Ampersand's Exclusive Unusual Journey to the Western Cape

9 days from £6,600 for 2024 per person

• Cape Town
• Franschhoek & The Winelands
• Hermanus
• West Coast

Let us whisk you away to the glorious sunshine of the African summer. The ravishing Cape Winelands are at their very best during the summer months, so with this in mind we have created Ampersand's Unusual Escorted Journey to the Western Cape, to offer clients the exceptional opportunity to see South Africa through the eyes of Ampersand’s founder and managing director, James Jayasundera. Today, James lives between Ampersand's HQ in London, and a beautiful farm in South Africa’s enchanting Cape Winelands, which is his second home. This one-off journey will focus on art, architecture and design plus a strong emphasis on good food, dining at many of the most interesting, innovative and beautiful restaurants in South Africa. This is a laid-back, bon vivant’s tour to South Africa, and you can expect a lot of fun and laughter along the way!

Your journey begins in the radiant Cape Town, one of the most scenic seaside cities on earth. You will be introduced to its welcoming and laid-back centre on a guided walking tour, as you meander through its buzzing cafes and bars, and excellent restaurants. Explore the flourishing art scene with visits to its most exciting galleries. Take in the captivating scene from Table Mountain via the aerial cable car and explore cultivated areas such as the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens with specialist botanical guide Andrew Jacobs. Andrew has been guiding at the world famous botanical gardens since 1976, and his experience and light-hearted manner brings these gardens to life in the most magical and spectacular way.

Just a short hop from Cape Town, venture into the ‘uplands’ where you'll find yourself in the heart of South Africa's superb winemaking region. 7 Koppies, an impressive private fynbos reserve in the heart of the winelands with dramatic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains, will be your home for the remainder of the tour. During the days you will be able to soak up the local culture at a slower pace, sampling the finest food and wines in the region. Learn about the French Huguenots and the  birth of the South African wine industry in the 17^th century, visit possibly the finest car collection in the world owned by billionaire Johann Rupert and visit the private studios of the phenomenal sculptor Dylan Lewis.

A real hotspot for foodies, this is the best place to experience the oldest wine industry outside of Europe, whilst combining it with innovative cuisine. On each day we have organised lunch in our favourite restaurant restaurants providing a wonderful representation of the incredible food on offer in the Western cape. Dinner is included every evening at 7 Koppies should you wish to stay in, but we have also included restaurant recommendations in outstanding local restaurants that will demonstrate that Franschhoek is the gastronomic capital of South Africa. 

Filled with extraordinary private access experiences, using Ampersand’s and James’ contacts, this itinerary is subject to minor changes to ensure the smooth running of the tour, and due to the schedules of the private individuals hosting the group. This itinerary is ideal to combine with a pre or post extension safari. If interested please ask for more details.

Not included in the rate: Alcoholic beverages other than when provided, meals at leisure or those indicated as independent, personal expenses, trip insurance, Tourist Visas.

A journey is best measured in friends, rather than miles.
Tim Cahill