People choose bucket list travel destinations for a variety of reasons but they often include things like amazing views, great food, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences unlike any they’ve ever had before. Cape Town, South Africa makes the cut for all of these reasons and more. See why this capital city has the power to captivate and amaze visitors, and why you should consider adding it to your travel bucket list.
The Natural Beauty of Cape Town
Cape Winelands are some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. The Franschhoek Wine Farms Wine Tram Experience in the heart of South African wine country encourages engagement through immersion. Ride the double-decker tram from the Franschhoek Terminal to one of three wineries; enjoy lectures, wine cellar tours, and additional post-lunch winery tours. Book early, as each tour can accommodate only a small group for maximum engagement. Walk the vineyards, learn why South African wines are so special, and taste the world-class wines produced here. Dine on seasonal dishes made with locally sourced ingredients and paired with wine selections chosen to showcase the best of both.
For a stunning look at the Winelands as well as area nature preserves, the coastline, and Table Mountain, book a helicopter tour with Uyaphi. Book a tour for as little as 15 minutes and for as long as a half-day to experience the wonder of South Africa by air; there’s nothing like the mountains, valleys, and seas to impress upon visitors all of the natural beauty SA has to offer. Stroll the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, full of shopping, cafes, galleries, small museums, and more. Affectionately known as V&A Waterfront by the locals, it’s home to festivals, local museums, live music, open-air markets, and farmers’ markets.
Serene Luxury Accommodations
Cape Town’s exclusive boutique hotel The Silo has been completely renovated from its former life as a grain elevator into a waterfront architecture and design jewel. All rooms have harbor or mountain views; enjoy eclectic decor in each sourced by The Royal Portfolio’s own Liz Biden. Guests of The Silo can choose from among several on-site restaurants and bars serving fine cuisine in casual settings. Book specialty experiences like private hotel tours, private art gallery access, and the 9-floor Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa, part of the same structure as The Silo. The hotel’s spa offers soothing treatments with high-end products for total relaxation.
Silo Bedroom 
Silo Bathroom
If the Winelands are more to your liking, choose The Royal Portfolio’s La Residence in Franschhoek. Rustic French countryside decor is accented by global touches on this working farm estate; chef-prepared meals celebrate local ingredients and wines, while spa treatments ensure pure relaxation. The chef’s table experience allows guests to accompany the chef on a tour of the grounds and select fruits and vegetables to be prepared as part of the chef’s table 4-course meal.
For a more private quayside getaway, book at Cape Grace, where the best of South African culture is curated to interest and intrigue guests. Understated yet supremely elegant rooms and suites provide rest and relaxation; feel pampered with a Kalahari Signature Massage at the Spa at Cape Grace. Dine at Signal Restaurant or enjoy cocktails at Bascule Bar; every dish and drink is prepared to amaze with ease.
A Celebration of Flavors from Around the World and Uniquely South African
Visit The Commissary for a creative selection of new and comfortable dishes that reflect a South African approach to old favorites, from lobster roll to sliders, wings, and BBQ pork belly. The simple presentation, bold culinary pairings, and friendly atmosphere keep The Commissary at the top of many’s must-do lists. Along Camps Bay, enjoy a casual beachfront meal at Surfshack. Kick back for pizza, beer, and light fare with great views and friendly service. The tasting menu at Janse & Co. offers visitors to Cape Town a dynamic culinary experience without having to leave this minimalist yet glamorous setting that’s welcoming to all, globetrotting foodies and newbies, alike. And in Salsify’s recognizable Roundhouse location off the beaten path, dine on sumptuous seafood, duck, beef, and more, prepared with creative sides. This restaurant is legendary for sunset views and impeccable service.
Cape Town is worthy of any travel bucket list. It offers visitors the kind of natural, authentic, and truly unique experiences that set it apart from many of the world’s popular cities frequented by international travelers. Luxury travel enhances the experience and elevates it to something that transcends borders, making the cultural connection to South Africa engaging and worthy of that once-in-a-lifetime trip.
