The Cape Winelands
From the fertile landscapes of Constantia, to the culinary delights of Franschoek and Stellenbosch, a sublime mix of captivating vistas, colonial heritage and some of the finest wines on earth, present a destination of quite exquisite charm and gastronomic diversity.
Stellenbosch
The heart of South Africa’s wine industry, Stellenbosch is a place of great beauty and culture that is steeped in South African tradition. Positively oozing with timeless grace and charm, Stellenbosch is an engaging mix of lovely Cape Dutch architecture, Victorian houses and tree-lined streets that lie at the heart of an era that boasts some 200 wine estates and many of the most famous vintages in the country.
Franschhoek
Set amongst the fertile hills of the Franschhoek Valley and steeped in the history and culture of the French protestants, this charming town is a connoisseur’s delight, Revered as the ‘Gourmet Capital of the Cape’ and a centre of wine production for well over 300 years, its expansive estates and excellent restaurants makes it an ideal location to enjoy some of the finest wines and cuisine in the region.
The Garden Route
Hugging South Africa’s southern shores, the Garden Route is a journey of breathtaking enchantment linking a series of charming towns. From George, lying at the foot of the Outeniqua Mountains, the trail snakes east towards Knysna, offering remarkable landscapes and ancient forests, whilst the waters of Plettenberg Bay are home to coral reefs, dolphins and the annual migration of the southern right whale.
George
Situated midway between Cap Town and Port Elizabeth, Georgeis consifered the gateway to the Garden Route, sandwiched between the slopes of the Outeniqua Mountains and the azure waters of the Indian Ocean. This small town makes a perfect stopover from which to explore the Garden Route and is ideal for year round activities including fishing, canoeing and walking, which offer wonderful views over George and the coastline.
Knysna
Lying on the banks of a pretty lagoon, Knysna is a natural paradise of lush, indigenous forests, lakes and beaches. The sandstone pinnacles of Knysna Head tower over the treacherous channel with its eastern head lookout providing dramatic views across the lagoon whilst the western head is a privately owned nature reserve called Featherbed Bay. For a more relaxed day, the craft shops and cafes beckon with small-town charm and hospitality.
Plettenberg Bay
Plettenberg Bay encompasses an area of stunning natural treasures; of spectacular coastal scenery, indigenous forest and unique marine reserves. Pletternberg Bay is renowned for its bird life, vast explanse of Cape flora, its wetlands and lagoon and a bay large enough to ensure a safe nursery for the southern right whales that come here each year to calve. A perfect place for those interested in exploring or just relaxing.
Discover South Africa and the Winelands and Garden Route on our Classic South Africa, 10 day itinerary. From only £2,100, click here to see the full itienrary or call our experts now on 08456 345 113 to find out more.
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Bales Worldwide (formerly known as Bales Tours) is a family run independent tour operator established by George Bales in 1947. Bales have become more and more flexible over time, in order to truly meet your needs. Wherever you decide to travel and whenever you want to travel, whether it is in 14 months time or just 3 weeks away, Bales have 60 years of knowledge and expertise to give you a holiday of a lifetime. 