One of the best ways to explore South Africa is by roaming the open roads. Whether it is for a day trip, a long weekend away or a leisurely holiday, we recommend taking your time and embracing the stops along the way. While the destination may be what first inspires you to pack the car, it's often the unexpected stops, cafés, scenic viewpoints and small towns along the way that become the memories you'll treasure most.
The Western Cape is one of the best places in South Africa for a road trip. From dramatic
coastlines and world-class wine farms to rugged mountains and wild flower displays, there's something around every bend. Here are three of our favourite Western Cape road trips to add to your travel bucket list.
The West Coast has a slower pace that invites you to switch off and soak in the scenery. Just north of Cape Town, this route offers endless beaches, fishing villages, seafood restaurants and unforgettable sunsets. It is particularly magical when the wildflowers transform the landscape into a colourful carpet in August and September, but the West Coast is worth visiting all year round.
Best things to do in the West Coast:
● Visit West Coast National Park and the beautiful Langebaan Lagoon, where turquoise
waters, unspoilt beaches, abundant birdlife and seasonal wildflowers make it one of the
Western Cape's most spectacular natural destinations. Whether you're hiking, kayaking,
spotting wildlife or simply enjoying the scenery, it's a must-visit stop on any West Coast
road trip.
● Visit the charming fishing village of Paternoster, one of South Africa's oldest coastal
towns. With its whitewashed cottages, quiet beaches, local art galleries, boutique shops,
and relaxed atmosphere, it's the perfect place to slow down, explore on foot and soak up
the laid-back charm of the West Coast.
● Enjoy fresh seafood with ocean views at one of the West Coast's many restaurants.
Great options include Café Orca, La Petite Maison, Die Strandloper, Wolfgat, Leeto, De
See Kat, Voorstrandt Restaurant, The Jetty Restaurant at Fryer's Cove and
Muisbosskerm. Be sure to check each restaurant's location, opening hours, dining style,
and reservation requirements before you go.
● If you're a wine lover, stop at Groote Post, one of the oldest farms on the West Coast
and now a renowned wine estate. Their Seasalter Sauvignon Blanc, inspired by the
region, has become known as a quintessential West Coast white. Enjoy a wine tasting
paired with a delicious cheese platter while taking in the peaceful countryside
surroundings.
● If you're interested in history, make time for !Khwa ttu San Heritage Centre and the West
Coast Fossil Park. !Khwa ttu offers a fascinating insight into the history, culture and traditions of the San people, while the Fossil Park lets you step back millions of years to discover remarkably preserved prehistoric animals that once roamed the West Coast.
It's the perfect road trip if you're craving fresh sea air, wide-open spaces and a reminder to slow down.
If you're looking for beautiful scenery, incredible food and some of South Africa's best wines, a Cape Winelands road trip should be at the top of your list.
While Stellenbosch and Franschhoek are well-known favourites, don't overlook towns like Paarl, Wellington, Tulbagh and Robertson. Each offers its own unique character, from historic streets lined with Cape Dutch architecture to boutique wineries and mountain views that stretch for miles.
Best things to do in the Cape Winelands:
● Enjoy a wine tasting at a boutique estate. The Cape Winelands is home to hundreds of
award-winning wineries, from well-known estates to hidden boutique gems. Slow down
with a guided wine tasting, enjoy beautiful vineyard views and discover the unique wines
that make this region world-famous.
● Wander through the charming streets of Franschhoek, Stellenbosch or Tulbagh and
discover independent art galleries, antique stores and boutique shops. It's the perfect
way to experience the creative side of the Winelands and find a unique piece to take
home.
● Visit Babylonstoren's spectacular gardens. A visit to Babylonstoren is a must for anyone
who appreciates beautiful gardens, fresh produce and thoughtful design. Stroll through
the magnificent fruit and vegetable gardens, explore the farm and enjoy a meal or coffee
surrounded by one of the Cape's most picturesque settings.
● Stop for freshly baked pastries and artisan coffee. The Cape Winelands is home to some
of South Africa's best cafés and bakeries. Treat yourself to French-inspired pastries at
La Cotte Mill House, artisan breads from Smitten or La Motte, Portuguese custard tarts
from Vadas in Stellenbosch, or homemade pies and pastries at Potbelly before
continuing your journey.
● Ride the famous Franschhoek Wine Tram. One of the best ways to explore
Franschhoek's wine farms is aboard the iconic Wine Tram. Hop on and off at a selection
of estates throughout the day, enjoying wine tastings, great food and spectacular
mountain scenery without having to worry about driving.
Whether you're planning a romantic weekend away or a leisurely day trip from Cape Town, the Winelands never disappoint.
Please drink responsibly. If you're planning to enjoy a few wine tastings, appoint a designated driver, book a shuttle or make use of experiences like the Franschhoek Wine Tram so everyone can enjoy the trip safely.
For those who love adventure, nature and getting off the beaten track, the Cederberg is one of South Africa's most rewarding road trips. Just a few hours from Cape Town, this dramatic mountain region is known for its striking sandstone rock formations, ancient San rock art, crystal-clear night skies and endless hiking trails.
Best things to do in the Cederberg:
● Hike to the famous Maltese Cross. One of the Cederberg's most iconic landmarks, this
towering sandstone rock formation offers a rewarding hike with breathtaking mountain
views along the way.
● Step back in time as you discover well-preserved ancient San rock art hidden throughout
the mountains, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region's rich cultural history.
● Cool off by swimming in crystal-clear, natural rock pools during summer. Tucked
between the mountains, the perfect way to relax after a day of hiking or exploring.
● Visit a rooibos tea farm. The Cederberg is the birthplace of rooibos tea, making it the
perfect place to enjoy a tasting, learn about its cultivation and pick up some freshly
harvested tea to take home.
● Spend an evening stargazing beneath some of the darkest skies in the country. With
very little light pollution, the Cederberg offers incredible opportunities to admire the Milky
Way and countless stars on a clear evening.
The Cederberg offers a completely different side of the Western Cape, one that's wild, peaceful and full of adventure.
The best road trips aren't measured by kilometres travelled, they're measured by the moments we collect along the way. Whether you're wandering through the vineyards of the Winelands, chasing sunsets on the West Coast or hiking beneath the towering cliffs of the Cederberg, every journey tells a story worth remembering.
At Roam Travel Poster Co., we celebrate those places that stay with you long after you've
returned home. Browse our collection of South African travel posters and bring your favourite adventures to your walls.
