Cape Town, South Africa: Where Luxury, Adventure, and Culture Meet

Cape Town is one of those places that captures every sense: dramatic mountain views, ocean breezes, incredible food, and some of the world’s best wine. On our recent trip to South Africa, we had the chance to experience Cape Town in all its variety, from hiking adventures to wine country escapes to the most memorable meals of our lives. Here’s a detailed look at where we stayed, what we did, and the highlights that made our time in Cape Town unforgettable.

Where to Stay: The Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel

We stayed at the legendary Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel, affectionately known as “The Pink Lady.” This iconic property has welcomed royalty and celebrities — including Queen Elizabeth II — and it’s easy to see why. The hotel is a perfect mix of history and modern comfort, with lush gardens and an elegant, timeless charm.

Some highlights from our stay:

A small but well-equipped gym for those who want to stay active while traveling.
A wonderful cocktail bar and lounge… the perfect spot to end an evening with a nightcap.
A delicious breakfast spread every morning that set the tone for the day.
The warm, charming staff who made us feel like honored guests throughout our stay.

It’s no wonder the Mount Nelson is one of the most famous luxury hotels in Cape Town.

Adventures in Cape Town

Lion’s Head Hike – This hike is not for the faint of heart. It involves steep sections with ladders and chains to climb, and a fair bit of scrambling over rocks. The challenge is worth it, though: at the top, you’re rewarded with breathtaking 360° views of Cape Town, Table Mountain, and the Atlantic Ocean.
Table Mountain Gondola Ride – Taking the gondola up Table Mountain gave us a completely different perspective. Once at the summit, the views stretched for miles in every direction.
V&A Waterfront – We loved strolling the lively Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, filled with shops, restaurants, live music, and beautiful views of the harbor. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting Cape Town.
Cape of Good Hope Tour – Visiting the Cape of Good Hope was a highlight of our trip. It’s about a 1–1½ hour drive from Cape Town, depending on traffic and route, and well worth the journey. At the beach, we snapped a photo at the iconic wooden sign that reads: “Cape of Good Hope: The most south-western point of the African continent.” It has long been a symbolic landmark for explorers. On the same tour, we stopped at Boulders Beach to see the famous colony of African penguins… a delight for animal lovers and photographers alike.

Dining Highlights in Cape Town

Cape Town is a foodie’s paradise, and we experienced some of the best dining of our lives.

La Colombe – This was one of the best dining experiences we’ve ever had. We enjoyed a nine-course tasting menu with wine pairings, and every dish was presented like a piece of art. The whimsical, bird-themed presentation made us feel as though we were dining in the treetops, with surprises at every course. It wasn’t just a meal; it was an unforgettable experience.
Beyond – A modern, creative restaurant where each course showcased bold flavors and inventive combinations.
Kloof Street House – Set in a historic Victorian home, this eclectic spot is perfect for dinner — and don’t miss the cocktails at the bar, which are just as memorable as the food.

Day Trip to Stellenbosch Wine Country

Just an hour outside Cape Town lies the world-famous Stellenbosch wine region, where rolling vineyards meet dramatic mountain backdrops. Spending the day winery-hopping here was one of the highlights of our trip.

Waterford Estate – So impressive that I ordered wine to be shipped home. The experience was both elegant and welcoming.
Tokara Winery – More than just incredible wine, Tokara also offered a delicious lunch with views that stretched across the vineyards.
Stark-Condé – Nestled among mountains and water, this winery felt like stepping into a postcard. It was the perfect peaceful stop to savor a glass of South African wine.

Final Thoughts

Cape Town is a destination that blends luxury, adventure, and culture seamlessly. From our stay at the historic Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel, to climbing Lion’s Head, to dining at world-renowned restaurants like La Colombe, every moment felt unforgettable. Adding in the day trip to Stellenbosch and the tour to the Cape of Good Hope with its penguins made our time here even richer.

If you’re planning a trip to South Africa, put Cape Town at the top of your list. It’s the kind of place that stays with you long after you’ve left.

Cape Town Travel Guide: Luxury Hotels, Lion’s Head Hike, Wineries & World-Class Dining