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Discover 3 Fantastic Day Trips from Cape Town on a Budget!
Are you craving a getaway from bustling Cape Town? Well, you’re in luck! I’ve got three amazing day trips that won’t break the bank. Best of all, each one costs less than R500! So grab your sense of adventure and let’s hit the road.
1. Explore the Beautiful Cape Winelands
Welcome to Cape Winelands, my friend! Just a short drive from Cape Town, this picturesque region is known for its rolling vineyards, historic wine estates, and stunning mountain views. Hop in your car and take a leisurely drive through scenic roads, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the winelands.
Stop by some of the famous wine estates and indulge in a wine tasting. Savor the flavors of award-winning wines while immersing yourself in the rich history and heritage of the Cape Winelands. Don’t forget to snap some photos of the beautiful landscapes!
2. Embark on an Adventure to Cape Point
If you’re a nature lover like me, you’ll fall head over heels for Cape Point! This natural wonder is a haven for wildlife and offers stunning panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Get ready for an unforgettable day exploring the rugged coastlines, hidden coves, and breathtaking cliffs.
Start your journey at the Cape Point Nature Reserve and hike up to the famous Lighthouse. Take in the awe-inspiring views from the top and keep an eye out for playful baboons and other wildlife along the way. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the beautiful beaches and embrace the tranquility of nature.
3. Step back in time in the Historical Town of Stellenbosch
Travel back in time to the charming town of Stellenbosch! Known for its rich history and Cape Dutch architecture, Stellenbosch is a treat for history buffs and culture enthusiasts. Explore the well-preserved streets lined with oak trees, admire the beautiful architecture, and soak in the old-world charm.
While you’re there, don’t miss out on a visit to the Stellenbosch University Museum. Discover fascinating artifacts, learn about the town’s past, and appreciate the cultural heritage of this remarkable place. And of course, no trip to Stellenbosch would be complete without sampling some delectable local cuisine and wine.
So there you have it – three incredible day trips from Cape Town that won’t break the bank. Discover the beauty of the Cape Winelands, the thrill of Cape Point, and the history of Stellenbosch. What are you waiting for? Start planning your affordable adventure today!
So, me and my colleagues had a little adventure recently. We were given R500 each to plan the perfect one-day road trip out of Cape Town. Let me tell you about the three amazing trips we came up with!
First up, we have the N7 day trip along the West Coast. Trust me, this one is a winner. We hit the road and headed north, soaking up the stunning scenery along the way. The best part? It’s all within your budget!
Hey there! So, I was checking out this awesome place called Philadelphia, and guess what I found? A fantastic breakfast spot called Peppertree Art Stable & Coffee Shop! I gotta tell you, their breakfast is out of this world. Picture this: a plate loaded with mouthwatering mushrooms, juicy tomatoes, crispy bacon all on top of creamy polenta with a perfectly poached egg on top. Yum!
After fueling up, we decided to explore the town. As we ambled through the streets, we couldn’t help but be captivated by the peaceful atmosphere. And then, we stumbled upon this magical shop called Magic Minerals. Let me tell you, it’s like stepping into a treasure trove of stunning jewelry and fascinating artifacts.
But the adventure didn’t end there! We continued down the road to De Malle Meul. Marisa couldn’t resist buying some ginger syrup, and Teagan and Welcome couldn’t resist the allure of second-hand books. What can I say, we all left with big smiles on our faces!
We originally planned to stay in Philadelphia for just a short while, but this charming town stole our hearts. We ended up extending our stay because we simply couldn’t get enough. If you ever find yourself in Philadelphia, make sure to check out Peppertree Art Stable & Coffee Shop for an unforgettable breakfast, and don’t forget to explore Magic Minerals and De Malle Meul for some delightful surprises. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
Have you ever tried beer tasting at Darling Brew?
I took a ride on the R304 to Atlantis and then the R307 to Darling. As I traveled, I couldn’t help but notice the stunning sight of Table Mountain, standing tall against a backdrop of golden-brown wheat. It was so captivating that I had to pull over and take a moment to appreciate the gentle rustling of the dry wheat in the breeze. I found myself tempted to jump over the fence and run through those enchanting “fields of gold.”
When I saw the exterior of Darling Brewery, I wasn’t sure if it was the right choice. The building looked very industrial, and the ground around it was covered in dust. But as soon as I stepped inside, I was pleasantly surprised. The walls were painted black, and there was a beautiful mix of wood and stunning lights that created a Gothic atmosphere.
We decided to order the cheese and meat platter to go with our beer tasting. We tried a variety of beers, including Bone Crusher and Blood Serpent. But the one that really stood out to me was Warlord. Its unique flavor left a lasting impression.
Before leaving town, we decided to make a stop at Darling Sweet. Annette, the owner, welcomed us and told us all about the different flavors of toffees they had available. We even got to see the process of making the toffees through a glass wall. It was fascinating to watch the ladies at work.
After our sweet stop, we headed to the Tienie Versfeld Wildflower Reserve, hoping to catch a glimpse of the spring blooms. Unfortunately, we had missed the season, so we took a leisurely stroll around the reserve, trying to come up with a Plan B for the rest of our day.
As I strolled through the Tienie Versfeld Wildflower Reserve on the R315, I couldn’t help but be captivated by the beauty of the West Coast’s wild flowers. The colorful blooms adorned the landscape, creating a picturesque scene. It was a true feast for the eyes.
Slowing down was a must in the West Coast National Park. It was a place where tortoises had the right of way, and we encountered a staggering 28 of them within just a 10-kilometer radius. As we ambled along a boardwalk that stretched over the lagoon, we made our way towards a bird hide at the end. To fully immerse ourselves in the blissful surroundings, we opened the windows and inhaled the invigorating breeze. From that vantage point, we were treated to a spectacular view of the tranquil water and the rolling hills that embraced it.
Gazing at the gentle ripples on the surface of the water, we fell into a comfortable silence. There was a mutual understanding between us that this was the perfect ending to our remarkable road trip. No words were needed to express the sense of fulfillment and contentment that washed over us.
As I embark on a walk towards the bird hide near Geelbek visitor center at the West Coast National Park, I can’t help but be captivated by the beauty surrounding me. The gentle ripples of the waves, the picturesque landscapes, and the wonders of nature are all waiting to be explored.
My Plan
• First, I will start the day with a delicious breakfast in the charming town of Philadelphia.
• Afterward, I will immerse myself in the vibrant colors of the flowers, marveling at their delicate petals and intoxicating scents.
• Next, I will visit the delightful Darling Breweray, where I can sample a variety of amazing local brews and experience the craftsmanship that goes into creating them.
• For lunch, I will make my way to Darling, a quaint little town known for its warm hospitality and delectable culinary delights.
• After indulging in a satisfying meal, I will head to the coast to take in the breathtaking beauty of the sea. The sound of the crashing waves and the salty breeze will invigorate my senses.
• Finally, before concluding my day, I will make a stop at Darling Sweet to pick up some treats to savor and share.
Helpful Tips
Hey there! So, here’s the lowdown on the awesome places I visited in Philadelphia. First up is Peppertree Art Stable & Coffee Shop on Louw Street. It’s a great spot to grab a cuppa and check out some amazing art. You can give them a buzz at 0219721916.
If you’re into minerals (who isn’t, am I right?), then you should swing by Magic Minerals on the same street. They’ve got all the rocks and crystals you could dream of. Call them at 0636835544 to find out more.
After that, head over to De Malle Meul, which you’ll find at the corner of Meul and Main Roads. They’re only open from Thursday to Sunday, but it’s totally worth it. They’ve got some seriously tasty treats. Give them a ring at 0219721097 for the scoop.
Next stop: Darling Brew on Caledon Street. If you’re a beer lover like me, you’ll be in heaven here. They offer beer tastings for just R50, and their lunch platter is a steal at the same price. You won’t be disappointed. Call them up at 021-286-1099.
Oh, and don’t forget to satisfy your sweet tooth at Darling Sweet on Long Street. They’re open every day (but only until 2pm on Sundays). Treat yourself to some delicious goodies or call them at 0832354002 for more info.
For a dose of nature, make sure to swing by Tienie Versfeld Wildflower Reserve on the way to Yzerfontein. Trust me, the flowers there are simply breathtaking. Give them a call at 0224923361 to get all the details.
Last but not least, check out the West Coast National Park. It’s open every day, and you can reach them at 0227079902. Just be aware that most places are closed on Mondays, unless they specify otherwise.
Total spent: R834
Now, let’s talk finances. Here’s a breakdown of what I spent:
• Breakfast at Peppertree was R95 each. Totally worth it for a delicious start to the day!
• I splurged a little on some ginger syrup for R75, and I couldn’t resist picking up some books for R24. Gotta feed my soul, you know?
• The beer tasting at Darling Brew was R50, and the lunch platter was also R50 per person. Trust me, it was money well spent!
• Good news! Entry to Tienie Versfeld Wildflower Reserve is free. Gotta love those beautiful blooms.
• As for the West Coast National Park, it’s R50 per person for entry. A small price to pay for a day surrounded by nature.
What I wish I’d done differently
If you’re planning a day trip along the N2 route, there are a few things you should consider to make the most of your experience. Here are some tips from my own adventure:
• Make sure to indulge in the delicious food options available, like treating yourself to a slice of cake at De Malle Muel in Philadelphia. Trust me, it’s totally worth it!
• Don’t be afraid to embrace your inner adventurer and go off the beaten path. Jump that fence and run freely in the wheat fields. It’s a simple joy that can bring a sense of freedom and happiness.
• Keep an eye out for roadworks. During my trip, I encountered some stop-and-go roadworks on the road to Darling (R307), which caused a bit of a delay. To save time in the future, I’ll definitely reach out to someone in Darling to get the latest road conditions before setting off.
So, what’s the final verdict on this trip? Well, if you’re a food enthusiast or someone who enjoys tranquility, this N2 day trip is perfect for you. It offers an abundance of mouthwatering food options and opportunities to find peace and serenity.
Exploring the Bot River to Lourensford
As I walked along the Disa Kloof trail, I couldn’t help but be captivated by the stunning waterfall to my left. I was lucky enough to capture some amazing photos of this natural wonder, thanks to Kati Auld.
During this adventure, my friends and I came up with a unique way to make decisions – our very own version of the Magic 8 ball. We created a special jar with different answers written on pieces of paper. Our first stop was Pajamas & Jam, a hidden gem located in a warehouse near the highway in Strand industrial area. Stepping inside was like stepping back in time, with antique traveller’s trunks, vintage pots, old books, and even a bicycle hanging from the ceiling. The friendly waitress recommended their delightful surprise breakfast special – a croissant filled with avocado, salmon, egg, and red onion. To decide whether we should linger or move on, we turned to our magic jar. The response we received was a resounding “Why not?” So, we decided to explore the adjacent antiques store and vintage clothing shop.
When I left Strand, I took a drive along the R44 to Kleinmond. Along the way, I made an impulsive decision, guided by our trusty decision-making jar. We stopped at the Stony Point Penguin Colony, which is home to the largest breeding colony of African Penguins. It seemed like nap time for most of the birds, but there was one penguin who was eager to show off his tuxedo to everyone. After a quick drive past Betty’s Bay, we arrived at the Harold Porter Botanical Garden and embarked on the Disa Kloof Trail leading to a beautiful waterfall.
The trail was peaceful, although Ondela couldn’t shake off the warning sign at the entrance about baboons and venomous snakes. Apparently, there are 34 different snake species and 130 species of baboons in the garden! When we reached the waterfall, we were mesmerized by its stunning copper-colored water. On the way back, we pondered whether to stop for a cup of coffee. But our trusty jar simply replied, “Don’t know” and suggested asking Kati. Following her advice, we decided to keep going.
As I gazed at the penguins frolicking in the Stony Point Penguin Colony and admired the stunning views along the Clarens drive, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe. The photos captured by Kati Auld only added to the beauty.
After a fulfilling hike, we decided to indulge in a beer tasting at Honingklip Brewery. As we perused the menu, we wondered if it would be better to have lunch here instead of The Shuntin’ Shed, our original plan. Seeking guidance, we consulted our trusty jar, which advised us to carry on. Before leaving, we made sure to pick our favorite brews: Leigh favored the refreshing Blond, while I preferred the bold Indian Pale Ale.
When we arrived in Bot River, we were disappointed to find out that The Shuntin’ Shed was closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Undeterred, we continued our journey and stumbled upon Beaumont, the oldest wine cellar in the region with roots dating back to the 1700s. We sat down for a delectable Country Platter, consisting of terrine, Parma ham, cheeses, crusty bread, baby gherkins, and wholegrain mustard. Fulfilled by our culinary adventure, we set off towards our final destination.
As I strolled along the Bot River at Beaumont Wines, I couldn’t help but notice a few interesting artifacts scattered about. It was a delightful surprise to stumble upon these hidden treasures while exploring the vineyard. I snapped some photos to capture the unique experience.
Our visit to Lourensford came down to the wire. We had just 20 minutes left before closing time and were disappointed to discover that the chocolate and wine pairings were temporarily unavailable. However, Elana, the kind-hearted host, sensed our disappointment and decided to create an impromptu pairing for us. She lined up a series of glasses and treated us to a mouth-watering combination of MCC with Turkish delight, white wine with dark mint chocolate, and a delightful Lourensford liqueur. What made the experience even more memorable was that Elana refused to accept payment for her hospitality. Little did she know that we were journalists. In the end, Elana’s warmth and generosity made our visit truly special.
Hi there! Let me tell you about our amazing wine-tasting adventure at Lourensford. I couldn’t resist snapping a photo before we headed home. Take a look!
Our Plan for the Day
First, we enjoyed a delicious breakfast in Strand. Then we made our way to the beautiful Harold Porter Garden. After that, we had the pleasure of tasting some incredible brews at Honingklip Brewery and Gabrie Lskloof Estate. To satisfy our hunger, we savored a scrumptious lunch at the Shuntin’ Shed. And finally, we ended our day with a delightful wine pairing experience at Lourensford. What a day it was!
Here’s the Directory
If you’re looking for some great places to visit, here are the details you need:
- Pajamas & Jam Eatery – 32 Van Zyl Street, Gants Plaza, Strand. Phone: 0218546408
- Stony Point – Wallers Road, Betty’s Bay. Phone: 0282729829
- Harold Porter Garden – R44/Clarence Drive. Phone: 0282729311
- Honingklip Brewery – R43/Hermanus road. Phone: 0825426484
- Beaumont Wines – Main road, Bot River. Phone: 0282849194
- Lourensford – Lourensford Road, just past Erinvale Golf Course, Somerset West. Phone: 0218472333
Some places might be closed on Sundays or Mondays. Oh! And we didn’t get a chance to visit gabrielskloof.co.za and shuntinshed.co.za this time.
Our Total Spent
In the end, our amazing wine-tasting experience cost us R720. It was definitely worth every penny!
If you’re looking for a fun day trip from Cape Town, the N1 route towards Paarl is a great choice. It offers stunning coastal scenery and plenty of options for wine and beer lovers. Here are some highlights and things we wish we had done differently:
Highlights of the Trip:
– Breakfast croissants for R70 each and delicious flat whites for only R16.
– Visit the beautiful Stony Point with an entry fee of R20 per person.
– Explore the Harold Porter Botanical Garden, with an entry fee of R22 per person.
– Enjoy a tasting at the Honingsklip Brewery for only R30 each.
– Share a Beaumont Country Platter for R230.
– Indulge in a wine and chocolate pairing for R65 per person (no charge for us).
What We Wish We’d Done Differently:
– Make sure to check if places are open beforehand to avoid disappointment. We missed out on the Shuntin’ Shed at Bot River station because we didn’t do this.
– As an alternative, we would have had lunch at Honingklip. The chalkboard menu had many tempting options.
– Despite some unplanned detours caused by using the Magic 8 Jar, which made us watch the clock later, we would still keep it. It was a lot of fun to use.
Verdict: This day trip is perfect for those who enjoy coastal scenery and appreciate good wine and beer. Just make sure to plan ahead and be open to unexpected adventures along the way!
The N1 Day Trip Towards Paarl
The view from Paarl Rock is absolutely breathtaking, as captured in this photo by Michelle Hardie.
Today, I want to take you on a journey through the stunning Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl winelands. Now, I know what you’re thinking – wine, wine, and more wine. But trust me, we’re going to do things a little differently this time. We’re going to explore these beautiful regions without a drop of wine (I can hear your gasps from here!).
As we hit the road, the excitement is palpable. However, as luck would have it, Michelle starts feeling car sick just as we leave town. We decide to make an early pit stop at Anura wine estate, which conveniently houses the newly launched Trading Post deli and eatery. And guess what? It’s not just about wine here. We stumble upon Wagon Trail Brewing Co., and boy, are we in for a treat!
We settle down in the delightful garden, surrounded by majestic trees, a serene pond, and a charming fountain. Our hungry stomachs crave a savory delight, so we opt for the Breakfast Pizza. Bursting with flavors of sausage, mushrooms, tomato, bacon, and two perfectly poached eggs, it’s the perfect fuel to get us going. Feeling energized and raring to explore, our sights are now set on conquering Paarl Rock.
To reach Paarl Rock, we embark on Jan Phillips Mountain Drive, a gravel path just off Paarl’s main street. As we make our way up, we pass quaint laborers’ cottages that hold a certain allure, offering us glimpses of sprawling vineyards in the distance. The trek feels like a true adventure, as we navigate through the wild bushes and uncertain terrain. The question arises – will our trusty little Chevy Spark rise up to the challenge?
As we approached Paarl Rock, I couldn’t help but capture the moment on camera. Leo Abrahams snapped this photo as we neared our destination.
The road leading up to Paarl Rock was a thrilling experience. Twisting and turning, the boulders seemed to grow larger with each passing moment. We were informed at the first parking area and braai site, known as Millwater, that it would only take us about 10 minutes to reach the top. Little did we know, we were in for a challenge – a nearly vertical hike on a rounded dome. Halfway up, under the scorching noonday sun, my friends and I decided to try a different car park.
At the “official” Paarl Rock stop, we discovered a convenient boardwalk that led straight to the summit. It was a quick two-minute walk! The panoramic views from the top were breathtaking, but hunger began to gnaw at our stomachs.
When I returned to Paarl, I stopped by Jan Kan Farm stall to see what they had to offer. Although they didn’t have a wide selection of picnic food, I managed to purchase a delicious chicken pie, as well as two freshly sliced slabs of biltong. To accompany our meal, we decided to try some craft beers from the nearby Berg River brewery. After satisfying our savory cravings, we made our way to Nibbly Bits, a charming factory shop that specializes in both sweet and savory treats. Here, we indulged in some delectable carrot cake, along with a few mini quiches. To quench our thirst, we opted for glasses of refreshing ginger beer, which we cleverly poured into an empty water bottle for later enjoyment.
Although our spread may not have been the most traditional, we were famished and eager to dig in. With our picnic goodies in hand, we were ready to find the perfect spot to settle down and enjoy our meal.
As I embarked on my journey, I found myself facing yet another treacherous road: the Bainskloof Pass. The presence of a horde of baboons only added to the tension. My travel companion, Leo, clung to his seat, avoiding any glance towards the precipitous drops that dominated our surroundings. Despite the nerve-wracking experience, I couldn’t help but marvel at the stunning and occasionally bewildering scenery along the way.
It was already past 3pm when we arrived at Tweede Tol. Eager to unwind, we made our way down to the riverside, finally allowing ourselves a moment of respite. Famished from our adventures, we indulged ourselves in a delicious meal at The Trading Post. As shadows began to stretch across the landscape, we took advantage of the remaining sunlight and decided to take a refreshing dip in the river. The icy waters sent shivers down our spines, but also filled us with an indescribable sense of exhilaration. Our joyous cries echoed for miles around, marking this as the highlight of our day.
Regrettably, we had to accept that time was not on our side, leaving no room for a visit to the alpacas or an indulgence in those irresistible churros. But sometimes, it’s the unexpected detours and missed opportunities that make a journey truly memorable.
Ending my day with a swim at the Tweede Tol was the perfect way to wrap up my outing. The water was so chilly, but it was incredibly invigorating. I couldn’t help but feel alive in that moment.
My planned itinerary
• Start the day off with a delicious breakfast in Paarl.
• Challenge myself and climb Paarl Rock, feeling accomplished at the top.
• Take some time to gather the supplies I need in Paarl or Wellington.
• Enjoy a delightful picnic and refreshing swim at Tweede tol, located in Bainskloof.
• Treat myself to some tea and cake while surrounded by adorable alpacas.
• Indulge in some mouthwatering churros at spice route on my way home.
Directory
The Trading Post at Anura Simondium Road, Klapmuts. 0218755360
Paarl Rock Jan Phillips Mountain Drive. 0827445900
Jan Kan farm stall Laborie Street, Paarl. 0871311653 Nibbly
Bits Factory Shop 123 Main Road, Paarl. 0218632207
Kikka 217 Main Road. 0218720685
Tweede Tol Off the R301, in Limietberg Nature Reserve. Day visitors limited to 120 people. 0218711535
*Please note that some places may be closed on Sundays or Mondays.
Total expenses: R904
Hi there! Let me tell you about some fun and affordable activities we did recently. We started our day with a delicious breakfast pizza to share, which only cost R95. And of course, we couldn’t forget about our coffees and tea, which added up to R63.
After breakfast, we decided to grab a bag of nectarines at the robot. It was a great deal, only costing us R30. Fruits are always a good option for a snack!
Next, we made our way to Paarl Rock Nature Reserve. The best part? It’s completely free on weekdays! But if you visit on weekends or holidays, you’ll pay R48 per car plus R16 per person. Still a great value!
For our lunch, we packed our own picnic provisions. It was much cheaper and we could choose exactly what we wanted. We spent R566 for three people, which was a great deal.
Finally, we decided to visit Tweede Tol campsite. As day visitors, we only had to pay R50 per person. It was a lovely spot to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
We learned a few things from our experience:
First, we realized it would have been smarter to pack most of our picnic at home. Alternatively, we could have enjoyed the lovely café’s along Paarl Main Road. That would have saved us some money!
Next time, we would head to the picnic spot first thing in the morning when it’s hot and sunny. After that, we could explore Paarl Rock later in the day. It would have been a better plan!
Another option would have been to visit the alpacas, which are only available to see in the afternoons. Instead of going to the rock, we could have gone to Spice Route for churros, sundowners, and dinner. That would have been a great way to end the day!
To sum it up, we had a fantastic time exploring all these activities. Swimmers and nature lovers will especially enjoy them. So, if you’re looking for a fun and affordable day out, give these suggestions a try. You won’t be disappointed!
This story was originally published in the December 2016 edition of Getaway magazine.
Our December issue showcases 5 incredible summer experiences in South Africa. Available for purchase starting November 21, 2016.