The Western Cape’s Beauty: Scenic Whale and Wine Routes
Experiences
Highlights
Experience the Western Cape’s most alluring wonders on this scenic getaway. The first half of the journey will take you inland towards lush vineyards and rolling mountainscapes, while the second part will lead you coastwards for a breathtaking end to your meander.
Best time to travel
Trip route
Trip overview
From the airport, the N2 goes past Khayelitsha Township. Then it’s a change of scenery after the turn onto Baden Powell Drive, with a plethora of wine estates marking the landscape as you journey into Stellenbosch.
Stellenbosch is South Africa's 2nd oldest town and is surrounded by the vineyards of the Cape Winelands and the mountainous nature reserves of Jonkershoek and Simonsberg. Stellenbosch is best known for its impeccable wines. The town's oak-shaded streets are lined with cafés, boutiques, and art galleries.
Hotel
Majeka House
Opulent guesthouse located in Paradyskloof in Stellenbosch
On this trip, you’ll take the N2 alongside iconic mountain ranges and through magnificent sceneries. Stop in Riviersonderend to fill up, but don’t worry too much about snacks - Swellendam has more than enough to keep you satisfied.
Swellendam, found halfway between Cape Town and the Garden Route, is a charming stop-over. Along the Main Road, the historic town blooms into a bustling centre of activity that nestles up to the mountain with several quaint shops and restaurants worth visiting.
Hotel
The Robertson Small Hotel
A contemporary boutique hotel found along the world’s longest wine route
This trip will either take you through Caledon, or Stanford, but both routes are lovely! If you’re passing through Caledon, be sure to visit the Botanical Gardens or Museum. As you enter Hermanus, you’ll be driving between Fernkloof Nature Reserve and the Atlantic Ocean.
A pleasant hour-and-a-half drive from Cape Town, and found at the foot of the Olifantsberg Mountains, the quaint seaside town of Hermanus boasts incredible natural beauty. It’s also one of the best places to see Southern Right whales during calving season.
Hotel
Auberge Burgundy
Provençal style boutique hotel in central Hermanus
After leaving Hermanus, there are many charming farm stalls to buy food, drinks and produce along the road. Petrol stations can be found on the way out of Hermanus and along the N2 highway into Cape Town.
Thanks to the massive variety of attractions, the Atlantic Seaboard is one of Cape Town's premier tourist spots. There are many ways to explore this vibrant part of the Mother City; however, it’s best to do it on foot.
Hotel
Royal Boutique Hotel
Sunny hotel in Camps Bay with easy access to the beach.
From Sea Point, you’ll head around Signal Hill, past Green Point and its famous stadium, through to the centre of town. From here, Table Mountain will lay stretched out on your right as you head out of town on the M3, which finally becomes the N2.