Cape Town is one of the world’s most famous and recognizable cities in the world. From Robben Island to Table Mountain, the city that lies at the furthest tip of Africa has been a Mecca for tourists for many years now, and nobody ever leaves disappointed. While it is an experience in itself to visit Cape Town and take in the Dutch history, beautiful scenery, fantastic wine and vibrant nightlife, it is often best to think of Cape Town as a portal – a kind of entry way into the most amazing part of South Africa. All you need to do is rent a car and go, because some of the most incredible spots in the country are less than two hours drive away. The places discussed below are a selection of the “best of the rest” of the Cape. All offer excellent accommodation, and because they are slightly off the beaten track, you are likely to get a great deal all year round. Similarly, the restaurants and bars discussed are just personal favourites – have a look and you will find exactly what you want.
Diemersfontein Wine Estate, Wellington
Located just outside of Wellington, approximately 90 minutes from Cape Town International, this sprawling wine estate is an absolute must for lovers of fine wine and dining, set in the picturesque Swartberge (Black Mountains). The gorgeous estate offers accommodation in smaller chalets, larger homes in the Cape Dutch style, and 2 recently built modern houses. The breathtaking estate has a lake, hiking trails, and unparalleled restaurant facilities. Be sure to try the estate’s signature wines – The Coffee and Chocolate Pinotage and the excellent and light viognier. A gem of the Cape winelands that is literally a stone’s throw away from Stellenbosch (which is home to some of the biggest wine estates in the world), the historic and quaint city of Wellington, and the upmarket town of Paarl. I cannot recommend this estate enough!
The Brass Bell, Hout Bay
A pub that captures the fishing culture of the Cape. With a long and quirky history, the best thing about this pub is the location. Hout Bay is a simply gorgeous bay that is sparsely populated by boutiques, antique shops, and pretty little houses. To reach the pub you have to cross below a railway station, and then you find yourself at a series of restaurants and bars all set on a rock that goes into the ocean. Sitting outside at The Brass Bell, you can enjoy some of the highest quality local beers and wines while the waves break below you, showering you with cold Atlantic spray. The food is similarly tempting, with seafood that is caught meters away from you. A magnificent pub that has the option of great food and a fantastic party later on in the night.
If escaping the city seems tempting to you, and you like the sound of these places, I recommend you check out D’Olives in Wellington (a converted cellar restaurant) and the brandy route in the surrounding areas.
This guest post was written by freelance writer Victoria. She is a stay at home mom that is currently learning about Banking.
