Franschoek
La Petite Colombe
One of the newest additions to the Franschhoek dining scene, La Petite Colombe, is brought to you by the same team behind La Colombe – Eat Out’s No. 2 restaurant in the country this year and 73rd in S. Pellegrino’s World’s Best Restaurants. Classical French-style cuisine is brought to the 21st century, filled with surprises and little touches that will have you gasping with delight. It’s a special occasion splurge, so be sure to book well in advance.
Details: La Petite Colombe / Le Quartier Français Hotel, Franschhoek / 021 202 3395
Terbodore
A coffee shop and roastery, or simply “heaven” for coffee lovers and espresso snobs. The team has been sifting and roasting beans for over 10 years, starting in the Midlands, before bringing their brand to the Franschhoek Valley. Whether you’re looking to spruce up your morning at home, or need a gift for the coffee aficionado in your life, the aromas alone will ensure you don’t leave empty handed.
Details: Terbodore Coffee / 191 Main Road, Franschhoek / 021 876 4716
Franschhoek Wine Tram
With over 50 wine estates in Franschhoek alone, it is impossible to see them all in a day – or even a week. To give you a taste of what the valley has to offer, there’s no better way to visit your top eight than with the Franschhoek Wine Tram. Featuring a combination of tram and tram-bus transports, the Franschhoek Wine Tram offers six hop-on hop-off lines to choose from: Blue Line, Red Line, Yellow Line, Green Line, Purple Line and Orange Line – each line visiting eight wine estates in a different part of the Franschhoek Valley.
Details: Franschhoek Wine Tram / 32 Huguenot Road, Franschhoek / 021 876 4943
St. James
Beach Walk
You’re spoilt for choice! Try the Muizenberg – St. James beach walk, enjoy a dip in the tidal pools in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, take some selfies in front of the iconic beach huts, slurp on an ice cream while catching a tan, have dinner at Tiger’s Milk, Cape to Cuba, The Annex or Salty Sea Dog, go for a frosty at Dixies, take a walk or drive to Kalk Bay, Fish Hoek or Muizenberg, watch whales from Boyes Drive, take a train ride to Simon’s Town or simply relax, unwind and enjoy the scenery!
Go Surfing
Having been attracted by the relaxed lifestyle and scenic views, the people of St. James are as laid-back and ‘real’ as they come. With a few schools nearby, many families have chosen to be based out here. Being somewhat removed from the city bowl, many young people work from home. And, of course, it is surfer’s heaven.
Greenpoint
Work Out, Feast, And Hang Out
Take it from us – you will always find things to do in Green Point, day and night. Spend a few hours exploring Green Point Park and the outdoor gym. Head next door to Sea Point to walk along the promenade. See the famous stadium. Go for fresh sushi or oysters at Beluga, or try a yummy cocktail as you sit outside and people watch. Explore Somerset Road and its various shops and cafes. Visit the Green Point Market that takes place every Sunday in the car park outside the stadium. Laugh until your sides hurt at Beefcakes. Take a walk on the wilder side at Amsterdam Action bar. Every day brings something new to see and do in this trendy little village.
El Burro
Since opening a few years ago, El Burro has been a consistent favourite with Mexican-loving Capetonians. Offering authentic South American flavour in a social setting – including a large balcony, perfect for watching Cape Town sunsets with a frozen margarita in hand – you’ll struggle to find a place to start on the menu. The chilorio pork tacos is always a favourite, as is anything cooked in their classic mole sauce. To end, the churros are a must.
Details: El Burro / 81 Main Rd, Green Point, Cape Town, 8005/021 433 2364
Cabrito
Brought to you by the El Burro team, Cabrito offers arguably the largest selection of tequila in the country. There’s also craft beer on tap, a great wine list and Mexican snacks that will keep you happy ‘til late.
Details: El Burro / 81 Main Rd, Green Point, Cape Town, 8005/021 433 2364
Capital Mirage Hotel
A new addition to the De Waterkant hotel scene, the Capital Mirage has been a popular choice ever since it opened just over a year ago. Serving as the perfect base for both business and leisure travellers, it offers all the style and sophistication of a hotel, with all the convenience of your own apartment – with a mini kitchenette in rooms, as well as a washing machine. Insider tip: be sure to take in the views from their rooftop bar and swimming pool.
Details: Capital Mirage Hotel /40 Chiappini St, De Waterkant, Cape Town, 8001/ 021 200 5100
Durban
The Sapphire Coast
The Sapphire Coast stretches from Athlone Park to Clansthal, and runs 40 kilometres of golden beaches and lush coastal forests, mixed with coastal villages. To the north you will find the city, with all the amenities and energy of a metropolis, and to the west are the rolling hills of KwaZulu-Natal, rich in wildlife, culture and history.
Details: The Saphire Coast
Wilson’s Wharf
Durban is built on fun in the sun, and visitors to Wilson’s Wharf can expect just that. You can bask in the ocean breeze during the day or enjoy the cool vibe and take in the magnificent splendour of the city lights reflecting on the harbour waters at night.
Details: Wilson’s Warf / 14 – 18 Boatmans Rd, Albert Park, Durban, 4000 / 031 907 8792
The Green Hub
Serving as an eco-tourism information and environmental education centre, the Green Hub is active in promoting local environmental clean-ups, outdoor activities and education programmes for schools and local residents. It was designed to inspire: the space was laid out to save electricity and water, making it an inspirational place for conservationists to hang out.
Details: The Green Hub /031 322 6026
By Shawn Greyling
