South Africa · Route map
Cape Wine & Whales Luxury Escape
This curated self-drive blends the historic vineyards of the Winelands with the dramatic coastal waters of Hermanus.
- 1
Stellenbosch
arriving Stellenbosch Airport
2 nights
Historic estate tastings and fine dining
- 2
Franschhoek
1 night
Gourmet capital in a dramatic mountain valley
- 3
Hermanus
1 night
Premier coastal whale watching and ocean breezes
- 4
Cape Town
departing Cape Town Airport
Fly home from Cape Town International Airport
- ✦4 stops · 4 nights
A sample from our journal — written by Waypora, kept as inspiration
Use this as a starting pointThe day-by-day
Welcome to the Winelands
Arrive into Cape Town International Airport
Flight · Morning · Cape Town
Collect premium rental car
Car hire · Morning · Cape Town Airport
Pick up your luxury vehicle at the airport terminal depot.
Self-drive Cape Town to Stellenbosch
Self-drive · Morning · Stellenbosch
An easy 40-minute drive on the N2 and R310.
Bespoke tasting at Keermont Vineyards
Excursion · Afternoon · Blaauwklippen Valley
This hidden gem requires booking but offers some of the most intellectual, terroir-driven Syrahs in the country.
Overnight at Lanzerac Wine Estate
Accommodation · Evening · Stellenbosch
Ask the concierge for a historic manor room with its own private plunge pool.
Art and Old Vines
Private wine tasting at Delaire Graff
Excursion · Morning · Helshoogte Pass
Walk through the spectacular gardens to view incredible contemporary South African art sculptures.
Stroll central Stellenbosch’s historic oak avenues
At leisure · Afternoon · Stellenbosch
Stop at Schoon de Companje for artisanal ice cream and incredible heritage sourdough.
Overnight at Lanzerac Wine Estate
Accommodation · Evening · Stellenbosch
Over the Helshoogte Pass
Self-drive Stellenbosch to Franschhoek
Self-drive · Morning · Franschhoek
A scenic 30-minute drive over the Helshoogte Pass.
Private garden tour at Babylonstoren
Excursion · Afternoon · Simondium
Book the garden tour weeks ahead, then have lunch at the iconic Greenhouse restaurant.
Explore Franschhoek's galleries and boutiques
At leisure · Afternoon · Franschhoek
Pop into the Sénéchal-Senekal Art Gallery to see striking local oil paintings.
Overnight at Leeu House
Accommodation · Evening · Franschhoek
This boutique oasis sits right on the main street but feels entirely secluded.
To the Whale Coast
Self-drive Franschhoek to Hermanus
Self-drive · Morning · Hermanus
A 90-minute mountain and coastal drive via Genadendal.
Private marine safari with local guide
Excursion · Afternoon · Walker Bay
Southern right whales are best spotted from June to November right from the rocky shoreline.
Walk the Hermanus cliff path
At leisure · Afternoon · Hermanus
Keep your eyes on the water; the whales often breach just meters from the rocks.
Overnight at Birkenhead House
Accommodation · Evening · Hermanus
Enjoy a craft gin and tonic on the deck overlooking Voelklip Beach.
The Scenic Marine Drive
Self-drive Hermanus to Cape Town Airport
Self-drive · Morning · Clarence Drive
A stunning 2-hour drive along the coastal R44 road.
Stop at Stony Point in Betty's Bay to see the African penguin colony without the crowds.
Drop premium rental car
Car hire · Afternoon · Cape Town Airport
Return your vehicle directly at Cape Town International Airport.
Fly out of Cape Town International Airport
Flight · Afternoon · Cape Town
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