Western Cape
The world in one country: A journey through the Western Cape
The Western Cape means freedom, light, wide-open spaces and a world-famous wine region. The Pinotage grape variety was born here over a hundred years ago, and to this day, more Chenin Blanc grows on the slopes around Cape Town than anywhere else in the world. It's often called 'the world in one country'. A round trip awaits.
Mother City Cape Town
One of South Africa's three capitals is located in the Western Cape and is an international star: Cape Town. Anyone visiting South Africa for the first time will almost inevitably be drawn to the so-called “Mother City”. Life happens outdoors: a picnic on Signal Hill, a hike up Lion's Head with an outdoor dinner and wine at sunset, surfing in Muizenberg, sunbathing at Glen Beach or a trip to the hustle and bustle of Clifton 4th. Culinarily, everything is possible, from a small budget to a grand fine-dining experience: enjoy mussels and Palomas in a club atmosphere at “Blondie”, lose track of time at “Kloof Street House” or try fresh fish daily at “Codfather”.
300 Kilometres of the Garden of Eden
The so-called “Garden Route” is arguably South Africa's most famous coastal road. Its green forests, crystal-clear lagoons and mild, year-round climate earned it the name “Garden of Eden” back in the 17th century. Officially, it starts in Mossel Bay, but you can just as easily start in Cape Town. Our highlights: whale watching in Hermanus with wine tasting in the nearby Hemel-en-Aarde Valley (about a two-hour drive from Cape Town); admiring the view from the Knysna Heads followed by dinner in neighbouring Plettenberg Bay (about a five-hour drive from Hermanus); our centrepiece is the self-drive safari in the Addo Elephant National Park (about a three-hour drive from Plettenberg Bay); the tour classically ends at the wineries in Franschhoek and Stellenbosch.
The Cultural Heritage of Cape Wines
Exceptional wines, beautiful wineries and a unique, specially created grape variety make the Western Cape one of the most sought-after destinations for wine fans worldwide. The national home-grown variety is called Pinotage: a red grape that usually produces full-bodied wines with distinct aromas of blackberry, plum, smoke and a fine spiciness. The home of Pinotage is Stellenbosch, located about an hour from Cape Town. The small town entices visitors with vineyards perfect for hiking and relaxing, renowned restaurants located directly on the wine estates, and museums. Just half an hour away lies picturesque Franschhoek – also known as South Africa's 'culinary capital'. Franschhoek's unique attraction: the Wine Tram. You can choose from a total of five routes with endless possibilities. Each route takes you along the most beautiful wine estates. At every stop – if booked – a culinary discovery awaits in your glass and on your plate. Anyone who has been to South Africa will come to appreciate and love the Western Cape. One trip is rarely enough to discover everything.
