Cape Country Routes

27/09/2024

Weltevrede Wine Estate se ondergrondse kelder bied 'n unieke en intieme ruimte met 'n betowerende atmosfeer om die "Groot Vraag" te vra.

Mooi Troues

Laat jou inspireer deur Pieter en Ané se Verrassings Verlowing in 'n Ondergrondse Kelder van Weltevreden Wine Estate.

25/09/2024

"A blend of comfort, sustainability and cultural richness..."

Win with IOL News and De Hoop Collection Nature Reserve. Subscribe to the Weekend Argus to win a two-night stay valued at R15 600.

Click on link for competition details.
Terms & conditions apply.

Win with the Weekend Argus and De Hoop Collection. A blend of comfort, sustainability and cultural richness. Subscribe to the Weekend Argus to win a 2-night stay valued at R15 600.

25/09/2024

Sharon Waugh of The Sharonicles shares her Ocean Sailing Charters experience, sailing through the iconic Knysna Heads. The journey offered breathtaking views, a sunset braai on a luxury catamaran, and a touch of South African hospitality with sparkling wine. Read more here:

Sail through the Knysna Heads and lagoon at sunset on a Knysna boat cruise with Ocean Sailing Charters.

24/09/2024

Wildehondekloof is proudly honoring Heritage Month by highlighting its commitment to preserving and promoting South Africa's rich heritage and natural resources.

This gracious family-owned and privately-operated game reserve’s drinking water is as natural as it gets, sourced straight from the pristine Swartberg Mountain range, which lies just behind the lodge. This pure spring water is pumped from the neighbouring Swartberg Wildlife Estate. Visitors exploring the hiking trails alongside the Wynandsrivier can also drink from the river, where the constantly flowing water remains clean and algae-free.

In line with their dedication to sustainability, Wildehondekloof installed a solar power plantation in July 2023. This eco-friendly initiative powers the entire lodge, including fridges, freezers, and ovens, reflecting their commitment to both heritage and environmental responsibility.

You are invited to visit Wildehondekloof this Heritage Month in honouring the past and embracing a sustainable future.

22/09/2024

This September, we’re proud to showcase the rich cultural tapestry of our beautiful country. At Lily Pond Country Lodge you’ll find a stunning collection of African artwork adorning the Main House and guest rooms, each piece telling its own unique story of our heritage.

In honor of Heritage Month, Lily Pond introduced a special South African Heritage Menu. Their daily changing menus will feature beloved local favorites, celebrating the diverse flavors that make our cuisine so unique. You are invited to experience the taste of South Africa, reimagined with fresh, local ingredients and a touch of creativity.

Join us as we celebrate the beauty, art, and culinary traditions of South Africa this Heritage Month!

19/09/2024

In light of Heritage Month, we are celebrating Val du Charron Wine & Leisure Estate's Legacy Range of wines. Known as the Theatre of Wine, each bottle is inspired by the rich history of the Wellington valley and its notable characters.

With 15 distinct varietals grown on the Estate, the Val du Charron blends are truly the stars of the show. Each varietal possesses unique qualities, but when combined, they create a composition that is more complex, richer, and more refined than any single cultivar could achieve on its own.

Four White Legs: New World
The Four White Legs tells a ghost story that embodies the pioneering spirit of South Africa’s early explorers. When the Bainskloof Pass, which borders Val du Charron, was opened as a toll road in 1853, a legend arose: if your horse had four white legs, you could pass toll-free. Many attempted to exploit this by whitewashing their horses' legs, but the toll keeper would curse these cheats, and it's said you can still hear the sound of their horses’ hooves in the pass...

Pieter Erasmus – den Deen:
Pieter Erasmus, the original owner of the farm in 1699, produced its first wine in 1702. Known for his zest for life and charm with the ladies, Pieter's legacy is celebrated in this blend. While it hints at our French heritage, the inclusion of Pinotage makes it distinctly South African.

The Black Countess:
The Black Countess honors Martha, the daughter of a freed slave, who became the first person of color in the British realm to marry into the aristocracy. After marrying Harry Grey, who became the first Earl of Stamford, Martha returned to our valley, where she used her estate to build schools for children of all genders and races—a true philanthropist ahead of her time.

"A blend is much like a symphony orchestra, where you have all the various sections—the crisp woodwinds, the solid brass instruments, the rhythmic percussion, and the elegant strings. On their own, they are instruments, but together, under the hand of the conductor, they create a symphony." —Fabrice Langlois

Shop online here: https://shop.vdcwines.co.za

Buy Val du Charron wines online at cellar door prices delivered to your door anywhere in South Africa.

16/09/2024

Traditionally, honeymoons have been a time for newlyweds to celebrate, unwind, and enjoy their new life together. However, if you have a close-knit group of friends you rarely see due to distance, your wedding and honeymoon could be the perfect chance for a long-overdue reunion. POWER 98.7 chatted with communication specialist and travel writer Ondela Mlandu, who shared her top tips for planning adventures with friends and family.

Ondela also discussed the emerging trend of —celebrating before a new baby arrives—and recommended Cape Country Routes member, Lily Pond Country Lodge on the Garden Route as the ideal Babymoon destination.

Traditionally, the honeymoon has been reserved for newlyweds as a time to celebrate, decompress, and, well, get it on. But if you have a tight-knit group of friends you don’t see often due to geographic limitations, your wedding (and subsequent honeymoon) could be the perfect opportunity for an ex...

15/09/2024

is a must-visit when staying at Arniston Spa Hotel, especially during Heritage Month 2024 in South Africa. As a Grade One National Heritage Site, this charming fishing village reflects the heart of South African coastal heritage. Walking through its whitewashed, thatched-roof houses, visitors can immerse themselves in a centuries-old way of life, where stories of shipwrecks and paraffin boxes—used to build homes—come alive. In September, Kassiesbaai becomes a symbol of cultural preservation, inviting guests to explore its rich history and connect with the locals who continue these traditions today.

Learn more here: https://www.arnistonhotel.com/things-to-do/

12/09/2024

11/09/2024

Africa lives within us all.

As a Cape Country Routes member, De Hoop Collection Nature Reserve is committed to preserving and enhancing the legacy of cultural and natural heritage in the the De Hoop Nature Reserve area, serving as custodians of this irreplaceable 'heart of the world.'

De Hoop recently introduced the ‘Origins of Early Southern Sapiens Behaviour’ exhibition, offering visitors and learners at the De Hoop Nature Reserve a unique opportunity to enrich their cultural understanding of South Africa and human evolution.

Through its display of artifacts and findings, the exhibition strongly promotes the ‘We Are All One’ message, supported by clear genetic evidence that all Homo sapiens trace their origins to Africa. It also showcases remarkable archaeological discoveries from sites like Blombos Cave, Klipdrift Shelter, and Klasies River, which were inhabited by early Homo sapiens between 120,000 and 50,000 years ago.

De Hoop’s vision is to become a world leader in conservation, instilling a deep sense of ownership and pride in their unique natural heritage among its people.

“De Hoop Collection and CapeNature, in collaboration with ...

06/09/2024

Cape Country Routes' member Lily Pond Country Lodge warmly welcomes families with children aged 10 and older. The rooms are thoughtfully arranged, with front doors just two meters apart, making it convenient for families to stay close together.

Families can enjoy a short walk through the serene forest on the property and explore the lily ponds, where children can spot birds and, with some luck, catch a glimpse of baboons and monkeys.

The location is ideal for family-friendly activities, with nearby attractions such as , , two Wild Cat Sanctuaries ( & ), and the . For a beach day, Natures Valley Beach is just 7km away, featuring a lovely lagoon where children can splash around.

For more adventurous families, the Tsitsikamma area offers exciting activities like ziplining through the treetops or hiking the famous suspension bridge trail in the Tsitsikamma National Park.

Lily Pond also caters to younger guests with a special child-friendly menu, ensuring a delightful experience for every member of the family.

Book online here: https://shorturl.at/JRbLJ



Image: Monkeyland

04/09/2024

Fantastic article by The Vibe ZA on St James of Knysna, a modern retreat with countryside charm. The piece beautifully captures the blend of elegance and tranquility that makes St James a must-visit. Plus, don’t miss the scenic experiences offered by Ocean Sailing Charters, adding a touch of adventure to your stay.

Built as a holiday home for a former Miss SA, St James of Knysna has a rich history & a captivating charm making it an intriguing destination.

03/09/2024

03/09/2024

This school holiday, take the family for an unforgettable adventure with Marine Dynamics and experience the thrill of and . With no age restrictions, these activities are perfect for family fun.

Safety is Marine Dynamics' top priority, so everyone, including kids, will wear life jackets, with special ones designed just for the little ones. Their on-board marine biologist will educate you about the fascinating sea life and the incredible animals you might encounter. It's the perfect outdoor classroom for kids to learn and explore.

Book your family adventure today and create memories that will last a lifetime! Also, enquire about special local SA rates.

More info here: https://marinedynamics.activitar.com/products

31/08/2024

"We were warmly welcomed by the owner of Agulhas Country Lodge, we checked in, the interior is charming, the sound of the ocean and breeze added the feeling of visiting home, we spent two nights here and I honestly had the best sleep I have had in the longest time." Lifestylewithneeta

Click on the blog post to learn more about Neeta's wonderful and unique experience at Cape Agulhas.

We set off on a 3 and a half hour drive from Wellington to Cape Agulhas , this was a scenic drive, loved the little towns we stopped at along the way for a coffee and a bite to eat. Once we got to our destination we were warmly welcomed by the owner of Cape […]

29/08/2024

Observing sunrise or sunset is truly captivating, a spectacle to one’s eyes. Doing so from different locations adds a special dimension to the journey, offering rewarding moments to anticipate exciting activities ahead or to reflect on past travel adventures as the day draws to a close.

We invite you to discover your personal sanctuaries along our picturesque Cape Country Routes. Places from where you can enjoy the most amazing sunrises or sunsets, places that rejuvenate body and mind, and set the perfect backdrop for your daily holiday adventures.

Observing sunrise or sunset is truly captivating, a spectacle to one’s eyes. Doing so from different locations adds a special dimension to the journey, offering rewarding moments to anticipate exciting activities ahead or to reflect on past travel adventures as the day draws to a close.

27/08/2024

Looking for the perfect family-friendly stay in Cape Town? Hippo Boutique Hotel just off Kloof Street, right at the foot of Table Mountain, is ideal for a family stay!

+ The Executive Apartments have fully equipped kitchens for self-catering, with sofa beds that can accommodate two small children. Children under 12 stay FREE and only pay for breakfast!

+ The Deluxe Rooms also have kitchenettes and Blocshop ottomans that fold out into single mattresses, perfect for toddlers and young children, who also stay FREE (breakfast excluded).

Hippo is perfectly situated to enjoy both indoor and outdoor activities for kids nearby. Camps Bay and Clifton beaches are just a 10-minute drive from the hotel. The V&A Waterfront offers , a , the , an indoor adventure park, and the .

There are lots of child-friendly restaurants in the vicinity. At , kids are invited to make their own pizzas and will be delighted to play chef in the kitchen!

Stay at Hippo and make the most of your family holiday!
https://www.hippotique.co.za

26/08/2024

3-Night West Coast Affair | Paternoster & Darling

Escape the city and leave the streetlights behind for the endless beaches and blue skies of the West Coast. This region offers warm hospitality, a rugged coastline, and a tranquil escape. Discover its white sandy beaches, charming fishing villages, and rich cultural heritage. The West Coast is also home to whales and dolphins, and visitors can delight in the region's crayfish, Rooibos tea, citrus groves, rock art, and fine wines. Visit between August and September to witness the landscape come alive with a vibrant display of spring flowers after the winter rains.

Package includes:
+ Two overnights at Gonana Collection in Paternoster (Bed & Breakfast)
+ One overnight at Darling Lodge Guest House in Darling (Bed & Breakfast)
+ 1 Guided WOW E-Bikes Paternoster Tour
+ Entry to Darling Mystery Trail and Museum

Package Rates:
R 4,750 per person sharing (01 May 2024 - 30 Sep 2024)

Gonana Guesthouse is Paternoster’s first sustainable and environmentally conscious guesthouse. The guest rooms are a study in calm and tranquillity, with a neutral palette that encourages you to exhale, relax, and reconnect with the natural world. The wide balcony, edged with ample seating and plenty of soft, comfy cushions, offers an all-day outdoor ‘theatre’ for viewing the breathtaking sunset over the Atlantic Ocean.

Darling Lodge Guest House, offering nine rooms and suites, is an oasis on the Darling Wine Route, offering a harmonious blend of old and new that reflects the romantic nature of this charming town. This beautifully restored Victorian country home and its beautiful garden are lovingly tended to make any stay special. Relax – Unwind – Explore – Enjoy

Book this offer here: https://shorturl.at/YylL6

Car rental with Tread Lite 4x4 Hire (Jimny Rental) is available from R 1,690.00 per day, including unlimited mileage, insurance cover for two drivers.
T's & C's apply.

24/08/2024

Our offers you offering you a gateway to unforgettable experiences and memories.

As a proud holder of the Cape Country Routes Loyalty Membership, you'll be treated to an array of fantastic benefits that'll make your travels even more exciting:

✔ Accommodation at its best
-Enjoy a fantastic 10% discount on accommodation bookings, no matter the meal basis you choose.
-Delight in a complimentary bottle of house wine with each booking.
-Elevate your stay with a complimentary room upgrade (subject to availability at check-in).

✔ Diverse activities await
-Thrive on a 10% discount on services provided by our activity members.
-This discount is available for the primary membership holder and the registered additional guest.

Sign up for the loyalty program here: https://loyalty.capecountryroutes.com

23/08/2024

21/08/2024

Motherandchild, premier lifestyle magazine, has highlighted the following Cape Country Routes members as top destinations for multigenerational travel:

De Hoop Collection Nature Reserve, Arniston Spa Hotel, Val du Charron Wine & Leisure Estate, Hippo Boutique Hotel, Wildehondekloof, De Zeekoe Guest Farm, Lily Pond Country Lodge, Montagu Country Hotel, Karoo Art Hotel, Rogge Cloof Private Nature Reserve and Supertubes Guest House

Guests can look forward to "active, hands-on immersive and transformative family experiences" at any of these properties, "offering all the mod-cons, comfort, style and attractions to suit and satisfy the varying preferences of the multi-aged families."

Read more here: https://shorturl.at/PEbcq

19/08/2024

19/08/2024

Just in from our guests enjoying an afternoon in the Kruger National Park with the elephants. Sometimes, the best thing to do is to sit at the waterhole and wait for the wildlife to come to you.

18/08/2024

"Throughout our stay, we were impressed by the hands-on approach to families at De Hoop Collection Nature Reserve. Whether pointing out animals on the game drive or simply indulging in her special farm-fresh meals, my child was fully immersed in the experience, learning valuable skills and making cherished memories. Studies have shown that spending time in nature can reduce stress, anxiety and attention fatigue in children, contributing to their overall mental health and happiness.De Hoop Collection offers precisely that – a sanctuary where children can grow, learn and thrive in harmony with nature. Our trip here was a transformative experience that enriched all our lives.” - Janine Avery, Child Magazine

Cape Country Routes member, De Hoop Collection, offers family-friendly accommodation with self-catering cottages that sleep 4 to 6 people. Parents and kids can enjoy guided activities like boat cruises on the Vlei, marine walks in their 70km Marine Protected Area, and nature drives where you can see the reserve's stunning animals and birds.

Take your mountain bikes or hire them from De Hoop and explore the three exciting mountain bike routes. Make sure to also visit the new Origins Exhibition, complete with a kids' area where little ones can paint with ochre and draw on ostrich eggs. Plus, there is a jungle gym for the littlies to enjoy.

Book now for the September school holiday: https://www.dehoopcollection.com/