One of the world’s most beautiful destinations for a holiday, the wonderful Western Cape offers unmatched scenery, cultural diversity and a magnificent coastline with exquisite white-sand beaches fringed by the azure sea. Cape Town, the Mother City, boasts the iconic Table Mountain as its backdrop and offers a variety of scenic and active attractions, from mountain climbing to exploring the city’s history at the Castle of Goodhope, Company's Garden, Bo Kaap and more. A short drive from the city centre, Simons Town makes for a delightful day trip. Explore the town's naval history, tuck into fresh seafood at a quayside restaurant, and visit with the resident African penguin colony at Boulders Beach. 

The nearby Cape Winelands offer opportunities to explore world-renowned wine estates in Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek – the Gourmet Capital of South Africa. But that’s not all. In the 'valley of wine and roses' at the heart of Route 62 – the longest wine route in the world, Robertson is a charming town to explore on a day trip or longer stay. Also set along Route 62 is the small town of Montagu, a village packed with historical attractions and an almost endless variety of active adventures. A short drive inland will take you to Ceres, a mountainous area that incorporates beautiful towns such as Clanwilliam, Riebeek Kasteel and Tulbagh. Further afield, the wide horizons and haunting arid landscapes of the Karoo beckon adventurers and those seeking secluded holidays in a unique setting.

The Western Cape is also home to Hermanus, on the Whale Coast, which offers unmatched whale watching between June and November every year. The town is a great starting point from which to launch an adventure in the stunning Garden Route on the south-east coast, with its glorious natural beauty, ancient forests, excellent beaches, picturesque lagoons, lakes and mountain ranges. In contrast, the West Coast stretches along the cold Atlantic coastline and is dotted with picturesque seaside towns, including the popular village of Paternoster, famous for its blue and white cottages.

Why we love holidays in the Western Cape 

• The breathtaking white-sand beaches are some of the world’s best.  
• You can see awe-inspiring natural beauty wherever you travel. 
• In spring, the West Coast interior transforms into a kaleidoscope of colour when the wildflowers cover the landscape in blankets of vivid hues.
• There are so many beautiful places to visit, from Cape Town and its many museums and art galleries to the small towns along the Whale Coast.  
• You can go on a Big 5 safari just a few hours from Cape Town, such as Aquila, Gondwana and Sanbona Private Game Reserves.
• There are incredible adrenaline-pumping adventures to enjoy, including paragliding, deep-sea fishing, snorkelling and many more.  
• The food is delicious – many of the country’s top restaurants are located here.  
• It’s home to Hermanus, the whale watching capital of the world.    

With its mild climate, breathtaking scenery, never-ending list of sights to see and things to do, the Western Cape is a holiday paradise for families, couples and road-tripping friends. So pack those bags and contact Thompsons Holidays to organise your Western Cape holiday package.