South Africa Biking ~ Butterfield and Robinson · Biking and Walking Since 1966

Activity Level: M
Start / Finish: Cape Town / Cape Town

The Rainbow Nation

We’ve been biking around South Africa for over ten years, and somehow it amazes us whenever we go back. With coastal roads seemingly made for cycling, world-class wines, two nights at a secluded Relais & Châteaux property and enough stirring landscapes to fill several photo albums, it squarely hits every B&R hot button. Add in face-time with penguins, top-rated restaurants and the chance to go sea-kayaking in search of whales and things get even more sublime. Orchard walks and vineyard rides in Franschhoek Valley? Brilliant. The view from your room at Walker Bay? Flawless. Whale-watching from the fishing community of Hermanus? Incredible. Adjectives? Sorry, we’re fresh out.

Read all about how we put the B&R Fund to work in South Africa, in our newsletter The Slow Road

Day 1 Cycle through the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, watching for antelope, eland and baboons
Day 2 Walk and bike through fruit orchards and famed vineyards in Franschhoek Valley, then taste local vintages with wine guru André Morgenthal
Day 3 Lunch at an award-winning wine estate near Stellenbosch, then marvel at the historical city’s Cape Dutch architecture with a local expert
Day 4 Learn how to keep the rhythm and drum to the beat of Africa
Day 5 Embark on a stunning ride from Montagu through the dramatic Cogmans Pass and back into wine country
Day 6 Cycle the scenic Route 62 en route to the fishing village of Hermanus, known for its whale watching and healing “champagne air”
Day 7 Sea-kayak alongside dolphins, penguins and—just maybe—a southern right whale
Day 8 Breakfast in Hermanus, then khamaba kuhle in Cape Town


		Cape Grace Hotel, Cape Town On its own private quay, the newly refurbished Cape Grace offers luxury accommodation located at the iconic Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. Its dramatic backdrop is Table Mountain, and each room is designed using unique and refreshing décor from local artisans. The perfect spot to relax after a day exploring Cape Town.
		Le Quartier Français, Franschhoek Le Quartier Français is a Victorian residence hidden away in the heart of the Franschoek Valley’s vineyards. Our hosts are owner Susan Huxter and general manager Linda Colthard, whose special touches are seen in everything from the Egyptian cotton bed linens to each room’s creative flair. The Quartier’s restaurant is host to the culinary creations of Margot Janse, one of South Africa’s top chefs.
		Mimosa Lodge, Montagu This 19thC farmhouse is now a charming lodge set in the centre of pretty Montagu, but in its time has served as school boarding house, old age home and brothel. Lovingly converted and restored by chef and owner Bernard Hess, each of the 16 rooms opens onto a Victorian veranda or the extensive gardens; in fact, the kitchen garden will provide much of the produce you will enjoy in the dining room. Other amenities include a well-stocked library, a heated salt-water pool, and a boules pitch that be cause for some pre-dinner competition!
		Birkenhead House, Hermanus The regal Birkenhead House is perched high on the cliffs of Hermanus overlooking the whale watcher’s paradise of Walker Bay. Named after a British troop ship that sank in Walker Bay in 1852, the Birkenhead features opulently appointed suites, many of which offer expansive vistas of Walker Bay. Services include a full spa menu, fully equipped gym and a steam room. World-class cuisine is a matter of course, with lavish meals and seafood delicacies served up daily.

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