Golfing Safari Tour
Day 1 – Arrival in Cape Town
This morning you will arrive at Cape Town International Airport. Make your way to your car hire company to collect your group D Nissan Almera or similar hire car for the duration of your stay in South Africa. Make your way to your hotel for four nights' accommodation on B&B basis. You have the afternoon at leisure to relax after your international flight.
Accommodation:
Option 1: Radisson Hotel -more info
The Radisson Waterfront Hotel
The Radisson Waterfront Hotel is spectacularly situated right on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean overlooking its own private marina and famous Robben Island. So close to the ocean is the Radisson that a guest has described it as “like a cruise liner without the motion”. This is a first class international hotel, combining high levels of luxury with friendly service and the warmth of true South Africa hospitality.
The business-class bedrooms are extremely spacious and all have wonderful sea views. The standard rooms have mountain views. The Radisson is ideally situated with the V&A Waterfront within a few minutes’ stroll, and the business district and golf courses a short drive away.
The Radisson Waterfront Hotel is graded 4-star superior
Option 2: V&A City Lodge -City Lodge V&A Waterfront
Within walking distance of the centre of Cape Town and situated right at the gateway to the world-famous V&A Waterfront, this hotel maintains a tasteful décor throughout the hotel, and it is well known for its superb service and friendly environment.
A nautical theme runs through the hotel and there is an outdoor plunge pool. The rooms all have en-suite bathrooms with a separate shower and bath unit.
The City Lodge V&A Waterfront is graded 3-star.
Basis:
Bed & Breakfast
V&A City Lodge
This morning you will drive to Erinvale Golf Estate in Somerset West for a round of golf. This 18 hole Gary Player designed 18 hole championship golf course has fast become renowned internationally, and it hosts the annual SAA Open. It was also home to the 1996 World Cup of Golf. After your round of golf, return to your hotel in the city, or you can do some sight seeing at the Bo-Kaap Malay Quarters, with its narrow cobbled roads and colourful mosques, and you can also visit the SA Museum and the historic castle. The golf estate is only half an hour away from Cape Town city.
Accommodation:
Option 1: Radisson Hotel -
The Radisson Waterfront Hotel is spectacularly situated right on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean overlooking its own private marina and famous Robben Island. So close to the ocean is the Radisson that a guest has described it as “like a cruise liner without the motion”. This is a first class international hotel, combining high levels of luxury with friendly service and the warmth of true South Africa hospitality.
The business-class bedrooms are extremely spacious and all have wonderful sea views. The standard rooms have mountain views. The Radisson is ideally situated with the V&A Waterfront within a few minutes’ stroll, and the business district and golf courses a short drive away.
The Radisson Waterfront Hotel is graded 4-star superior
Option 2: V&A City Lodge -
Within walking distance of the centre of Cape Town and situated right at the gateway to the world-famous V&A Waterfront, this hotel maintains a tasteful décor throughout the hotel, and it is well known for its superb service and friendly environment.
A nautical theme runs through the hotel and there is an outdoor plunge pool. The rooms all have en-suite bathrooms with a separate shower and bath unit.
The City Lodge V&A Waterfront is graded 3-star.
Basis:
Bed & Breakfast
Day 3 – Leisure: suggest full day Cape Point self drive
This morning you should take a drive to the peninsula by following the coastline southwards, travelling via the quaint seaside village of Hout Bay and the famous cliffside Chapman's Peak Drive. The highlight of this day is a visit to Cape Point. Looking at this dramatic promontory jutting into the sea gives us an idea why early sailors nicknamed it the Cape of Storms. Follow the coastline northwards via Simonstown, where you should visit the penguin colony of Boulders Beach. Take a stroll through the glorious Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens, devoted almost exclusively to the indigenous flora of the Cape Floral Kingdom. A leisurely drive through the leafy southern suburbs brings you back to your hotel in the late afternoon.
Accommodation:
Option 1: Radisson Hotel -
The Radisson Waterfront Hotel is spectacularly situated right on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean overlooking its own private marina and famous Robben Island. So close to the ocean is the Radisson that a guest has described it as “like a cruise liner without the motion”. This is a first class international hotel, combining high levels of luxury with friendly service and the warmth of true South Africa hospitality.
The business-class bedrooms are extremely spacious and all have wonderful sea views. The standard rooms have mountain views. The Radisson is ideally situated with the V&A Waterfront within a few minutes’ stroll, and the business district and golf courses a short drive away.
The Radisson Waterfront Hotel is graded 4-star superior
Option 2: V&A City Lodge -
Within walking distance of the centre of Cape Town and situated right at the gateway to the world-famous V&A Waterfront, this hotel maintains a tasteful décor throughout the hotel, and it is well known for its superb service and friendly environment.
A nautical theme runs through the hotel and there is an outdoor plunge pool. The rooms all have en-suite bathrooms with a separate shower and bath unit.
The City Lodge V&A Waterfront is graded 3-star.
Basis:
Bed & Breakfast
Day 4 – Golf at Pearl Valley, followed by half day Winelands self drive
Make your way to Franschhoek Valley for a round of golf at Pearl Valley, a Jack Nicklaus signature course. Pearl Valley is surrounded by the Drakenstein, Klein Drakenstein and Simonsberg Mountains, which are carpeted with beautiful vineyards, and the scenery is spectacular. After your round, visit the memorial to the French Huguenots, who sought refuge from religious persecution in Europe and settled in the Franschhoek Valley in the late seventeenth century. Continue to Stellenbosch, the "town of oaks" for a short drive through South Africa's second oldest town. Return to Cape Town via Paarl, with its three imposing granite domes.
Accommodation:
Option 1: Radisson Hotel -
The Radisson Waterfront Hotel is spectacularly situated right on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean overlooking its own private marina and famous Robben Island. So close to the ocean is the Radisson that a guest has described it as “like a cruise liner without the motion”. This is a first class international hotel, combining high levels of luxury with friendly service and the warmth of true South Africa hospitality.
The business-class bedrooms are extremely spacious and all have wonderful sea views. The standard rooms have mountain views. The Radisson is ideally situated with the V&A Waterfront within a few minutes’ stroll, and the business district and golf courses a short drive away.
The Radisson Waterfront Hotel is graded 4-star superior
Option 2: V&A City Lodge -
Within walking distance of the centre of Cape Town and situated right at the gateway to the world-famous V&A Waterfront, this hotel maintains a tasteful décor throughout the hotel, and it is well known for its superb service and friendly environment.
A nautical theme runs through the hotel and there is an outdoor plunge pool. The rooms all have en-suite bathrooms with a separate shower and bath unit.
The City Lodge V&A Waterfront is graded 3-star.
Basis:
Bed & Breakfast
Day 5 – Cape Town to Hermanus, Golf at Arabella
This morning, after breakfast you will check out of your hotel and drive to Hermanus, the best land-based whale watching area in the world. Make your way to Arabella Golf Course where you will play a round of golf. In 2002, this wonderful course was rated number 9 in South Africa by Golf Digest, and number 5 in 2003. Added to the beauty is a natural lagoon which runs parallel to many of the holes. After your enjoyable game at Arabella, continue to Hermanus and check in to your accommodation for one night on B&B basis.
Accommodation:
Option 1: The Marine, Hermanus -The Marine, Hermanus
The Marine is situated in the quaint seaside village of Hermanus, famous for whale-watching and dolphin viewing. Perched on the edge of the cliffs, The Marine enjoys unbroken views of the ocean. Built in 1902, the hotel has been given a modern look and boasts 45 luxury rooms and suites which have been designed in understated luxury and sophistication.
Whether you stay in a sea-facing or mountain-facing room, the views are spectacular. The award-winning cuisine at The Marine’s two restaurants is thoroughly contemporary. Hermanus is an hour and a half away from Cape Town and is a good stopover at the start or finish of your trip along the Garden Route.
The Marine is graded 5-star.
Option 2: Abalone Lodge -Abalone Guest Lodge
Abalone Guest Lodge is an unusually artistic and unique guest house situated on the seafront between the town centre of Hermanus and the white beaches of Walker Bay. The scenic cliff path is within walking distance of the guest house, which affords great whale sightings of any whales visiting the area. Scrumptious English breakfasts are served, and dinners can be pre-arranged. Each room is individually appointed with original South African art and décor.
Under floor heating and fireplaces provide a cosy, warm atmosphere, and there is also a swimming pool for the summer months. Other amenities include tea & coffee making facilities, satellite television and full laundry facilities. Each room has panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and the mountains.
Abalone Guest Lodge is graded 4 star.
Basis:
Bed & Breakfast
Day 6 – Hermanus to George
Today you will travel inland to Swellendam, a small village nestled at the foot of the Langeberg Mountains. This village has many beautiful architectural buildings to marvel at. Continue along the main highway, and perhaps visit Mossel Bay, where you can visit the old "Post Office" tree, a 500 year old milkwood tree used by 15th century Portuguese sailors as a mail box. Continue to George where you will stay at Fancourt Country Estate and Hotel for two nights on B&B basis.
Fancourt Hotel and Country Club Estate
Day 7 – George, golf at Fancourt
This morning you should play a round of golf on The Links Golf Course, host of the recent Ladies World Cup of Golf in February 2005. This course is without doubt the most impressive piece of golf design and construction found in South Africa, and challenges some of the finest golfers in the world. After your round, enjoy lunch and you can then play another round of golf either on Bramble Hills, Montagu or Outeniqua golf courses also located on the grounds of Fancourt. Montagu course is a celebrated parkland course and has been ranked number-one golf course in South Africa before. Outeniqua course was designed by Gary Player and is similar to Montagu, although can be played by all levels of golfers. Bramble Hills is a challenging course to test the most proficient golfer, but can also be enjoyable for beginner golfers.
Day 8 – George to Port Elizabeth
Check out of Fancourt and make your way via the scenic Lake District and Wilderness. Continue to the lagoon town of Knysna, where you should take a drive up to the Heads, two sandstone cliffs guarding the entrance to the lagoon. Continue along the Garden Route and enjoy a scenic drive via spectacular single span bridges and down the Old Passes road, stopping for a swim at the unspoilt beaches of Nature's Valley. You will reach Port Elizabeth in the late afternoon, and check in to your accommodation for two nights on B&B basis.
Accommodation:
Option 1: The Beach Hotel -The Beach Hotel
The Beach Hotel is situated right on the beachfront, overlooking the sun-drenched sands of Port Elizabeth’s famous Hobie Beach, and is a truly relaxing getaway hotel. Hobie Beach offers safe bathing and there is also a hotel swimming pool and deck. Many of the luxury en-suite rooms have sea views. There are three superb in-house restaurants: The Bell, the Crest and the Verandah.
The Beach Hotel is graded 4-star.
Option 2: The Kelway Hotel -The Kelway Hotel
The Kelway Hotel is located within walking distance of Port Elizabeth’s beautiful beachfront, and boasts breathtaking views of Algoa Bay. Elegant in style and generous in size, the overall tone of the hotel is warm and inviting, with care given to making guests as comfortable as possible.
The hotel offers 36 luxury rooms and 24 standard rooms, all of which are decorated in simplistic and colourful designs. 18 hour room service and secure parking is also offered at the hotel, and Farriagers, a casual yet sophisticated restaurant and bar has something to offer everyone. Farriagers also offers a wide variety of wines, spirits and liqueurs that will please any palate.
The Kelway Hotel is graded 4 star.
Basis:
Bed & Breakfast
Day 9 – Golf at Humewood Golf Course
Today you will make your way to another links golf course, Humewood, for a round of 18 holes. This is a genuine links course found in the coastal town and has been compared by the late Bobby Locke to the favourable links courses located in the British Isles. It is also consistently ranked as one of the top 10 courses in South Africa. After the game, make your way back to your hotel. You have the afternoon at leisure to visit the beachfront, perhaps take a stroll along the unspoilt beaches of Port Elizabeth. There are also roadside stalls to purchase some local craft. The Boardwalk Casino and Entertainment Complex boasts some world class restaurants to dine in, as well as jewellery stores and clothing boutiques to wander through.
Accommodation:
Option 1: The Beach Hotel -
The Beach Hotel is situated right on the beachfront, overlooking the sun-drenched sands of Port Elizabeth’s famous Hobie Beach, and is a truly relaxing getaway hotel. Hobie Beach offers safe bathing and there is also a hotel swimming pool and deck. Many of the luxury en-suite rooms have sea views. There are three superb in-house restaurants: The Bell, the Crest and the Verandah.
The Beach Hotel is graded 4-star.
Option 2: The Kelway Hotel -
The Kelway Hotel is located within walking distance of Port Elizabeth’s beautiful beachfront, and boasts breathtaking views of Algoa Bay. Elegant in style and generous in size, the overall tone of the hotel is warm and inviting, with care given to making guests as comfortable as possible.
The hotel offers 36 luxury rooms and 24 standard rooms, all of which are decorated in simplistic and colourful designs. 18 hour room service and secure parking is also offered at the hotel, and Farriagers, a casual yet sophisticated restaurant and bar has something to offer everyone. Farriagers also offers a wide variety of wines, spirits and liqueurs that will please any palate.
The Kelway Hotel is graded 4 star.
Basis:
Bed & Breakfast
Day 10 - Port Elizabeth to Eastern Cape Game Reserve
You have the morning at leisure, before you make your way either to Kwandwe Private Game Reserve or Lalibela Private Game Reserve, both of them Big 5 game reserves in the malaria free Eastern Cape. They are approximately an hour's drive away from Port Elizabeth, making them easily accessible from the Garden Route. You will check in at 13h00, in time for lunch at the reserve. You then have time to freshen up in your en-suite room, before enjoying high-tea with sweet and savoury delights. The afternoon game drive departs at 16h30, which extends into the evening. Dinner is a grand affair in the outside boma, or if the weather is inclement, indoors. After dinner, guests retire to their rooms.
Accommodation:
Option 1: Kwandwe Private Game Reserve -Kwandwe Game Reserve
This malaria-free private game reserve offers an exceptional safari experience in a region steeped in history and culture. It is home to the Big 5, as well as cheetah, giraffe and many species of antelope. Kwandwe is a biodiversity ‘hotspot’ with six of South Africa’s seven biomes converging in this region of the Eastern Cape. Experienced CC Africa rangers and Xhosa trackers will lead you on interpretive, twice-daily game-drives in open 4x4 safari vehicles, bringing you close to Africa’s Big Five.
Accommodation at Kwandwe Lodge is in unobtrusive thatched stone and glass luxury chalets, each with its own plunge pool and a timber deck with views across Great Fish River. The chalets feature floor-to-ceiling doors which fold back to reveal uninterrupted wilderness vistas. Ecca Lodge is Kwandwe’s child-friendly lodge and embodies a “funk meets futuristic farmhouse” ambience. At both lodges, delicious Pan-African cuisine is served on the private decks, in the candlelit dining room, or enjoyed in the boma (outdoor dining area).
Kwandwe is graded 5-star.
Option 2: Lalibela Game Reserve -Lalibela Game Reserve
Lalibela Game Reserve, a Big Five game reserve near Port Elizabeth, is not only malaria-free, but spans 5 ecosystems, resulting in a breath-taking diversity of flora and fauna. Lalibela is unique in the Eastern Cape in that they have no public roads running through their property. All of the animals, including the predators, are free-roaming throughout the entire reserve. They currently have Three lodges to offer their clients - Lentaba Lodge, Mark's Camp and Tree Tops.
The décor at all the lodges are infused with the essence of Africa, as well as warm and friendly service and unforgettable game viewing. At each lodge, thatched chalets are placed where indigenous gardens merge with the surrounding bush. Each lodge has an outdoor dining area with views over a waterhole. At Lalibela, food is true safari cuisine with an emphasis on local specialities, ranging from centuries-old recipes to exciting contemporary African dishes.
Mark’s Camp is Lalibela’s child-friendly lodge and offers family suites, a children’s programme with special children’s game drives, child minders and children’s meals.
All the lodges at Lalibela are graded 4-star..
Basis:
Full Board (accommodation, meals, local beverages and game activities included)
Day 11 – Eastern Cape Game Reserve to Tsitsikamma
This morning you are woken for tea and rusks, before you set off on your early morning game drive. After the drive you enjoy a hearty brunch. You will depart from your preferred game reserve at 11h30 and then make your way back towards the Garden Route to Tsitisikamma, an indigenous primeval forest with towering ancient yellowwood trees, lush vegetation and deep gorges. Drive down a steep pass to the aptly named Storms River Mouth, where there are numerous short walking trails into the forest. Check in to your accommodation for one night on B&B basis.
Accommodation:
Option 1: Hog Hollow -Hog Hollow
Set in a private nature reserve and framed by the Tsitsikamma mountains, verdant indigenous forests and lush gardens, Hog Hollow Country Lodge is the perfect place to explore the Garden Route or unwind, lazing in the warmth of the African sun.
Accommodation is in unique African-styled suites with private wooden decks, hammocks, king-sized beds and cosy fireplaces. Superb cuisine is served around the convivial dining room table. There is an outdoor swimming pool and a sauna.
Hog Hollow is graded 4-star.
Option 2: Tsitsikamma Lodge -Tsitsikamma Lodge
This award-winning country-style lodge, built entirely of timber-logs, offers cosy accommodation and typical South African fare in their quaint restaurant. Spectacular mountain and forest views are enjoyed from each log cabin, which are set in lush gardens.
The cabins all have their own spa bath, as well as a private deck with barbeque facilities. There is a large outdoor swimming pool and a games room. Gentle river and forest walks are offered in the surrounding Tsitsikamma forest. The in-house restaurant provides excellent home-cooked meals.
Tsitsikamma Lodge is graded 3-star.
Basis:
Bed & Breakfast
Game activities:
early morning game drive
Day 12 – Golf at Goose Valley Golf Estate
After breakfast, check out of the Tsitsikamma accommodation and drive to nearby Goose Valley Golf Estate for a round of golf. The estate is situated just outside Plettenberg Bay and is a Gary Player designed golf course. Gary Player also owns one of the homes found on the estate, which is set amongst indigenous fynbos. After your game of golf, you will check in to your Plettenberg Bay accommodation for one night on B&B basis.
Accommodation:
Option 1: The Plettenberg -The Plettenberg
Set on a rocky headland overlooking the Indian Ocean, The Plettenberg provides elegant accommodation, furnished in impeccable taste. Enjoy diving, tennis or golf, or simply laze on the terrace or at the swimming pool, enjoying the Tsitsikamma Mountains and watching the whales and dolphins in the Bay. Fine dining is offered at the in-house restaurant, where you can try seafood delicacies or local South African cuisine. The finest selection of wines is on offer to compliment your meal.
All 38 luxury rooms and suites are air-conditioned and offer a truly idyllic and indulgent experience. The Beach House is situated next to the hotel and is the perfect getaway for family or friends. Two en-suite bedrooms, a large sitting room with fireplace, dining room and service kitchen make for a comfortable stay. The house is serviced daily and private dinners can be arranged.
Carchele Spa is perfect for those in need of the ultimate in pampering and relaxation. The philosophy of the spa is to combine the goodness of nature with the professional skin and body treatments performed by internationally qualified beauty therapists.
The Plettenberg is graded 5 star.
Option 2: The Bayview Hotel -Bayview Hotel
The Bayview Hotel is an ideal getaway along the Garden Route that offers guests panoramic views, spacious accommodation and good value for money in Plettenberg Bay. The hotel is privately owned and managed by an efficient and friendly team.
It is situated in the heart of the village, has secure parking facilities and is a mere stroll to the beach. Continental and full English breakfasts are available, and each of the 35 en-suite rooms is decorated with a relaxed and comfortable style, with most of the rooms boasting breathtaking views of the ocean.
The Bayview Hotel is graded 3 star.
Basis:
Bed & Breakfast
Day 13 – Plettenberg Bay to Cape Town
Today make your way back to Cape Town, via the scenic lake district of Sedgefield and Wilderness. Drive through the lagoon town of Knysna, via George and Mossel Bay, and then stop and stretch your legs in Swellendam, set at the foot of the Langeberg Mountains. Continue over the scenic Sir Lowry's Pass for your first glimpse of the fair city of Cape Town. Check in to your accommodation once again for 3 nights on B&B basis.
Accommodation:
Option 1: Radisson Hotel -
The Radisson Waterfront Hotel is spectacularly situated right on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean overlooking its own private marina and famous Robben Island. So close to the ocean is the Radisson that a guest has described it as “like a cruise liner without the motion”. This is a first class international hotel, combining high levels of luxury with friendly service and the warmth of true South Africa hospitality.
The business-class bedrooms are extremely spacious and all have wonderful sea views. The standard rooms have mountain views. The Radisson is ideally situated with the V&A Waterfront within a few minutes’ stroll, and the business district and golf courses a short drive away.
The Radisson Waterfront Hotel is graded 4-star superior
Option 2: V&A City Lodge -
Within walking distance of the centre of Cape Town and situated right at the gateway to the world-famous V&A Waterfront, this hotel maintains a tasteful décor throughout the hotel, and it is well known for its superb service and friendly environment.
A nautical theme runs through the hotel and there is an outdoor plunge pool. The rooms all have en-suite bathrooms with a separate shower and bath unit.
The City Lodge V&A Waterfront is graded 3-star.
Basis:
Bed & Breakfast
Day 14 – Golf at Royal Cape Golf Course
This morning make your way to the Royal Cape Golf Course for a round of 18 holes. With lovely views of Table Mountain from most holes, this championship golf course offers a beautiful setting that will make your visit here truly memorable. After your game, take a drive to the V&A Waterfront and enjoy a late lunch at one of the fine restaurants found in the world-class shopping mall.
Accommodation:
Option 1: Radisson Hotel -
The Radisson Waterfront Hotel is spectacularly situated right on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean overlooking its own private marina and famous Robben Island. So close to the ocean is the Radisson that a guest has described it as “like a cruise liner without the motion”. This is a first class international hotel, combining high levels of luxury with friendly service and the warmth of true South Africa hospitality.
The business-class bedrooms are extremely spacious and all have wonderful sea views. The standard rooms have mountain views. The Radisson is ideally situated with the V&A Waterfront within a few minutes’ stroll, and the business district and golf courses a short drive away.
The Radisson Waterfront Hotel is graded 4-star superior
Option 2: V&A City Lodge -
Within walking distance of the centre of Cape Town and situated right at the gateway to the world-famous V&A Waterfront, this hotel maintains a tasteful décor throughout the hotel, and it is well known for its superb service and friendly environment.
A nautical theme runs through the hotel and there is an outdoor plunge pool. The rooms all have en-suite bathrooms with a separate shower and bath unit.
The City Lodge V&A Waterfront is graded 3-star.
Basis:
Bed & Breakfast
Day 15 – At leisure
You have the day at leisure to visit the V&A Waterfront where you have the option of booking a short boat trip in the harbour, or a visit to Robben Island. An ex-prisoner takes you on an extensive tour of the prison, which includes a visit to Nelson Mandela's cell, the limestone quarry and the old leper colony. After the tour you can explore the fashionable shopping precinct of the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. A visit to the Two Oceans Aquarium is also recommended for the insight it gives into life in the two oceans off the southern tip of Africa – the cold Atlantic Ocean and the warm Indian Ocean.
Accommodation:
Option 1: Radisson Hotel -
The Radisson Waterfront Hotel is spectacularly situated right on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean overlooking its own private marina and famous Robben Island. So close to the ocean is the Radisson that a guest has described it as “like a cruise liner without the motion”. This is a first class international hotel, combining high levels of luxury with friendly service and the warmth of true South Africa hospitality.
The business-class bedrooms are extremely spacious and all have wonderful sea views. The standard rooms have mountain views. The Radisson is ideally situated with the V&A Waterfront within a few minutes’ stroll, and the business district and golf courses a short drive away.
The Radisson Waterfront Hotel is graded 4-star superior
Option 2: V&A City Lodge -
Within walking distance of the centre of Cape Town and situated right at the gateway to the world-famous V&A Waterfront, this hotel maintains a tasteful décor throughout the hotel, and it is well known for its superb service and friendly environment.
A nautical theme runs through the hotel and there is an outdoor plunge pool. The rooms all have en-suite bathrooms with a separate shower and bath unit.
The City Lodge V&A Waterfront is graded 3-star.
Basis:
Bed & Breakfast
Day 16 – leisure and flights home
This morning you are at leisure to do some last-minute shopping at the V&A Waterfront, or relax at the hotel. This afternoon check out of your hotel and make your way to Cape Town International Airport. Hand in your hire car and check in for your flights home.