Interesting Western Cape Facts
The most widely spoken language in the Western Cape province is Afrikaans, but don't worry – English is also almost universally spoken here.
Cape Point is a rugged tail of land that marks the south-westerly tip of Africa and is home to birds, zebra, eland, reptiles and baboons.
South Africa's wine industry dates back to the 1600s, when the second Dutch governor of the Cape brought vines with him from Europe.
There are more plant species in the Table Mountain National Park than in the entire United Kingdom.
The mountainous Western Cape province extends from the Cape of Good Hope on the south-western tip of Africa 400km north and 500km east. It is South Africa’s fourth-largest province. It is bounded by the Northern Cape and Eastern Cape. It is best known for Cape Town, South Africa’s ‘Mother City’, a popular travel destination that is home to Table Mountain and beautiful beaches, among many other attractions.
Where to go in Western Cape
Cape Town
South Africa’s second-largest city (after Johannesburg) and very popular with international travellers, Cape Town is home to the world-famous Table Mountain and Robben Island. With an international airport and busy port, the city is a bustling metropolis.
Plettenberg Bay
Along the Garden Route, Plettenberg Bay is a popular holiday destination with its long, white beaches. Adventurers are attracted to the nearby Bloukrans bungee jump and tree canopy tours.
Paarl
In the heart of the Cape Winelands, Paarl is dotted with ancient oak trees and examples of Cape Dutch, Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco architecture.
Oudtshoorn
Situated inland in the Little Karoo, about a 480km drive east from Cape Town, Oudtshoorn is the world’s ostrich capital and is also home to the spectacular Cango Caves and Swartberg mountain range.
Franschhoek
Some of the country’s top restaurants call this town, about 80km from Cape Town, home. Franschhoek (in Afrikaans, 'French Corner') also has a rich wine heritage (which makes a great combination with the excellent food) and the Huguenot Memorial.
Stellenbosch
Situated about 50km north-east of Cape Town, Stellenbosch is the country's second-oldest town. Famed for its wines and wine route, it is also home to some of the country’s top restaurants and the University of Stellenbosch. Here you’ll find panoramic views, oak trees and Cape Dutch architecture.
Hermanus
About 120km south-east along the coast from Cape Town, Hermanus is known as the whale-watching capital of South Africa. These massive creatures (most commonly southern right whales) can be seen from about June to December, from the shore, by boat, or by air.
Knysna
Situated on an estuary along the Garden Route, Knysna's lush natural beauty makes it particularly picturesque. The town is famous for oysters (and an annual oyster festival), forests, outdoor activities and nearby beaches.
