South African Travel Digest

A view of Table Mountain from Bloubergstrand . Bloubergstrand (Blaauwberg - literally translated as Blue Mountain Beach) is one of my favourite areas in and around Cape Town, not only because of the spectacular views of Table Mountain, but also because of its scenic beach with long white sand. It is a very popular tourist destination and usually attracts large numbers of local and foreign visitors and is only 20 km away from Cape Town city centre. On a clear day one can even see  Robben Island in the far distance (Robben Island is best known for its most legendary prisoner, former president Mr Nelson Mandela). Numerous and affordable self-catering accommodation is available in this area via   wheretostay   and we usually try to stay close to the beach with unspoiled views of the surrounding area.  The only downside is that the seawater is very cold because of the cold Benguela current but the area is very popular for kitesurfing. View from Big Bay, a ...

Gordon's Bay harbour . Are you planning a trip to Cape Town, South Africa and wonder whether Gordon's Bay is worth a visit?  I would definitely recommend at least a couple of days in Gordon's Bay since there are so many things to entertain the visitor.  This small seaside town with its beautiful harbour just 25 km from Cape Town,  is a scenic paradise and a visit will never be forgotten. It is also the ideal place to visit if you have small children. Here are my top five places to visit in Gordon's Bay: Bikini Beach View of False Bay from Bikini Beach. Although there are many  other better beaches around Cape Town to visit, Bikini Beach has Blue Flag status, meaning it is safe and clean to swim (an international quality award).  The water is also a bit warmer than the other beaches around Cape Town. The scenic view of False Bay alone makes this a must visit beach. Go for a swim at Pringle Bay. Drive to Betty's Bay to watch the Afr...

The farm house at Vergelegen Wine Estate. Vergelegen Wine Estate in Somerset West about 40 km from Cape Town offers an ideal day trip which the visitor will not easily forget.   Apart from being a top wine producer, the history of the estate is also captivating while the surroundings will take your breath away. The estate boasts a Wine Tasting Centre, a Stables bistro and fine dining at The Camphors restaurant.  Visitors can also organise for a picnic in its beautiful and tranquil gardens.  Vergelegen  when translated means "situated far away" is well-known for its fine wines.  It was already built in 1685 by Simon Van der Stel and later further expanded by William his son.  It has since then had many owners who restored and refurbished the house and the gardens.  It is currently owned by the company Anglo American and has seen many heads of states entertained here, including former President Nelson Mandela. I have visited V...

S ince Table Mountain was nominated as one of the seven new Wonders in the World, there is even more reason for you to visit this magnificent city. Cape Town remains my favorite city in South Africa. As the oldest city in South Africa, to me it is also the most beautiful and my family and I visit here at least once a year. The city has such diverse cultures with a fascinating history. There is always something to do and to experience in Cape Town. It boasts many tourist attractions and is also a child friendly city. Here is my own personal top list of why you should include Cape Town in your list of travels whenever traveling to South Africa. Table Mountain Of course Table Mountain should be on any list of favorites. Table Mountain, a national museum, is a beautiful sight and is Cape Town's pride. This majestic mountain can be reached by cable car and is visited by thousands of tourists each year. The views from the top are spectacular when skies are clear...