From Cape Town’s vibrance to Franschhoek’s vineyards and Hermanus’ coastline, the Cape blends world-class wine, gourmet cuisine, and stunning landscapes
HIGHLIGHTS
Savour award-winning wines from the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley in Hermanus, paired with stunning coastal views
Relish award-winning wines and gourmet cuisine in the picturesque vineyards of Franschhoek
Experience Cape Town’s vibrant wine and gourmet scene, from boutique wineries to world-class dining
The Western Cape is home to nearly all of South Africa’s finest restaurants, making it a true mecca for food and wine enthusiasts. Renowned for its exceptional value and high-quality dining, this region offers a wealth of culinary gems that cater to every palate. With influences from across the globe, South African cuisine has evolved into a vibrant gourmet experience, and nowhere is this more evident than in the Western Cape.
Safari Collection is dedicated to crafting unforgettable wine and gourmet experiences. We assist with bookings for lunch and dinner at carefully selected, world-class wineries and restaurants where both food and wine are of unmatched quality. Meet passionate winemakers who will share their dedication to the art of viticulture and discover their finest creations. With its ideal climate and stunning landscapes, the Western Cape is the perfect destination for those seeking the ultimate wine and culinary journey. Our commitment to excellence ensures we select only the best wineries and restaurants, driven by our belief that nothing less than perfection is good enough for our clients.
Over the years, we’ve visited more than 450 wineries across the Western Cape, including world-renowned districts such as Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, Swartland, Cape Town (with Constantia and Hout Bay), Walker Bay (featuring Hemel-en-Aarde and Bot River), Overberg, Elgin, Paarl, Wellington, Tulbagh, Robertson, Swellendam (with Malgas and Stormsvlei), Breedekloof, and Cape Agulhas (with Elim). This extensive exploration has given us an unparalleled understanding of the region’s wine culture, production, and industry. After more than 20 years immersed in the world of vineyards, barrels, and celebrated winemakers, we are proud to share our deep knowledge and insights with you.
Thanks to our trusted relationships with winemakers and sommeliers, we can provide access to exclusive wine experiences tailored to your interests. Whether you are a casual wine lover or a dedicated connoisseur, we promise a journey that celebrates the finest in South African winemaking.
Why not trade the dark days of autumn and winter for the sunny vineyards of South Africa? Book a memorable wine and gourmet journey through the Western Cape’s most iconic wine regions. Explore breathtaking settings, savour extraordinary meals, and enjoy the comfort and safety of transportation with our certified guides. Let Safari Collection make your dream of the perfect wine and culinary escape a reality.
Handpicked Destinations and Accommodations
Franschhoek
Nestled in one of the world’s most stunning wine valleys, Franschhoek—meaning “The French Corner” in Afrikaans—is renowned for three things: exquisite food, exceptional wine, and luxurious stays. This charming town lives up to its reputation as one of South Africa’s most celebrated wine regions.
Discover the magic of Franschhoek by visiting our carefully curated selection of wineries. Some are chosen for their breathtakingly beautiful settings, while others are celebrated for their world-class, high-quality wines. Franschhoek is the ideal destination for those seeking the ultimate wine and gourmet experience in an idyllic setting. Known as South Africa’s wine and culinary capital, the town is home to many of the country’s top restaurants.
To make the most of your stay, we recommend the exclusive and elegant Leeu Estates. Offering one of the best views of the valley, this luxurious retreat provides a perfect base for exploring everything Franschhoek has to offer.
Leeu Estate
Nestled amidst vineyards and magnificent gardens, the exclusive Leeu Estates hotel and winery offers a serene retreat in the highly esteemed wine valley of Franschhoek. This verdant gem has much to offer its guests. Relax by the hotel’s decorative infinity pool, indulge in a spa treatment, work out at the gym, or explore the well-stocked wine cellar. When not marveling at the world-class art gallery, treat yourself to a culinary experience at La Petite Colombe, a sister restaurant to the internationally acclaimed La Colombe in Cape Town. The same commitment to excellence and ambition shines through at this Franschhoek treasure.
Adjacent to the hotel lies the renowned Mullineux & Leeu Family Wines, where you can enjoy premium wine tastings. Guests of Leeu Estates also benefit from complimentary transport to the heart of Franschhoek, making it easy to explore this charming town.
The spacious rooms at Leeu Estates are individually designed with modern, exclusive décor in earthy tones. Adorned with elegant artworks, many rooms feature private terraces with stunning views of the vineyards and surrounding mountains. Naturally, all rooms are equipped with air conditioning, a minibar, and Wi-Fi, ensuring a luxurious and comfortable stay.
Accommodation Facts
Number of Rooms/Suites: 23 luxury rooms in various categories
Distance from Airport: Approximately 1 hour by car from Cape Town International Airport
Worth Mentioning: One of the most beautiful accommodations in Franschhoek
Hermanus
Renowned as the world’s best destination for land-based whale watching, Hermanus captivates with its breathtaking natural beauty. Just east of the town, you’ll find some of the world’s most stunning beaches, including the 21-kilometre-long Grotto Beach. Stroll along the Cliff Path, keeping an eye out for whales, dolphins, and seals, or immerse yourself in the splendour of Fernkloof Nature Reserve. Hermanus also offers world-class activities such as kayaking, paragliding, horseback riding along the beach, golfing on some of the most scenic courses in the world, or even the thrill of cage diving with great white sharks.
For connoisseurs, however, one attraction truly stands out. The Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, just a few minutes from Hermanus, is one of South Africa’s most picturesque wine regions and is internationally acclaimed for its world-class wines. As the second southernmost wine district in the country, it promises an unforgettable experience of fine wines, gourmet cuisine, and idyllic surroundings. Whether you’re here for adventure, relaxation, or indulgence, Hermanus offers a little bit of everything—set against a backdrop of unparalleled beauty.
Birkenhead House
Perched dramatically atop a cliff overlooking the ocean, Birkenhead House in Hermanus is a masterpiece of natural beauty and sophisticated design. Offering its legendary “champagne air” and breathtaking views of Walker Bay, this luxurious retreat provides a front-row seat to nature’s wonders. For much of the year, guests can marvel at breaching whales, pods of dolphins, and wetsuit-clad surfers from the hotel’s exquisitely designed terrace.
The award-winning interior of Birkenhead House is a stunning blend of fine art, authentic antiques, and chic designer furniture, creating a harmonious and inviting atmosphere. The hotel boasts an exceptional restaurant, a serene spa, two sparkling pools, and a variety of activities, including surfing, mussel harvesting, and wine tasting in the nearby Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. Just steps away lies Grotto Beach, a 21-kilometre stretch of pristine sand and one of the world’s most beautiful beaches.
The exclusive accommodation at Birkenhead House features 11 individually designed rooms, each tastefully decorated with modern flair. Every room offers an en-suite bathroom and either full or partial sea views. Thoughtful amenities include air conditioning, a minibar, and Wi-Fi, with most rooms also offering both a bathtub and a shower.
Experience unparalleled luxury and the untamed beauty of Hermanus at Birkenhead House, where every detail is crafted to delight.
Accommodation Facts
Number of Rooms/Suites: 11 rooms in various categories
Distance from Airport: Approximately 1.5 hours by car from Cape Town International Airport
Worth Mentioning: Prime location with front-row views of Walker Bay
Cape Town
Cape Town is undeniably one of the most stunning cities in the world. Its breathtaking natural beauty, striking coastline, white sandy beaches, and the iconic Table Mountain at its heart make it a true haven of attractions. The city offers a diverse and unforgettable array of experiences, ensuring there’s something for everyone. From world-class restaurants and chic bars to outstanding shopping, Cape Town is a destination that exceeds all expectations.
Whether you’re visiting Table Mountain—one of the continent’s most famous landmarks, exploring the historic Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela spent 27 years in prison, sipping a delightful cocktail at the vibrant V&A Waterfront, hiking through the lush Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, or mingling with celebrities in Camps Bay, you’ll be captivated by the sheer variety and quality of experiences.
Expand your horizons with a full-day tour to the Cape of Good Hope and Cape Point, drive along the world-renowned Chapman’s Peak Drive, or enjoy a “mini safari” with the adorable African penguins at Boulders Beach. The Cape Town area truly has it all!
To make the most of your Cape Town experience and enjoy it to the fullest, we recommend staying at:
21 Nettleton
Perched on a dramatic cliffside in the exclusive Clifton neighbourhood, The Castle at 21 Nettleton offers one of the world’s most breathtaking views. This magnificent boutique hotel, named after its iconic address, is a jewel of Cape Town that leaves every guest in awe.
The interiors blend modern luxury with elegant antiques, creating a harmonious and sophisticated ambiance. The sweeping ocean views are utterly enchanting—imagine holding a glass of fine wine as you take in the fresh sea breeze, the striking silhouette of the 12 Apostles mountain range, and the city’s pristine beaches—all at once.
“The Castle” boasts direct access to the Lion’s Head hiking trail, one of Cape Town’s most popular destinations. Relax with a swim in the pool, rejuvenate with a spa treatment, enjoy yoga in the lush garden, or unwind in the inviting sauna. The property also features a bar and private parking. Within a short distance, you’ll find world-famous white sandy beaches, renowned golf courses, the iconic Table Mountain, the vibrant V&A Waterfront, and the picturesque vineyards of Constantia Valley.
This exclusive retreat offers just six individually designed rooms, each with its own unique character and style. The interiors reflect a seamless fusion of contemporary sophistication and timeless elegance, enhanced by a thoughtful collection of art that permeates every space. All rooms are equipped with air conditioning, satellite TV, and iPad docking stations, while some feature a cosy seating area or a private veranda. Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, ensuring every modern convenience in this extraordinary setting.
The Castle at 21 Nettleton is more than a hotel—it’s a destination where luxury and beauty converge, offering an unforgettable Cape Town experience.
Accommodation Facts
Number of Rooms/Suites: 6 rooms in various categories
Distance from Airport: Approximately 20 minutes by car from Cape Town International Airport
Worth Mentioning: The most stunning and picturesque views of Cape Town
Contact Safari Collection for more information.
You can visit South Africa year-round, but we recommend traveling from September to May
Healthcare in South Africa is good, but we recommend vaccinations and compre-
hensive travel insurance
As an EU or UK citizen, you will receive a 90-day tourist visa upon arrival in South Africa
Considerations before traveling to South Africa:
The so-called ‘peak season’ in December/January is extremely popular and requires booking accommodation, safaris, activities, and restaurants well in advance.