Winter is a great time to take the plunge. Winter is generally considered the ‘off season,’ which means that you won’t have to worry too much about crowds. Plus, if you’re usually averse to the summer heat of some of South Africa’s most popular destinations, the cooler temperatures will be a welcome relief and, in many cases, will provide the perfect conditions for spending even more time out and about in the great outdoors.
A quiet beach holiday in Margate
They don’t call it ‘sunny South Africa’ for nothing. A beach holiday is always on the cards regardless of the season. The only difference is that, if you opt to visit a beachside town during wintertime, you’re likely have a decent portion of the beach all to yourself. Fantastic news for social distancing! Margate is a beach holiday favourite and offers holidaymakers a diverse selection of beaches, including Ramsgate Blue Flag Main Beach, Margate Beach, and Lucien Beach, to name just a few.
Soak up the warm sunshine and breathe in the salty ocean air followed by a succulent seafood lunch and a cocktail or two at a beachside restaurant. Looking for a place to stay that is both comfortable and convenient? Margate Beach Club is ideal. The resort has recently been refurbished and promises ocean-view rooms of varying sizes and direct beach access for guests.
A wellness retreat in the Drakensberg
A holiday works wonders for rejuvenating both body and mind. And you certainly don’t get much more soothing than a retreat nestled in the rolling mountains, far away from the noise of the city. That’s why so many travellers select the Drakensberg as their trusted destination for a wellness retreat. Think endless solitude to be alone with your thoughts, spa treatments out on the deck and mountain-fresh air for the soul.
The aha Alpine Health Resort is the perfect base for all of this and more. Enjoy perks including a well-equipped fitness centre, an outdoor pool and an equestrian centre where you can be in the calming presence of horses to your heart’s content.
A city escape in Cape Town
Check out the boutique stores at the V&A Waterfront or Canal Walk Shopping Centre, revel in the rich cosmopolitan vibe as you sip on a creamy cappuccino, or head off on a whirlwind sightseeing tour when visiting the Mother City in winter.
You can’t go wrong with a stay at Lagoon Beach Hotel and Spa. Wine and dine at the onsite La Mizu Beach Bar or the Brasserie restaurant, or settle down to a relaxing spa session at the Camelot Spa. The in-house fitness room is stocked full of state-of-the-art equipment and the hotel is home to 3 crystal clear pools should you feel brave enough for a cool winter dip.
A scenic, foodie-oriented vacation in Franschhoek
Savour a romantic, French-inspired meal for two at one of Franschhoek’s 5-star restaurants or spend your afternoons sipping on the Cape Winelands’ finest vineyard nectars. No matter what’s on the itinerary, when in this quaint village, you’re always bound to find an adventure for the tastebuds.
Why not plan a quiet stay at theLAB Franschhoek where you can lounge around in the hot tub in between your explorations? Guests benefit from high-tech room automation and an incredible in-house cinema where you and the family can cosy up and watch a movie, followed by a steaming cup of hot chocolate in the communal lounge right in front of the crackling fireplace.
A glamping getaway in Hazyview
Most South Africans feel as though they’ve ‘roughed it’ enough throughout the duration of lockdown. If you’re keen to get closer to nature without having to give up your creature comforts, glamping is the answer. Trade in your budget-friendly sleeping bag for a plush queen-sized bed and percale linen, and a quick, cleansing dip in the river for a welcoming outdoor bathtub with a view.
While South Africa is chockfull of opportunities for both camping and glamping, if you’re really after something lavish, choosing Summerfields Rose Retreat & Spa as your base is always recommended.
The 5-star luxury retreat boasts 11 secluded tented suites, as well as a forest suite and a luxury suited tent. Take some time out for yourself at the Rose Spa right next to the tranquil river or sit down to a generous family breakfast at the award-winning onsite restaurant, the River Café.
Related content: Six luxurious glamping getaways in South Africa
Don’t hesitate to make the most of the many benefits of a winter holiday in 2021. Contact a Flight Centre travel expert for up-to-the-minute advice, unmissable travel deals and total peace of mind when making any booking.
