Our 11 highlights in South Africa

South Africa totally flashed us. This trip was one of the best so far and there were 11 moments which made it unforgettable. We would have been totally happy if we only experienced these 11 moments. Well, #collectmomentsnotthings and so on, blah, blah. But seriously, we hope, the photos and our video speak for themselves and can convince you, too.

 

1. Sunset in Stellenbosch’s Vineyards

In Stellenbosch we spent two nights at Marianne Wine Estate. At the pool house, you can enjoy the best view you can imagine. The palm trees, the pool, the view over vineyards and fruit trees and the picturesque hill in the background are just picture-perfect. The excellent Rosé Wine from Marianne is the cherry on top and this place will always have a place in our hearts.

2. Climbing the Lion’s Head

We chose a lovely morning for our hike. The weather was amazing and the view from the top is spectacular. You can enjoy a 360° view of Table Mountain, the city, Signal Hill, Robben Island, 12 Apostles, the sea and Clifton Beach as well as Camps Bay.

Sunrise as well as Sunset ought to be amazing, too. Well, on our list for the next time. The hike is exhausting, so bring enough water and don’t start by noon.

Although it’s exhausting, it’s definitely possible even for the untrained (like us). It will take you 1 to 1.5 hours until you can enjoy the super relaxed atmosphere. The Capetonians are very nice (in contrast, most tourists weren’t) and enviably fit.

3. Enjoying Table Mountain, Robben Island and the sunset

North of Cape Town’s suburb Table View, one beach is more beautiful than the last one. Either in the towns or on the (often lonely) beaches: the view is fantastic and in low season you’ll always find a place for your own.

4. Wild Flowers in West Coast National Park

Each year in August/September, thousands of Capetonians go on a pilgrimage to the West Coast National Park to see the Wild Flowers. Huge areas turn colourful and the landscape looks picture-perfect. Antelopes and Zebras are the cherry on top and the Langebaan Lagoon sparkles in all shades of turquoise. The best spots are Postberg Reserve and Seeberg Viewpoint in the National Park.

Unique experiences and compulsory when you’re in Cape Town this time of the year. Unfortunately, this can be over after several weeks and latest by end of September.

5. Hunting the Big 5 on a Game Drive in sunset and sunrise

To mention it right away: it was stunningly beautiful but also very cold. No, I mean freezing cold! As soon as the sun was hiding or we were driving in our open safari jeep, all blankets, jackets and overalls weren’t enough.

But the wildlife and the amazing landscape in the setting and rising sun, as well as two picknicks in the bush and the great ranger made the two game drives an unforgettable experience. Even though the lions were hiding from us!

6. Golden hour on Chapman’s Peak Drive

The perfect conclusion of your Cape Peninsula day trip. It’s best entering the Chapman’s Peak Drive (toll road) one hour prior to sunset. You should stop on every single viewpoint, it’s worth it!

Capetonians love a cave in which you can enjoy the sunset with a drink, although many warning signs tell you not to do! You’ll find this spot south of the point where you have to turn with the free Day Pass. Descend some meters from the main viewpoint and turn left to get to the cave.

The road is most beautiful in the golden light. It’s an amazing experience, easy to drive and afterwards you’ll be back in Cape Town in no time.

7. Watch penguins in the wild

There are two great spots, where you come as close to these cute birds, like no place else. More famous is Simon’s Town with its lovely Boulder’s Beach. What we liked more is Betty’s Bay. It’s less crowded and more relaxed. Penguins are fascinating and curious if you leave them alone.

Our GoPro was inspected by two brave guys, although we put it at a distance.

8. A glass of wine in a jacuzzi on the rooftop

The Roundhouse Guesthouse in Gansbaai has a true knockout argument: the jacuzzi on the rooftop with an amazing view over Walker Bay. Sun is setting in the sea, you sit in the warm water and enjoy a glass of wine. What else could you wish for? If you’re lucky you will even see whales from here. One hour prior to that we saw some at this point.

9. Savouring Oysters in Knysna

We weren’t too lucky with weather at the Garden Route but we took the opportunity to enjoy Knysna’s specialty. Freshly-shucked oysters accompanied by a glass of Brut Champagne or white wine.

Some people think it’s disgusting but we liked it so much!

10. Land-based whale watching in Walker and False Bay

The best place worldwide for land-based whale watching. We had two days with low whale activity, but still we were lucky enough to see some of the giants from a distance. Each time we saw a ‘blow’ (when the whale breathes out before diving), we were excited and happy at the same time. Well, yes, like toddlers!

11. View Point over Clifton, Camps Bay and the 12 Apostles

This viewpoint is unique! You pass several impressing mansions between Sea Point and Clifton. The street (Ocean View Drive) becomes narrower and in the end, there’s enough space for two cars. Behind some bushes, you’ll find some rocks on which to sit. You can just relax, enjoy the view and take thousands of pictures. Enjoying a drink would make it even better. Definitely our favourite spot in Cape Town.

 

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