Cape Town is arguably the most iconic location in South Africa. Few people can have failed to see at least one picture of this beautiful town nestling in the shadow of the world-famous table mountain. If you’ve ever thought, “I must get there one day” – then why not act now and indulge yourself with a holiday in South Africa and specifically Cape Town?

A City of Art, History and Culture

No brief article can possibly do justice to the rich and diverse history of this city and general area. The indigenous African population, and later the Portuguese, Dutch and British have all contributed to a rich multi-cultural legacy that sits well with the declared aspirations of “The Rainbow Nation.”

The coffee culture, The Waterfront, the chic shops and boutiques, the art and history, the diverse and exotic cuisines – all these can make a visit to Cape Town an unforgettable experience.

Just a sample of some of the things to see and do in and around the centre of Cape Town includes:

– The Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden – a vast wonderland of exotic plants and flowers.

– The V&A Waterfront – a great collection of old buildings situated around a still active waterfront area, it comprises a wealth of cafes, bars, restaurants, museums and shops.

– The beaches – offering beaches on both the Indian and Atlantic oceans, they are widely regarded as being some of the best around.

– Shopping – there is unlikely to be any major problem in finding things to spend your money on! There are great centres of ‘retail therapy’ at the Cape Quarter, Constantia Village and Canal Walk – to name but three!

– The history – try exploring some of the central areas such as Bo-Kaap where houses and streets dating back to the 17th century can be seen.

A City Joined to the Country

Of course, all cities eventually run into the countryside but in Cape Town the blending is almost organic – particularly in those parts of the city where the suburbs move onto the slopes of Table Mountain. That leads to some areas where the streets and inclines become progressively steeper to show you that you’re moving up the mountain.

The surrounding countryside is also one of Cape Town’s great attractions as a holiday destination. A trip up the mountain is surely an experience not to be missed. It’s also possible to hike up to the top, with routes for moderate hikers but also some that are more demanding probably best left to experienced walkers or even climbers.

Also highly regarded is the Constantia wine route, which is a series of vineyards just outside of the city where some of South Africa’s best-known wine is produced. It goes without saying that you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a few samples!

Robben Island is just off the coast and home to a famous, and once-notorious, prison best known for the incarceration of the later South African President, Nelson Mandela. It has also been used as a mental hospital and leper colony and has stunning views back to the mainland. Today its happier role is one of a museum and symbol of mankind’s spirit fighting to triumph over adversity. It’s also well worth going to Boulders Beach back on the mainland, where you can see a large colony of penguins living perfectly naturally.

Making the Best of It

This is just a small and very inadequate sample of just some of the attractions you’ll find in and around Cape Town. Yet not everyone’s interested in the same things and if you’re visiting this great city and location, it might be a pity to find yourself ‘shoe-horned’ into a package holiday deal that’s not quite right for you. That’s why specialised and bespoke holidays to South Africa offer a powerful attraction.

You won’t have settle for being shown around based on a fixed itinerary or constantly having to compromise on what you really want to do. A specialised Cape Town holiday that’s tailored to your exact needs can help you ensure that you spend your time on those things you want to participate in. Some days you may wish to make your own way around and at others, perhaps you’d prefer a guided tour. Perhaps you are not very interested in viniculture and would prefer to spend your time looking at wildlife – and so on.

Whatever your likes and dislikes, a specialised holiday in Cape Town customised to your specific needs may be the best way to ensure that you’re getting the maximum possible out of your precious holiday.

Author Bio: Rachel Hill is a Southern Africa Travel specialist, a company specialising in luxury, tailor-made Cape Town holidays, as well as holidays to other destinations in Southern Africa. Our experienced consultants will help you design your very own luxury holiday, and will be happy to provide you with a free quote.

Category: Travel
Keywords: Cape Town