The Western Cape Province is well-known for its natural beauty and there are many iconic sightseeing spots and iconic landmarks worth exploring. Obviously, Table Mountain and Cape Point first come to mind, but there are also dozens of underrated places around Western Cape that every adventurous traveler should check out. We have rounded up a list of off the beaten track destinations around Western Cape that you should definitely visit while vacationing in South Africa.
1 Langebaan Lagoon
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Langebaan Lagoon is located just a 90-minute drive from Cape Town and features several amazing white sand beaches with shallow waters and stunning rock formations. It’s a great place for kayaking and you can also rent an affordable beach cottage for a day or two. Keep in mind that Langebaan Lagoon gets crowded during the flower season which lasts from August to September.
2 De Hoop
Image:overberginfo.com
One of the best hidden pristine beaches in all of South Africa, De Hoop Nature reserve is located close to Cape Agulhas. Enjoy the amazing scenery and explore the rolling dunes. If you are by any chance planning to visit De Hoop between July and November, expect to see whales in the bay.
3 Riebeek Kasteel
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Riebeek Kasteel is a small town that is located 80km from Cape Town. It is a romantic destination and one of the most picturesque places around Western Cape. Vacationers will find plenty of classy accommodation options, dozens of great restaurants and bars, and a bunch of small antique shops. Ideal for couples on vacation, Riebeek Kasteel is also home to the Olive Boutique which offers olive tastings. Don’t forget to try homemade chocolate at Le Petit Chocolat.
4 Breede River Valley
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One of the most famous regions that produce olive oil in South Africa, Breede River Valley is also well-known for wine tasting and spectacular views along the Breede River. Some of the best olive oil producers like Olyfberg and Rio Largo come from here and small towns like Montagu and Worcester are definitely worth exploring.
5 Karoo National Park
Image:wildcard.co.za
If you are looking for an underrated destination around Western Cape, Karoo National Park is the place to go. Expect to find plenty of wildlife, shady trees, and amazing scenery. There are dozens of hiking trails in case you are up for long walks and there is also an award-winning campsite on-site.
See Also: These 8 Beautiful Small Towns Near Cape Town Will Make You Forget Home
6 Paternoster
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Paternoster is an old fishing village in the Western Cape untouched by urban development. Travelers who want to try tasty seafood specialties and wish to relax on the beach will definitely like what Paternoster has to offer. The good news is that you don’t have to go to a restaurant to eat seafood, as local fishermen sell fresh from the water calamari and crayfish.
7 Stellenbosch
Image:velvetescape.com
Did you know that Stellenbosch is one of the oldest European settlements around Western Cape? Full of cobbled streets lined with picturesque houses, Stellenbosch is also famous for fresh produce and vile-cloaked fields. Some of the must-visit attractions here include the Stellenbosch University, University Botanic Gardens, Village Museum, and Jonkershoek Nature Reserve.
8 Stanford
Image: stanfordvalley.co.za
Travelers who are searching for a laid-back destination with plenty of activities should definitely spend a day or two in Stanford in the Western Cape. You can explore craft stores, go horse riding, take a boat cruise, eat at restaurants that serve fresh seafood, or go on a brewery tour. You will also find dozens of estates which offer wine tasting, as well plenty of accommodation options that range from small cottages to big houses for rent.
9 Napier
Image:pamgolding.co.za
Located in Overberg, Napier is a small country town that is well-known for its hiking trails, wine-tasting opportunities, farm stalls, and museums. In case you are visiting Napier in June, you can take part in mountain bike race or the half-marathon. One of the main attractions here in Napier is definitely the famous Toy Museum that features an amazing collection of rare toys.
10 Cape Agulhas
Image:henristeenkamp.org
A place where the Indian and the Atlantic Ocean cross their paths, Cape Agulhas (Cape of Needles) offers sloping rocky beaches and amazing views of the surrounding areas. This place is also home to the second oldest lighthouse in South Africa that is now a spectacular museum. An interesting fact is that the sea here in Cape Agulhas is one of the most productive grounds for fishing on the continent.
Dreaming of a getaway? ComeToCapeTown.com offers a range of accommodation outside of the city. Browse our wide range of accommodation to see what we have on offer, or contact us with any questions you may have on planning a holiday in one of the many amazing small towns near Cape Town.
