The most picturesque towns in the Western Cape

The Western Cape of South Africa is a world-renowned treasure trove of picturesque towns and mesmerising landscapes. From mountain vistas to coastal beauty, the province offers something for everyone. 

Woman admiring the view in Hermanus
Teenage girl standing on top of a cliff looking over the coastline and inlet.

There’s no better way to explore this captivating region than by embarking on a road trip. This journey requires a reliable vehicle, and an affordable car rental would be a perfect fit for this adventure.

Robertson

Our journey starts in Robertson, a tranquil town just two hours from Cape Town. Known for its scenic landscapes, the town is a haven for nature lovers. Embark on a wine tasting tour, explore the Vrolijkheid Nature Reserve, or simply soak in the natural beauty.

Road view of the breathtaking mountains in Robertson
Landscape on the De Hoop road near Robertson in the Western Cape Province. The Langeberg Mountains are visible

Remember to check out the Robertson Art Gallery, home to a variety of South African art.

Prince Albert

Our next destination is Prince Albert, a charming town distinguished by its beautiful Victorian buildings and Cape Dutch architecture. Nestled at the foot of the Swartberg Pass, the town offers awe-inspiring mountain views. Consider visiting local olive farms and art galleries while exploring the town’s quaint streets.

Riebeek-Kasteel

Riebeek-Kasteel, one of the oldest towns in South Africa, is the next stop. Here, the De Oude Kerk and the Riebeek Valley Museum are must-visits. Sip on local wines at Kloovenburg Wine Estate or sample craft beers at Flagship Brew. The town’s history and charm are bound to leave you captivated.

Stanford

Positioned on the banks of the Klein River, Stanford boasts beautiful architecture and stunning landscapes. The town is filled with art galleries and antique shops, each offering unique treasures. 

An art studio in the beautiful town of Stanford
Artist working in studio, Stanford, Western Cape, South Africa.

A rental car in the Western Cape will enable you to enjoy Stanford’s scenic beauty and activities like river cruises and bird watching.

Hermanus

Next, we visit Hermanus, the whale capital of the Western Cape. Stroll along the cliff path for breathtaking views of whales during the whale season. Enjoy the coastal setting while exploring other attractions such as the Old Harbour Museum and Fernkloof Nature Reserve.

Paternoster

Our road trip continues to Paternoster, a quaint fishing village renowned for its unique atmosphere. The sight of charming fishing boats scattered along the beaches will leave an indelible impression. The village’s coastal beauty is a feast for the eyes.

Franschhoek

Franschhoek, nestled in the Cape Winelands, is a gastronomic paradise. The town’s wine estates and top-notch restaurants offer unforgettable culinary experiences. With a backdrop of vineyards and mountains, Franschhoek is picture-perfect. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the charming cobblestoned streets, or take in the views from one of its many wine estates. With plenty of outdoor activities to choose from, such as mountain biking and horse riding, it’s easy to see why Franschhoek is so popular with visitors.

Stellenbosch

Our journey continues to Stellenbosch, another gem in the Cape Winelands.

wine glass cheers with friends

This vibrant university town is known for its historic architecture and rich cultural heritage. Wine enthusiasts will find a plethora of wine estates to explore here.

Greyton

Nestled in the mountains, Greyton is a charming village known for its beautiful gardens and hiking trails. The tranquillity and natural surroundings make this town a perfect stop for relaxation. The perfect way to end your trip to the Cape Winelands.

Tulbagh

From Greyton, we will make our way to Tulbagh, one of South Africa’s oldest wine-producing towns. Here you can explore a variety of wine estates with vineyards that stretch from the slopes of the Witzenberg Mountains. The town also offers some great restaurants, art galleries and museums.

McGregor

Finally, we reach McGregor, a small village in the Breede River Valley. The village’s wine estates and restaurants offer yet another opportunity for wine tasting. The scenic beauty of the surrounding valley is mesmerising.

Accommodation Recommendations

In Robertson, consider staying at the charming Mo & Rose Guesthouse. The Swartberg Hotel is a great option in Prince Albert. Kasteelberg Country Inn in Riebeek-Kasteel offers a warm, homely atmosphere. In Stanford, book a room at Stanford River Lodge for the best river views.

Paternoster offers a range of beachfront cottages for a unique stay. In Hermanus, the Harbour House Hotel is an excellent choice. In Franschhoek, Le Quartier Français offers luxury accommodation, while in Stellenbosch, the Stellenbosch Hotel is centrally located.

For a peaceful retreat in Greyton, consider The Post House. Lastly, in McGregor, the McGregor Country Cottages offer comfortable accommodation in a picturesque setting.

sunset in greyton

Embarking on a road trip in the Western Cape to the most picturesque towns is an unforgettable experience. The blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural diversity is simply captivating. With a reliable car rental in the Western Cape, you can explore these scenic towns at your own pace, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Explore the Eastern Cape and surrounds by renting a car in the Western Cape. SANI Car Rental is a South African homegrown car rental company. Vehicles available to rent include compact cars, economy cars, premium cars, people carriers, and SUVs. SANI Car Rental has customers all over South Africa, including at all the major airports, both domestic and international

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