Scarborough Beach on the Cape Peninsula.

Western Cape

The splendours of the Western Cape lie not only in its world-class vineyards, stunning beaches and mountains, but also in lesser-known regions, such as the wide-open spaces of the Karoo, the many nature reserves and the wilderness areas. Make sure you get out into these wild, less-visited areas for birdwatching and wildlife adventure, as well as pure relaxation under vast skies.

Attractions

Must-see attractions

  • Simondium near Paarl Western Cape South Africa, Vineyard of the Babylonstoren wine estate.

    Babylonstoren

    Winelands

    This 2.5-sq-km wine and fruit farm is on the north slope of the Simonsberg mountain between Klapmuts and Paarl. Its highlight is an 800-sq-metre, formally…

  • "An old Colonial Farm and vineyard near Cape Town , SouthAfrica"

    Vergelegen

    Stellenbosch

    Simon van der Stel’s son Willem first planted vines here in 1700. The buildings and elegant grounds have ravishing mountain views and a ‘stately home’…

  • Wine farm in Franschhoek, Western Cape South Africa - Image of La Motte wine estate with young grape vines, roses and lavender plants

    La Motte

    Franschhoek

    There’s enough to keep you occupied for a full day at this vast estate just west of Franschhoek. As well as tastings of the superb shiraz range, wine…

  • "Boschendal vineyard, Cape Winelands, Western Cape, South Africa."

    Boschendal

    Franschhoek

    This is a quintessential Winelands estate, with lovely architecture, food and wine. Tasting options include bubbly, brandy or wine and chocolate pairing…

  • Exterior view of Klipgat Cave in the Walker Bay Nature Reserve.

    Walker Bay Nature Reserve

    Western Cape

    This coastal reserve has excellent hikes and is a prime birdwatching spot. The main attractions though, other than the ocean vistas, are the impressive…

  • Restaurant and picnic area at Spice Route.

    Spice Route

    Winelands

    Spice Route is known for its complex red wines, particularly the Flagship syrah. Aside from wine there is a lot going on, including glass-blowing…

  • Lake at Spier Wine Farm.

    Spier Hotel and Wine Farm

    Stellenbosch

    Spier has some excellent shiraz, cabernet and red blends, though a visit to this vast winery is less about wine and more about the other activities…

  • Genadendal Mission Station

    Genadendal Mission Station

    Western Cape

    Some 6km west of Greyton is Genadendal, the oldest mission station in South Africa, founded in 1738 and for a brief time the largest settlement in the…

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Plan with a local

Articles

Latest stories from Western Cape

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Nelson Mandela revisits the cell at Robben Island prison in February 1994 where he was jailed for more than two decades.

History

I toured Robben Island prison with Nelson Mandela’s former guard and close friend

Nov 11, 2019 • 9 min read

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Go Beyond

Western Cape and beyond

Beyond Western Cape
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