Spa Guide

Eastern Cape, Northern Cape, Western Cape

The Eastern Cape is well known among international water-sports enthusiasts for its 800 kilometers of beautiful coastline. The temperate waters of the Indian Ocean invite vacationers to indulge in fishing, surfing, and boating. Snorkeling and scuba diving through reefs, pinnacles, and shipwrecks are popular pastimes. Among the additional attractions of this province are the Nelson Mandela Museum, which commemorates the life and work of South Africa’s first democratically elected leader, and the forested Tsitsikamma National Park, which extends five kilometers out to sea, protecting a frolicsome dolphin population.

The Northern Cape encompasses more than 27% of South Africa’s total land mass. This area is characterized by geological and meteorological extremes; the country’s coldest winters and most scalding summers are experienced here. The Orange River threads through the province, providing fertile soil for nearly 800 producers of quality wine grapes. The river also provides stunning sights and sounds at Augrabies Falls National Park, which features the world’s sixth largest waterfall, among many eco-adventure opportunities. Kimberley, the diamond capital of South Africa, is located in the Northern Cape and attracts crowds of tourists with its Mining Museum featuring authentically replicated and restored facilities that evoke the mining culture of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The Western Cape is perhaps the best known province in the country. More than 50% of South Africa’s tourist traffic takes place here. The city of Cape Town is a world-renowned location for luxury travelers where fine dining and spa experiences complement cultural and historical landmarks. Table Mountain National Park is one of Africa’s most famous hiking destinations, with striking cliff and coastline scenery surrounding the iconic flat peak of Table Mountain itself. In addition to breathtaking mountain and valley scenery, the Cape Winelands region offers many of the province’s finest restaurants and more than 200 cellars housing locally produced vintages. Year-round rainfall produces lush vistas that grace such coastal locales as Mossel Bay, George, and Knysna.

Continue >