If you’re planning a destination Honeymoon at Welgelegen House — or simply arranging a romantic escape with your significant other — and you’re looking for trusty local tips to make it an outstanding stay, you’ve have come to the right place. From exhilarating and fun to blissfully restful, here is a list of Cape Town recommendations to slot into your schedule, both in Cape Town and further afield around the peninsula. And whilst most of these activities are most suited to sizzling summers and lolling under the sun, we promise (hoping this won’t jinx it) all activities are exquisite regardless…If you’re planning a destination Honeymoon at Welgelegen Boutique Guest House — or simply arranging a romantic escape with your significant other — and you’re looking for trusty local tips to make it an outstanding stay, you’ve have come to the right place. From exhilarating and fun to blissfully restful, here is a list of Cape Town recommendations to slot into your schedule, both in Cape Town and further afield around the peninsula. And whilst most of these activities are most suited to sizzling summers and lolling under the sun, we promise (hoping this won’t jinx it) all activities are exquisite regardless…
A TRIP TO A BEACH
It’ll come as no surprise that the first recommendation is to go to one of Cape Town’s many refreshing beaches. Whether it’s tucked away on the edge of the inner-city (Bakhoven), a surfer’s paradise (Llandudno), or you want to tuck into calamari and chips (Kalk Bay), sip on a cocktail with a sea-facing view (Camps Bay) or get a great holiday tan (Clifton), you’ll both be spoilt for choice. Alternatively, rent a car and take the winding ocean road alongside crashing waves towards Cape Point or the Chapman’s Peak lookout.
AN AMBLE AROUND OUR THE BOTANICAL GARDENS
Kirstenbosch is remarkable regardless of the weather. In summer, toss a selection of treats together and find a secluded spot (next to the water lilies or the streams) for a picnic away from the bustle. Don’t let the weather deter you in winter: wrap yourself up and stroll through the sprawling gardens to stay warm. There is so much to see!
CAPE TOWN WINE TASTING!
Never fear, you won’t ever be at a loss of wine farms to go to in the Cape. It’s one of the merrier ways to experience the scenic beauty; there are plenty of tucked-away tasting opportunities for two. You can choose between experiencing the informally-known ‘Constantia Wine Route’ (Beau Constantia to Buitenverwachting) or wine tasting a variety of internationally-recognised fine wines at Franschhoek, Stellenbosch, Elgin or Paarl. It’s not only about the wine, it’s the idyllic settings, good company and world-class food too.
GET ADVENTUROUS WITH A HIKE
If you’re an outdoorsy, adventure-orientated person, make the most the Cape’s mountainous region by going for a walk (or a hike or trail run!). If you’ve only got a few hours, scramble up Lion’s Head to watch the sunrise or sunset. For the more daring, select one of the countless routes up Table Mountain. Each trail varies in its challenges and vantage points over the city. There is something for everyone. If all you’re looking for is an easy hand-in-hand meander on the top of Table Mountain, take the cable car. Another special mention goes to the mild hike to Crystal Pools, the natural rock pools nestled amongst the fynbos, in Steenbras Nature Reserve.
A NIGHT OUT AMIDST LOCALS
An inevitable part of the honeymoon will be hunting for the nearest, tastiest belly-filler — or a trendy bar in Long Street Cape Town to raise a glass in toast to one another after a fabulous day. Before you arrive in town, have a quick search for what events are happening in the area. It’s always great to see a new city from a local’s perspective. Cape Town is renowned for its hipster, somewhat ‘underground’ and cutting edgecutting-edge artisan culture, from food to wine to gin to beer to coffee to fashion. Best yet, you have the freedom to pick and choose or try it all.
GET TO GRIPS WITH SOUTH AFRICA’S TURBULENT HISTORY
Last, but certainly not least, if you’re wanting to gain valuable insight into the city and country you’re gallivanting around, look into the history of South Africa by taking a boat trip to Robben Island, booking a District Six Museum tour, wandering through Company Gardens to Iziko, or driving through the Bo-Kaap.
It’ll be hard to get tired of the scrumptious food at organic markets, glowing on the beach with your loved one, or sipping on chilled wine — and we’re only just getting started on what to do. Ultimately, it’s all about making new memories and the moments shared together, however big or small. A honeymoon in Cape Town is a compelling prospect and, better yet, you can peacefully retire to the incomparable Welgelegen Guest House as the day winds down.
WRITTEN BY JESS SARA WRIGHT
PHOTOGRAPHS BY JESS SARA WRIGHT
