Photo: Zocha Group – Explore South African Luxury From Land to Sea

Explore South African luxury this winter and take a vacation to remember by experiencing one of the many alluring and adventurous cities in South Africa. With their summer occurring during America’s winter months, escape the snow to enjoy stunning landscapes and the shores of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. The country’s sandy beaches and untouched forests will leave you in awe of the natural scenery as you explore one of the best destinations in the Southern Hemisphere.

One of the most popular regions in South Africa is Cape Town, a port city located on the southwest coast. With open views of the mountains and a bustling harbor, there’s plenty to fall in love with during your stay. The award-winning 12 Apostles Hotel & Spa will impress with colorful, glamorous décor to complement their state-of-the-art facilities. The Ellerman House promises scenic views of the ocean along with intimate villas to make you feel right at home. Nearby in Constantia, the Cape’s oldest wine valley, a stay at The Last Word puts you right in the center of the country’s top wine estates and world-renowned restaurants. Cape Town is home to a number of fine dining options including GINJA, a chic, artisanal restaurant along the harbor. La Colombe exceeds expectations bringing a French flair to a contemporary vineyard style eatery.

This flourishing South African metropolis is home to a number of sophisticated spots for travelers to get a taste of the high life while just stopping by or taking in an extended stay. The Saxon Hotel is a boutique property featuring picturesque gardens and their signature ‘Sound Therapy’ treatment for relaxation. Get a taste of Johannesburg’s best cuisine at DW Eleven – 13, a fine dining spot highlighting global dishes with an experimental twist. For an eclectic flair, a visit to award-winning Carnivore will heighten the senses with meats cooked over an open fire in the midst of African accented décor. Pigalle at the Melrose Arch Piazza brings a refreshing atmosphere to the city as private balconies and a glass wine cellar promote an elegant and modern dining experience.

For an adventurous experience in the natural wilderness of sub-tropical forests and historic Zulu battlefields, the province of KwaZulu-Natal gives you a South African experience you’ll never forget. The Oyster Box is a luxury hotel that stands as a colonial landmark on the edge of the coast. With nostalgic charm combined with modern amenities, their beachfront suites and villas are complemented by a 24-seat movie theater and various health and wellness treatments. To take a walk on the wild side, travelers can visit the &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve, a wildlife sanctuary known for its diversity of ecosystems and lush environment. Their Forest Lodge allows eco-conscious adventurers to live in private “Zulu Zen” suites, each complete with a personal bar and plunge pool. To dine at the city’s best, visitors can try a South African spin on Cuban cuisine at Little Havana, a stylish restaurant voted the Best Steakhouse in South Africa.

One of the country’s best kept secrets is the Garden Route, stretching from Cape Town to Mossel Bay. Running along the south-eastern coast, visitors can discover a variety of outdoor activities such as dolphin and whale watching, golfing, bungee jumping, and canopy tours. The Views Boutique Hotel & Spa features 18 suites that sit right along the ocean in the heart of Garden Route. Remotely located, visitors can enjoy a private, intimate experience that’s also easily accessible to the nearby George Airport. In the resort town of Plettenberg Bay, The Plettenberg offers unmatched views with individually decorated rooms for guests to take in their own unique perspective. A must-try restaurant along the route is Serendipity, a waterfront establishment that utilizes sustainable sources to bring fresh, organic ingredients to the dinner table.