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22 Mar 2018 | By Sun International

The Insider’s Guide to Enjoy Your Western Cape Escape

It’s never too early to plan your next escape, whether it’s a family holiday or a romantic getaway – the Western Cape has something for everyone.

It’s never too early to plan your next escape, whether it’s a family holiday or a romantic getaway – the Western Cape has something for everyone. From shark-cage diving and sunset picnics to award-winning restaurants and botanical gardens, the only choice you’ll have to make is where to begin? We’ve put together a Western Cape holiday guide to help make choosing your Western Cape escape a little easier...

For families

There’s no wonder why the Western Cape is one of South Africa’s top destinations to experience during the school holidays. Apart from the almost endless selection of beautiful beaches, parks, forests and mountains, there are a few more things that make this area perfect for a family holiday over the school holidays. Starting with GrandWest, which is home to the only ice-skating rink in the province, kids won’t be able to contain their excitement at the prospect of a few hours on the ice – remember to bring gloves to keep those hands warm!

Heading outdoors, The World of Birds Wildlife Sanctuary and Monkey Park in Hout Bay is the largest bird park in Africa, and home to over 3 000 birds and small animals. Children of all ages will love wandering around the tropical garden, spotting birds, monkeys and other small creatures. For those who want an up close and personal experience, there’s also a chance to meet and feed a few of the small, cheeky monkeys. Bring your camera, as this will definitely be an experience to record for your family holiday album!

Insider tip: If you’re staying at The Table Bay, we suggest taking scenic Victoria Road past Llandudno to The World of Birds.

For thrill-seekers

If it’s not a holiday until your heart starts racing, then we know just the place for your next escape. Starting in and around Cape Town, you’re spoilt for choice with skydiving, paragliding, shark-cage diving and dune riding. Heading further out to the border of the Western Cape and Eastern Cape, here you’ll find the Bloukrans Bridge, recognised as the world’s highest bungee from a bridge with a fall of more than 200m towards the river below.

For those who like leaving the beaten path

Dotted around Cape Town, you’ll find a host of small towns and villages with hidden attractions, quaint shops and intriguing history just waiting to be explored these Easter holidays. Whether it’s Hermanus or McGregor, Franschhoek or Greyton, there are so many gems in the Western Cape you’ll want to see them all. Ready to pack your bags and get going? We don’t blame you.

For foodies

Home to most top restaurants in the country, is there a better way to spend the holidays than feasting your way through the Western Cape? From the smorgasbord of Winelands eateries to cosmopolitan inner-city dining, there’s something for everyone’s palate and budget.

While the big-ticket restaurants will leave you starry-eyed, keep the local, hole-in-the-wall spots in mind too –the Eastern Food Bazaar in Cape Town is a local institution and popular with everyone from students to corporates. An authentic Cape Town experience, expect Turkish kebabs, Cape-style biryanis, North Indian curries and more with plenty vegetarian options.

For romantics

Enjoy the Easter holidays by treating yourself to a romantic escape with someone special. From sunset picnics on top of Signal Hill to candlelit dinners at award-winning restaurants and yacht cruising along the coast, Cape Town was made for romance. Looking for the ultimate romantic day out? Take a helicopter flip around the peninsula from the V&A Waterfront and end it with a special night at The Table Bay – because no romantic escape is complete without fluffy robes, rose petals and complimentary wine in your hotel room.

For nature lovers

Apart from Table Mountain, there are places to take off your shoes and enjoy some fresh air around every corner, such as the world-famous Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden or Boulders Beach (which forms part of the Table Mountain National Park and is known for its resident penguin colony).
The beauty of Cape Town is that you can easily get your fix of beach sand and sea spray, blossoms or fynbos all within 40 minutes of the city centre.