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The official top ten
Food & Wine Hotspots in Southern Africa

A journey through South Africa’s Winelands is a must for any gourmand. Cape Town, the Cape Winelands and the Garden Route provide the ultimate outdoorsy holiday to enjoy simply sublime food and wine. Enjoy wine tasting tours through ravishing vineyards, savour fresh, organic food from culinary leaders, stroll wide white beaches and stay at chic rustic farmhouse and boutique lodges. There are a couple of culinary surprises on our list, too! Matetsi River Lodge in Zimbabwe should be on every food and design-lover’s list.

1

The Cellars-Hohenort

Over nine acres of manicured gardens surround The Cellars-Hohenort, set outside Cape Town in the historic Constantia Valley. Owner Liz McGrath has spent more than two decades creating the perfect...

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2

Bushman’s Kloof

Wellness and wilderness go hand in hand at this multi-award winning retreat nestled in the foothills of the Cederberg Mountains. The wonderfully named Bushman’s Kloof consists of 16 well-appointed guest...

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3

Bartholomeus Klip

Channel your inner Karen Blixen of ‘Out of Africa’ fame at this supremely romantic farmhouse and game reserve in the Ribeek Valley. Just over one hour’s drive from Cape Town,...

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4

Babylonstoren

A 300-year-old Cape Dutch farm spread over 250 hectares and soaked in history, Babylonstoren is a memorable taste of the region’s traditional culture. Thick whitewashed walls, simple four-poster beds and...

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5

Leeu Estate

One of Leeu Collection’s three properties, the celebrated Leeu Estate, just under one hour’s drive from Cape Town and a 10-minute drive from the centre of Franschhoek is a glorious choice. The sister properties, Leeu...

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6

Steenberg Farm and Vineyards

Steenberg Farm is a glorious slice of Cape history. The oldest farm in the region, established in 1682, this 28-room boutique hotel is steeped in heritage. Relaxed and rustic luxury...

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7

Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

Four award-winning lodges nestled in 22,000 hectares of pristine wilderness; Kwande Game Reserve offers the perfect safari experience. Families and small groups can enjoy an exclusive booking at two of...

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8

Victoria Falls Hotel

A natural wonder as grand and mighty as Victoria Falls deserves a grand and mighty hotel. So thought the hoteliers of the Edwardian era when they erected the now famous...

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9

Matetsi Victoria Falls

Matetsi Victoria Falls is an intimate luxury lodge setting new standards in Zimbabwe and is a firm Ampersand favourite. Only an hour from Victoria Falls but secluded within the 55,000-hectare Matetsi...

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10

Hotel Heinitzburg

For those looking for a conveniently located base with fabulous city and mountain views, the family-owned and run Hotel Heinitzburg is the best option in Windhoek. Originally commissioned in 1914 by Count...

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Client Testimonials

Everything you did for us whilst we were away was hugely appreciated, and Ampersand has been exemplary in every way. I'll always recommend you!
- Mr Richard Stoughton, Sri Lanka
Without question, you put together the best trip I have ever taken. We were shown around like visiting dignitaries, the hotels were fantastic and the itinerary was just right. Everybody I know will hear about how amazing Ampersand is!
- Leslie Siben, India
I would recommend Ampersand without any hesitation!!! The best travel agent that I’ve ever had. Everything – from the individual care and attention in planning the trip, through to the efficiency of the agents on the ground in India – was handled brilliantly. An absolutely first-class service all round!
- Matthew Annable, Rajasthan, India
I had a very lovely time and was looked after splendidly. My first visit to India could not have been better, save for being longer! But I shall return at some point and I shall look to you to make the arrangements.
- Matthew Nicklin, North India
I thought the Ampersand team was outstanding. We couldn’t have hoped for anything more.
- Mr Geoffrey Johnson, India
Difficult to articulate just how good the service from you and your team really was. We know you will continue to do well and hope we have the chance to seek your assistance again before long.
- Mr & Mrs Manson, North India
So many highlights to choose from! The hotels were amazing but Maya Villa was a highlight… I loved just hanging out in the hammock reading my book and watching the peacocks chase the cows!
- Krista Weir, Sri Lanka
We had a wonderful holiday - everything was perfect. Thank you for helping us to make a thoughtful plan to enjoy and make most out of our trip. The places we visited, the guides, the transportation and driver, the hotels selected... Everything was great!
- Jaime Benitez, South India
Ampersand’s preparation, attention to detail and interaction before and during our trip show exactly why good travel agents have a role in today’s internet booking age. They were a delight to deal with!
- Mr David Wallace, North India
Ampersand provided a bespoke and flexible holiday, tailored to my every whim. Their highly professional staff had only one goal which was to arrange an exceptional holiday and some unforgettable experiences in India. I have no hesitation in fully recommending them and they will be the first company I approach in the future - 10/10
- Anonymous, India

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