shopping Malls
As in any large city you will find a number of major shopping malls:
Bayside Centre, cnr Blaauwberg Road and Otto Du Plessis Drive, Tableview, Shops are open 9AM to 7PM Monday to Friday, 10AM to 5PM on Saturday and 10AM to 2PM on Sunday.
Canal Walk, Century Boulevard, Century City
Cavendish Square, Vineyard Road, Claremont,Shops are open 9AM to 7PM Monday to Saturday and 10AM to 5PM on Sunday.
Constantia Village, cnr Constantia Main and Spaanschemacht, Constantia
Tyger Valley, Cnr. Bill Bezuidenhout and Willie van Schoor Avenues, Bellville, shops are open 9AM to 7PM Monday to Saturday and 9AM to 5PM on Sunday.
To Eat:
"South Africa is renowned for some of the best cuisines in the world. You can get almost any kind of food and the quality is sure to be the best you ever had.
Because South Africa is a culturally diverse society there is a restaurant for almost everyone. The South African delis are influenced by cultures from across the globe. There are Chinese, Indian, Thai, Mediterranean, European, American, African and other restaurants splashed all over the country.
This section of the site gives you the lowdown of all kinds of the top restaurants in South Africa."
(Source: southafrica.net)
Five Flies, 14-16 Keerom Street Enjoy a wonderful, multi-course meal in a stylish restaurant housed in one of Cape Town's oldest still-standing buildings. Favorite of local diplomats. Menu changes regularly; book reservations online
95 Keerom, 95 Keerom Street. A top class Italian restaurant with modern decor and a trendy atmosphere. Attached to the nightclub Rhodes House.
Safety
Although Cape Town has its share of violent crime, you are safe if you keep your wits about you.Simply leave everything you value - especially your papers and tickets - in your room safe if you plan to stroll through Cape Town. At night, make sure you stay on well-lit and crowded streets.
Excellent Climate
The winter rainfall and Mediterranean climate of the Cape, together with its rich, fertile top and sub-soils, ensure the growth of strong and healthy vines - ideal conditions found nowhere else in the world.
White wines lead the market, with their fresh fruity elegance - popular grapes are Chenin Blanc, Cape Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay. Reds are full-bodied with a distinct bouquet, and leading red varieties are Cinsaut, Pinotage, Pinot Noir, Shiraz and at the top of the league, Cabernet Sauvignon, which merits being laid down for at least 10 years. "
"A popular way of discovering the joys of South African wines is on a day trip from Cape Town - either self-drive or on an organised excursion by a local travel organiser. Devotees of the grape however can spend several days - weeks if they wish - finding out about the subtle differences between the various types, there are so many estates to visit. In all, there are 13 wine routes to explore - and 2,000 varieties of wine to sample!
Stellenbosch
Simon van der Stel, who arrived in the Cape in 1679, explored a long verdant valley east of the present-day Cape Town. He decided that its rich soil was perfect for viticulture and established the Stellenbosch vineyards, situated only 35 minutes from Cape Town. Stellenbosch is the second oldest city of South Africa and is regarded as the wine capital of South Africa, with over 60 wine estates. Stellenbosch opened the first Wine Route of the Cape in 1971, inspired by the French Route du Vin and the German Wine Routes.
Franschhoek
A further contribution to South Africa's wine industry resulted in the expulsion from France of the Huguenot Protestants, who emigrated to South Africa. Many of these experienced wine producers settled in an area near the Drakenstein Mountains subsequently named Franschhhoek (French Corner). This was the ideal location for the French wine experts, as the valley offered not only tranquil and beautiful scenery, but was perfect for vine cultivation.
In 1984 this area became even more renowned, after the opening of the Franschoek Wine Route (officially called "Vignerons de Franschhoek"). Cultivars planted are Chardonnay, Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Pinot Noir. Franschhoek has about 20 wineries and is only an hour’s drive from Cape Town.
Paarl
Situated in the picturesque Berg River Valley is the wine-growing area of Paarl, Climatically less influenced by the mountain ranges in the west, this area is dependant on irrigation. Long hot summers and moist winters are almost ideal for vine growing. Its Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling have received international awards along with its reds ranging from Cabernet Sauvignon to Merlot.
A visit to the Language Monument erected at the edge of the town, is as popular as a visit to Paarl's largest wine festival - The Nederburg Auction - which is held at the end of summer and regarded as a must on the international wine calendar. Paarl's wine route is the country's second oldest and includes over 40 cellars, many of which also make cheese, or grow olives.
Constantia
South Africa's oldest, yet shortest and smallest wine route is the producer of extraordinary quality wines. Favoured by the cool breezes of the Atlantic and Indian Ocean the ripening process of the grape achieves the very best results, an advantage for all wine makers wishing to produce noble wines. During the founding years under Simon van der Stel, Constantia was one large wine farm. After his death the area was divided into three estates: Groot Constantia, Klein Constantia and Buitenverwachting, which are well worth a visit.
Other Wine Routes
* Smaller wine routes include Worcester, which has a good selection of wineries, and the nearby Tulbagh which is one of the lesser known regions with only about ten or so cellars.
* Wellington is tucked away in a small valley and even though there are only a dozen of so cellars, you couldn't see them all in a day.
* Somerset West, which is the centre of the Helderberg region is now producing some excellent wines from its 20-odd vineyards. "
(Winelands picture and text source: southafrica.net)
To Eat:
There are many good restaurants in the town. The area around Church Street is informally known as the local restaurant district, with approximately 19 venues within a four block radius.
Basic Bistro, 31 Church Street, Offers a variety of international cuisine. Reviewed by Rossouw's Restaurants - 7/10 food, 8/10 service
Cognito, Dorp Street.
Lafayette, Andringa Street.
Paarl
Paarl is the third-oldest town in South Africa and located approximately 60km to the north-west of Cape Town. It is famous for having one of the world's largest rock outcrops.It is about 60km from Cape Town. The easiest way to get there from Cape Town is by car is to follow the N1 North, however one can also get there by train or bus.Paarl is located in the center of the Cape Winelands, within proximity of the major town of Stellenbosch.You can reach all main attractions within 30 to 45 minutes (except the Cape of Good Hope and Cape Point).
To See
Afrikaans Language Museum, 11 Pastorie Ave,Monday to Friday 9AM to 5PM. R5 entrance fee.
Paarl Bird Sanctuary, Drommedaris Street,Home to Hartlaub's Gull, Greyheaded Gull, Cape Shoveller, African Black Duck, Cape Reed Warbler, African Rail, Little Bittern and other species
Paarl Mountain Nature Reserve, Jan Phillips Mountain Drive,During summer the park is open 7AM to 7PM, during winter 7AM to 6PM. Fynbos landscape and wild olives dominated by massive rounded granite rock formations.
To Do
Boland Kelder, Monday to Firday, 8Am to 5PM. Saturday from 8:30AM to 1PM. Cheese and wine tasting Under the Tree
KWV wine Emporium, Kohler street,Open for wine tasting Monday to Saturday from 9AM to 4:30PM. Cellar tours Monday to Saturday at 10AM, 10:15AM, 10:30AM and 2:15PM, the tour starting at 10:15AM is conducted in German. Home of some of the best wines and brandies produced in South Africa
Laborie Estate, Taillefret street Open from October to April every Monday to Sunday from 9AM to 5PM.
Nederburg, Sonstraal Road, Daljosafat, Monday to Friday 8:30AM to 5PM, Saturdays 10AM to 2PM.
Rhebokskloof, Paarl,Open 365 days a year, 9AM to 5PM.
Ruitersvlei, Suid-Agter Paarl Road,Monday to Friday 8:30AM to 5PM, Saturdays from 8:30AM to 3PM, Sundays from 11AM to 3PM.
Simonsvlei,Offers cellar tours, wine tasting and olive tasting
Adventure
Wineland Ballooning,Go on a Hot-Air balloon over the Berg River Valley
Hiking
Paarl Mountain Nature Reserve A number of trail run through the reserve, ranging from 2.4km to 10km.
Laborie Wine Hiking Trail,See the cape flora and birdlife on the Laborie Estate
Limietberg Trail,A two-day trail of 36km. Start at the foot of the Du Toitskloof, then to Bainskloof village and on to Tweede Tol.
To Eat:
Bosman's at the Grande Roche, Plantasie street, One of the top 10 Restaurants in South Africa according to Wine Magazine.Supurb winelist
Laborie Restaurant, Taillefer Street,9AM to 4PM daily. Cape Provencial Cuisine and traditional
The West Coast Region, located along the South-West Coast of South Africa, skirts the Atlantic ocean from Bloubergstrand in the Cape Metropolitan Area in the south, to the provincial border in Namaqualand in the north, all within the Western Cape. It is a remote strip of land and famous for its spectacular fields of flowers in the Spring, west coast hospitality, peace and tranquility.
Overberg is an area rich in biodiversity between Cape Town and the Garden Route
Gansbaai
Gansbaai (Goose Bay) is a town on Danger Point Peninsula in the Overberg, the most southern region of the African continent, 200 km from Cape Town in the Western Cape.
To See
Danger Point Lighthouse
To Do
Shark-diving boats and whale-watching boats leave from the small harbour of Kleinbaai, a coastal village on Danger-Point-Peninsula, to the best spots to see the whales or find the sharks or –onwards- to the Dyer-Island-Group, which rocks are covered with thousands of Cape fur seals and African penguins and numerous other birds.
Visit Flower Valley, a Unesco initiated empowerment farm and a pilot project of the Agulhas Biodiversity Initiative for sustainable harvesting of fynbos for the cut-flower industry.
The shores on the eastern side of Danger Point exist out of endless and undisturbed sand-beaches, inviting for long and refreshing walks.
Guided nature horse trails can be enjoyed along the coast of the Walker Bay and in the mountains behind Gansbaai.
The Garden Route in the Western Cape is one of South Africa's main tourist attractions and is generally thought to stretch from Mossel Bay to Port Elizabeth along the Indian ocean and also includes parts of the inland.
The central part of the Garden Route is formed by the coastline of the Indian ocean. To the north it is bordered by the Little Karoo, a semi-desert region.
George is situated in the Western Cape Province in South Africa and is the main gateway to the beautiful Garden Route. It is the sixth oldest town in South Africa and very centrally situated halfway between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth. Cradled by the Outeniqua mountains to the north and the Indian ocean to the south, George is an ideal town from which to explore the area’s many scenic attractions – be it on the Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe train, on walks and hikes on the George and Cradock Peaks, on a boat fishing, or pushing a cart across the golf courses at Fancourt.
Rich in historical landmarks, such as the Slave Tree and the King Edward VII Library, George retains a small-town character without compromising on a sophisticated infrastructure.
To See:
George Museum or the crocodile farm, both in York Street.
The old "Moeder kerk" - the spectacular Dutch Reformed church in Mead street
Caledon street - the most beautiful street in George
Anglican Church in York street.
Arts theatre
George botanical Garden
To Do
Take a trip on the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe (the oldest steam train in Africa) to Mossel Bay or visit the Railway Museum.
Enjoy Nature and Historic Trail Rides with Environmentally Friendly Motorcycle and Quad Bikes
Experience the Historic Attakwas Ox wagon Pass Route (National Monument)
Ride on a Private Eco Game Reserve
Explore the beautiful Outeniqua Mountains (Nature Conservation Area) and ride where few are privileged to venture
Go hiking
Play golf, either at Fancourt or Ernie Els's new course Ou Baai
Swim, surf or tan at one of the sandy beaches during summer. Parking may be a problem at many of them during peak season.
Little Karoo
The Little Karoo (Klein Karoo) is in the Western Cape province of South Africa, between the Swartberge and the Garden Route.
Oudtshoorn
Oudtshoorn is situated in the Western Cape in South Africa and world-known for its ostrich farms and the nearby Cango Caves.
To Do
Cango Caves
Quad Adventure Tour Options
Barons Palace Gaming Centre
Highgate Ostrich Farm
Rock Climbing
To Eat
As this is the ostrich capital, this is the place to taste everything one can get out of this species. Most of the ostrich (show) farms offer a restaurant or braai facilities.
Important telephone numbers
From a fixed line
* 107 - Emergency
* 10111 - Police [117]
* 10177 - Ambulance
* 082911 - Netcare911 and The National Sea Rescue Institute
From a mobile phone
* 112 - Emergency
* 911 - Netcare911 and The National Sea Rescue Institute
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