Surely one of the most dramatic cities, Cape Town enjoys an enviable location perched on the shoulders of Table Mountain between the Atlantic and Indian Ocean.

A vibrant city where a host of museums offers insight into its intriguing history, it’s difficult not to fall in love with picturesque Cape Town. From the trendy waterfront restaurants to the history of Nelson Mandela’s life on Robben Island. Activities here are in abundance and varied, especially the ever popular Cape Point & Peninsula Tour, giving you access to sweeping penguin-patrolled beaches in the south. Whatever you choose to do, this city of contrasts will leave a long and lasting impression with you for years to come.

In terms of where to stay, If your preference is to reside amongst the lively City Bowl area, then the The Onyx Hotel is a fantastic choice. Boasting a sleek design and a prime location, just moments from the foodie hub of Bree Street and the V&A Waterfront, these modern apartments offer the ideal base to explore.

If you would prefer a more tranquil setting, The Vineyard is another fantastic choice. Just 20 minutes by road from the V&A Waterfront, this beautiful hotel is nestled at the foot of Table Mountain promising fantastic views. With expansive gardens and resident tortoises, this hotel offers an oasis of calm after a day of busy sightseeing in the city.

Drive just an hour east of Cape Town and you reach the Cape Winelands; vine-woven valleys slotted between dramatic mountain escarpments.

Whether you choose to stay in Stellenbosch or Franschhoek, this area is home to quaint boutique hotels and wine tasting experiences is this regions bread and butter.

A must do for this part of the world is the wine tram. This popular tour leisurely transports you between beautiful wine estates sampling fine wines paired with breathtaking scenery. Stroll through vineyards, take a cellar tour or simply savour a glass of wine!

From the Cape Winelands region take the scenic route to Swellendam, driving through picture postcard open plains and journey through the captivating Du Toits Kloof Pass.

South Africa's third oldest town, Swellendam, hasn't grown or changed much over the years. It has a very laidback feel compared to the better-known wineries near Cape Town, but the food, wine and hospitality are just as good. From here you can access both the Robertson and Karoo Wine Routes. There are several great bars and restaurants in town and a few interesting museums. We recommend the Schoone Oordt Country House, a family-run property, which offers luxury accommodation in a beautiful Victorian manor house.

Continue to make your way through scenic landscapes and rugged mountain passes as you follow the route to Oudtshoorn. Arrive at the peaceful, rural setting of the De Zeekoe Guest Farm, just outside of Oudtshoorn town centre.

Spend the afternoon visiting the fascinating Cango Caves and its spectacular limestone formations. Come morning, why not join a meerkats safari tour and watch as these playful animals emerge from the burrows, soaking up their daily sun, whilst your local guide teaches the secrets behind their adorable behaviour.

On today’s journey south you will officially enter the Garden Route, a spectacular coastal drive with dramatic seascapes awaits you this morning. Choose one of the numerous quaint villages en route to stop for lunch, or perhaps visit a national park renowned for its lakes and natural lagoons in Wilderness. Drive just another 47km and you’ll reach Knysna, a stunning harbour side town boasting a charming presence.

Just another 30 minutes from Knysna and you’ll be greeted by views of calm waters and surrounded by some of the finest beaches as you reach “Plet”. Stay at the Hunters Country House, an elegant country retreat offering warm hospitality and luxurious accommodation in an idyllic setting. Enjoy breakfast in the sunny conservatory, high tea in the beautiful outdoor boma and summer house and for dinner, choose between elegant country style or laidback bistro dining.

Whilst here, spend time ambling the upmarket boutiques in town, the many wildlife sanctuaries on your doorstep or journey to Tsitsikamma National Park, home to an indigenous forest, deep river gorges and spectacular waterfalls. Be sure to leave time for nature hikes and even whale watching from July to November.

Much is said about spotting the Big Five and here you have a good chance to see all of them and more.

Amakhala is smaller than the other game reserves in the Eastern Cape, but it is no less impressive. Its 7500 hectares means that it provides guests with intimate safari experiences that are filled with diversity and spectacular flora and fauna.

A personal favourite within this region is the Amakhala Bukela Game Lodge. This distinctive lodge offers a luxurious, personalised and tranquil safari experience tucked away between indigenous trees at the top of a valley. Relax in the stylish outdoor lounge and look out for elephants and warthogs at the small waterhole below.

Home to some of the finest resort hotels in the world offering beautiful beaches, tranquil pools and exceptional cuisine. The incredibly green and lush Mauritius is the perfect way to finish off any South African holiday.

Complete your stay at the SALT of Palmar, a contemporary, vibrant resort set on an idyllic stretch of beach.

With unmissable, local experiences covering everything from the spectacular Black River Gorges National Park to sailing the beautiful Dolphin Coast aboard a catamaran and even flying by helicopter over the rugged terrain and crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean. There is a lot more to this paradise than meets the eye.