For the past couple of years since we had kids; celebrating our wedding anniversary has always just been going out for dinner, a one-night stay over or going away with kids. With our busy work schedules, kids’ school activities and added responsibilities; it is not always easy to get away for a mid-week break on our own. This year however our wedding anniversary falls on a Friday and we are planning a short getaway without the kids. With so many great getaway options in the Western Cape; we narrowed down our list to 6 quick anniversary escape destinations of which we will select one.
Travel Planning and Criteria
When I mean quick; the destination must at least be 2 – 4 hours drive max. We don’t want to spend hours on the road travelling to our destination instead of lazing at the pool, sipping on a glass of wine or exploring our surroundings.
Our anniversary is only in September which gives us enough time to save towards our getaway. Budget-wise we don’t want to break the bank and therefore we are seeking accommodation that is affordable. But still gives us the best value for money in terms of experience, setting and facilities. We prefer self-catering accommodation which allows us to cater for ourselves. Therefore Travelstart makes it easy to source the best accommodation at a great price.
Our aim is to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and find a quiet retreat that offers peace and tranquility. We want to escape to the country-side where we would breath in the fresh air, be surrounded by majestic mountains, rivers and streams, and the beauty of fauna and flora.
Our 6 Quick Anniversary Escape Destinations!
Charmonix Wine Farm – Franschhoek
With its scenic splendour Charmonix Wine Farm is situated on the slopes of the Franschhoek Mountains. Their cottages offers a spectacular view of Franschhoek valley and the waterfall lodge is situated between the mountains under the waterfall. Charmonix has its own private game reserve and guests can go on a game drive to catch a glimpse of ostrich, eland, zebra, bontebok and springbok.
Oewerzicht – Greyton
Oewerzicht is a working farm and can be located in the peaceful and idyllic Greyton Valley. With the Sonderend river running through it; this country escape with it’s beautiful setting offers rustic activities and a variety of accommodation options to suit everyone’s needs. Some of the cottages has outside wood-fired hot tubs which is ideal to relax in and unwind.
Somerset Gift Getaway Farm – Swellendam
Just outside the historical town of Swellendam you will find Somerset Gift Getaway Farm with all its beauty and charm. With its serene views of the Langeberg Mountain, lush green pastures where cattle and horses grace as well as the Buffeljag River that runs the length of the farm. Furthermore it has ownership rights to a few thousand hectares of pristine mountain ground with trails through indigenous forest and fynbos. As well as to magical mountain valleys, waterfalls and rock pools. Somerset Gift Getaway Farm has six spacious self-catering accommodation options.
Piekenierskloof Mountain Resort – Cederberg
The breathtaking Piekenierskloof Mountain Resort is situated between the sublime Swartberg and Koue Bokkeveld mountains. Their accommodation gives you a choice of private suites and self-catering units. This resort offers many facilities and exceptional hospitality.
Orange Grove Farm – Robertson
Nestled at the foothills of the Langeberg Mountain, you will find a picturesque gem called Orange Grove Farm. It is a working wine and olive farm in the heart of the Robertson valley. Their self-catering cottages offers comfort and luxury and each has its own private swimming pool and veranda. The cottages are located far from each other which gives guests enough privacy.
Botlierskop Private Game Reserve – Little Brak River
With the magnificent Outeniqua Mountains as a backdrop and sweeping views out over the glistening Indian Ocean below, lies Botlierskop Private Game Reserve. This magnificent 4.200 hectare reserve offers luxury accommodation and a safari experience. Whether you just want to relax by the pool and take in the beauty of your surroundings, go on a safari game drive, guided bush trail or opt for a spa treatment; Botlierskop has something to offer for everyone.
Botlierskop is a 4.5 hour drive from Cape Town; and should we decide to make this our quick anniversary escape for the weekend, we might just book cheap flights to George instead of driving.
To make our decision a little easier; I would like to know from you which one of these destinations you think would be perfect for our quick anniversary escape in September.
**This post is in collaboration with Travelstart however the views expressed in this post are my own.
