We depart our Cape Town–area hotel, starting our day with a coastal drive where the Atlantic stretches endlessly to the horizon. This scenic route offers a final taste of sea air and rugged shoreline before we turn inland, watching the landscape gradually shift from ocean blues to the sun-baked contours of the Swartland.

As we head north, vineyards give way to rolling wheat fields, ancient granite outcrops, and gnarled old bush vines, the hallmarks of one of South Africa’s most quietly compelling wine regions. Our first stop is a relaxed light lunch, allowing time to settle into the slower rhythm of the countryside.

The afternoon continues with an immersive olive oil tasting, exploring how climate, soil, and cultivar shape flavour in much the same way they do wine. From there, we visit a local winery, where Swartland’s distinctive character as warm days, cooling breezes, and minimal-intervention philosophy comes through clearly in the glass; especially its exalted Chenin Blanc and Rhone-inspired blends.

In the late afternoon, we check in to our comfortable four-star hotel, set amid the calm, open landscapes of the region. After time to freshen up, the day concludes with dinner at a local French bistro, where seasonal ingredients and thoughtful cooking provide a relaxed yet satisfying end to a day defined by contrast: coast to countryside, olive groves to vineyards, and the understated charm of the Swartland.

Accommodation: 4-star hotel, Riebeek-Kasteel

The day begins in the Swartland, one of South Africa’s most compelling wine regions, where dry-farmed vines, granite and schist soils, and a new generation of independent growers have redefined the Cape’s identity. We visit a carefully selected winery to explore the region’s distinctive approach to terroir-driven wines—often expressive, textural, and uncompromisingly honest.

From there, we travel south toward Stellenbosch, passing through changing landscapes as rolling wheat fields give way to oak-lined avenues and dramatic mountain backdrops. On arrival, enjoy free time to explore Stellenbosch at your own pace. Wander the historic town centre, browse independent boutiques and galleries, or settle into one of the many cafés and wine bars for lunch on your own.

In the afternoon, we continue into Franschhoek, a valley shaped by both French Huguenot heritage and modern culinary ambition. After arriving at our villa, there is time to relax and unwind before the evening’s chef-prepared dinner. Shared around the table with thoughtfully chosen local wines, the villa dinner offers a relaxed and intimate close to a day that connects Swartland’s raw energy with the refinement of the Cape’s most celebrated food and wine towns.

Today is designed as a choose-your-own-pace exploration of Franschhoek, one of South Africa’s most celebrated wine and food destinations. For those keen to immerse themselves in the valley’s wine culture, the day unfolds aboard the iconic Franschhoek Wine Tram. Moving leisurely between historic estates and contemporary producers, the tram offers a relaxed and scenic way to taste through the region, with vineyards framed by dramatic mountain backdrops and Cape Dutch architecture at every turn. Midday, guests can enjoy a picnic at Le Pique-Nique, set on the lawns of Boschendal, where baskets highlight seasonal produce and local flavours—an easygoing, quintessentially Franschhoek way to pause and savour the moment.

Alternatively, guests may opt for a more culinary-focused day in Franschhoek village, exploring its renowned food scene, artisan shops, galleries, and cafés at their own rhythm. For those seeking pure relaxation, the villa pool offers a tranquil retreat, with the freedom to enjoy the day unhurried and at leisure.

In the evening, the group comes back together for dinner at one of Franschhoek’s celebrated local restaurants. Showcasing the region’s produce-driven cuisine and exceptional wines, the meal provides a refined yet relaxed conclusion to a day shaped by choice, pleasure, and the unique rhythm of the valley.

Included Highlights: Choice of wine or culinary experience, gourmet dinner at Epice (or similar)

Accommodation: 4-star villa, Franschhoek

Late morning, we depart Franschhoek and head south where mountains soften into vineyards and the Atlantic stretches wide and blue. En route, we pause at a prestigious wine estate for a gourmet outdoor lunch paired with local wines, enjoyed in a setting that captures the quiet elegance of the Cape Winelands.

Our journey continues along the coast to Betty’s Bay, home to one of South Africa’s most endearing wildlife encounters. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to observe African penguins in their natural habitat, waddling along the shore and diving through into the frigid waters.

By late afternoon, we arrive in Hermanus, a charming seaside town celebrated for its relaxed pace, cliffside walks, and ocean air. The evening is yours to enjoy at leisure, whether that means a sunset stroll, a casual dinner, or simply unwinding to the sound of the sea.

Accommodation: 4-star villa Hermanus

Today is built around choice, allowing you to shape the day around your sense of adventure, curiosity, or rest—set against the dramatic coastline and cool-climate vineyards of Hermanus and the Hemel-en-Aarde (Heaven and Earth) Valley.

For the bold, an early morning departure takes you to the coast for shark cage diving ($100 supplement), one of South Africa’s most iconic adrenaline experiences. With expert guides and full safety briefings, you’ll head out by boat into open waters for an unforgettable encounter with great white sharks in their natural environment. This experience includes transportation to and from Hermanus, a boat excursion, and the cage dive itself.

For a more relaxed but equally memorable day, join the group for a Hemel-en-Aarde winery visit and lunch, exploring one of South Africa’s leading cool-climate regions, renowned for its elegant Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. In the afternoon, choose between two experiences: a horseback ride through vineyard valleys, offering a gentle, scenic way to take in the landscape, or a second winery tasting, deepening your understanding of how this maritime climate shapes the wines.

Alternatively, you may choose to relax and explore Hermanus at your own pace—wander the cliff paths, browse local shops and galleries, enjoy a seaside café, or simply unwind back at the villa.

In the evening, everyone regroups for a private guest chef dinner at the villa, where seasonal ingredients and thoughtfully paired wines bring the day together in a relaxed, convivial setting.

Accommodation: 4-star villa, Hermanus

After breakfast, we depart Hermanus and travel along one of the Cape’s most scenic coastal routes toward Cape Town, with sweeping ocean views and dramatic mountain backdrops setting the tone for the day ahead. On arrival, our first stop is Table Mountain, where a guided visit offers time to take in one of the world’s most recognisable natural landmarks. Weather permitting, ascend to the summit for panoramic views across the city, the Atlantic coastline, and the surrounding peaks.

From there, we continue to the V&A Waterfront, the historic harbour at the heart of modern Cape Town. Enjoy time to explore the waterfront’s shops, galleries, and cafés, or simply take in the lively atmosphere along the quays.

For those interested, there is the option to join a Robben Island tour, a deeply moving experience that offers insight into South Africa’s complex history and the story of Nelson Mandela’s imprisonment. Guests not joining the island visit can remain at the waterfront or explore nearby neighbourhoods at their leisure.

In the evening, we regroup for a tasting menu dinner at one of Cape Town’s celebrated restaurants, where contemporary South African cuisine is showcased through seasonal ingredients, refined technique, and thoughtful wine pairings—an elegant and memorable close to a day that blends natural beauty, cultural significance, and world-class dining.

Accommodation: 4-star hotel

For those heading home we arrange a transfer to Cape Town International airport. For those partaking in our safari experience. Details coming soon!