Are you looking for that ideal holiday spot to get away for the weekend? Luckily, Western Cape is packed with numerous relaxing holiday spots where you can unwind and find some peace and quiet. From picturesque towns and fishing villages to secluded bays, there is something for everyone in Western Cape. Check out our ultimate list of relaxing holiday spots in Western Cape to visit in 2018.
1 Paternoster
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Paternoster is a lovely whitewashed fishing village that offers spectacular beaches, laid-back atmosphere, and plenty of excellent accommodation options including luxurious villas and self-catering cottages. Thanks to its local nature reserves and a number of activities like diving, hiking, whale spotting, and sea kayaking, it comes as no surprise that Paternoster is a very popular weekend escape destination for many Capetonians. Explore the Cape Columbine Nature Reserve where you will find dozens of hidden coves and secluded beaches or dine at one of the many seafood restaurants in the village such as Leeto, Reuben’s at Abalone House, and Wolfgat.
2 Darling
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Well-known for its flower beds and rolling green meadows, Darling is one of the most interesting holiday spots in Western Cape. Each spring when the wildflower season comes, the city comes alive and becomes a colorful paradise with a variety of plants and flowers. Attractions like Darling Museum and Khwa ttu San Culture & Education Centre are definitely worth visiting, as well as the West Coast National Park’s Langebaan Lagoon which is located right outside the city and houses migrating water birds including white pelicans and flamingos. Darling is also famous for its annual festivals and events like the Groote Post Country Market and Darling Wildflower Show.
See Also: 8 Best 5-Star All Inclusive Vacations in Cape Town This Festive Holiday
3 Stellenbosch
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If you are searching for an ideal day trip from South Africa’s Mother City, Stellenbosch should definitely be included on your list of places to visit in Western Cape. This university town is the second oldest European settlement in the region and boasts lovely cobbled streets, picturesque Cape Dutch-style buildings, attractions including University Botanic Gardens and the Village Museum. Head out to the Jonkershoek Nature Reserve where you will find dozens of hiking and biking trails. Stellenbosch is also home to a number of excellent restaurants, art galleries, and boutiques.
4 Hermanus
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One of the most popular holiday spots in Western Cape, Hermanus is one of the best places on the planet for whale-watching. The best time to spot a large number of southern right whales here is from July to November, while the annual Whale Festival is held in September. Of course, Hermanus is not only famous as a whale-watching destination and features a variety of tourist attractions, as well as excellent sandy beaches which can be found to the east of town. Highlights include the popular Fernkloof Nature Reserve which is ideal for bird-watching, the charming Cliff Path, and the Old Harbour Museum.
5 Matjiesfontein
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Nestled between Beaufort West and Cape Town, Matjiesfontein is a tiny resort town famous for its Victorian buildings and the amazing Victorian spa which was founded by James and Scot Logan in the 19th century. Both South Africans and international vacationers come here to visit attractions like the Transport Museum, the historic post office, and the Marie Rawdon Museum. One of the best ways to check out all the attractions in the town is with the Futtom Fluffy bus tour which lasts just 10 minutes and passes all of the major landmarks. Travelers who wish to spend the night in Matjiesfontein can book a room at the lovely Lord Milner Hotel that boasts a lovely garden and a huge swimming pool.
