Cape Town and Garden Route Road Trip

Cape Town and Garden Route Road Trip

People often have a stubborn image of Africa: arid, cracked lands or vast savannahs, with a blood-red sunset that never seems to fade, and dark, slender figures peering curiously into your lens. For many, the features blur into what seems like just one country. But at the southern tip of this continent, in the country straddling the divide between the Atlantic and Indian Oceans—South Africa—it feels even more unfamiliar.

As your plane descends toward Cape Town, if you’re on the left side, you’ll see Table Mountain and Signal Hill embracing the city like a protective hug, with the fog-shrouded Atlantic coastline stretching below. This is South Africa’s way of greeting you, shattering all preconceived notions of Africa with its stunning mountains and oceans.

From Cape Town, heading south and then east, you’ll experience a dizzying array of landscapes in just a few days, from the arid interior of the Indian Ocean to the Atlantic coast. It’s a journey that feels like traversing five continents. You’ll encounter the vibrant energy reminiscent of Rio, see the sun-drenched coastal roads of Southern France, and connect with the primordial landscapes where our ancestors once roamed.

For South Africans, it’s hard to sum up their character with just one word, much like their diverse languages and ethnicities coexisting on this land. Yet, no one can deny that the extreme passion and grandeur between South Africa’s mountains and oceans are the core elements that make this land full of surprises.

Penguin Beach

Arrive at Cape of Good Hope in the late afternoon and climb the tower bathed in the glow of the setting sun.

On the way, encounter wild ostriches and their chicks.

The full view of Cape Town cityscape.

I really love Knysna—it’s so clean and peaceful.

The Victoria Harbou

The Victoria Harbour, located in Cape Town’s Waterfront area, is like a dazzling gem. With Table Mountain behind it and the ocean in front, it offers a perfect blend of leisure, shopping, entertainment, dining, and ocean adventures. This vibrant area is the heart of Cape Town’s bustling life. No matter where you stand, you’ll get a stunning view of Table Mountain. When the clouds roll down from its peak like a waterfall, it feels like stepping into a fairyland.

The harbor is filled with a variety of shops, including a mall with 18 entrances. But since I’m not really into shopping, I just wanted to explore more of the scenery. A harbor map by the roadside showed how two steel drawbridges connect both sides of the waterfront. Following the map, we crossed a small white-railed footbridge. This bridge is movable—it opens every hour to let boats pass through. Only by crossing this bridge can you reach the other side of the harbor.

This area is also known for occasional sightings of sharks and seals. In the square, there’s an eye-catching octagonal building with red walls and a yellow roof, which used to be the old Customs House. The clock on top of the building still ticks today, making it one of the iconic landmarks here. On a concrete platform in the square stand four statues, representing South African Nobel Peace Prize winners. From left to right, they are Albert Luthuli, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, F. W. de Klerk, and Nelson Mandela—figures who are a source of pride for South Africa.

Franschhoek Town

With a local Cape Town guide leading the way, we drove to the famous town of Franschhoek for a visit. Leaving the artistic vibe of Cape Town behind, we had to endure a stretch of dull, and at times desolate, highway. But as soon as we arrived at Franschhoek—South Africa’s proud wine town—it became clear just how special this place is. For centuries, the people here have passionately preserved the town’s traditions and culture. You’ll see neat vineyards, white European-style houses, charming churches, and even the zoning and daily customs closely resemble those of southern France.

At times, as you stroll through the streets, you might feel transported to the rolling landscapes of Alsace. The scenery is both grand and romantic. Walking along its modern yet stylish streets, surrounded by a blend of diverse art forms, the misty peaks of Table Mountain, and the town’s refined elegance, offers a unique adventure filled with cultural richness and stunning beauty.

So, how did a French-inspired town end up in South Africa? The answer lies in the 17th-century European religious upheavals. During that time, the Huguenots, a Protestant group from France, were persecuted and forced to flee their homeland. Many of them, who were skilled in grape-growing and winemaking, sought refuge in other countries. Franschhoek, which translates to “French Corner,” is a lasting legacy of their arrival.

The town has one main street running north to south, lined with clean, white buildings filled with artistic charm. Along the road, you’ll find plenty of craft shops showcasing a mix of European and local styles, creating a rich, artistic atmosphere. To truly experience the town’s tranquility and charm, it’s worth staying for at least two days. Take your time browsing the galleries and craft stores, sip a cup of French-inspired coffee in the heart of Africa, and savor the relaxed, unhurried pace of life that defines Franschhoek.

Stellenbosch

Stellenbosch is a small town located 55 kilometers from Cape Town and one of the oldest towns in South Africa. It’s also one of the best-preserved places to experience the European charm brought by early settlers. Stellenbosch offers plenty to explore—its beautiful scenery, old European-style shops and churches, a toy museum, and local cuisine. But, of course, its most famous attraction is the local wine.

At any time of the day, you can visit and enjoy the lingering light. Once you step foot here, you’ll realize it’s a university town, filled with students zipping by on bicycles. The streets are lined with cozy cafés and tempting restaurants, adding to the lively atmosphere. The town’s idyllic landscape makes it perfect for leisurely walks and exploration.

Stellenbosch is home to a prominent university where the primary language of instruction is Afrikaans, a derivative of Dutch. This university is renowned throughout South Africa, particularly for its law and engineering programs. Nestled in the heart of the Cape Winelands, Stellenbosch also offers courses on viticulture, perfectly aligned with the region’s main agricultural focus—grape cultivation.

As South Africa’s second-oldest town, Stellenbosch captivates with its beauty and artistic vibe, with sculptures scattered throughout the streets. The European-style architecture adds to its unique character, reflecting the town’s deep historical roots. A highlight of any visit is the statue of former President Nelson Mandela—a tribute to the great leader who continues to inspire admiration. I absolutely love this charming town; it’s beautiful, rich in history, and full of creative energy.