Cape Town & The Western Cape, South Africa

The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, with its restaurants and shopping malls, is the iconic image of Cape Town but there is so much to explore beyond. City highlights include the Two Oceans Aquarium, Robben Island - where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated (the fascinating and profoundly moving tours are highly recommended), the City Bowl where the business district sits alongside historical buildings, museums and gardens, and of course, Table Mountain - the theatrical backdrop to every conceivable vista of the city.

A trip up Table Mountain in the aerial cableway or a helicopter ride will help you gain a geographical perspective, although it is best to avoid a day when the ‘Tablecloth’ descends, covering the top of the mountain in a rolling white mist!

The Cape Peninsula provides many opportunities for days out and about, including family-friendly beaches such as Hout Bay, at the base of the breathtaking Chapmans Peak Drive. The road, carved in to the rock, winds its way towards Cape Point, the stunning tip of the Peninsula’s mountain chain. Alternatively, cosy up to the penguins at Boulders Beach or opt for sophisticated Camps Bay. Don't miss Constantia, known as Cape Town's vineyard, the seaside enclave of Simon's Town and Noordhoek with its picturesque shoreline. The world-renowned Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens offers lovely trails through the gardens and is host to concerts on Sunday evenings in Summer, when guests are welcome to bring a picnic.

The Winelands and Overberg are both easily accessible as day trips, should you wish to explore further afield.