We’ve got lots of couples funding a honeymoon to South Africa at the moment, so we wanted to find out a little more about the things you really shouldn’t miss when planning your trip, so we spoke to brilliant travel blogger and Cape Town native, Kasha Dubaniewicz, about her Cape Town honeymoon essentials.
So, where should a newlywed couple stay in Cape Town?
When it comes to honeymoons in Cape Town, I think a beachside hotel/resort has become the default option. Although I love the sea as much as any Capetonian, I would choose something a little quirkier for a romantic stay. Situated on Long Street, right in the heart of the city, is the Grand Daddy Hotel. At first, there’s nothing suspicious about this hotel, with its range of swanky rooms and larger suites. This, however, all changes once you get to the roof.
On a rooftop in the centre of Cape Town, you’ll find a trailer park. But this isn’t just any trailer park; consisting of seven vintage Airstream trailers, this is luxury accommodation with a twist. Each trailer has a different theme, designed by a local artist, and you’ll be treated to amazing views over the city and nearby Table Mountain. A comfortable stay (with enough privacy) right in the middle of the action – perfection!
What activities just can’t be missed?
Apart from the usual – and worthy – stops on the tourist trail, like Table Mountain, the V&A Waterfront and Robben Island, I would definitely recommend one of my favourite walks in the city. A lot of attention is focused on our marvellous tabletop-shaped mountain, but its neighbour, Lion’s Head, shouldn’t be missed either.
The walk up is steep, but you have each other for moral support, and, as you wind your way up the peak, you’ll be treated to 360-degree views over Cape Town’s coastline. Sixty minutes later, you’ll be on the summit, with a beautiful landscape before you. Join the locals by doing this hike at sunset.
The walk down is much quicker, and you can end off this amazing experience by stopping off at Camps Bay for a well-deserved cocktail.
Where should you go for a lovely romantic meal?
Cape Town has a fantastic foodie scene, but my favourite restaurant is Myoga in Newlands. Why? The best seven-course tasting menu you’ve ever had – that’s why.
Designed by head chef Mike Bassett, the menu changes frequently to showcase the best seasonal ingredients. With plenty of vegetarian dishes and optional wine pairing, diners have between four and five options per course, and I’ve had some of the best – and most experimental – dishes of my life at this restaurant.
What’s your favourite time of year in Cape Town? Best time to visit?
Cape Town is blessed with outrageously hot summers and mild winters, so there’s no wrong time to visit. That said, my favourite time of the year is spring. While it’s definitely warm, it’s not the full-on heat of summer, and all of the flowers and fynbos – the local plantlife in the Western Cape – will be in bloom. This is also a great time to take a weekend trip out to Namaqualand, where you’ll find massive fields filled with brightly coloured wild flowers.
Any tips for an ‘off the beaten track’ experience?
When someone says ‘harbour in Cape Town’, most people would assume that I’m referring to the V&A Waterfront. In reality, there are several smaller harbours around the greater city area, and I would recommend two of these for a day trip.
While Cape Town city centre is all about the hipsters, the city’s hippies reside in Kalk Bay. This little bohemian suburb is filled with independent art galleries, colourful cafes and boutique clothing stores, all situated by the seaside. End of the day with wine and a bucket of delicious mussels at Olympia Cafe.
Hout Bay has a wealth of attractions on offer, from regular boat trips to the nearby Seal Island to some of Cape Town’s most-loved fish and chips. On weekends, you’ll find the Bay Harbour Market in full swing, where you can pick up great gifts for loved ones back home, grab some food and listen to live music in a spectacular setting.
If you do happen to be a couple planning a honeymoon in Cape Town, a day trip to Kalk Bay, sumptuous dinners and a Grand Daddy Hotel stay don’t have to be the stuff of dreams. I think Patchwork is a great idea for an alternative take on the usual wedding gift registry, as it allows you to create a visual of your perfect gift. Your guests can then pick the parts of your Cape Town honeymoon they wish to fund – it couldn’t be easier!
Thank you so much for these brilliant answers, Kasha. You can keep up with Kasha’s adventures on her twitter and of course her blog – Lines of Escape.
If you’ve been inspired to plan your honeymoon to South Africa, you can customise our readymade South Africa patchwork, or create your own from scratch.