The
Western Cape forms the most southerly portion of South Africa
and presents a variety of terrain from endless beaches and
ocean vistas to indigenous fynbos and breathtaking mountain
ranges. The extensive coastline of the region is bordered
by both the warm Indian and cooler Atlantic Oceans.
The
Western Cape enjoys a warm Mediterranean climate which is
moderated along the coastal regions by ocean breezes.The
summer months are generally hot and dry and fall between
November and April - this is the best time to visit the
Cape as days are warm and rain is infrequent. The winter
months of June, July and August are generally cold and wet
however, the region can also experience long mild spells
without rain during this time which is often preferable
to visitors who enjoy milder weather.
With
the landmark Table Mountain as a backdrop to the city,
Cape Town - affectionately referred to as the Mother
City - has become known as one of the most beautiful
cities in the world. Cape Town and its surrounding suburbs
is the perfect base for visitors and the many beaches,
scenic drives and tourist attractions that dot the peninsula
are all within close proximity. The scenic winelands
regions including Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek
are also within easy driving distance. Popular areas
of interest in Cape Town include Cape Point in the Cape
Peninsula National Park, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
and the world heritage site of Robben Island. The West
Coast is a must for bird watchers including a visit
to the West Coast National Park. This stretch of coastline
is home to a variety of quaint fishing villages to explore
and, in the months of August and September the vibrant
spring flowers in full bloom create a spectacular display.
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Spring
flowers along the West Coast
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The
Overberg coastal region includes seaside towns such as Hermanus,
Arniston and Agulhas where Southern Right whales visit the
bays between September and October. Further afield, a trip
along the Garden Route promises an array of scenery. The
seaside towns of Wilderness, Knysna and Plettenberg Bay
are a holiday makers delight and landscapes range from lush,
indigenous forests to mountains, lakes and stretches of
white, sandy beaches. Inland, the Klein Karoo regions include
attractions such as ostrich farms and the Cango Caves outside
Oudtshoorn.
The
Knysna Lagoon
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The
Western Cape is an extremely diverse province both
in its people and cultures and visitors can enjoy
an array of cultural experiences from theatre and
music to museums and township tours. An excellent
variety of good food and good wines can also be enjoyed
at a choice of well-priced restaurants and, for golf
enthusiasts a host of award winning golf courses await.
The province is easy to navigate with a well-laid
out network of roads and motorways.
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