The Unique Cape Route...

for those with a spirit of adventure who dare to explore!

The unique Cape Route between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth offers you immense diversity and excitement as you explore the numerous attractions while staying at eight remarkable establishments. You'll travel through the winelands, conservation areas, nature and game reserves, historic towns, the famous Garden Route, the peaceful Karoo... and you'll have the opportunity to view the wildlife Big Six—lion, elephant. rhino, leopard, buffalo and whales—without having to make any additional arrangements.

These owner-managed establishments are ideal bases from which to explore and enjoy the diverse and natural beauty of South Africa. Each lodge offers a unique experience, magnificent location, personalized service, exceptional food and comfortable, stylish accommodation.

Traveling from west to east, the route starts at Cape Town's De Waterkant Lodge nestled at the foot of Signal Mountain. The lodge offers expansive views of Table Mountain, the city, and the harbor activities of Table Bay. Here an eclectic mix of architectural styles reflects the past, and the more functional demands of the 21st century. Explore this beautiful historic city by day, and enjoy the sophisticated entertainment it offers at night.

From Cape Town the route meanders to the base of the Klein Drakenstein mountains to Bartholomeus Klip, a Victorian homestead surrounded by a nature reserve.

Leaving this haven of eco-tourism, you set-off for the winelands to experience not only the heady vintages but to visit the traditional homesteads cradled beneath the mountain ranges. You can sample the best of South African wines under ancient oak trees at Roggeland Country House in the fertile winelands surrounding Paarl and the glorious Klein Drakenstein Valley. 

	Journeying onwards you pass through some of our country's most famous wine farms to the quaint town of Franschhoek, where the French Huguenot's influence is still clearly visible. Apple orchards surround your descent through the Franschhoek Mountain Pass leading eastwards to the Indian Ocean.
En route to Gansbaai, with panoramic views over indigenous fynbos and milkwood forests, lies Grootbos Nature Reserve and your first glimpse of the Big Six—whales. From here, wheat-fields line the way to the historic town of Swellendam at the foot of the Langeberg Mountains.
Continue along the spectacular Garden Route viewing ever-changing seascapes and the tranquil lakes of the Knysna region. Framed by the Tsitsikamma Mountains, Hog Hollow Country Lodge is situated on the edge of the indigenous forest of the Matjies River Gorge. From here, you can hike numerous trails or gently meander along original woodcutter's paths.

Climbing up through Prince Alfred's Pass, the dense forests give way to the fascinating world of the Little Karoo, a world of magnificent rock formations and sparse vegetation. Oulap Country House, built with local stone and located deep in the Swartberg Mountains, has sweeping views over mysterious Kannaland.

Journey on to Graaff-Reinet, the fourth oldest town in South Africa, with more than 200 national monuments, and stay at the Andries Stockenstrom Guest House, built around 1819. 

From here you have the option of continuing north to Shamwari Game Reserve, where you can view the Big Five in South Africa's only malaria-free reserve. The thrill of being within a couple of meters of wild animals roaming freely has to be experienced! And a visit to the African arts and crafts village on the reserve gives you an insight into African cultures through the customs, music, dance, food and rituals you'll witness there.

Or simply make your way to the friendly city and international airport of Port Elizabeth. This route can be applied from both the Cape Town and Port Elizabeth entry points and offers you an easy to use, comprehensive guide to this beautiful part of Southern Africa.

If you are interested in experiencing this unique route, please e-mail us or complete an inquiry form for more information.