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10 most adventurous things to do when visiting South Africa
The pride of Africa and its vast planes can be enjoyed in ultimate luxury. If you want the South Africa not only has breath taking scenery but is a platform for many activities that will literally take your breathe away.
Bloukrans Bridge Bungee Jumping
For some, the most breath taking would be bungee jumping 216 metres off Bloukrans Bridge in the Tsitsikamma area of the Garden Route. This is famous for being one of the worlds highest commercial bungee jumps. You haven’t really bungee jumped unless you’ve Bloukrans Bridge jumped! Nothing gives one a sense of sheer adrenalin more than diving off a platform with a cord tied to oneself and seeing the ground in the distant future. The Bloukrans Bridge is world-famous in the bungee-jumping community, so get those “big boy” or “big girl” pants on, and give it a go. Getting to the bridge is extremely easy as it is located on the main highway on the Garden Route, so you have no excuses for not finding it! Also, because it is not far from the Bloukrans Bridge, we recommend stopping and visiting Plettenberg Bay, it is a truly beautiful coastal town.
Tandem Skydiving in Mossel Bay
Being airborne and on cloud 9 doesn’t end at bungee and swing jumping. Tandem sky dive from 10 000 feet in the beautiful Mossel Bay. Mossel Bay isn’t the only place to sky dive in South Africa, there’s also opportunities in Bloemfontein, Cape Town and Langebaan. The thrill of being in the air plus the exquisite views is a ticket to heaven. To get started, simply sign-up with any of South Africa’s many Skydiving clubs – they will provide you with all the information that you need to get started. You will need to do some training prior to your jump, so if you’re strapped for time, make sure you check out how long before your jump you need to be there. With South Africa’s majestic scenery, taking a jump will surely provide you with absolutely magnificent views, as well as providing you with an experience that you will absolutely never forget. Dont forget to purchase a video of your dive – most Skydiving Clubs provide this as an added extra.
Tswalu Kalahari
Tswalu Kalahari - covering over 110,000 hectares of grasslands and mountains, Tswalu Kalahari is South Africa’s largest private game reserve where only 30 guests are allowed at a time in order to preserve the authenticity and magic of South Africa’s deep wildlife. Through a combined effort of conservation from the lodge and its guests the aim is to leave behind a legacy for future generations to enjoy. Tswalu offers personalised and tailor-made experiences, the exploration of endangered wildlife, diverse habitats and of course conservation. All from the breath-taking private accommodation.
Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge
Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge - Madikwe game reserve is home to this exquisite private lodge that offers 75000 hectares of land, home to the big 5 and much more. Not only is the lodge set amongst boulders and a beautiful landscape but is strategically placed in the centre of the reserve so that guests get the upper hand in order to see the best that the reserve has to offer. Another important bonus is that Madikwe is a malaria free game reserve!
Singita Lebombo
Singita Lebombo Lodg e- Lebombo Lodge offers “front row seats” to the Kruger National park and is unique in its design and structure- juxtaposing contemporary with African for a dramatic and authentic twist. The private villa boasts a roof terrace, a wine studio, a rooftop view area, friendly staff and a pool. It also has a spa, private game walks, archery, a gym, a boutique and gallery, photography, cooking classes and game drives. This lodge gives definition to exploring wildlife in style.
Royal Malewane
Royale Malewane - The Kruger National Park is home to phenomenal wildlife butt also to this luxury lodge which is situated in the greater areas of the park in the Thorny Bush Private Game Reserve. Royale Malewane offers modern luxuries in an authentic setting. The game viewings cannot be rivalled as the guides are some of the best there is and are known for getting right up close to the big 5. After a long day of sight seating guests are invited to unwind at the luxury spa. The combination of relaxation and exploration is perfection.
Ivory Lodge Lion Sands
Ivory Lodge Lion Sands - situated in Mpumalanga, Ivory Lodge is not only heaven on earth but built from earth. Steel, wood, thatch, grass, water and sand is used to create the lodge and connect guests to nature in every possible way causing the experience to be holistic and multi- dimensional. Many of the Villa’s over look the Sabie River and other comforts include a lounge and dining area, a gym, an art gallery and a spa.
Thanda Kwazulu Natal
Thanda Safari - “Thanda” means “love” in isiZulu and that’s exactly what it portrays. A love for nature, a love for animals and a love for the Zulu culture. The experience, which can be found in the KwaZulu Natal, includes wildlife at its finest, magnificent staying quarters and an immersive experience in the culture. There is also a strong emphasis on conservation for future generations, because beauty like this should last many lifetimes!
This town is the real star of ‘Big Little Lies’
Reese Witherspoon, Nicole Kidman, Laura Dern, Zoë Kravitz and Shailene Woodley are the human stars of “Big Little Lies,” the television adaptation of Liane Moriarty’s story of the same name.
This town is the real star of 'Big Little Lies'
Father’s Day at Benguela Cove Lagoon Wine Estate
Father’s Day lunch experience – We will be hosting a deliciously prepared lunch menu at our restaurant, Moody Lagoon. Please see attached our Father’s Day lunch menu.
Save 20% on our cheese and charcuterie boards – We are giving guests a 20% discount on our cheese or charcuterie boards when purchased with a bottle of Syrah this Father’s Day.
Father’s Day Pirate Adventure Golf special – Tee off this Father’s Day. On the 16th of June, dads pay half price for their round of Pirate Adventure Golf.
The post Father’s Day at Benguela Cove Lagoon Wine Estate appeared first on Cape Town Travel.
Seven Days Shiraz and Venison at Benguela Cove
Take your tastebuds on a safari with a special tasting of your Syrah Estate wines and selection of free range game and venison.
This event takes place at The Cellar Door Tasting Room Benguela Cove Lagoon Wine Estate R43 Hermanus.
Date: 11 -17 June 2019
Time: 11am – 5pm
Cost: R120 pp
No bookings required, only available for a limited period thereafter the tasting will be discontinued.
This event takes place at The Cellar Door Tasting Room Benguela Cove Lagoon Wine Estate R43 Hermanus.
Date: 11 -17 June 2019
Time: 11am – 5pm
Cost: R120 pp
No bookings required, only available for a limited period thereafter the tasting will be discontinued.
The post Seven Days Shiraz and Venison at Benguela Cove appeared first on Cape Town Travel.
The Best Wedding Venues In Cape Town
Cape Town is one of the most beautiful, and popular, places to tie the knot. With beaches, vineyards and forests set against a backdrop of magnificent mountains getting you as close to wedding heaven as you’ll get. And while nearby neighbours like Stellenbosch and Franschhoek are very popular, there are some magnificent all-year wedding venues in Cape Town. Here’s a look at some of the best venues in town.
Groot Constantia
There’s just something about centuries-old oak trees, rolling lawns, and vineyards that make a wine estate the perfect place to get hitched. If a wedding from a bygone era of romance is your dream, Groot Constantia Wine Estate is most definitely the place to have it. There are two venues to choose from, each with its own unique offering: Simon’s Restaurant and Jonkershuis Restaurant.
At Simon’s Restaurant the formal main restaurant is a safe indoor option in case it rains. If the sun is out, make use of the terrace and picnic area for a more informal approach. Jonkershuis Restaurant is a beautiful Cape Dutch building nestled in the historic core of the Groot Constantia Wine Estate next to the historic Homestead.
Website: grootconstantia.co.za
Groot Constantia
There’s just something about centuries-old oak trees, rolling lawns, and vineyards that make a wine estate the perfect place to get hitched. If a wedding from a bygone era of romance is your dream, Groot Constantia Wine Estate is most definitely the place to have it. There are two venues to choose from, each with its own unique offering: Simon’s Restaurant and Jonkershuis Restaurant.
At Simon’s Restaurant the formal main restaurant is a safe indoor option in case it rains. If the sun is out, make use of the terrace and picnic area for a more informal approach. Jonkershuis Restaurant is a beautiful Cape Dutch building nestled in the historic core of the Groot Constantia Wine Estate next to the historic Homestead.
Website: grootconstantia.co.za
Suikerbossie Restaurant
Just around the corner from the Twelve Apostles Hotel lies Suikerbossie Restaurant in Hout Bay. Set against the slopes of the Table Mountain National Park, this restaurant with its warm, cosy atmosphere overlooks Hout Bay valley and the famous Chapman’s Peak. While the restaurant has two venues that cater to weddings of different sizes, its magnificent gardens is also very popular.
Website: suikerbossie.co.za
The Roundhouse Restaurant
Tucked away in the Glen on the slopes of Lion’s Head is the famous Roundhouse Restaurant. Once the hunting lodge of Lord Charles Somerset, the more than 300 year old venue is the perfect place to celebrate your special day. The restaurant accommodates weddings of various sizes and the events manager ensures that guests’ every need is catered to.
Website: theroundhouserestaurant.com
The Mount Nelson Hotel
One of the most iconic hotels in the heart of the city, the Mount Nelson, has been hosting planning and hosting weddings for more than 100 years. With its lush garden and classic ballroom-style reception rooms, and the hotel’s banqueting team to take care of every detail of your special day, you can look forward to an elegant, stress-free wedding.
Website: belmond.com
Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa
Nestled against the majestic peaks of the Twelve Apostles mountain range and looking out over the Atlantic Ocean towards Camps Bay and Lion’s Head, the view from the Twelve Apostles Hotel is hard to beat. The hotel has four wedding venues to choose from, with an in-house wedding coordinator at at hand to assist with every need.
Website: 12apostleshotel.com
The Vineyard Hotel & Spa
This quaint, eco-conscious hotel and spa is located in the heart of Cape Town’s South Suburbs. With its spectacular backdrop of the forested slopes of Table Mountain, the hotel offers the choice of an intimate, private ceremony or a tailor-made reception for you and your guests.
Website: vineyard.co.za
V&A Waterfront
A trendy option for your impending nuptials is the world-famous V&A Waterfront in the heart of Cape Town. The Dock House is a glamorous boutique hotel and spa that caters to the needs of discerning guests, while the Victoria & Alfred Hotel has an inspiring history and an impressive location on the pier.
Website: waterfront.co.za
Zevenwacht Wine Estate
Zewenwacht has played host to plenty of unforgettable weddings. It has two venues – The Lapa, an outdoor all-weather venue which is set in a wooded glade above the lake can host a maximum of 80 guests, and Alfresco, a super well-equipped venue that can seat 220 guests, so no excuses for forgetting to invite all your future in-laws…
Website: zevenwacht.co.za
D’aria
If it’s a countryside wedding and honeymoon you’re looking for, you can’t do better than D’Aria in Durbanville. Nestled in the Durbanville Winelands, the romantic wine estate offers a 200-seater reception venue, catering services, stunning live entertainment and luxurious cottages for the perfect wedding day and night.
Website: daria.co.za
Vergelegen Wine Estate
The beautiful, sweeping Vergelegen Wine Estate is steeped in history and is a Cape Town landmark. The grounds are beyond pristine and boast some of the oldest living trees in the country, which stand silent guard over the three-century old estate. Make your vows beneath these giant guardians and dance the night away underneath the stars at one of the most spectacular spots on the planet.
Website: vergelegen.co.za
Harbour House, Kalk Bay
Boasting arguably one of the best locations in Cape Town, Harbour House in Kalk Bay is quite literally sitting on the ocean. Built on the breakwater and situated in the Kalk Bay Harbour, the restaurant boasts incredible views of False Bay and is well known for its fantastic seafood dishes. It is also a laid-back and chic venue to host your wedding reception – ensuring your guests remember your wedding for years to come.
Website: harbourhouse.co.za
Planning a trip to Cape Town? Book flights, browse accommodation, and rent a car now to get the best rates. The Cape Town City Pass gives you access to over 70 of the top Cape Town attractions, tours, and things to see and do, including the popular hop on hop off City Sightseeing bus.
For inspiration and insider tips, follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter. Tag #lovecapetown to share your pics with us, or subscribe to our newsletter to get the best Cape Town has to offer sent direct to your mailbox.
The post The Best Wedding Venues In Cape Town appeared first on Cape Town Travel.
Gordon’s Bay Winter Wonderland
The picturesque village of Gordon’s Bay, located under an hour from Cape Town, bursts into life every winter with the spectacular “Winter Wonderland Festival of Lights”.
When
The event takes place over two weekends every winter. In 2019, the dates are 14-16 June and 21-23 June.
Where
The Winter Wonderland happens in Gordon’s Bay, a pretty seaside town with its lovely beaches lies at the foot of the Helderberg Mountains. During and after the festival drive along Clarence Drive, the scenic coastal road between Gordon’s Bay and Betty’s Bay offers some of the best-designated picnic spots on the coast and the Steenbras dam has magnificent views over Gordon’s Bay. All festival activities happen at “Carnival Park” which is located in Hendon Park.
This annual event has become a major attraction on the Cape winter calendar. Winter is Gordon’s Bay’s ‘Secret Season’. The town faces north over False Bay, protected from cold west winds, making this the ideal winter break-away destination.
When
The event takes place over two weekends every winter. In 2019, the dates are 14-16 June and 21-23 June.
Where
The Winter Wonderland happens in Gordon’s Bay, a pretty seaside town with its lovely beaches lies at the foot of the Helderberg Mountains. During and after the festival drive along Clarence Drive, the scenic coastal road between Gordon’s Bay and Betty’s Bay offers some of the best-designated picnic spots on the coast and the Steenbras dam has magnificent views over Gordon’s Bay. All festival activities happen at “Carnival Park” which is located in Hendon Park.
This annual event has become a major attraction on the Cape winter calendar. Winter is Gordon’s Bay’s ‘Secret Season’. The town faces north over False Bay, protected from cold west winds, making this the ideal winter break-away destination.
Vibe
Each year, Gordon’s Bay erupts into a fairyland of lights. The event is jam-packed with adventures, foods stalls, craft stalls, music, a beer tent, a fun park, a snow palace, and lots more. Those visiting will no doubt be spoiled for choice when it comes to things to do, see and taste. There will be food fair dishing up comforting flavours for everyone.
With dozens of activities within a few minutes’ drive, Gordon’s Bay is an ideal base for your adventures. Guest houses are offering specials rates and Winter Wonderland is an ideal opportunity for visitors to stay overnight and enjoy the attractions. Enjoy the fantasy costumes and twinkling lights of the festival and spend your days exploring the nearby winelands, whale route, and much more.
Highlights
Don’t miss the Parade that opens the fest, and make sure you visit the Winter Palace with its snow storms and a throne room. There are endless arts, crafts and warming food options, as well as live music, a pub, a fairy market and an exciting fun fair, all of which are sure to delight the kids (and the kids-at-heart).
Tickets
While no cost is involved in getting into the festival, some events activities are free and certain activities do carry a price. Ride Tickets cost per person and rides cost between R10 and R50 depending on the ride. Go to the event website for more information.
Planning a trip to Cape Town? Book flights, browse accommodation, and rent a car now to get the best rates. The Cape Town City Pass gives you access to over 70 of the top Cape Town attractions, tours, and things to see and do, including the popular hop on hop off City Sightseeing bus.
For inspiration and insider tips, follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter. Tag #lovecapetown to share your pics with us, or subscribe to our newsletter to get the best Cape Town has to offer sent direct to your mailbox.
The post Gordon’s Bay Winter Wonderland appeared first on Cape Town Travel.
Direct flight from Lanseria to Zanzibar launched
Mango Airlines and Lanseria International Airport have launched an additional direct flight from Johannesburg to Zanzibar this month.
The post Direct flight from Lanseria to Zanzibar launched appeared first on Getaway Magazine.
4 Tips For Planning a Road Trip in South Africa
South Africa is a fantastic place to take a road trip, but you need to be organised to make the most of the experience and enjoy a smooth journey. The country has an excellent network of roads which are well maintained and connected (with the exception of some of the more rural areas). While you […]
The post 4 Tips For Planning a Road Trip in South Africa appeared first on In Africa and Beyond | Africa travel , Family travel.