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Some of the prettiest seaside holiday destinations in South Africa are to be found along the Garden Route in the Western Cape. During the Easter and Christmas holidays, popular towns along the Garden Route, such as Mossel Bay, Wilderness and Knysna, are jam-packed with holidaymakers from across the country. For this reason alone, you may want to reserve your accommodation well in advance.

If you’re driving from Cape Town, you’ll be pleased to know that a trip to the Garden Route will take approximately four to five hours, and not the entire day. This is a wonderful convenience for those visiting or living in Cape Town and who seek the ultimate Garden Route getaway. If you need to rent a car for your holiday, feel free to visit our fleet page to view our cars.

To help you decide on the best accommodation, we’ve listed five of the places we’d love to visit ourselves.

Wilderness National Park – Wilderness

Wilderness National Park is situated around the serpentine and lakes in the picturesque village of Wilderness, just past George on the way to Knysna – the perfect location for fun-filled family day trips to neighbouring towns. The Wilderness national park is a serene, forested park with wooden chalets overlooking a shimmering vlei, which is perfect for watching water birds from your balcony. The park is maintained beautifully and there are a host of activities to keep visitors of all ages occupied. If you enjoy hiking or taking long walks, you’ll be pleased to discover scenic hiking trails tailored to different fitness levels, some of which wind through dense lush forest. There are benches along the routes where a moment’s rest will allow you to admire the magnificent scenery, imposing mountains and gentle, trickling waterfalls.

Image source: http://www.kalahari-tours.co.za/

Contact Information
Address: Dumbleton road, Wilderness
Tel: (044) 877 1197
GPS coordinates: 22.6085 -33.9892

Phantom View Lodge – Knysna

If it’s a fairy-tale forest setting you prefer, then Phantom View Lodge is your ideal place for a holiday. You will discover this lovely lodge in the vibrant town of Knysna. The accommodation at Phantom View is in self-catering cabins that have wooden decks with Weber braais, tables and chairs for outdoor dining and stunning views of the river. There is also a swimming pool on the premises, perfect for cooling off after a day walking the nature trails, visiting bird parks, or even playing a round of golf at one of Knysna’s scenic courses. The tranquil mountain and river surroundings of Phantom View Lodge promise to restore the energy of even the weariest among us, who seek some respite from the rat race.

Contact Information
Address: Phantom Pass Road, Knysna
Tel: (044) 382 6230
GPS coordinates: 34°01′ 53.62?S 22°59’12.06?E

Image source: http://www.zawebsdata.co.za/

Image source: http://www.zawebsdata.co.za/

Knysna River Club

Located on the water’s edge of the Knysna Lagoon, Knysna River Club is a one of a kind luxury self-catering accommodation that promises to take your breath away. Log cabins are surrounded by large shady trees and manicured gardens, which contribute to a peaceful atmosphere, just what one needs for a relaxing holiday away from the city. Knysna River Club is conveniently located to allow easy access to shops and restaurants, as well as to the Knysna Waterfront. If you feel like a day out exploring nature, visitors are able to walk or cycle to Thesen Island or embark on a morning jog to Knysna Heads.

Tsitsikamma National Park

Tsitsikamma is considered a world-class holiday destination along the Garden Route. Managed by South African National Parks board, this family-friendly holiday encompasses a list of exciting activities and beautiful scenery for everyone to enjoy. Walk over the suspension bridge spanning Storms River for bird’s eye view over the ocean, or snorkel in shallow pools teeming with colourful sea life. Alternatively, relax on a park bench with your pair of binoculars and count the dolphins swimming by.

Contact Information
Tel: (021) 424 1037
GPS coordinates: 34.0167° S, 23.8833° E

Image source: http://www.southafrica.net/

Image source: http://www.roomsforafrica.com/

Now that you have some ideas on where to book your Garden Route accommodation, look at some of the attractions and activities that the Garden Route offers here.

When winter comes around, you’ll want to keep as warm and cosy as possible. If you’ve spent time in Cape Town during winter months, you’ll know just how cold it can get! Besides keeping yourself well-insulated during the rainy weather, don’t you think it would be lovely to dine near a homely fireplace? We love cosy fireplaces as much as you do, so we’ve compiled a list of restaurants in Cape Town that have fireplaces and fabulous menus from which to choose this winter.

Anatoli (Green Point)

Anatoli is a Turkish restaurant in in Cape Town that has a warm, friendly and inviting atmosphere. If you’re seeking a unique dining experience along with scrumptious belly-warming food, then Anatoli should be on your list. The décor is reminiscent of the Ottoman Empire and their culinary delights are representative of the different regions of Turkey. Dining here, you may just forget that you’re in Cape Town. Why not order the leg of lamb, which is absolutely divine and the perfect winter warming dish.

Anatoli opens at 7pm and closes at 10:30pm.
Note: As they are an evening venue, dining times are from 7pm until late. Kitchen closes at 22:30.
Browse their menu here.

Image source: http://www.designerontheroad.com/

Azure (Camps Bay)

Azure in Camps Bay is the perfect venue to celebrate a momentous occasion. This restaurant is considered one of the top restaurants in Cape Town, as it boasts spectacular views over the Atlantic Ocean while diners are treated to out-of-this-world cuisine prepared by executive chef, Christo Pretorius. Dining at Azure in winter is as lovely as in summer. Escape the cold by enjoying the restaurant’s romantic dinner and movie package. Alternatively, ask the maître d’ to be seated close to the beautifully designed fireplace for an intimate and cosy evening of dining.

Browse Azure’s menu here.

Image source: http://www.12apostleshotel.com/

Foresters Arms (Newlands)

Foresters Arms offers hearty pub-style food that many cannot resist. Therefore, expect a crowd when visiting this popular restaurant ideal for the young and young at heart. Foresters, or “Forries” as it is affectionately known, is the perfect setting for afternoon drinks under the watchful gaze of Cape Town’s majestic mountains. Warm summer days present the perfect opportunity for guests to indulge in cold draft beers and gigantic burgers in the garden. As winter approaches, guests retreat inside to soak up the warm ambience created by the glow of a fireplace and the old-world charm of leather and wood. Forries is well-known for their Sunday carvery, offering a choice of succulent cuts of meat and seasonal vegetables.

Take a peek at their menu here.

Image source: https://www.facebook.com/forrestersarms1852/

La Mouette (Sea Point)

La Mouette in Sea Point has five fireplaces in three of their dining rooms. One of their dining rooms is aptly named the ‘Winter Lounge.’ The atmosphere is infinitely inviting and their delectable food will see you returning for more. What may be even more enticing is that they regularly have specials, such as last winter’s six course tasting menu for R295. You won’t find a better package, especially with such a wonderfully romantic ambience. If you decide to reserve a table, try the bread with smoked butter, or the comforting bouillabaisse. Truly magnificent!

Read their exciting menu here.

Image source: http://lamouette-restaurant.co.za/

Odyssey Gastropub (City Bowl)

Odyssey Gastropub in Bree Street has one of the best burger selections in the city. The atmosphere is relaxed and comfortable, with a log-burning fireplace to add to the cosiness of this vibey, upmarket spot where you can also listen to live entertainment and music while savouring the wholesome food.

See their menu here.

Image source: https://www.facebook.com/TheOdysseyZA/

Rick’s Café Américain (Gardens)

Rick’s Café Américain definitely has a flare for creating a happy and homely atmosphere. Inside, you’ll walk past a polished piano up the stairs to the terrace, where gas heaters generate enough warmth for you to sit comfortably outside during winter months. Alternatively, you can sit downstairs and sink into a comfy plush couch nearby a roaring fireplace while enjoying cocktails and chatting to your dearest or nearest until late into the evening. Their food has a Moroccan twist and is absolutely delectable. Try the Moroccan fish cakes, mezze platter, or burgers. You won’t be disappointed.

Look at their Moroccan-inspired menu here.

Image source: https://www.facebook.com/Ricks-Cafe-Americain-162602170452218/

Undoubtedly, there are many top restaurants in Cape Town from which to choose this winter. Other restaurants worth mentioning are:

• Charcoal Dining – 50 New Church Street, Cape Town.
• Aubergine – 39 Barnet Street, Gardens, Cape Town.
• Kloof Street House – 30 Kloof Street, Garden,s Cape Town.
• Societi Bistro – 50 Orange Street, Gardens, Cape Town.
• HQ – Heritage Square, 100 Shortmarket Street, Cape Town.
• The Roundhouse – Kloof Road, The Glen, Camps Bay, Cape Town.
• Galbi – 210 Long Street, City Centre, Cape Town.

For a dining experience with a view, have a look at our list of the .

It’s that time of the year. Swimming costumes and tanning oil are packed at the back of your cupboard and furry collars and rainboots are lovingly unpacked. Rain pitter-patters against your windows and the swish of water on roads becomes subtle, soothing background sound. Soup or hot chocolate steams from your favourite mug and a woolly blanket becomes your new best buddy.

Winter is a wonderful time for family to gather around fireplaces basking in the welcoming glow of the flickering flames.

If you’re considering taking your family or partner away on holiday during winter, make it an extra comfy getaway by booking at one of these holiday destinations in the Western Cape that have fireplaces.

Oyster Creek Lodge, Knysna

With spectacular views over the Knysna Lagooon and The Heads, this luxury accommodation spot is a cheerful and cosy winter getaway for large families or groups of friends. Suites include double rooms, queen and luxury, all of which open onto a balcony. A polished wood interior and a fireplace emit a warm and cosy ambience – perfect for keeping winter chills at bay. Guests have the option of five luxury suites, some of which are bed and breakfast, while others are self-catering. Oyster Creek Lodge draws its inspiration from the surrounding natural beauty of Knysna, which is reflected in the suites’ décor.

Find out more about this homely lodge here.

Image source: https://www.facebook.com/oystercreeklodge/

Tulbagh Hotel

The picturesque town of Tulbagh may be small but it draws holiday-makers from near and far to enjoy its quaint atmosphere. The Tulbagh Hotel, located conveniently to allow exploration on foot, dates back to 1859, yet still has modern and luxurious rooms. The hotel’s suites exude old-world charm with four-poster beds, yellowwood beam ceilings and sparkling chandeliers. The honeymoon suite is the jewel of the hotel. It was converted from an old wagon shed into a romantic room with two built-in fireplaces, luxurious bath and double showers. Tulbagh is approximately two hours’ drive from Cape Town and the road is scenic as it passes through farming towns.

Book your room here.

Image source: https://www.facebook.com/TheTulbaghHotel

The Royal Hotel, Riebeek Kasteel

The Royal Hotel has a nostalgic atmosphere dating back to the grand colonial era. Located in olive country in Riebeek Kasteel, this luxurious hotel with its old-world charm will definitely warm the cockles of your heart. Both the lounge and on-site restaurants are delicately lit in soft light while roaring fireplaces blanket the rooms with a cosy glow. The Royal Hotel further ensures a warm and comfortable stay with underfloor heating in each of the en-suite rooms. Riebeek Kasteel is the perfect winter getaway for those who enjoy wine and olive tasting. During the months when it snows, a 45 minute drive will take you to Ceres where you can enjoy a range of fun winter activities, such as skiing and snowboarding.

Book a cosy weekend at The Royal Hotel here

Image source: https://www.facebook.com/royalinriebeek

Houw Hoek Inn

Houw Hoek Inn is one of the oldest hotels in South Africa. This popular accommodation offers a lovely combination of old-world charm with modern conveniences. 45 of the 49 cosy rooms are fitted with fireplaces. Guests can enjoy a three-course meal at the hotel’s restaurant, or go wine-tasting at some of the region’s best wine estates. If the weather is sunny, guests can set out on a day of hiking or mountain biking beyond the property of the hotel. Those who prefer an indoor lifestyle may wish to visit the quaint Houw Hoek Farmstall where they’ll find a treasure trove of delightful homemade preserves, breads and other farmstyle products.

Now that you have the perfect winter getaway in mind, do you have a big enough car to pack all your winter necessities? If not, consider renting a family-sized car for your holiday.

Hate the feeling of FOMO? Don’t worry, with this comprehensive Cape Town social calendar, you won’t miss a single exciting event in and around Cape Town during 2016.

July

Knysna Oyster Festival (1 – 10 July)

Celebrate the good life at the Knysna Oyster Festival, an annual event since 1983. Expect plenty of oysters, served fresh or cooked, with a choice of sumptuous garnishes. There will also be more than 30 Tabasco hotspots throughout the festival for those who are fans of the hot sauce. Besides the obvious attractions, the delicious oysters, the festival will also host numerous sporting events, such as the Pick n Pay Cape Times Forest Marathon and the Pick n Pay Weekend Argus Rotary Cycle Tour.

Ticket prices:

• Seafood Wednesday – R20.00
• Pick n Pay Flavours of Knysna – R175.00
• Pick n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival Comedy Shuckle – R100.00

Buy your tickets from Webtickets.

For a full list of events taking place during the Knysna Oyster Festival, visit their website.

Image source: http://www.oysterfestival.co.za/

Franschhoek Bastille Festival (16 July)

Experience the French tradition of good wine and food at the Bastille Festival in Franschhoek. Set against the historic Huguenot Monument, the Food & Wine Marquee will host stalls from some of Franschhoek’s best restaurants, selling delicious gourmet dishes, as well as various wines from wine estates in the area.

Ticket prices:

Entrance to the Wine & Food Marquee will cost R220.00 and includes a wine glass, a booklet of five wine tasting coupons and a R20.00 wine voucher. For further information about the event, look at the Franschhoek Bastille Festival Facebook page.

Purchase your Bastille tickets from Webtickets.

Image source: http://22dielaan.co.za/

August

Robertson Slow Festival (5 – 7 August)

Unwind and live the slow life for a day at the Robertson Slow Festival. Twenty-six wineries and guest houses from surrounding Ashton, Bonnievale, McGregor and Robertson will be taking part. Guests can look forward to a hearty traditional home-cooked meal at the homes of winemaking families and guest houses. Expect mouthwatering waterblommetjie bredie, venison and Karoo lamb and of course, milktart like your gran used to make. There will be plenty of good wine too, and interesting stalls to browse.

Ticket prices:

2016’s tickets are not yet for sale but keep an eye on the website for upcoming details.

Image source: http://www.robertsonslow.com/

Hermanus Wine and Food Festival (6 August)

A carefree atmosphere with amazing food and wine and the stunning ocean as the backdrop is what visitors to Hermanus can expect at the Hermanus Wine & Food Festival. A magnificent culinary experience awaits with a selection of food trucks, wine, and beer on tap. The festival also celebrates the commencement of whale season.

Ticket prices:

Tickets will be available for purchase at R150.00 per person at the Wine Village. See map below for directions.

Image source: http://www.hermanus-festivals.com/

Cape Floral Kingdom Expo (18 – 21 August)

Awaken the botanist in you when you witness the breath-taking display of Fynbos at the Cape Floral Kindom Expo held at the Agri Mega Park in Bredasdorp. The Expo aims to educate visitors about the importance of nature conservation and also provides a platform for like-minded indigenous flora enthusiasts to get together and appreciate the beauty of the Cape Floral Kingdom.

Find more information on the Cape Floral Kingdom Expo’s Facebook page.

Ticket prices:

Ticket prices have not yet been released. Keep an eye on the website for updates.

Map to the Agri Mega Park from Cape Town

Venue: Nooitgedacht Road, Bredasdorp.
GPS coordinates: 34°31’24.61” S 20°03’02.33” E

Image source: https://i.ytimg.com/

September

Cape Town Street Food Festival (2 – 4 September)

Calling all foodies! This event is especially for you! This year marks the second Cape Town Street Food Festival set to take place at Side Street Studios in Woodstock.

Keep an eye on their Facebook page for further details regarding the event.Ticket prices:

• Market: R50.00

• Dinner: R400.00

• Talks: R550.00

Purchase your tickets through Quicket.

Venue: 139 Albert Road & 32 William Street, Woodstock, Cape Town

Contact: streetfood@studio-h.co.za

Image source: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTownStreetFoodFestival/

Darling Wildflower Show (16 – 18 September)

Celebrate wildflower season at The Darling Wildflower Show where grand displays of flowers, from the most delicate to the rarest, will surely wow you. Tractor rides to the Oude Post wetland and craft and food stalls will ensure you have a fun and busy day.

Ticket prices:

Adults: R50.00
Pensioners (available only on Friday 18 September): R30.00
Children (14 – 18yrs): R30.00
Children (under the age of 13): Free

Purchase your tickets here.

Venue: Darling Golf Club, Jacaranda Street, Darling.

Image source: https://www.facebook.com/DarlingWildflowerSociety

Hermanus Whale Festival (30 September – 2 October)

The Hermanus Whale Festival draws hundreds of visitors each year, not only for the fun and lively festive atmosphere, but also because it’s whale season and Hermanus is best known for whale watching. Expect ocean-themed activities and exhibitions emphasising marine wildlife and conservation.

More information about the Hermanus Whale Festival here.</ p>

For enquiries contact (028) 313 0928 or email festival@hermanus.co.za

October

Cape Town Flower Show (27 – 30 October)

Taking place in the Castle of Good Hope, the Cape Town Flower Show will leave a lasting impression with the beautiful and inspiring works of art created from the Cape’s beautiful fynbos and wild flowers. The show also provides a platform for the horticultural industry to promote itself.

Ticket prices:

Adults: R120.00
Children 10-17 yrs: R55.00

Purchase your tickets from Computicket.</ p>

For more information on the the Cape Town Flower Show visit their website.

Zombie Walk (29 October)

South Africa’s biggest Halloween event, the annual Zombie Walk, will see the “undead” plod the streets of Cape Town again on the 29th of October. This year, the event hopes to bring in over 9500 zombies to set a Guinness World Record.

For more information on the Zombie Walk check out their website and Facebook page.

Money raised from the event will be presented to the Lucky Lucy Foundation, a non-profit, pro-life organisation that aims to relieve the plight of neglected and abused animals.

Ticket prices:

Still to be confirmed.
Contact 060 996 1477 or email zombiewalk.capetown@gmail.com
Venue: Company Gardens, Queen Victoria St, Cape Town

Image source: http://quicketsqlsa.blob.core.windows.net

November

Cape Town Bierfest (4 – 6 November)

Experience traditional Bavarian culture and food at the annual Cape Town Bierfest from the 4th to the 6th of November 2016. Expect a jolly atmosphere as the Oompah band plays in the background to clinking steins overflowing with Bavarian beer. There will also be prizes for the best dressed!

Tickets:

• Braumeister: R875.00. The price of the ticket includes a three-course traditional Bavarian meal, VIP reserved seating, costume accessories, complimentary 1L Bierfest stein and a Glamcam photo.
• Brauhaus: R445.00. Inlcudes a two-course traditional Bavarian meal, complimentary bar (limited), costume accessories and a Glamcam photo.
• Uber Bier Hall Day time: R195.00. Includes entrance to the event, one complimentary 500ml beer, his/her apron, beer tasting and a Glamcam photo.
• Uber Bier Hall Night time: R215.00. Includes entrance to the event, one complimentary 500ml beer, his/her apron, beer tasting and a Glamcam photo.
• Standard Bier Hall Day time: R125.00. Includes entrance to the event and beer tasting.
• Standard Bier Hall Night time: R140.00. Includes entrance to the event and beer tasting.

Check out the tasty menu!

Purchase your tickets close to the time.

Note: For those who don’t purchase their tickets online and wish to purchase at the event, an extra R20.00 will be charged to the ticket price.

This event is not open to any persons under the age of 18 years.

Image source: https://www.facebook.com/SABierfest/

Having a car to get you to all of these events is a great way to get you to all or most of these events. Vineyard Car Hire has a great selection of cars for this, be sure to check out our special offers as well.

The internationally renowned town of Hermanus reels in tourists from around the country during August and September as the ‘Kalfiefees’ festival kicks in line with the Hermanus Food and Wine Festival. Locals celebrate the return of the southern right whale annually during this period. The picturesque town, about 115km from Cape Town and a mere 1hr 35min drive to get there- holds some of the most beautiful scenic routes and accommodations in the country. Simply rent a car and enjoy a luxurious drive to the Western Cape’s southern coast.

Image source: //www.facebook.com/showmehermanus/

What you can expect:

The Hermanus Food and Wine Festival has been voted as one of South Africa’s Top 10 Wine Festivals. The event brings together some of the best premium wine and craft beer producers in the country and boasts a variety of food stalls.

When: 6, 7 and 8th August 2016

Where: Wine Village (Address: R320, Hermanus, 7200)

Image source: https://www.facebook.com/ILoveHermanus/

Entrance to the Festival is R50 per person and R100 per person to enter the Wine Tasting venue.

Whale Watching 2016:

Hundreds of visitors and locals flock to Walker bay to see the return of the rare southern right whale in September. Drive down to the bay, grab a pair of binoculars, take in the serene tranquillity and watch the majestic creatures put on a show. According to locals, the experience is not to be missed!

Image source: https://www.facebook.com/ILoveHermanus/

This year, the sought after event begins from the 4-9th August. Hermanus comes alive with the sound of live music, art exhibitions, comedy shows and food stalls that include a variety of succulent local dishes.

Image source http: //www.computravel.co.za/

Whales are known to be quite friendly sea creatures despite their demeanour. Watch these close encounters:

https://youtube.com/watch?v=bhV9Hx1wbIg%3Ffeature%3Doembed

Video source: Southern Right Charters Whale Watching, Youtube.

Interested? Contacted Times Kalfiefees offices on 023 316 1687 for more information or visit their website.

Discovering and exploring the most popular locations in Cape Town is sure to make your trip interesting but take a moment to really get a sense of Cape Town by unravelling what’s beneath the surface. Underground, or rather secret restaurants have become a growing sensation amongst locals as the Cape Town social scene and booming tourism industry reach new heights.

The basic concept of course is nothing original, but a couple of new underground restaurants in Cape Town have graced us with their wonderfully laid-back presence and we certainly can’t imagine life without them. Not only do they offer a calm and relaxed atmosphere but they also offer modest prices while still presenting mouth-watering food. If you think you can only enjoy some of these places if you’re a local then think again. Simply follow our list and get exploring.

The Dog’s Bollocks

This quaint restaurant offers something for all types. Set in a backyard, The Dog’s Bollocks presents a unique backdrop to your lunch dates. From delicious burgers to scrumptious vegan and vegetarian options that will leave you speechless, you can find this gem of a spot in Yard 6, Roodehoek Street in Gardens, and slap bang in the city centre. It doesn’t get much better than that. Only recently has Dog’s Bollocks created a social media account so be sure to follow them before your trip.

• The Dog’s Bollocks specialises in making amazing, mouth-watering burgers. Scrumptiously juicy and ever so inventive and handcrafted by the owner, Nigel Wood. At first glance the Dogs Bollocks looks like nothing more than an average garage with a blackboard outside offering burgers but step inside and prepare to be surprised. Oh and remember to bring your own alcohol along.

Ferdinando’s Pizza

Considered Observatory’s hidden gem, Ferdinando’s Pizza offers wood-fired, Italian pizza made with proper, fresh ingredients that is sure to get you hooked. Just outside of the city centre, Ferdinando’s Pizza is perfectly situated in the up and coming, trendy suburb of Observatory. Here you’ll find a unique selection of restaurants, bars, clubs and a diverse pool of people. Be prepared to fall in love with the charm and ambience of Ferdinando’s Pizza.

• Interesting fact about this Pizzeria: Ferdinando’s Pizza began in the apartment of a handsome Italian guy named Diego who happily made one delicious pizza after the other in the pizza oven he built into the space himself. He named his underground restaurant after his dog Ferdinando who is known to be quite friendly with the ladies.

The Gin Bar

The Gin Bar is perfectly nestled in a Mediterranean-style court yard that can only be accessed through a Chocolate Café, Honest Chocolate. This beautifully hidden gem offers the remedy for your heart, soul and head by harnessing the age old medicinal practices with gin.

• The Gin Bar can be found on Wale Street. In the midst of the city hustle and bustle, you can find this quaint bar which offers gin based drinks with international and local influences. Open Tuesday to Thursday: 5pm-1am and Friday and Saturday: 4pm-2am. The beautiful Upstairs bar (above the Gin Bar) is also open Thursday to Saturday night, and the space is available to hire for events and functions.

If you’re visiting Cape Town for the first time, be sure to make the proper arrangements for travelling before you embark on your trip. Renting a reliable car has to be the safest and most reliable way to travel in and around this majestic city. If you’re looking for a romantic dining experience, have a look at our list of the best restaurants in cape town with sea views.

Everyone loves a good road trip, and South Africa provides the perfect place for one – whether it’s a quick two hour day trip from Cape Town to Hermanus or a cross-country haul, listening to music and admiring the beautiful scenery whizzing past us.

To make sure you get the best out of your next South African jaunt, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to road tripping from Cape Town.

We’ll cover everything from your pre-trip planning, to staying safe on the roads and being as eco-friendly as possible. We’ll have a look at how to go about putting together a playlist and snack pack for your trip. And finally, we’ll give you some suggestions for your road trip destination – because sometimes the destination is just as important as the journey.

Preparing Your Car for a Road Trip

A good road trip depends on having a car that’s reliable. Whether you’re driving your own car or are planning on hiring one, you want to make sure you don’t have to deal with breakdowns – they tend to ruin the experience a bit.

You’ll want to make sure that your car is prepped well in advance. Going through our list at least two to four weeks before you leave makes sure you have enough time to fix any problems that crop up.

First, if your car needs any major repairs, now is the time to do them. A road trip can put strain on your vehicle, and you don’t want any existing issues to become exacerbated. In fact, it’s worth booking your car in for a full check-up. When you do, ask the mechanics to:

• Check your coolant. Even in the areas surrounding Cape Town, you can find a great variation in temperature. Making sure your coolant is functioning properly will go a long way to protecting your engine in these conditions.
• Get the tires checked. The condition of your tread makes a big difference to your cars grip, which is vital on national highways, where you’ll be driving at high speeds. It’s also worth double checking the pressure of your tires against your cars manual – this can be done at any petrol station
• Make sure your battery is in good condition. No one wants to be stranded in the middle of nowhere because their car won’t start.
• Have a look at your brakes. Again, this is something that has a direct bearing on your safety on the road.

Of course, if you choose to hire a car, the above will be done for you, before you receive the car. In which case we can move right on to the next item on our list:

Stay Safe on Your Road Trip

There are a number of different routes out of Cape Town, each offering its own unique scenery and a different path to your destination. Whichever one you choose, it’s important to make sure you’re driving safely. A few things to keep in mind:

• Never, ever tailgate – tailgating is the frankly dangerous practice of driving close to the car in front of you. Aside from the fact that it’s just plain rude, there are several problems with tailgating: It can make the driver in front of you nervous and break their concentration, leading to dangerous mistakes, and it reduces your ability to take evasive action if the car in front of you does something dangerous. Keep a good following distance by staying at least two seconds behind the car in front of you.
• Always use your turn signals – too many times drivers neglect to use their turn signals, not realising just how important they are. Your fellow drivers aren’t psychic, let people know what your intentions are on the road by using your turn signals.
• Never speed, but don’t drive too slowly either – we know speeding kills, so it’s important to stay under the speed limit. But it’s important not to drive too slowly as well, as it gives cars behind us more time to react and avoid accidents.
• Never (and this can’t be said enough) drive under the influence – don’t drive under the influence of any alcohol or any type of drug. This is for the safety of you and everyone else on the road; if we’re not fully aware of our environment and the road we can cause unnecessary and fatal accidents.

Basically, driving safely means making others aware of your intentions, and giving yourself and others the time that’s needed to react to problem situations.

So that’s the pre-trip and driving safety out of the way – let’s talk about being eco-friendly next.

Eco-Friendly Road Trips

In a world where global warming is a major issue, the majority of us have started paying much more attention to the ‘carbon footprint’ we leave behind.

Regardless of whether you’re travelling with your own car or are making use of a Cape Town car hire company, there are many eco-friendly steps you take make while on your road trip.

Always take along a plastic bag or two while driving, as this is an easy and quick way of disposing your rubbish while travelling long distances. These plastic bags can easily be discarded in a bin when at your next stop, such as a petrol station for re-fuelling or buying food.

When packing your car for the road trip avoid overloading the vehicle, as an unnecessarily, heavily loaded car can add to your fuel consumption, which ultimately adds to your carbon footprint.

Always be aware of how you can help the environment and try to prevent any damage to it. For instance, if your exhaust is fuming then this is certainly not good for the environment and definitely not a good sign of the condition of your vehicle. Hiring a car is a responsible option, if you feel your car might be unreliable and unsafe for the environment and those around you.

Consider making use of environmentally conscious restaurants and accommodations in Cape Town.

OK, we’ve got all the important stuff out the way – now on to the fun stuff.

The Best Food and Music for a Road Trip

So much of a road trip depends on the atmosphere in the car. The best way to get this right is with a combination of excellent music and great snack options.

The obvious problem is that you and your fellow adventurers will almost certainly have different tastes, both in music and food. So what to do? Well, the easiest thing is probably just to sit down and have a chat about your playlist.

The key to a good road trip playlist is variety. There are some easy genre touchstones that any road trip will usually include:

• Classic rock
• Sing-a-long classics (a road trip tradition)
• The latest chart toppers

There are also a host of artists who are traditionally considered essential to road tripping. Guns ‘n Roses, AC/DC, Journey, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Bruce Springsteen – this is just the tip of the iceberg, music wise.

Food brings its own complications when it comes to choice, but a there are a few options that generally make it onto everyone’s list:

• Biltong
• Chips
• Water
• Soft drinks
• Chocolate

It’s also a good idea to stop at farm stalls and small towns to supplement your snack reserve. Not only does this give you an opportunity to stretch your legs, you’ll often find little treats that you’ve never seen before, from homemade pies to traditional root beer and everything in between.

At this point, we’ve covered your car, staying safe on the road, being conscious of the environment, and what to do for snacks and music. Last off, we’d like to give you a bit of inspiration for possible road trip destinations.

Great Road Trips from Cape Town

The best thing about using Cape Town as the starting point of your road trip is that it gives you the opportunity to drive through some truly mind blowing scenery. Not only that, but there are a host of interesting and unique destinations at distances that will suit everyone from the casual day tripper to long haul road trip enthusiasts.

For day trips and weekends away, there are few great options:

• Hermanus, on the Southern Coast of the Western Cape, lies a few hours from Cape Town and is a great weekend getaway. This lovely seaside town is best known for whale watching, but it’s also home to some great restaurants, and the nearby Hemel en Aarde Valley wine region produces some great white wines.
• The historic town of Franschhoek lies inland from Cape Town, and is a wine enthusiasts dream. Settled by the French Huguenots in the 17th Century, it is home to many outstanding wine farms, as well as some of the best restaurants in the country. A great way to explore the area is with a trip on the wine tram, stopping at notable farms in the area.
• For a shorter trip, visit Kalk Bay on the False Bay coast of the Cape Peninsula. This fishing village is the perfect place to grab some fish and chips, find a spot at the harbour, and watch the fishing boats bring in the catch.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, there are some great drives that will take you a bit further afield:

• The Cape Route 62 meanders from Cape Town, through the Klein Karoo region and all the way to Port Elizabeth. This road goes through some incredible countryside, with some quirky stops along the way, including the locally famous Ronnie’s Sex Shop. Another spot on the Route that’s worth a look is Oudtshoorn, where you’ll find the ancient and remarkable Cango Caves.
• The popular path through the Garden Route will take you to Knysna, situated on a lagoon and home to lush rainforest. This scenic area is known for the yearly Oyster Festival. Make sure you take the time to visit the Knysna Heads while you’re there – these enormous formations form the entrance to the lagoon from the sea.
• North of Cape Town, the West Coast route will take you all the way into Namibia if you so wish. Nearer to home though, you’ll find fishing villages like Paternoster, where you can relax against the backdrop of the wild Atlantic Ocean.

These are really just a hint of the options available to you. From forbidding mountains to vast oceans, a road trip from Cape Town gives you access to an entire world of diversity and adventure.

Go for a drive. Explore.

If you are looking for things to do in Cape Town, you’ll be glad to learn that the Mother City has something for everyone. We have provided our selection of Cape Town attractions for tourists and locals alike.

• Exploring Cape Town – The Top Ten places to visit when you’re in the Mother City.
• Experience the great outdoors of Cape Town with these activities. Read more on these outdoor activities in Cape Town.
• Visit the coast and see the amazing things to do in Muizenberg.
• Visit these Fun Restaurants in Cape Town.
• Treat yourself to winter warmers at these top restaurants in Cape Town.
• There are beautiful trips to enjoy within a short driving distance from Cape Town. Read more on December daytrips within 200kms of Cape Town.
• Get a head-start on your Festive Season shopping at Cape Town’s amazing street markets.
• Kirstenbosch Gardens – Why this historic site is a must-see when in the Mother City.
• Must-see Sights Around Cape Town – Want to take a drive, but don’t know where? Let Cape Town’s number one car hire company guide do the thinking for you.

Looking for exciting new ways to spend your weekends? Just outside of Cape Town, lies a seaside suburb that is home to the oldest building in South Africa, a special corner for avid surfers and a variety of beach spots, restaurants and hiking trails.

You can rent a reliable car and drive up to Muizenberg for a fun-filled day of eating good food, soaking up the South African sun and partaking in some rather exciting outdoor activities.

Surfers’ Corner

In any seaside suburb you’ll find a selection of activities that include swimming. Muizenberg boasts an ever-growing community of surfers. Surf Shack offers everything you’ll need to get started. Local surfers claim surfing is one of the most exhilarating experiences. Learning to surf should be on your bucket list!

Muizenberg Flea-Market

The Muizenberg Flea Market is considered the cornerstone of the suburb. Every Sunday it draws crowds from all over the Cape. Stalls offer the best bargains all year round.

Come hungry as the smell of freshly made street food will tantalise your taste buds as you pass by. You’ll find a variety of sizzling meats, buttery corn, fish and chips and even a few surprises too. Dress comfortably and have cash on hand because having to make a quick dash to the nearest ATM may be the reason you miss out on great deals.

Image Source: Cape Town Magazine

Muizenberg History:

Muizenberg is home to South Africa’s oldest building. Now open to the public as a museum of history, the Het Posthuys Museum has been perfectly preserved since 1742.

A quick visit to the Muizenberg Museum and you’ll learn about the battle that took place in the town on the 7th August 1795 between the Dutch and the English. The battlement site boasts an open-air museum which was opened to the public in 2006. The Dutch retreated which led to the first British occupation of the Cape. Brace yourself for an action packed visit back into time.

Het Posthuys Museum by Muizenberg Tourism

For activities in the rest of the Mother City, visit our selection of attractions in Cape Town.

Christmas for South Africans usually entails a warm summer’s day frolicking in the sun or splashing about in pools. The entire family comes round for a braai or roast accompanied by fresh summer salads and cool drinks.

Rarely do we get to experience a cold, snowy Christmas like Europeans, where locals are wrapped snuggly in fur jackets, nibble on gingerbread and clasp steaming cups of gluhwein or hot chocolate. That’s why the small town of Tulbagh has decided to put together a Christmas in Winter festival each year, so that we too may experience our very own white Christmas – the South African way.

What can you expect?

Tulbagh is a lovely quiet town about a two hour’s drive from Cape Town, depending on traffic. During the festival, you can expect plenty of Christmas cheer accompanied by the delicious aromas of home-cooked food and sugary delights drifting from food stalls. Along Church Street, trees are decorated with twinkling fairy lights and shop windows are dressed with Christmas ornaments and tinsel. Locals join in on the cheer by playfully wearing Father Christmas hats.

People at Christmas in Winter festival in Tulbagh

What can you see and do?

Walk along Church Street where you’ll come across the largest concentration of national monuments in a single street. Admire these from a distance or step inside away from the cold to take a closer look. For children, jumping castles, pony rides and face painting awaits. It won’t be Christmas without the jolly ‘ho ho ho’ of Father Christmas, who will be making an appearance too! Evenings will bring song and dance with live music at the ‘Rock with Santa’ party.

Where to eat

Many restaurants will be cooking and serving delectable winter warmer dishes and full-on traditional Christmas fare. Stalls will also be selling hearty soup with crusty bread and gluhwein (hot wine).

Here are some restaurants in Tulbagh where you can tuck into a delicious winter lunch:

• De Kreeft Restaurant
• Olive Terrace Bistro
• Rijk’s Country House
• Paddagang Restaurant
• Forties Pub & Restaurant

If you have your lunch planned beforehand, go wine, cheese and olive tasting instead, which will be held at some of Tulbagh’s wine estates.

How much does a ticket cost?

Tickets for the Christmas in Winter festival are available at the Tulbagh tourism office and cost R60 per person. If you want a wine tasting glass, a ticket will cost R80 per person. The tickets are valid for both days of the festival* (Saturday and Sunday).

• Children under the age of 12 years enter free of charge.
• *Do note that the price of the ticket does not include dinner at the restaurants.

When is the Christmas in Winter festival?

The festival takes place over the weekend of the 25th and 26th of June.

How to get to Tulbagh from Cape Town

Distance is approximately 121km.

1. Drive on the N1 highway from Cape Town towards Paarl.
2. Take the Klapmuts/Wellington turnoff (R44).
3. Just before Wellington turn left again as if you’re driving to Hermon/Ceres (Still the R44).
4. Continue on this road through the Nuwekloof Pass where it becomes the R46.
5. Follow the signs into Tulbagh.

GPS coordinates: -33.28624,19.13851

Map with directions to Tulbagh

If you need accommodation for the weekend of the Christmas in Winter festival, consider booking into the famous Tulbagh Hotel.