South Africa really is the destination that has it all - a vast nation of wildly different landscapes, each one more beautiful than the last and all equally blessed with a wide variety of experiences to explore. From the hustle and bustle of the cosmopolitan Cape Town, to the magnificent scenery of the Garden Route. From sipping the latest vintage in the winelands to spotting cheetah in full flight in the Kruger. From exploring natural heritage sites and blue flag beaches to tuning up the golf swing on one of the many fabulous courses the country has to offer– the possibilities for luxury holidays in South Africa are endless, and the end always comes too soon!
Home to some outstanding hotels and honeymoon destinations, South Africa is as equally perfect for those who want to get out and explore as it is for those who want to relax and do nothing. With regular flights from both Cape Town and Johannesburg to Mauritius and the Seychelles, it is also a perfect stopover destination for those looking to combine an African safari or city break with the beautiful beaches of the Indian Ocean islands.
Cape Town
Mother city of the Western Cape, an area regarded as one of the most beautiful regions in the world, the Cape Town is a rare cultural gem resulting from the amalgamation of Indonesian, French, Dutch, British and German settlers and the local Bushman and Hottentot tribes as well as the Bantu tribes from the north. The impressive presence of Table Mountain, flanked by the legendary Devil’s Peak and historical Signal Hill, stands proudly above the City. Beautiful white sandy beaches along a peaceful coastline frame the Cape Peninsula – famed for its unique floral kingdom, bountiful rivers, valleys and magnificent countryside. Cape Town boasts a multitude of entertainment, ranging from outdoor activities and adventures in the sun to great shopping and a bustling nightlife.
Cape Winelands
Just an hour’s drive from Cape Town, the Cape Winelands is a scenically enchanting region of dramatic mountains and fertile valleys planted with vines stretching across rolling fields. A little further along the coast out of Cape Town is Hermanus, one of the world’s foremost area for viewing Southern Right whales.
The Winelands are a wonderful combination of small historic towns, beautiful scenery and wine estates producing world renowned wine and brandies. There are literally hundreds of wine estates, all offering the chance to sample their unique blends in a picture perfect setting.
The Garden Route
The Garden Route, stretching along the southern coast of Africa is an area of unspoiled beauty and majesty – and quite unlike any other region in Africa.
With a temperate climate and mild, year round weather, the Garden Route has a gentleness and tranquillity that makes it unique. The coastline is in some areas rugged and rough with towering cliffs and turbulent seas. In other stretches the sea is placid with gentle lagoons and golden white beaches, such as Knysna, Plettenberg Bay and Wilderness.
A driving trip through this region promises breathtaking natural beauty, and the chance to stay at some beautiful hotels along the way.
Safari
For many, the quintessential African experience is the Safari, and South Africa can offer some of the most incredible game viewing in some of the world’s most luxurious lodges. The ‘Big 5’ (elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo and rhino) roam freely in the huge wildlife parks to the North of Johannesburg. During the day, expert guides will lead you to within touching distance of these magnificent beasts, whilst evening time is spent round the fire drinking sundowners before retreating back to one’s luxurious suite. Being on safari in the wilderness of the African bush is an experience that is one that will live long in the memory.