Your journey commences on DAY 1 with your arrival at Cape Town International Airport. Cape Town, fondly known as the “Mother City”, consistently enchants and amazes, whether it’s your first visit or a return trip.In Cape Town, you’ll be staying at the renowned Parker Cottage (B&B). This delightful bed and breakfast is steeped in history, mirroring the rich tapestry of the city itself. Built in 1895 by John Parker, Cape Town’s first mayor, Parker Cottage was originally two homes: one for John and his family, and the other for his in-laws. Parker’s intriguing story, from a 15-year-old newcomer to a celebrated architect and mayor, is woven into the fabric of this place.Now, Parker Cottage stands as an elegant guest house with ten luxurious en-suite rooms. Pamela Nayler, the current owner, has skillfully preserved the historical charm while integrating modern comforts expected from a four-star establishment. Unique in its operation, Parker Cottage is one of the few heritage buildings in Cape Town entirely self-sufficient in water, electricity, and heating/cooling. It’s also a Fair Trade Accredited establishment, underscoring its dedication to sustainability and ethical practices.

Parker Cottage

http://www.parkercottage.co.za/

3 Carstens Street, Tamboerskloof

+27 (21) 424 6445

25 minutes

For those keen to explore, the Parker Cottage team can arrange tickets for the City Sightseeing Bus. This enjoyable and flexible tour option lets you discover Cape Town’s highlights at your leisure. With over 30 stops and 50 attractions, the bus offers three different routes: the Red City tour, the Blue Mini Peninsula tour, and the Purple Constantia Valley Wine tour, complete with commentary in 15 languages and a special kids channel.

As evening approaches, Cape Town’s dynamic dining scene awaits. With a variety of culinary options, the friendly Parker Cottage staff are more than happy to offer dining suggestions.After dinner, return to the comforts of Parker Cottage, a perfect place to unwind and prepare for the adventures that lie ahead.Meal Inclusions: Breakfast Only

DAY 2 brings a delightful fusion of cycling, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural exploration! Your adventure begins in the World Heritage Site of Jonkershoek Nature Reserve, a treasure trove with over 1,100 plant species and diverse wildlife. Here, mount your bike and embark on a picturesque journey through the reserve, taking in the awe-inspiring mountain vistas and verdant valleys. Remember to pause at the scenic waterfalls for a rejuvenating dip in the natural pools!Your ride then takes you to the culinary gem of Franschhoek, South Africa’s renowned food capital and the historical heart of the French Huguenots. Pedal through rolling vineyards and past charming farms, all set against a backdrop of classic Cape Dutch architecture and stunning landscapes.Your accommodation for the night is the exquisite Akademie Street Boutique Hotel (B&B), where luxury meets homely comfort. Settle into one of their elegantly designed suites or cottages, each boasting its own distinct charm.As you relax in the luxurious embrace of Akademie Street Boutique Hotel, you’re perfectly poised to recharge for the exciting days ahead. This day beautifully illustrates that cycling adventures can harmoniously blend exhilaration, magnificent scenery, and a dash of luxury. Get ready for more thrilling experiences!

Akademie Street Boutique Hotel

http://aka.co.za/

5 Akademie Street Franschhoek

+27 (0) 82 517 0405

Arriving in Franschhoek, you’ll be greeted by a plethora of enticing restaurants, art galleries, stylish boutiques, and intriguing museums, inviting you to immerse yourself in the town’s vibrant culture and flavors.The hotel offers ample opportunities for relaxation, including four swimming pools, tranquil gardens, and even wood-fired hot tubs for a lavish unwind.

Fancy something special? Opt for a private dinner or an exclusive wine tasting at the hotel, making for a perfect end to a day filled with discovery and enjoyment.Meal Inclusions: Breakfast Only

DAY 3 promises a day full of excitement and discovery! After a nourishing breakfast, mount your bicycle and set off towards the stunning Riebeek Valley mountains. Today’s 40 km journey, though longer, is made incredibly rewarding by the awe-inspiring views of undulating wheat fields, aromatic vineyards, and vibrant orchards. Keep an eye out for wildlife like antelope, zebra, and ostrich, and be sure to capture these moments with your camera!Upon completing your exhilarating ride, you’ll arrive in Riebeek Kasteel, a sanctuary for artists, food enthusiasts, and wine aficionados.Then, it’s time to cycle towards the historic town of Tulbagh, located in the heart of the Cape Winelands. The ride to Tulbagh is as captivating as the destination itself, featuring spellbinding views of the Winterhoek Mountains and the verdant valley below. Your route takes you through the scenic Nuwekloof Pass, a gorge with a rich history, once traveled by Voortrekkers and British soldiers.Upon reaching Tulbagh, you’ll be greeted at the elegant Bartholomeus Klip (B&B), a luxurious farm hotel nestled within a private nature reserve. The welcoming staff will escort you to your spacious, well-equipped room, boasting amenities such as a fireplace, minibar, and a balcony with breathtaking views of the Elandsberg Nature Reserve.

Bartholomeus Klip

http://www.bartholomeusklip.com/

Elandsberg Farms, Bo Hermon Road, Hermon

+27 (0) 22 448 1087

Take some time to explore Riebeek Kasteel’s attractions, including the artistic Môi Art Gallery, the Kloovenburg Wine and Olive Estate, and other cultural gems.

Indulge in a delectable lunch at one of Riebeek Kasteel’s varied restaurants, where you can savor everything from authentic Cape Malay cuisine to Mediterranean-inspired dishes.Bartholomeus Klip (B&B) offers a range of facilities for your enjoyment, including a swimming pool, library, lounge, and a conservatory restaurant. Here, you’ll dine on gourmet meals crafted from fresh, local ingredients, rounding off your day in sophisticated comfort.Meal Inclusions: Breakfast

Your journey on DAY 4 takes you back towards the ocean, leading you to the West Coast National Park. This sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife, including numerous antelope species, zebras, ostriches, and flamingos. A standout attraction is the stunning Langebaan Lagoon, a radiant turquoise oasis set amidst a landscape of floral splendor. Your day unfolds with a guided cycling tour to the charming fishing village of Paternoster. Along the way, enjoy expansive views of the Atlantic Ocean and rugged coastline, passing by picturesque cottages, colorful boats, and local artisans.

For the next two nights, your accommodation will be the serene Strandloper Ocean Boutique Hotel (B&B), situated against a backdrop of unspoiled white sandy beaches. This hotel perfectly marries luxury with natural elegance, offering spacious rooms, organic dining, and a tranquil spa. You’ll have access to a private deck, a heated pool, and a cozy fire pit, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and rejuvenation in peaceful surroundings.

Strandloper Ocean Boutique Hotel

http://www.strandloperocean.com/

Patterson Slot, Paternoster

+27 (0) 21 794 5858

Spend your time soaking in the sun, swimming in the clear waters, and releasing the stresses of everyday life. Explore the West Coast National Park, home to diverse wildlife, and marvel at the beauty of Langebaan Lagoon. Take a guided cycling tour to Paternoster and immerse yourself in the charm of the fishing village. Additionally, discover nearby attractions such as the Cape Columbine Lighthouse, Tietiesbaai Nature Reserve, and the West Coast Fossil Park. In such a magnificent setting, it’s easy to wish your stay could last forever!

Meal Inclusions: Breakfast Only

DAY 6 heralds the start of The Dolphin Trail (DLB&B), an enchanting 17 km hike that spans over three days, offering amazing scenery and cozy lodges along the route. Rest assured, your luggage will be expertly transferred between each stop, allowing you to trek without the burden of heavy bags – all your luggage needs are efficiently taken care of!Your adventure commences at the delightful Dolphin Trail chalets, situated within Tsitsikamma National Park. These welcoming accommodations provide stunning ocean views, comfortable beds, and all the necessary amenities for a relaxing stay.

Dolphin Trail Chalets

http://www.dolphintrail.co.za/

+27 (0) 42 280 3588

Spend your day discovering the park’s wonders, and be sure to join your trail host at the restaurant in the evening for an informative briefing.

Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Start DAY 7 with a revitalizing breakfast, setting the tone for a 7.5 km hike through a variety of landscapes – from fynbos and pristine forests to the captivating coastline. Keep an eye out for whales, dolphins, and otters along the way.Your path takes you to Storms River Mouth, crossing a suspension bridge that offers a spectacular view towards Plettenberg Bay. At Lookout Point, enjoy a refreshing snack, then continue your journey, descending through a native forest to the beach, an ideal spot for a picnic lunch. The ascent up Steilkop, aptly named for its steep incline in Afrikaans, leads you to Misty Mountain Reserve (DLB&B).

Misty Mountain Reserve

http://www.mistymountainreserve.co.za/

Farm 438, Bluelillies Bush

+27 (0) 79 715 4621

7.5 km hike

You’ll be welcomed with refreshments and settle in for a comfortable evening complete with a three-course meal and a selection of award-winning estate wines.Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Begin DAY 8 with a nourishing breakfast before setting out on a 9.5 km hike along the coast, where you’ll discover hidden gems such as waterfalls, caves, and ancient rock formations. This sea-level route offers striking views and presents opportunities for swimming and snorkeling in natural rock pools.Your day culminates at The Fernery (DLB&B), a sumptuous lodge located along the Sandrift River. Unwind in elegant chalets that boast splendid views, take advantage of the lodge’s facilities.

The Fernery

http://www.fernery.co.za/

Forest Ferns Estate, Bluelilliesbush

+27 (0) 42 280 3588

9.5 km hike

Enjoy a delightful à la carte dinner at the Fernery Restaurant, ensuring a pleasant conclusion to your day of exploration.Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

The adventure takes an exciting turn on DAY 9 with a picturesque flight to Richards Bay, followed by an adventurous 4×4 journey to the splendid Thonga Beach Lodge (DLB&B), a magical oasis located within the pristine iSimangaliso Wetland Park. This luxurious lodge will serve as your home base for the next three nights, offering a perfect combination of adventure and relaxation.Upon arrival at Thonga Beach Lodge, you’ll step into the luxury of a Deluxe Ocean View Room. These elegant accommodations offer stunning views of the Indian Ocean, each featuring a private plunge pool and a spacious deck.

Thonga Beach Lodge

http://Manzengwenya/

www.thongabeachlodge.co.za

+27 (0) 35 474 1473

Approx. 8 hours

DAYS 10 and 11 invite you to explore an untouched coastal paradise, where you can enjoy the beauty of pristine, wild beaches. Don’t miss out on scuba diving at Thonga Beach, where the nearby vibrant reefs provide enthralling encounters with schools of game fish, impressive sharks, and playful bottlenose dolphins in the crystal waters. Alternatively, take time to unwind on the beach or relax in hammocks, soothed by the gentle sounds of the ocean. For additional relaxation, the lodge’s spa offers an array of rejuvenating and beauty treatments.Adventure seekers can embark on kayaking trips on Lake Sibaya, possibly catching sight of hippos and crocodiles in their natural surroundings. Or, immerse yourself in the enchanting forest with engaging nature walks and birdwatching experiences, guaranteed to be captivating and memorable.DAY 12 marks the conclusion of your South African adventure. Today, you’ll journey from Thonga Beach Lodge to Durban, preparing for your departure from Durban International Airport.We trust that you’re leaving with an array of wonderful memories to cherish until your next visit.Safe travels and bon voyage!

Your time here includes delightful breakfasts, leisurely lunches, and romantic dinners, all set against the beautiful ocean backdrop.Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner