Day 1
You are met at the airport by a Road Travel representative and transferred to the majestic The Saxon Hotel for a day of relaxation. Nestled in the exclusive Sandhurst suburb of Sandton, The Saxon makes a world-class statement of ethnic African elegance, combined with personalized attention to detail. The Saxon has always been a place of welcome; first as a home, now as a home away from home. With its roots in the heart of Gauteng, it has drawn the warmth of the city that bred it – from the world it has won its refinement and ease. The Saxon has witnessed history within its walls as it became home to Nelson Mandela after he was released from prison. It was during this time that South Africa’s former President used the serene setting of The Saxon to edit his autobiography ‘Long walk to Freedom”.
Day 2
A Road Travel representative will pick you up this morning and escort you to your air charter terminal where you will board the flight to Singita. Singita is located in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve on the western border of the Kruger National Park. Intimacy is the hallmark of Singita’s special style – just nine exquisitely appointed double suites in two exclusive camps set in shady woodland above the Sand River. Each suite ensures absolute privacy with its own en suite bathroom and outside shower, double-sided fireplace, air-conditioning, private leisure deck and living area, with views across the river to the plains beyond. Game activities are conducted in open safari vehicles to optimize photographic opportunities.
Day 3
Early morning coffee, tea and snacks await you before setting off with your ranger and tracker in search of the “Big Five”. Return to the lodge for lunch and a rest before another afternoon game activity. Perhaps you’d prefer to spend the afternoon relaxing at the Singita Spa. The epitome of every stay at Singita’s lodges is the luxurious care one indulges in at the health spa. Your masseuse offers treatments from the ancient Thai massage and seaweed wraps, to African hot stone therapies and head massages. Gaze across the endless wonders of the African bush while working out in the modern fitness centre.
Day 4
Another full day of game viewing, relaxing at the spa or in your personal plunge pool, or perhaps visit Singita’s African Trading Store where you will find abundant evidence of Africa’s rich traditions of art and craftsmanship. Here the most comprehensive collection of original merchandise has been assembled: jewellery crafted by hand from Africa’s precious metals and gems; sculpture for the discerning investor; elegant fashion inspired by the beauty of the bush and quality outdoor gear; home wares from the hand hewn to the sophisticated.
Day 5
Time for an early morning game drive and breakfast before your charter flight to Mpumalanga. There you will transfer onto your domestic flight to Cape Town where you are met by a Road Travel representative and transferred to the Cape Grace hotel. Classically-inspired from the exterior, gracefully elegant within, Cape Grace is a luxurious retreat that evokes a sense of gentler times. Set on its own private quay at Cape Town’s vibrant Victoria and Alfred Waterfront in Cape Town, it becomes a destination on its own offering the ultimate guest experience for the discerning traveller. Cape Grace’s charm lies in its intimate atmosphere, stylish décor and unique personalized hospitality. Here you will find staff warm and flexible with a spirit of unrivaled generosity. The sumptuous elegance begins at the welcoming reception lounge extending to the rich comfort of the spacious harbor and mountain-facing rooms. Located on the top floor of the hotel, with panoramas of Table mountain, the city and yacht marina, The Spa is exclusive to hotel guests. The Spa’s décor, treatments and techniques reflect the strength and mystery of the African heritage.
Day 6
After breakfast, your Road Travel representative will pick you up for a full day tour of the Cape of Good Hope and Peninsula. Depart from the hotel after breakfast and travel through the southern suburbs to the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. This is South Africa’s oldest and largest botanical garden and home to the National Botanical Institute. It provides glorious walks and views in 1,304 acres that are almost entirely covered with indigenous species, including ericas and proteas. From here, proceed along the False Bay coastline to Boulders Beach to visit an inland colony of jackass penguins and then continue on to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve. This is a natural delight – 19,150 acres of indigenous flora and fauna, including baboons, ostriches and antelope, wonderful walks and beaches. Lunch can be taken in the reserve. In the afternoon, return home via the beautiful coastline of the Atlantic Ocean. Next stop is at Hout Bay, nestled in the shadow of the Karbonkelberg with The Sentinel standing guard over the boats in the picturesque harbor. On the Atlantic seaboard side you will see the splendid beaches, smart villas and high-priced apartments of Clifton, Bantry Bay and Llandudno. This road, via Sea Point takes you back to the hotel.
Day 7
South Africa’s Winelands have been described as the most beautiful and scenic in the world – characterized by majestic mountains, valleys carpeted with vineyards, quaint villages, wine, good food, art, culture, and much more. The first stop is Spier, home to one of South Africa’s oldest wine cellars. Surrounded by rolling vineyards and dramatic mountains, Spier’s historic Cape Dutch buildings and beautiful riverside garden, set the stage for a celebration of fine food and fine wine. Taste and compare the best of South Africa’s wines under one roof at the Spier Wine Centre. The journey continues into Stellenbosch. Stellenbosch is the second oldest town in South Africa, renowned for its historical Cape Dutch buildings, university and wines. Stellenbosch lies in a fertile valley, surrounded by majestic “blue” mountains, vineyards and orchards. Cross over Helshoogte Pass into Franschhoek. In 1688 some 200 French Huguenots settled in this valley and had a profound influence on Cape culture. They brought their expertise in agriculture and wine making. A trip to Franschhoek is one of the Cape’s most rewarding outings; from the natural splendour of the valleys, vineyards and mountains, the area is rich in culinary and cultural pleasures, offering some of the country’s finest restaurants and great opportunities to sample and invest in wines and to view historic architecture. Lunch can be enjoyed in the valley. In the afternoon, a short drive to Paarl. Paarl is named after the huge granite rock that towers above it. According to the first settlers, the rock shines like a pearl in the sun. Enjoy a final wine tasting, before returning to the hotel.
Day 8
This morning is at your leisure. Your local Road Travel representative can arrange a half morning tour of Table Mountain or possibly a spa treatment. Road Travel’s services end with a private transfer to the airport for the international overnight flight back home.
Southern Africa Travel 