Located in the scenic Olifants River Valley, the town of Clanwilliam is the ‘Rooibos Capital of the World’. The town features an array of tea houses and historical buildings. It is conveniently situated next to a large dam perfect for water skiing, swimming, and fishing. Visitors can enjoy a tour at the Elandsberg Rooibos Estate to view the unique tea-making process, learn about the town’s history at the Old Gaol Museum, explore the ‘Rooibos Route’ and enjoy a cup of tea at one of its many stopovers namely, The Rooibos Teahouse. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the spectacularly scenic surrounds including: the Cederberg Mountains, the West Coast and the annual wildflower splendour of Namaqualand.
Nestled amongst rugged mountains, Springbok is Namaqualand's commercial and cultural centre. This prosperous town has various sites of interest, including historical monuments, museums, a scenic 4x4 route, several excellent mountain biking trails, and some fascinating geology - making for a wonderful photographic trip. Springbok is also close to the beautiful Namaqualand wildflower reserves, the secluded Richtersveld National Park, and the thundering Augrabies Falls. Another great spot to cool off while enjoying nature here is the pretty Port Nolloth Beach, nearby. The town makes for a wonderful stop on the way to Namibia.
The pretty, underrated farm town of Kakamas rests on the banks of the Orange River in the Northern Cape, near the border with Namibia and just south-west of Upington. Boasting gorgeous natural springs, excellent wine tasting opportunities and a private game reserve, the town is a little-known destination with much to offer. Visitors can relax in the stunning, turquoise The Riemvasmaak Hot Springs which have been converted into pristine pools set deep in the ravines, surrounded by wild fig trees. Animal lovers can spot leopards and a huge array of brightly coloured birds at the Khamkirri Private Game Reserve, while gourmands can indulge in a range of spectacular flavours at the wine estates and world-class restaurants. Other highlights include: functioning water wheels on the canals, the historic German war graves, and a range of outdoor sports.
Impeccably preserved Victorian and Edwardian buildings mark the idyllic landscape of the delightful town of Calvinia is embraced by the Hantam Mountains to the north and the Rebunieberg and Keiskeiberge to the south. Hantam House, a restored 1854 edifice, now extends a warm invitation as a refined bed and breakfast. The Neo-Gothic elegance of Calvinia NG Kerk, consecrated in 1899, adds a timeless allure. Notably, this town boasts the world's largest post box, a remarkable conversion of a former water tower, standing at a stature of 6.17 metres. The museum, housed within a meticulously restored Jewish Synagogue, offers a rich tapestry of historical and cultural exhibits. For nature enthusiasts, the Akkerendam Nature Reserve unveils exclusive flower trails, while the annual Hamtam Meat Festival in August further elevates the town's charm.
Just 45 minutes from Cape Town, Stellenbosch is an enticing Western Cape destination with an exciting culinary scene, photogenic historic buildings, and a youthful atmosphere. The beautiful university town is surrounded by mountains, vineyards, and nature reserves (Jonkershoek and Simonsberg), making it a charming base for wine tours, day trips and outdoor adventure. The town centre is characterised by both a “holiday feeling” - sublime art galleries, award-winning restaurants and alluring boutiques fringe leafy cobbled streets - and a sense of aliveness as students bustle between faculties. Architecture enthusiasts will enjoy the numerous Cape Dutch and Victorian buildings, while music lovers can look forward to world-class classical music concerts at the grand Music Conservatory. Two dreamy botanical gardens (with gorgeous tea rooms under the trees) add to the unique character of this special town.
