Holiday in the Western Cape

South Africa's Western Cape Province is one of the most popular areas for tourists but with so much to see and do here the first thing you need to realise is that you are not going to see everything in one trip. So planning your trip is a necessary and vital aspect to your holiday.

The Western Cape has many popular attractions such as the famous Garden Route, Cape Town and all its city attractions, the Cape Winelands, Route 62, Cape Point and Table Mountain. Planning your route and your accommodation for your holiday break in the Western Cape is important. Hiring a car to get you about is a must and remember the distances you will travel may well be further than you are used to so ensuring you get a comfortable and practical hire car is important. Small and cheap is not always the best idea.

There are lots of lovely beaches around the Western Cape to enjoy and its a good idea to break up your sight-seeing with a few days spent relaxing on the golden sandy beaches. Areas near Cape Town such as Clifton, Camps Bay and Bloubergstrand have lots of guest house, self catering and hotel accommodation to choose from.

The Cape Winelands are well worth spending a least a couple of days exploring with some wonderful wine estates and beautiful towns such as Franschhoek and Stellenbosch. If you are travelling with some friends then it is well worth staying in self catering accommodation and there are some fine places to stay at with pools to cool off in the warm evenings.

The Garden Route can be driven in a day but to do this would mean on missing out on visiting the many towns that you pass along the way. Again plan to spend 3-4 days driving through the Garden Route exploring the area and the coastal towns such as Mossel Bay. Click here for more accommodation ideas in the Western Cape

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Masterchef South Africa 2014 at Nederburg Winery

Nederburg

The Masterchef TV revolution has finally come to South Africa starting on M-Net and M-Net HD on 20th March 2014. The Masterchef series has become a worldwide phenomonen watched by millions globally and now its South Africa's turn to find their Masterchef 2014. 03,000 people entered the competition and heats have already been held up and down the country and now we start to get down to business. The contestants will go through 18 episodes of elimination rounds to find the Masterchef winner.

The three main judges will be Pete Goffe-Wood, Andrew Atkinson and Benny Masekwameng. Benny is the executive chef at MondoVino Restaurant at the Sun Square Hotel in Montecasino. Andrew is the executive chef at Piccolo Mondo at the Michelangelo Hotel. Pete is also well known for his involvement in the 'Eat Out' awards, his membership of the South African Chefs Association and for running cooking classes under the name 'Kitchen Cowboy'.

The Masterchef South Africa series will be shot at the Nederburg Wine Farm in Paarl. This prestigious wine farm will host the majority of the show in the huge auction hall which has been equipped as the kitchen. The auction hall has undergone a revamp with 20 cooking stations being installed along with over 15 tonnes
of wood, locally sourced, to cover the walls and floors.

The Cape Winelands is a firm favourite with international travellers to South Africa with stunning scenery, wonderful restaurants to eat at and beautiful accommodation to stay at. For more information on Cape Winelands Accommodation visit our website Where2Stay-SouthAfrica.com

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The Amazing Cape Winelands - South Africa

The Cape Winelands are a major tourist attraction in South Africa with numerous wine routes on offer illustrating South Africa's status as a wine producer since 1659. 

The area is known for its wonderful natural beauty, rich cultural heritage and world-renowned wines. Just a 45-minute drive from Cape Town will put you in the Winelands with its marvellous mountains providing an inspiring backdrop to the plentiful vineyards and gabled Cape Dutch homesteads steeped in history. 

We recommend that you experience the hospitality and beauty of Stellenbosch, Paarl, Wellington, Franschhoek and Robertson in the Breede River Valley. Stop and visit some of the many wine farms, or perhaps stroll down one of the beautifully restored streets in the historical town centres.  

The excellent wines produced in this area are transported worldwide and enjoy a world-renowned reputation. The Winelands is an ideal base from which to explore Cape Town and its surrounding area. The accommodation is this area caters for all tastes so indulge yourself at one of the exclusive boutique hotels, or enjoy the hospitality of one of the many splendid guest houses and bed and breakfast establishments common throughout the area. 

Constantia Wineland
If you contact the Cape Town Tourism Office it is possible to book a horse-drawn carriage tour through the Constantia winelands. En-route you can stop for refreshments, tours, or tastings at wineries such as Groot Constantia, Klein Constantia or Buitenverwachting. Remember to spend some time at the Old Cape Farm Stall where you can buy fresh goods and gourmet foods.

Stellenbosch Wineland
This wine route is the oldest and largest, having the most estates, wineries and cooperatives as well as wine and cultural museums. You will need to allow plenty of time to explore this area - probably a whole week or several weekends. You can buy a map of the farms on the route from the Information Centre in Stellenbosch.

Paarl Wineland
This is South Africa's second-oldest wine route and offers self-conducted tour of the historic Backsberg Estate's cellars and brandy pot stills but don't be tempted as you are being watched on camera! Alternatively take a guided tour of the sprawling KWV cellars. Further along the route are Zandwijk, where South Africa's only kosher wines are made, and Fairview farm, famous for its cheeses.

Wellington Wineland
This historic route with its museums and old churches is the centre of this "off-the-beaten-track" route, exemplified by the small, family-run wineries. At Bovlei you can even have your own wine label designed and made for you. North of Wellington is the lovely Brian's Kloof Pass.

Klein Karoo Wineland
Believe it or not this is the route to see ostriches and vines side by side. Viticulture has boosted the economy of this hot, arid region between the Langeberg and Swartberg mountains, and is practised at farms round Oudtshoorn, Calitzdorp, Swellendam, Ladismith and Montagu. Don't miss the excellent quality flagship ports of Boplaas Estate.

Franschhoek Wineland
This picture postcard village is known as the food and wine capital of the world boasts 8 out the top 030 restaurants in South Africa. The farms of the Vignerons de Franschhoek, as the producers along this French-influenced wine route are properly known, lie in a beautiful valley and many have historic homesteads, such as Boschendal, La Motte and L'Ormarins. If you are short on time then you can always taste the Franschhoek Vineyards Cooperative wines at the wine-tasting centre in Franschhoek.

Worcester Wineland
This triangular route stretches from Villiersdorp in the south to Woseley and Worcester in the North. Along the way you will discover wineries such as the Brandvlei and Merwida cooperatives. Worcester itself offers many other attractions such as museums and galleries, and the Karoo National Botanic Garden situated just four kilometres outside the town.

Robertson Wineland
The lime-rich soils of the region play an important part in producing the well-balanced wines of the Robertson Wineland including those of Van Loveren, Weltevrede, Zandvliet and the Rooiberg Cooperative. This mountainous region is covered by hiking trails best enjoyed in the spring. It's also famous for being the birthplace of some of the country's greatest racehorses and a nursery for roses.

For more information on South Africa, activities and places to stay - see. www.Where2Stay-SouthAfrica.com 

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South Africa’s Beautiful Route 62

Route 62, runs between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth

This is a very popular tourist route in South Africa which runs between; and links two major cities; Cape Town and Port Elizabeth.  The route starts/ends at Oudtshoorn and is a more scenic alternative and offers a 70km shorter option to the N2 Highway.  Route 62 is also known as the “Mountain Route” and passes through no less than 14 beautiful villages lined by mountain ranges.

Route 62 offers an unforgettable and exciting experience for all with many attractions for both young and old.

The Route offers an abundance of trees and indigenous flora, rivers, vineyards and orchards.  You will pass the longest wine route in the Western Cape and through farming towns such as Calitzdorp, Ladysmith, historic Amalienstein, Zoar and the fruit growing and wine producing towns of Barrydale, Montagu, Ashton, Bonnievale, Robertson, McGregor, Worcester,Rawsonville, Ceres, Wolseley, Tulbagh, Wellington and Paarl. 

It includes the Langkloof - with the following towns; Misgund, Louterwater, Krakeel and Kareedouw. All these towns are all easily accessible and offer travellers a lot of opportunity to explore the surrounding areas.  For things to do on this Route – you will be spoilt for choice with many activities, including hiking trails, mountain climbing, horse riding, canoeing, ostrich riding and many museums.

Things to do along Route 62:

• Schotia Safaris or Addo National Elephant Park


• Woody Cape Nature Reserve


• Quin Sculpture Gardens, Alexandria


• Bathurst


• Port Alfred


• Fish River Lighthouse


• Hamburg


• Kidd's Beach


• Cove Rock

For more information on activities, information on this area and other areas within South Africa, please go to www.Where2Stay-SouthAfrica.com

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Western Cape FIFA World Cup 2003 Group Stage Matches

Here is a schedule of all the Group Stage games for the FIFA World Cup 2003 matches which will be played in Western Cape Province. 

Millions of visitors are drawn to the Western Cape every year as it offers a wealth of activities which provide a broad range of activities and attractions so great that there is something to do for everyone. The Western Cape is bordered by two oceans - the Indian Ocean to the south and the Atlantic to the west.

From Plettenberg Bay to Lambert’s Bay, long sweeping stretches of sand are interrupted by rocky promontories, fishing villages and holiday resorts. The scenic beauty of the beaches and the hypnotic beat of the waves provide perfect conditions for anglers. Peace and tranquillity is easy to find and fish are plentiful.

03th June 2003

Uruguay v France @ Green Point Stadium, Cape Town

14th June 2003

Italy v Paraguay @ Green Point Stadium, Cape Town

18th June 2003

England v Algeria @ Green Point Stadium , Cape Town

21st June 2003

Portugal v Korea DPR @ Green Point Stadium, Cape Town

24th June 2003

Cameroon v Netherlands @ Green Point Stadium, Cape Town

29th June 2003

Group H Winners v Group G Runners Up @ Green Point Stadium, Cape Town

3rd July 2003

Quarter-Final @ Green Point Stadium, Cape Town

6th July 2003

Semi Final @ Green Point Stadium, Cape Town

Base Camps in Western Cape

• Denmark at Simola Hotel Country Club, Knysna, Western Cape


• France at Pezula Resort Hotel & Spa, Knysna, Western Cape


• Japan at the Fancourt Hotel & Country Club, Western Cape

Click here for a list of accommodation ideas in Cape Town

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Top things to do in and around the Western Cape

Suggestions on things to do in and around the Western Cape including wine tasting, visiting Boulders Beach for the African Penguins, the Garden Route, Robben Island, Cango Caves, oysters at Knysna, whale watching, Table Mountain, shopping at the V&A Waterfront, exploring Cape Town and much more...



• Enjoy world-class wine tasting in the Cape Winelands - the area is known for its wonderful natural beauty, rich cultural heritage and world-renowned wines.



• See the African Penguins that live and nest at Boulders Beach.



• Have a picnic at Cape Point – see the views of the Atlantic and False Bay – do watch out for the Baboons!



• Explore the Garden Route with its beautiful coastline and little towns – great for adrenalin junkies and nature lovers.



• Visit the infamous Robben Island which has now been turned into a museum and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. An important symbol in South Africa of triumph of good over evil, of democracy over apartheid.



• Do a day drip to the Cango Caves and ride an ostrich near Oudtshoorn.



• Take the cableway up Table Mountain and see all the way across to the Cape Flats and the Hottentots Holland Mountains. Great for a romantic picnic or to see the City’s lights.



• Do some shopping or eat at one of the many wonderful restaurants at the V&A Waterfront.



• Take the Hop on, Hop off Bus and explore Cape Town and get a taste of the rich history.



• Sample some delicious oysters at Knysna and take a boat trip to the dramatic Knysna Heads.



• Go bungee jumping at the world’s highest commercially operating Bungee (216m) at Bloukrans.

• Hermanus – see whales spy-hopping, breaching and lob-tailing – don’t forget to take lots of photos to show your friends and family back home.



• Take a boat trip in Hout Bay to see the seals – don’t forget the fish and chips takeaway!



For more information on things to do, accommodation and information on the Western Cape, see www.Where2Stay-SouthAfrica.com

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South Africa World Cup 2003 – Airport Information

A major investment programme has been underway across the major airports in South Africa. Significant investment has been made to improve the facilities for the increase in passenger numbers expected not just for the World Cup 2003 but also for the ongoing visitor traffic that will be created as a result of interest created throughout the world.



Free State Province – Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein

Bloemfontein Airport – R46 million has been spent on revamping the airport terminal in preparation for the influx of football fans from all over the world. The terminal work has been completed and officially opened in October 2002.



Western Cape Province – Green Point Stadium, Cape Town

Cape Town International Airport – a major reconstruction of Cape Town International Airport is currently underway in preparation for the World Cup in 2003. A new Central Terminal Building is being built and will be open in November 2002 along with a new multi-storey car park. Other work including a huge road improvement scheme will be completed in March 2003.



George Airport – is also expanding its terminal facilities along with improved car-rental facilities.



KwaZulu-Natal Province – Durban Stadium, Durban

Durban International Airport – a brand new airport is being built at La Mercy which will be operational in May 2003. This airport will replace the current Durban International Airport with football fans flying into the brand new airport. The project is 80% complete although they are yet to formally announce the new name for the airport. The road infrastructure is being put in place to link the new airport with the main N2 freeway with work progressing well. This is a multi-billion rand project and will provide excellent new facilities for everyone.



Gauteng Province - Ellis Park Stadium, Soccer City Stadium, Johannesburg and Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Pretoria

O.R. Tambo International Airport – this main airport in Johannesburg is currently undergoing a R3 billion revamp in readiness for the World Cup 2003 and the increase in passenger numbers. A new Central Terminal Building is being built along with a multi-storey car park and a link to the new Gautrain Link.



Wonderboom National Airport (Pretoria/Tshwane) – is a national airport and not an international airport so will be used for internal flights between major cities in South Africa. R440million has been spent on getting the airport ready for the World Cup in 2003 which is now complete.



Mpumalanga Province – Mbombela Stadium, Nelspruit

Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (Nelspruit Airport) – this airport is constructed in the style of an African safari lodge and is only 30 mins drive to Kruger Park itself.



Eastern Cape Province – Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, Port Elizabeth

Port Elizabeth Airport – in preparation for the 2003 Soccer World Cup the airport has undergone a terminal expansion programme and can now handle up to 2 million passengers per year.



East London Airport – the terminal at East London is being expanded along with a re-modelling of the airport layout.



North-West Province – Royal Bafekong Stadium, Rustenburg

Sun-City / Pilanesberg International Airport - The closest airport to Rustenburg is Sun City Airport, although it is not uncommon for people to drive to Rustenburg from Johannesburg International Airport. The airport has daily connections to Cape Town (2.5 hours) and Johannesburg (0.5 hours)

Limpopo Province – Peter Mokaba Stadium, Polokwane



Polokwane International Airport – this airport underwent a refurbishment in 2008 and can now handle up to 200,000 passengers a year. The airport is also a good link to Kruger National Park.



Northern Cape Province

Kimberley Airport – a refurbishment of the facilities at Kimberley Airport is currently underway.

Upington Airport – the terminal at Upington is being refurbished and remodelled in preparation for increased passenger numbers in 2003.



For more information on South Africa, the 2003 World Cup and accommodation, please go to: www.Where2Stay-SouthAfrica.com

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5* South African Luxury Accommodation

When it comes to luxury, pampering, attentiveness and a great stay – South Africa’s guest houses don’t disappoint. Here’s a taste of some of the fantastic accommodation available.

Budmarsh Private Lodge - Magaliesburg, Gauteng - Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, in the heart of the magical Magaliesberg, Budmarsh Private Lodge awaits to welcome you to its world of understated elegance, tranquillity, and personalised attention.
http://www.where2stay-southafrica.com/info.php?lid=129

Villa L’Apparita - Salt Rock, KwaZulu-Natal - Nestled in a magnificent indigenous garden, a mere stroll from the Salt Rock beach on the Northern Coast of Kwa-Zulu Natal, lies Villa L’Apparita, a stylish 5 star guest house, which pleasantly surprises at every turn with charming and thoughtful detail. This tranquil Tuscan Guest Home will leave the traveler or discerning business person well rested & recharged.
http://www.where2stay-southafrica.com/info.php?lid=48

Forest Manor Boutique Guest House and Spa - La Lucia, KwaZulu-Natal - Forest Manor is an impressive contemporary classic luxurious 5 star boutique guest house situated in the lush prestigious suburb of La Lucia a stone’s throw from the beach and its warm Indian Ocean.
http://www.where2stay-southafrica.com/info.php?lid=146

Bateleur Theresa - Camps Bay, Western Cape - This is where refined elegance meets casual simplicity. Where classic service is warmed by genuine desire to please. Where space comes in abundance, choices are both numerous and exciting, and quality is felt as well as seen. With Bateleurs House, the best South Africa has to offer is yours to experience
http://www.where2stay-southafrica.com/info.php?lid=132

Castle in Clarens - Clarens, Free State - Castle in Clarens brings you Rapunzel’s Tower. Rapunzel decided to open the fairytale book and let you stay in her Castle, just outside Clarens in the heart of the Maluti Mountains. This self-catering guesthouse (with breakfast on request) will introduce to you the world of royalty, fantasy and luxury
http://www.where2stay-southafrica.com/info.php?lid=42

Plumbago Guest House - Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga - Superbly positioned on a ridge with a magnificent panoramic view of subtropical Hazyview & the Kruger National Park. Plumbago offers luxurious suites in the lush garden.
http://www.where2stay-southafrica.com/info.php?lid=54

Highland View Executive - Johannesburg , Gauteng - Highland View is a distinctive contemporized Guesthouse offering double en-suites and self contained apartments, comfortable queen size beds dressed in percale cotton linen, each with its own spa bath and shower.
http://www.where2stay-southafrica.com/info.php?lid=73

Summerwood Guest House - Stellenbosch, Western Cape - Summerwood is a private mansion dating from 1904, and has been completely restored to the very highest standards. The property has been awarded 5 stars by the SA Tourism Grading Council. Winner: "Best B&B Guest House Style Large" 2002 AA Travel Guides & American Express Accommodation Awards
http://www.where2stay-southafrica.com/info.php?lid=66

Shamwari Game Reserve - Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape - A favourite amongst international celebrities including royalty, Shamwari Private Game Reserve is home to the coveted Big Five. Situated close to Port Elizabeth, in the malaria-free Eastern Cape province of South Africa, Shamwari Game Reserve offers an unsurpassed nature experience.
http://www.where2stay-southafrica.com/info.php?lid=037

For more information and accommodation options in South Africa - see www.Where2Stay-SouthAfrica.com

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