I have wanted to see Disney On Ice for a long time now. I used to watch the previews on DStv growing up and think, “Wow, this looks so cool… but am I too old to go to a show like this now?” It’s funny how, as older children and teens, we are so self-conscious about anything youthful or childlike. Yet now, as a new parent, I rejoice at any moment where I can feel like a child again, especially as I get to experience the world through my child’s eyes now. Now, more than ever before, it’s a chance…
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It’s not often that one can say you discovered a slice of Tuscany in the Western Cape. And yet, Fields of Gold Farm, tucked near the mountains between Paarl and Franschhoek, certainly feels like a trip to some quaint European villa. The only thing that makes it even better is the fact that it’s edged by our own beautiful South African wine farms and olive trees, with spectacular mountains behind. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a country escape, while still being wonderfully close by to local restaurants, wine farms and shops. (There is a rustic dirt road to access…
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Pet-friendly travel – both in terms of accommodation and eateries – is becoming a major, important requirement for pet lovers. To most of us – myself included – our pets are as much a part of our family as anyone else. So being able to or feeling welcome to bring them along matters. (Obviously, not every trip or holiday is geared towards bringing your floof with. But most are suitable for pets, especially local day trips and getaways.) In light of this, I wanted to share some pet-friendly accommodation and restaurants across the Western Cape. These are all places that…
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Tucked away in the shadow of the Kogelberg mountains, in the fiercely beautiful Cape Overberg Region, you find the charming Villa Chad Luxury Guesthouse. This Kleinmond accommodation escape promises idyllic couples’ getaways, fun one-night stays with larger groups of friends or colleagues and even a wellness retreat for anyone who needs to recharge, refresh and revitalise their soul. What makes Villa Chad especially alluring is how it is the perfect blend of an international-type stay right here in a quaint South African coastal town. Because, aside from the quality amenities and facilities, the facade and paintwork bear subtle, yet striking…
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Wellington is one of my favourite, though personally more undiscovered parts of the Cape Winelands. This small town has plenty of country charm, stunning mountain vistas and amazing wine farms, accommodation and restaurants to enjoy so it’s definitely a destination we plan to explore more as a family in time. For now though, it’s enough to have spent two luxurious nights at one of Wellington’s long-standing, beautiful institutions in Val du Charron Wine and Leisure Estate. With two on-site eateries, a gorgeous farm setting (with views to rival anywhere in the world) and luxury accommodation, you might not even be…
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Hout Bay is a famously beautiful Western Cape republic found in the Mother City. It offers a host of quaint, yet charming restaurants, cosy cafes and bakeries, exciting family-friendly experiences (think: the much loved Constantia Wine Route, Chapman’s Peak Drive, Word of Birds, Earthworx, vibe-y Bay Harbour Market and of course, the iconic Hout Bay harbour and its surrounds). Not to mention its incredible mountain- and coastal-scenery that easily rivals any place on our glorious green earth! With a slew of world-class beaches and top South African attractions at your fingertips (and within close driving distance), there is no shortage…
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As one of the Western Cape’s most beautiful, exciting wine regions, Stellenbosch offers some incredible, family-friendly wine farms and experiences to enjoy. With a range of world-class wine farms and restaurants, wine pairings that impress from the first sip and a host of fun outdoor and indoor experiences too (everything from historic glass museums to lavish family picnics), there is plenty to see and do in Stellenbosch Wine Region. Since 2024, one of the best additions to the Stellenbosch Wine Routes is the thrilling Stellenbosch Wine Tractor. This amazing hop on, hop off experience is highly affordable and provides great…
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As travellers, we get to experience some incredible destinations across the world. Yet few destinations are as meaningful as the one you choose to host your wedding at. With this in mind, I have put together a list of my favourite Cape Winelands wedding venues. Each of these venues has either been visited or vetted by yours truly, so I can personally attest to their quality. Scattered across South Africa’s most world-famous wine regions, these stunning destinations are individually unique, aesthetically appealing and professionally operated. Each estate and venue offers carefully curated packages, incredible settings and imposing backdrops. Throw in…
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For several years, a visit to and stay at De Hoop Collection Nature Reserve has been on my bucket list. Despite being invited to stay a few years ago now, it seemed destined to never happen. But eventually, our little family (with baby in tow) was able to enjoy the most special family getaway at this beautiful part of the Western Cape. In this post, I share the highlights from our stay at De Hoop Collection, along with our cherished experience of this South African nature reserve. Please note: While the natural area is maintained by Cape Nature, all tourist…
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The Cape Overberg Region is one of the most verdant, beautiful and untamed parts of South Africa. With everything from seasonal whale watching and cheery canola fields to pristine cape nature, hikes and some wonderful wine farms and beaches, this special part of the Western Cape offers plenty to enjoy. In this post, in no particular order, I look at some of my favourite gems that I have unearthed in the stunning Cape Overberg Region. From cosy, family- and pet-friendly accommodation stays to gorgeous hiking trails, beaches and pristine nature reserves. 1) Elgin Railway Market and Visiting Steam Train (Elgin…