11 nights Wine, whales and West Coast

Exploring Cape Town, Hermanus, Stellenbosch, and the West Coast of South Africa offers a diverse range of experiences, from vibrant city life to coastal beauty and wine country charm. Here are some ideas for each of these destinations:

Cape Town:

1. Table Mountain: Begin your Cape Town adventure with a visit to Table Mountain. You can hike or take the cable car to the summit for panoramic views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean.

2. Robben Island: Take a ferry to Robben Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to learn about the history of apartheid and Nelson Mandela's imprisonment.

3. V&A Waterfront: Spend time at the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, where you can shop, dine, visit the Two Oceans Aquarium, and even take a sunset cruise.

4. Cape Peninsula Tour: Explore the Cape Peninsula with stops at Hout Bay, Chapman's Peak Drive, Cape Point, and Boulders Beach to see African penguins.

5. Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden: Enjoy a leisurely stroll through Kirstenbosch Gardens, known for its indigenous flora, picnicking spots, and outdoor concerts.

Hermanus:

1. Whale Watching: Hermanus is famous for whale watching. Visit between June and November to witness southern right whales from the shore or join a boat tour for a closer view.

2. Hermanus Cliff Path: Walk along the scenic Hermanus Cliff Path, which offers fantastic views of the coastline and opportunities to spot whales, dolphins, and seals.

3. Grotto Beach: Relax on Grotto Beach, one of the area's beautiful sandy stretches, or go for a swim in the ocean.

4. Wine Tasting: While not as well-known as Stellenbosch, Hermanus has a growing wine scene. Visit some of the local wineries to sample wines and enjoy the stunning vineyard views.

Stellenbosch:

1. Wine Tasting: Explore the renowned Stellenbosch Wine Route. Visit historic estates and modern wineries to taste award-winning wines.

2. Stellenbosch Village Museum: Learn about the town's history at the Stellenbosch Village Museum, which consists of four historic houses with guided tours.

3. Dining: Stellenbosch offers an array of dining options. Enjoy gourmet cuisine at a top-rated restaurant, or opt for a traditional South African meal.

4. Art Galleries and Craft Markets: Explore Stellenbosch's vibrant arts and crafts scene by visiting galleries and markets featuring local artwork and handcrafted goods.

West Coast:

1. Wildflowers: Depending on the season (typically August to September), the West Coast is famous for its wildflower displays in Namaqualand. Don't miss the chance to see fields of colorful blooms.

2. Cederberg Mountains: If you enjoy hiking and outdoor adventures, head to the Cederberg Mountains for trails, rock formations, and a chance to see ancient rock art.

3. Seafood: Savor fresh seafood at seaside restaurants along the coast. The West Coast is known for its delicious fish and seafood dishes.

4. Beaches: Relax on the pristine beaches of the West Coast, such as Langebaan and Paternoster, where you can enjoy swimming, kitesurfing, and beachcombing.

5. Bird Watching: The West Coast National Park is an excellent spot for birdwatching, with flamingos being a common sight.

This itinerary allows you to experience the best of Cape Town's urban attractions, the natural beauty and marine life of Hermanus, the wine and history of Stellenbosch, and the tranquil coastal charm of the West Coast. Depending on your interests and the time available, you can adjust the duration of your stay in each location.