No matter how many times I’ve travelled around South Africa, the beauty and unique experiences continue to be awe-inspiring. Having recently hosted an exclusive fam trip with 5 US agents covering Cape Town, the Winelands and a safari, it was a wonderful way to start the year. The best news is … South Africa is ready!
Starting in Cape Town at the 12 Apostles was a treat. Wined and dined in the Penthouse suite hosted by the incredible team at 12A, we were introduced to their array of vegetarian sushi and chilled bubbles. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, 12A is perfect for those looking to escape the madding crowds. Picnics, hiking, spa treatments and a braai room are just some of what’s on offer at this iconic hotel.
The next few days consisted of wonderful experiences including the BAZ Art street-walking tour in Salt River, followed by fynbos gin tasting in the heart of Woodstock. We had a fabulous immersion into the Bo-Kaap culture, which included a hands-on cooking session and a short walk around the area. We even visited a community vegetable garden project, bustling with activity.
One of my favourite activities in Cape Town is a morning on the vintage Cape Sidecars. We journeyed along Chapman’s Peak Drive to a coffee stop, followed by supporting one of the community upliftment projects in Hout Bay called Sentinel Ocean Alliance.
The penguins are always a must when visiting Cape Town and there’s no better way to do this than via the Cape of Good Hope, followed by a picnic on one of the secluded beaches.
Next we were spoilt to be staying at the newly renovated One & Only Cape Town at the V&A Waterfront. With Africa’s only NOBU restaurant located within the hotel, O&O is a mecca for foodies.
Our adventures continued into the Winelands where we visited one of the oldest Cape Dutch farms, set at the foot of Simonsberg in the Franschhoek wine valley, Babylonstoren.
It has beautiful and diverse fruit and vegetable garden, unique accommodation, fine food and wine, and evokes a sense of wellbeing. We popped in for a light lunch at the Green House followed by delicious fruit. After a quick walk through the exquisite gardens, we set off to Mont Rochelle in Franschhoek − the beautiful and quaint French Corner of the Cape.
Our evening started at the Country Kitchen where we were introduced to a few of the local wines while admiring the view across the valley. Hosted in the MIKO restaurant for dinner we got to experience first-hand the exceptional views and friendly staff, together with delicious food and wine it was a wonderful first night in the Winelands.
Another adventurous day followed with a scenic ride on e-bikes through Franschhoek via one of the famous wine farms in the area − Grand Provence. Due to the extreme temperatures we cut short our cycling tour and opted for the air-conditioning of our backup vehicle to take us to a quick wine tasting before our stay at the Lanzerac Wine Estate in Stellenbosch.
Steeped in history dating back to 1692, this grande dame is a landmark synonymous with old-world charm. Positioned in the idyllic Jonkershoek Valley, the estate boasts views of dramatic mountain ranges, endless rows of lush vineyards and hectares of gardens shaded by giant oak trees. We managed a dip in the pool before enjoying a fabulous evening at the Taphuis, where we sampled some South African flavours including skaapstertjies and braai broodjies. With an evening of fun and laughter hosted by Lanzerac, this was a stay to remember.
After a quick flight the next morning we found ourselves in a completely different setting. From rolling green vineyards to the African savannah − arriving at multiple award-winning Cheetah Plains was an absolute eye-opener. With its unique architecture, this private, sustainable safari lodge and exclusive-use villas epitomise the ultimate luxury safari experience.
We stayed in Mapogo House, which occupies a unique vantage point on the Cheetah Plains Private Reserve. The raw masculinity of the structure embodies the power and purpose that characterised the Mapogo brotherhood: a coalition of lions that reigned supreme in this area for years. Highlights included the food, private wine cellar and pure exclusivity in ultimate luxury. Very comfortable electric vehicles magnify the sustainable focus on the environment.
Last on our trip was Dulini Moya, which recently underwent an extensive renovation and offers the epitome of Out of Africa romance. We loved the beautifully thought-out interiors in the spacious rooms.
The infinity plunge pools on the deck created a really tranquil atmosphere overlooking the Mabrak River in the Sabi Sands − ideal for a sundowner. The game experience was second to none − competing lion prides, a number of leopards and plenty of elephants with their young. The highlight here − as always − the people!
Written by Lylie Moolman