The Road Less Travelled - Salt, Stone & Vines
TRIP OVERVIEW
Recommended Duration 11 Nights – Self drive
Discover a lesser-explored side of the Western Cape on a journey from the rugged Atlantic coastline of the West Coast through the dramatic mountains of the Cederberg Wilderness, the remote landscapes and spectacular night skies of Sutherland, and the fertile valleys of Tulbagh and Franschhoek.
This diverse adventure combines charming coastal villages, mountain wilderness, open Karoo landscapes, exceptional stargazing, award-winning wines and unforgettable culinary experiences. Along the way, stay in hand-picked guesthouses, boutique lodges and country retreats that capture the character of each destination.
From ocean sunsets to mountain trails and vineyard-covered valleys, this is the Cape beyond the ordinary — a journey designed for travellers looking to explore, unwind and experience South Africa at a slower, more authentic pace.
The Itinerary
Day 1 – 3: Arrival & Travel to Paternoster (3 Nights)
Arriving at Cape Town International Airport guests will collect their pre-booked hire car and start their journey with 2 hours’ drive up the west coast to the charming village of Paternoster. A charming coastal village where whitewashed cottages, endless beaches and the rugged Atlantic Ocean create the perfect setting for a relaxed West Coast escape. Spend your days exploring the coastline, kayaking, hiking, cycling or discovering the nearby West Coast National Park, with opportunities for birdwatching and seasonal wildflowers.
Accommodation ranges from intimate boutique guesthouses and stylish coastal cottages to luxurious beachfront lodges, making Paternoster ideal for both laid-back getaways and indulgent escapes. The village is also renowned for its fresh seafood and West Coast cuisine, with everything from casual seaside dining to memorable fine-dining experiences showcasing local fish, shellfish and seasonal ingredients.
Day 4 – 5: Cederberg Wilderness Area (2 Nights)
Further relaxation awaits with a 2-hour drive inland towards the Cederberg Wilderness area. A spectacular escape into a world of rugged mountains, ancient rock formations, dramatic landscapes and wide-open skies awaits. It’s an ideal destination for travellers seeking nature, adventure and tranquillity, with activities ranging from scenic hikes and mountain walks to rock art experiences, 4x4 adventures, stargazing and exploring the region’s unique flora and fauna.
Accommodation in the area ranges from intimate mountain retreats to luxurious private reserves. Simbavati Cederberg Ridge offers a stylish wilderness escape with panoramic mountain views, comfortable accommodation, guided experiences and exceptional cuisine. For a more exclusive and luxurious experience, Bushmanskloof Private Wilderness Reserve combines elegant accommodation with pristine wilderness, renowned rock-art sites, guided nature experiences, hiking and outstanding dining.
Together, these stays showcase the Cederberg at its finest — wild, remote and beautifully immersive, with plenty of opportunity to slow down and reconnect with nature.
Day 6 – 7: Sutherland (2 Nights)
After some much needed relaxation time guests will head towards Sutherland. The 4-hour drive will be well worth it as you will experience a night sky like never before.
Nestled in the vast landscapes of the Northern Cape’s Karoo, Sutherland is a remote and atmospheric escape renowned for its crisp air, dramatic scenery and some of the clearest night skies in the Southern Hemisphere. The town is home to the South African Astronomical Observatory and SALT (Southern African Large Telescope), making stargazing and astronomy experiences a highlight of any visit.
During the day, explore the surrounding Karoo landscapes on scenic drives, hiking trails and 4x4 routes, or discover the area’s history and charming local attractions. For adventurous travellers, the surrounding mountains and open plains offer excellent opportunities for photography, birdwatching and nature walks.
Sutherland offers a peaceful opportunity to disconnect from the everyday — and after sunset, look upwards for a truly spectacular journey through the stars
Day 8 – 9: Tulbagh (2 Nights)
Leaving the majesty of the starry Sutherland skies behind guests will depart for the little town of Tulbagh. Surrounded by dramatic mountain ranges and rolling vineyards, Tulbagh is a picturesque countryside escape that blends wine, history, nature and warm country hospitality. Stroll along the charming historic Church Street, explore boutique wine estates and enjoy relaxed wine tastings paired with exceptional local cuisine.
Beyond the vineyards, the valley offers scenic hiking and mountain-biking trails, horse riding, farm experiences and beautiful drives through the surrounding countryside. With its beautiful landscapes, rich heritage and laid-back atmosphere, Tulbagh is the perfect place to slow down and experience the heart of the Cape Winelands. During the winter months, the surrounding Witzenberg Mountains are often dusted with snow, transforming the valley into a spectacular winter landscape and adding a magical element to a countryside getaway.
Day 10 – 11: Franschhoek Wine Valley (2 Nights)
Award winning wines and culinary experiences await with a brief 1 hour 20 minutes’ drive from Tulbagh to the world renowned Franschhoek Wine Valley.
Franschhoek is one of South Africa’s most celebrated destinations. Catering to every type of traveller, with accommodation options ranging from luxurious wine estate retreats and world-class boutique hotels to charming guest houses, self-catering cottages.
The valley is home to some of South Africa’s most prestigious wine estates, making wine tasting one of the region’s most popular experiences. Guests can spend leisurely days sampling award-winning wines, explore historic cellars, and enjoy vineyard tours while taking in spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. The famous wine tram provides a unique and relaxing way to discover multiple estates throughout the valley, allowing visitors to experience the diverse wine offerings that have made Franschhoek internationally renowned. For those wishing to explore beyond the vineyards, the valley offers a variety of activities including cycling through the countryside, hiking scenic mountain trails, art gallery visits, olive and chocolate tastings, and exploring the boutique shops and galleries that line the village’s charming streets. Beyond the tasting rooms, many wine farms offer immersive experiences including guided cellar tours, vineyard walks, blending sessions, and behind-the-scenes insights into the art of winemaking. Visitors can meet passionate winemakers, learn about the region’s centuries-old wine heritage, and gain a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship behind every bottle.
The village boasts an impressive collection of award-winning restaurants, from fine dining establishments showcasing innovative tasting menus to relaxed bistros, cafés, and farm-to-table experiences. Local chefs take inspiration from the region’s rich agricultural heritage, pairing fresh seasonal ingredients with exceptional wines to create memorable dining experiences.
