Inside Cape Town - Guest Blogger!

Today's blog was written by our guest bloggers, Craig and Antoinette, our associates in South Africa. They know South Africa inside and out and wanted to clue us in on some of their favorite things to do in Cape Town, "The Mother City." Extend your safari to include a Cape Town stay or visit Cape Town on our popular Cape & Kruger Safari or the romantic South Africa Honeymoon Safari.

"Greetings from South Africa to all Africa Adventure Travelers! We wanted to pass on some insight on special things to do in Cape Town--one of our favorite spots in South Africa. If spending some time in Cape Town, deciding where to eat is a real challenge as there are so many great chefs doing great things here. Two of our favorites are Ginja for fantastic fusion food and Salt in Bantry Bay for their breathtaking panoramic views across the Atlantic Ocean. For an informal lunch with friends it’s a trip out to Food Barn in Noordhoek. With it’s thatched barn and lovely old-school stoep, they serve top-notch global fare without the bank–breaking bill. The three-course winter lunch menus are renowned and quaffed with a good bottle of South African Pinotage – life couldn’t be better!

With winter eventually behind us here in the Southern Hemisphere, the days are getting longer and the people more beautiful! In summer, nothing beats Caprice for sundowners. Located along the famous Camp’s Bay strip - this is the place to be seen and people watch, right on the main Camp’s Bay beach. Don’t forget the Gucci shades!

For the history of the city of Cape Town, a visit to the Groote Schuur Estate is a real eye opener. This is the official residence of the state president of South Africa and dates back to 1667. The history of this grand mansion-cum-office is fascinating - set in the most beautifully kept gardens with breathtaking views up the eastern slopes of Table Mountain. Booking is essential.

If you are as serious about your wine as we are, then Vergelegen Wine Estate in Somerset West is well worth the drive. Not only do their cellars have the most spectacular views stretching over to the mountains and all the way back towards False Bay, but their award winning wines are legendary. Don’t leave without a bottle (or two) of Vergelegen Red or their Chardonnay. Closer to town and set in the green leafy suburb of Constantia just minutes away from the hustle and bustle of the city, you’ll find Buitenverwachting Wine Estate. Their tastings under the ancient oak trees while gazing across the hilly vineyards and cows grazing in the pastures are one of Cape Town’s best kept secrets. Sample the Blanc de Noir – their award winning flagship wine!

When needing to recharge my batteries and stretch my legs, Tokai Forest with its huge pine forest is the perfect spot. Their walking trails are well marked, and the shady green forest paths are really popular with the locals and perfect for hiking, biking and even horseback riding. There is also a really interesting arboretum here which houses over 247 tree species from across the globe."

Thanks for the great advice, Craig and Antoinette!