Beyond Cape Town
From the spellbinding, vineyard-lined landscapes of the Winelands and the dramatic coastline of the Western Cape to some of the best wildlife reserves in Africa each unique for its own reasons, there is so much more to South Africa than Cape Town. Below are our other highlights from this diverse destination and collection of exemplary hotels which manage to capture the magic of South Africa.
Home to South Africa’s signature red, Pinotage, the Winelands is a gourmand’s daydream with rambling vistas, fresh and organic fare and more luxury boutique hotels than you can shake a stick at. One of our favourites is Babylonstoren, a farm hotel and working vineyard that makes you feel like family. Spend some time helping with the harvesting, hike extensive trails or explore the estate by bike. And no visit is complete without a farm-to-table meal at the property’s world-renowned restaurant.
The Kalahari provides a very different game viewing experience, with desert-adapted species, including lion and rhino, and cultural encounters with San Bushmen. This is the place to see the rarest of animals including pangolin and aardvark and located on the edge of this desert is Tswalu, an incredible bush retreat that was founded on the basis of conservation. During your stay get involved first-hand in the Tswalu Foundation's research project by visiting archaeological sites and learn about the area's biodiversity.
Remote and wild, the vast sand dunes and untouched vegetation of this coastal reserve are a haven for mountain zebras and bontebok. Exceptional birdlife, deserted coastal walks and a sense of true escapism make this a perfect place to hide away and unwind.
Take advantage of the beautiful surroundings at Lekkerwater Beach Lodge, this property offers the perfect opportunity to get away from the crowds and get back to nature.
The oldest and probably most prestigious private reserve in South Africa, Sabi Sands borders Kruger National Park and shares in its exceptional wildlife, but with a more exclusive feel thanks to its luxury lodges and expert guides. The game viewing is unparalleled including the “Big 5” and leopard sightings here are without compare.
Chitwa Chitwa is a recently refurbished camp hidden on the shores of a large lake, creating great game viewing from the privacy of each suite’s private pool.
A stunning private reserve with not one but seven ecosystems, Phinda Game Reserve is home to an extraordinary range of wildlife. The thoughtful conservation and artful management of Phinda has turned what was once over-farmed and degraded land into one of the best places in South Africa to spot big cats, as well as the rare black rhino. We particularly love &Beyond Phinda Vlei Lodge which comprises just six elegant thatched suites for a personal safari experience.