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Cape Town, South Africa
Start your trip exploring Table Mountain, the V&A Waterfront and the vibrant neighbourhoods of Bo-Kaap and Woodstock. Don't miss a sunset braai and fresh seafood at the Old Biscuit Mill. Use Cape Town as your base before heading up the West Coast.
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Yzerfontein, South Africa
This sleepy West Coast fishing village is famous for Strandkombuis, a legendary open-air beach restaurant serving line-fish and crayfish cooked over open fires right on the sand. Book ahead as it fills up fast, especially on weekends. The dramatic 16 Mile Beach is perfect for a long walk.
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Lamberts Bay, South Africa
Muisbosskerm is a legendary outdoor seafood restaurant on the beach where crayfish, snoek and mussels are cooked over driftwood fires — an unmissable West Coast experience. Visit Bird Island just offshore to see a massive Cape Gannet colony up close. Enjoy the charming harbour and fresh catch of the day.
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Stellenbosch, South Africa
South Africa's premier wine town is home to world-class Cabernet Sauvignon and Chenin Blanc on estates like Rust en Vrede and Tokara. Stroll the oak-lined streets, explore Cape Dutch architecture and dine at top restaurants like Overture. The Stellenbosch Wine Route connects over 150 cellars in stunning mountain scenery.
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Franschhoek, South Africa
Known as the gourmet capital of South Africa, Franschhoek sits in a breathtaking valley settled by French Huguenots. The Wine Tram is a fun way to hop between estates like Boekenhoutskloof and Grande Provence. The main street is lined with exceptional restaurants — don't miss The Tasting Room or La Petite Colombe.
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Worcester, South Africa
Worcester is the gateway to the Brandy Route, home to the KWV Brandy Cellar — one of the largest brandy distilleries in the world and a fascinating cellar tour. The Hex River Valley nearby produces beautiful dessert wines and table grapes in a dramatic mountain setting. Stop at Botha's Winery for affordable local tastings.
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Barrydale, South Africa
This charming Karoo village along Route 62 is a highlight of the Brandy Route, home to the acclaimed Joubert-Tradauw Brandy Distillery and Joseph Barry Brandy. The slow pace, quirky art galleries and farmstall food make it a perfect overnight stop. Route 62 through here is widely considered one of the world's great road trips.
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Oudtshoorn, South Africa
The ostrich capital of the world sits in the Little Karoo and makes a great stop between the Brandy Route and the Garden Route. Visit the Cango Caves, one of Africa's greatest cave systems, and take an ostrich farm tour at Safari Ostrich Farm. Try ostrich steak — a lean and delicious Karoo speciality.
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Wilderness, South Africa
Wilderness marks the beginning of the Garden Route proper with its pristine beaches, lagoons and forested hills of the Garden Route National Park. Canoe on the Touw River or hike the Kingfisher Trail through ancient Afromontane forest. The village is relaxed and beautiful — perfect for a mid-trip slow down.
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Knysna, South Africa
Knysna is the jewel of the Garden Route, centred around a stunning lagoon framed by the famous Heads cliffs. Feast on fresh oysters at the Waterfront and explore the ancient Knysna Forest, home to the elusive forest elephant. Take a sunset cruise on the lagoon and browse the excellent craft markets in the town.
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Plettenberg Bay, South Africa
Plett, as locals call it, boasts some of South Africa's most beautiful beaches including Robberg and Keurboomstrand. Visit the Robberg Nature Reserve for a spectacular cliff-top hike with views of seals and dolphins. The Harkerville forest and Bloukrans Bridge bungee jump — the world's highest — are nearby adventures not to be missed.