11 Top Things to Do Along South Africa's West Coast

The Cape West Coast is often defined by its fresh seafood, laid-back way of life and endless, unspoilt beaches. But there’s so much more to this region to explore, from fertile vineyards and quaint inland towns to fossil parks and some of the country’s best craft beer.

The Swartland region begins approximately 50 kilometres (31 miles) north of Cape Town, and it has developed a reputation as the source of some the country’s best, and most unique, wines. There are dozens of wine estates worth visiting in the region, and most benefit from the Swartland’s warmth and hospitality. The region is also significantly less touristy than the Cape’s other wine towns, which means that many offer free tastings and personalised service. Some estates are only open to the public by prior appointment, but you can drop into the likes of Swartland Winery and Kloovenburg unannounced.

Many farms in the West Coast region have also ventured into the world of olives, and it’s possible to sample a wide range of these at several establishments. Most, such as Hetvlock Casteel and Darling Olives, aren’t simply satisfied with making world-class olive oil: they produce dozens of olive-based products from tapenade through to soap, all of which are available to sample.

There are few better ways to experience the beauty of the West Coast National Park than by bicycle. The slower speeds and the exposure to the elements make it a significantly more memorable way to explore the region. If you want to stretch your legs, but not overdo the physical exertion, hop aboard an e-bike. The team at the popular Route 27 Farm Stall run tours through the park on these motor-assisted bicycles. They will whisk you across the undulating landscape and up even the steepest hills in no time at all, and you’ll barely even break a sweat in the process.

Further up along the coast is the quiet seaside town of Paternoster. There, uniform whitewashed homes set along the tranquil bay make for the ultimate weekend escape from the city. And with dozens of celebrated restaurants to choose from, most of which draw on the fertile waters nearby, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

The busy Saldanha Bay is just 100 kilometres (62 miles) north of Cape Town. Though it’s primarily known as a bustling port used to export iron ore, it’s also one of the best places to pick up some of the West Coast’s famous oysters. Oyster and muscle farms in the bay supply some of the country’s top fine-dining restaurants, but if you’re after a bargain, pull into the harbour and pick up a cooler full of the freshest seafood at rockbottom prices.