An Unfolding Story

Day notes

Step into the soul of the Cape Winelands with a delightful day trip to Stellenbosch, a historic gem bursting with energy, charm, and old-world character. Known for its lively student vibe, oak-lined avenues, and rich heritage, this buzzing university town offers the perfect blend of culture, history, and irresistible local flavor.

Forget the car today—the heart of Stellenbosch is best explored on foot. We'll wander along the iconic Dorp Street, one of the oldest and most scenic streets in South Africa, lined with beautifully preserved Cape Dutch architecture, quaint cafés, and boutiques that invite you to linger.

No visit is complete without a stop at the famous Oom Samie se Winkel—a nostalgic treasure trove of local treats, vintage curios, and true South African charm. It's like stepping into a time capsule, with every shelf telling its own story.

Surrounded by world-class wine estates, the town offers more than just a taste of good wine—it delivers an unforgettable cultural experience right in its vibrant town centre.

Day notes

Step off the beaten path and into the soul of the Cape Winelands with “Paarl Past & Pour”—an unforgettable blend of storytelling, architecture, and wine, all set against the backdrop of one of South Africa’s oldest towns.

Your journey begins with a leisurely 1km guided walk along Paarl’s picturesque main street, where majestic manor houses whisper tales of centuries past. With a local guide from the valley leading the way, you'll uncover hidden histories, marvel at Cape Dutch architecture, and explore the birthplace of business in the area—right around the historic Strooidak Church.

Peek into the past with a visit to:

• The oldest remaining working well in Paarl

• One of the town’s earliest dwellings, dating back to 1784

• And the mysterious “Die Kraan”—a little-known piece of Paarl folklore you just might get to see!

Along the way, meet the spirited characters who once called these grand homes their own, and uncover the lesser-known stories that shaped this Winelands jewel.

But what’s a day in the Winelands without a toast to its finest offering? After your walk, we’ll head to one of the Drakenstein Valley’s beautiful wine estates for a relaxing tasting experience surrounded by vineyard views.

To end on a high note, we'll visit the Afrikaans Taal Monument, an iconic tribute to language, culture, and the people who shaped it—set against breathtaking panoramas of the valley.

Day notes

Today’s adventure take us past Drakenstein Correctional Services and to begin in the heart of one of the Cape Winelands’ most enchanting villages—Franschhoek, the "French Corner" of the Cape. We’ll take a slow and easy stroll along the Main Road, a treasure trove of boutiques, art galleries, and cozy coffee shops, each with its own character and charm waiting to be discovered.

Your guide will drop you off at one end of this walkable, vibrant street and meet you at the other, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace. As you meander your way upward, framed by majestic mountains and lined with shady trees, the impressive Huguenot Monument slowly comes into view, standing proudly at the head of the road—welcoming and watching your approach.

For those who wish, the Huguenot Gardens and Museum offer a peaceful pause, where stories of early French settlers and their lasting influence on the valley unfold in a beautifully curated setting.

But the journey doesn’t end there…

We continue with a drive over the breathtaking Franschhoek Pass, where panoramic views stretch out across valleys and vineyards. Along the way, we’ll stop to admire the Theewaterskloof Dam—a vital water source that just a few years ago stood hauntingly empty during the drought. Today, it glistens once more, restored and vital, a reminder of nature’s resilience.

The scenic route winds through charming small towns and rolling countryside, leading us onward to our final destination of the day—yest another  filled with character!

Step back into a bygone era with an unforgettable overnight stay in the historic village of Matjiesfontein—a true time capsule nestled in the heart of the Karoo.

Upon arrival, we dive straight into the town’s fascinating heritage with visits to the Railway and Transport Museums, where tales of steam trains, Victorian travelers, and Karoo legends come to life among vintage carriages and quirky collections.

Then it’s time to check in at the iconic Lord Milner Hotel, where old-world elegance and period charm await. Expect creaking wooden floors, vintage décor, and a quiet, starlit atmosphere that feels like something out of a classic novel.

But don’t get too comfy just yet—meet us in the hotel foyer around 18h00 for what may well be the shortest—and most entertaining—bus tour in the world! Hop aboard a delightfully quirky ride through town as your guide delivers a spirited commentary filled with laughter, stories, and a few surprises.

As the sun sets over the wide Karoo horizon, the night is yours to enjoy. Relax with a drink on the hotel’s stoep, dine in vintage style, and soak in the stillness of this unique town where time truly stands still.

Day notes

After a restful night in the timeless village of Matjiesfontein, we continue our journey along the evocative Forgotten Route, where each bend in the road unveils landscapes steeped in history and natural grandeur.

Our path winds through the dramatic and lesser-traveled Seweweekspoort, a rugged mountain pass carved by time and water. Towering sandstone cliffs rise on either side, echoing tales of explorers, ox wagons, and the untamed spirit of the Klein Karoo. Keep your camera ready—this is one of the most scenic and soul-stirring drives in the country.

By midday, we arrive at the beloved Kobus se Gat, a true Karoo gem where warm hospitality meets hearty, traditional cuisine. Tuck into authentic South African dishes, lovingly prepared and served with mountain views and rustic charm.

With hearts and stomachs full, our journey continues as we ascend the legendary Swartberg Pass, a national monument and one of the most iconic mountain passes in South Africa. Built by Thomas Bain in the 1800s using little more than pickaxes and grit, the pass winds dramatically upward to the highest point, offering jaw-dropping views across the valleys below.

Breathe in the crisp mountain air, feel the rich history beneath your feet, and take a moment to marvel at the incredible feat of engineering and nature’s raw beauty—this is a place where time slows down and the silence speaks volumes.

Day notes

Today’s journey is all about slowing down, tuning in, and experiencing the magic of the animal kingdom with care, curiosity, and deep respect.

We begin before sunrise, venturing out into the soft stillness of the morning for a once-in-a-lifetime experience: a Meerkat Safari ! As the sky gently brightens, we settle quietly in the veld, waiting patiently for these wild, free-roaming meerkats to rise with the sun. Watching them emerge, stretch, and begin their day is nothing short of humbling—a rare glimpse into their world, guided by experts who care deeply about their welfare and habitat.

After a hearty breakfast, the journey continues to the Ostrich Farm, where we learn about the remarkable history and biology of these fascinating birds. This is not just a farm tour—it's a chance to better understand the role of ostriches in the region and the ongoing efforts to treat them with care and dignity. Here, education goes hand-in-hand with conservation, and every visit helps support responsible animal management.

In the golden light of the late afternoon, we make our way to the peaceful surrounds of Buffelsdrift Game Lodge, where we’ll observe the resident elephants in their semi-wild habitat. These gentle giants are ambassadors for their species—each one with a story of rescue and refuge. Watching them up close, from a respectful distance, offers a powerful moment of connection. It’s a chance to reflect on the intelligence, emotional depth, and majesty of one of Africa’s most iconic animals.

Day notes

Embark on an unforgettable journey from Oudtshoorn to Arniston, where quirky charm meets breathtaking landscapes.  Hit the legendary Route 62, winding your way through dramatic semi-desert scenery toward Barrydale, where time slows down and creativity flourishes.

No trip is complete without a cheeky pit stop at the iconic Ronnie's Sex Shop—a misnamed roadhouse bar plastered with bras, signatures, and good stories. Refreshed and amused, cruise over the spectacular Tradouw Pass, a winding masterpiece carved into the mountains, offering sweeping views of deep gorges and lush valleys. It’s a road trip full of character, colour, and curves—ending in the serene seaside beauty of Arniston.

Day notes

Discover the raw beauty and soulful charm of South Africa’s southern coastline on a day that blends nature, history, and heartwarming hospitality. Begin with a self-guided walk to the Waenhuiskrans Cave, hidden beneath the cliffs near Arniston. Accessible only at low tide, this sea-carved wonder is a surreal space of echoing waves and ancient stone—perfect for a quiet moment in nature’s cathedral.

From there, head to Cape Agulhas, the true southern tip of Africa, where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet in a dramatic, windswept embrace. Snap a photo at the iconic marker and feel the power of standing at the edge of a continent.

On your way back, wander through Kassiesbaai, a picture-perfect fishing village frozen in time, with its whitewashed cottages and stories etched into every weathered wall. End your day with tea at Mien's, a local gem where warm smiles and homemade treats make you feel like family. It’s a day of discovery, where land, sea, and soul come together.

Day notes

As we journey from the South Coast to Cape Town, we highly recommend taking the day slow and savoring the stunning scenery along the famous Whale Coast Route. This stretch is more than just a drive—it's a showcase of coastal magic, charming towns, and unforgettable viewpoints.

During whale season, a whale watching boat trip can be arranged for a front-row seat to nature’s grandest performance. Or, if you’re craving a bit of adrenaline, how about sandboarding the dunes in Betty’s Bay? Just don’t miss the chance to visit the Stoney Point Penguin Colony—a quieter, more intimate alternative to Boulders, where you can walk among a bustling African penguin colony.

Wrap up your coastal escape with a drive along Clarens Drive, one of the Western Cape’s most scenic routes, where ocean meets mountain in a breathtaking embrace.

Let's take our time, and let the road to Cape Town become part of the adventure.