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Easter weekend is a time for family gatherings with great food, great company and great fun! In South Africa you’ll find hot cross buns, chocolate eggs and roast lamb, as well as local treats like pickled fish and braai vleis! While many of us may gather at home on Good Friday and Easter Sunday, the rest of the long weekend is the perfect opportunity to enjoy fantastic familyfriendly activities in and around Cape Town.

From Easter egg hunts and movie nights under the stars to family hikes and exploring the V&A Waterfront, there is something to peak the interests of families of all ages and interests! Read on to find out more about what to do during Easter Weekend 2023, which takes place from 7 - 10 April this year. Have a “hoppy” Easter!

Do an Easter egg hunt!

Stretching all the way back to our childhoods, Easter egg hunts are a classic Easter activity! Many of us will remember the pure fun and excitement of hunting for eggs in our gardens and the joy of filling baskets with chocolatey treats! This year, several hotels and wine farms across Cape Town and the winelands will be hosting fun-filled Easter egg hunts, along with more Easter events! Head to the Belmond Mount Nelson for a full weekend of Easter festivities as well as to the One&Only hotel near the V&A Waterfront for Easter fun and Cabo Beach Club for a full day of beach fun for the family!

Rhebokskloof Wine Estate and Skilpadvlei Wine Farm just outside Stellenbosch are also hosting Easter events.

Do you have older kids who may need something a little more challenging? What about an escape room? HintHunt will be hosting special Easter themed escape rooms where you will hunt for Easter eggs while you search for clues!

Watch a movie at the Galileo Open Air Cinema

Enjoy Cape Town’s beautiful outdoors along with some new and classic films this Easter weekend when you attend the Galileo Open Air Cinema! The Galileo offers outdoor movie screenings at venues around Cape Town and you and the family can experience a movie under the stars combined with great venues and snacks! There will be various screenings over the Easter weekend. Enjoy a few laughs watching The Lost City at Kirstenbosch Gardens on Friday, 7 April, enjoy a rom-com favourite with About Time at Stellenbosch Vineyards on Saturday, 8 April, and make the most of a special Easter Sunday screening of The Rise of the Guardians at Six Gun Grill at Newlands Cricket Stadium on Sunday, 9 April!

Embrace nature on a family on a hike

Head outdoors this Easter weekend! Enjoy Cape Town’s famous outdoor areas with a family hike. Select a route to suit everyone’s fitness levels and ages. You could try a popular trail like Lion’s Head, the routes winding up the Table Mountain National Park mountain range from Kirstenbosch Gardens or one of the routes up Table Mountain itself. You can also take a look at some Hout Bay Hikes here. Be sure to drink lots of water and wear sunscreen. Head out in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat!

Explore the V&A Waterfront

The V&A Waterfront is one of the top attractions for visitors to Cape Town, and this Easter, there are a variety of fun things to see and do for the whole family! Enjoy world-class shopping and eating, play cave golf or take in a new blockbuster at the recently reopened cinema.

Excitingly, the V&A Waterfront Kids Market Easter Edition is back for 2023! This is a chance for aspiring young entrepreneurs to showcase their unique and creative businesses in a fun and fulfilling environment! The market runs from Saturday 8 April to Sunday 9 April between 10am and 3pm.

Another super memorable activity is a harbour cruise. Choose to take a leisurely boat trip, a sunset cruise or even a pirate-style boat trip on the Jolly Roger! Looking for something slightly different? Take a trip to Seal Island in Hout Bay or cruise around the canals in the Waterfront to see the vibrant district from the waterways.

Go kayaking in Hout Bay

Why not hit the ocean waves this long weekend? Enjoy a kayak adventure in Hout Bay and paddle along the beautiful coastline. See the stunning Chapman’s Peak and keep an eye out for seals, dolphins, penguins and sunfish! This activity is great for both beginners and experienced kayakers (it is useful to note that this activity will be weather dependent). Sea kayaking tours are also available in Mouille Point and Simon’s Town. Book ahead of time to avoid disappointment.

Get your creativity flowing at Clay Cafe

Looking for something more on the creative side? Head to Clay Cafe. This is a great option for families with members of all ages! Pre-book a table at either the Hout Bay location or Clay Cafe in the CIty venue and get ready to spend a few hours getting creative! Clay Cafe provides the pottery and paints and will fire and glaze the pieces for you which you will need to collect in a few weeks time. Simply pick the item(s) you’d like to paint (mugs, plates, plant pots, batman sculptures… you name, it’s probably there!), grab your tools and start creating! Tasty food, coffee and sweet treats are available and there is an outdoor area for kids to play in at the Hout Bay venue.

Cycle (or scoot!) along the promenade

Feel like a kid again while the family zooms along the Sea Point Promenade! There are a number of ways to explore the promenade with two of the most popular being to rent a bike and cruising along the walkway on an e-scooter (the same company also rents out e-bikes). The route along the promenade is flat and there are no cars, making it a safe and fun route for all ages - just be on the lookout for pedestrians! There are also bike rental stations in Camps Bay and the Silo District at the Waterfront for a different point of view. Grab your helmets and get ready to pedal (or zoom!) away a few hours of the day!

Experience the marine world at the Two Oceans Aquarium

Discover the wild wonders of the ocean at Cape Town’s Two Oceans Aquarium! Located at the V&A Waterfront, it offers a fully fun educational experience for people of all ages. See sharks swim, watch penguins gobble fish, wander through the exhibits and get a closer look at marine life at the touch pool and microscope exhibit. It’s sure to be a super fun afternoon out which doubles up as a lesson in why it is vital to look after our Oceans.

Make the most of this Easter weekend with one of these fun-filled family activities! Whether you choose to go on an epic easter egg hunt, hike through Cape Town’s famous fynbos-filled landscapes or watch a movie outdoors, it’s sure to be special as long as you spend it with your loved ones. To everyone who is celebrating, have a wonderful Easter!

Are you on the look out for a fun, tasty and vibey way to spend a Friday night in Cape Town? Head down to the Blue Bird Garage Market in Muizenberg for an evening of great local food, products and music!

Cape Town is well-loved for its excellent market scene by locals and visitors alike. From morning meanders through places like the Oranjezicht City Farm Market and wandering through the funky walkways of Bay Harbour Market to grooving the night away at Mojo Market, you can look forward to an array of market experience options in Cape Town! In this blog, we introduce you to the eclectic, creative and “vibey” Blue Bird Garage Market. This night market is open on Thursday and Friday evenings (as well as select Wednesdays) and is the perfect spot to kick back and relax if you find yourself around Cape Town’s Southern Peninsula!

Read on to find out everything you need to know about the Blue Bird Garage Market!

What is the Blue Bird Garage Market?

Muizenberg locals will most likely be familiar with this rather low-key, casual, bohemian market spot. Situated in an old, converted plane hangar, this market takes place every Thursday and Friday night. Here, you’ll find an eclectic mix of local food stalls, bakers, artisans, designers and more. Take your pick of great food options and peruse the stacks of second-hand books, jewellery, vintage products, local brands and more. It’s a spot that is full of unique Cape Town character!

There is a strong laid-back, “local is lekker” and family atmosphere, with diverse age groups gathering to enjoy a Friday night. The kids will have a whale of a time in the kiddies area and you may even see a few four-legged friends roaming around as the market is dog-friendly!

Grab a drink at the aptly named Bicycle Bar (keep an eye on the ceiling to see the decor!) or amble through the back courtyard to the recently opened Speakeasy where you can enjoy cocktails, gin & tonics and more.

Keen on a bargain? Make your way to the Blue Bird Garage Market on the first Wednesday of every month for the monthly Thrift Fest! You’re sure to find some excellent deals and enjoy a lovely night out.

Where is it located?

The market is located in a converted plane hanger at 39 Albertyn Road in Muizenberg. Onstreet parking is available nearby (please be vigilant if walking to your car late at night - as you would anywhere in a major city or suburb) and always remember that if you’re planning on enjoying a few drinks, Uber is a great idea.

Muizenberg is conveniently located within the Southern Peninsula. It is accessible from the Southern Suburbs, Hout Bay and even the city bowl is only a +-30-minute drive away!

When can I visit the Blue Bird Garage Market?

The Blue Bird Garage Market is open on Thursdays and Fridays from 4pm - 10pm.

What kind of vendors will I find at the Blue Bird Garage Market?

There is a diverse mix of vendors at the market! The food selection includes pizzas, burgers, Turkish kebabs, falafel, Thai food, Japanese food, Chinese food, curries, vegan and vegetarian fare and much, much more. There is a fairly large second-hand book stall as well as clothing, shoes, jewellery and leather goods vendors! You’ll also find an array of sweet treats, homeware, artisanal ceramics, and homemade goods - with lots of vegan-friendly options too!

What can I expect from a visit to the Blue Bird Garage Market?

Laid-back, casual, bohemian, Muizenberg vibes are what you can expect from the Blue Bird Garage Market! It will be a fun evening out, buzzing with energy. It really feels like getting a taste of local life!

It’s a great option for a family outing as well as for a fun night out with friends, no matter your age! Arrive, browse the stalls and take your pick of a delicious dinner option before grabbing a drink at the bar. Find a spot at one of the long, picnic-style tables (you’ll most likely be sharing the bigger tables - all the more reason to make new friends!) and then it’s time to relax, tuck into your food and enjoy the music and atmosphere!

What else can I enjoy in Muizenberg?

If you happen to be enjoying the day in Muizenberg, you can look forward to great surfing, swimming and beach time - it’s a real surfers haven! The beachfront is also where you’ll find Muzienberg’s iconic colourful beach huts. This is one of the most popular neighbourhoods in summer for a reason!

There are also a bunch of independent stores, surf shops (including the oldest surf shop in Cape Town) and book shops you can browse and home-grown eateries (as well as some wellknown local brands) that you can enjoy. Head to Surfer’s Corner to grab a bite to eat and a cool drink and watch the waves rolling in over False Bay!

Be sure to follow the Blue Bird Garage Market on their social media pages and website for updates on events and more information on new market features!

Are you ready to enjoy a vibey Friday night of your own at Blue Bird Garage Market? Or even make it a fun Thursday night dinner to shake up the work week a bit! Head on down to this quirky corner of Muizenberg and experience the unique atmosphere. Plus, keep an eye on the dk villas blog for more insights and recommendations on new, cool and quirky places to visit around Cape Town!

Tucked away on Papegaai Street in Stellenboach is a brand new restaurant, courtesy of South African chef and restauranteur Bertus Basson. Many of us will recognise Basson’s name in connection to fine dining destinations such as Overture, Eike, CHORUS at Waterkloof Wine Estate and casual eateries Die Vrije Burger and The Deck. In February 2023, Kantien became the latest addition to Basson’s impressive group of restaurants!

This blog writer was lucky enough to grab a spot for lunch on Kantien’s first full day in operation. Read on to find out more about Stellenbosch’s latest must-visit restaurant.

What is Kantien?

Kantien is the newest establishment to join Basson’s growing list of incredible restaurants. While Basson has been at the helm of several fine dining destinations, Kantien is a laid-back, casual eatery - perfect for a relaxed meal in a lovely, chilled-out setting. You can dine in or order takeaway. The casual spot is inspired by biker bars and motorbikes, skull designs and leather accents tastefully come together in the decor to create a cool, vibey atmosphere. It’s laid-back rock n’ roll!

Where is Kantien?

You’ll find Kantien on 6 Papegaai Street in Stellenbosch. Located in a historic building just off Dorp Street, Kantien is situated right next to Eike, one of Basson’s most famous restaurants. This is also the location of Parkeer - Basson’s pop-up pizza stop that sets up shop in the Eike parking lot every Friday and Saturday.

Stellenbosch is a scenic university town in the Cape Winelands. Surrounded by dramatic mountains and dozens of beautiful wine farms, “Stellies”, as it's known by locals, is a truly picturesque destination. It also boasts an impressive culinary scene and Kantien is the latest must-see foodie spot! Papegaai Street is located near the centre of town - just far away enough from the hustle and bustle that you can genuinely sit back and relax with a cold beer and a pizza hot out of the oven.

What kind of food is on the menu?

While neighbouring Eike is all about elevated, nostalgic and indulgent South African dishes, Kantien spins this approach into everyday eats that pack a punch with flavour. Think pizzas, chicken “sandos”, burgers, crispy squid, salads, tater tots and (drumroll please) smoked provolone cheese that will have your mouth watering. There are also dessert options as well as a variety of local wines and beers on the menu too.

What can I expect from a visit to Kantien?

You can expect a relaxed atmosphere and delicious food! From the moment you walk up the street to Kantien, you immediately feel the vibe.

Arriving at Kantien, motorbikes line the pavement outside the restaurant. Patrons donned sunglasses and sipped cool beers while relaxing on the outside seating, perusing the menus. The waitstaff helpfully fit us in and sat us at a table outside (despite our group not having a lunch booking) and we excitedly checked out the menu.

You can look forward to simple, elevated, wholesome and (obviously) delicious dishes. Staying true to its laid-back vibe, Kantien’s menu is not elaborate or long-winded. You’ll find a couple of snacks, large plates and pizzas listed. Our group ordered a few snacks, sharing plates and a pizza. The grilled chicken sando (burger) and tater tots were incredibly tasty while ‘Die Ouma’ pizza is a unique adventure for the taste buds with toppings made up of pickled ox tongue, slap hakskeentjies (sweet and sour onions) and nasturtium (edible flowers) - this “simple” pizza was nowhere near simple! Finally, the most popular dish of the day was the smoked provolone (Italian cheese) with chilli and honey. Served bubbling hot, straight from the oven in a mini iron skillet, and accompanied by freshly baked bread, this was the unexpected favourite of the day for the group!

Best time to visit and do I need to book?

Kantien is open for lunch and dinner, from Tuesday to Saturday between 12 pm and 8 pm. If you’re looking for a laid-back destination, a relaxed vibe and dishes that are bursting with flavour, Kantien is the place to be. It’s great for everyone; friends, dates, and even families with kids who are keen to try familiar-food-with-a-twist. Booking a table is always a great idea - bookings can be made via email kantien@bertusbasson.com or by phone 071 1383991. If you’re a cheese fan, be sure to add the smoked provolone to your order!

From Stellenbosch to Franschhoek and Paarl, the Cape Winelands is a culinary destination of note with numerous incredible food and wine venues just waiting to be explored. Kantien is the latest must-see in the Cape Winelands so be sure to add it to your foodie bucket list during your next trip to Stellenbosch. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a laid-back, delicious meal!

February is the month of love! The most romantic day of the year arrives on the 14th of February and this is the perfect opportunity to shower your loved one with love, gratitude and appreciation! In honour of Valentine’s Day 2023, dk villas has put together a list of romantic quotes to celebrate. Prepare to feel lots of warm and fuzzy feelings!

Better yet, we’ve given our Valentine’s Day quotes a Cape Town twist by including some wonderful imagery of Cape Town and its surroundings. The “Mother City” is one of the most beautiful destinations in the world making it the perfect spot for a romantic date or getaway. From beach picnics to a romantic meal at a fine-dining establishment, and whether you like to “go big” or keep it low key and personal, you’ll be at no shortage of ideas for romantic things to do in Cape Town!

Without further ado, get into the romantic swing of things with these 14 quotes for Valentine’s Day 2023:

1. “It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye.”
- Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, The Little Prince

2. “Love recognizes no barriers, it jumps hurdles, leaps fences, penetrates walls to arrive at its destination, full of hope.”
- Maya Angelou

3. "You can't blame gravity for falling in love."
- Albert Einstein

4. “There is no charm equal to tenderness of heart.”
- Jane Austen, Emma

5. “There is always some madness in love. But there is also always some reason in madness.”
- Friedrich Nietzsche

6. “The best thing to hold onto in life is each other.”
- Audrey Hepburn

7. "Every heart sings a song, incomplete, until another heart whispers back."
- Plato

8. "Have enough courage to trust love one more time and always one more time."
- Maya Angelou

9. “Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength while loving someone deeply gives you courage.”
- Lao Tzu

10. "How do you spell love? You don’t spell love. You feel it."
- Piglet and Pooh, AA Milne, Winnie the Pooh

11. "It is a curious thought, but it is only when you see people looking ridiculous that you realize just how much you love them."
- Agatha Christie

12. “You know you’re in love when you can’t fall asleep because reality is finally better than your dreams.”
- Dr. Seuss

13. "I hope you don't mind that I put down in words how wonderful life is while you're in the world."
- Elton John, “Your Song”

14. "Where there is love, there is life."
- Mahatma Gandhi

By now, you should be embracing the love with these wonderful words. Whether it’s your partner, family or friends, everyone deserves to feel some love today, and everyday; so share these quotes with your loved ones this Valentine’s Day!

One of the biggest global trends for 2023 is health and wellness. After nearly 3 years of pandemics, lockdowns, restrictions and stress in general, more and more people are recognising the importance of looking after their bodies and minds.

With many of us experiencing months of fatigue and burnout with little to no relief, there is a huge surge in people seeking opportunities to relax, refocus, rejuvenate weary bones and feel soul-stirring experiences in 2023. The great news is that Cape Town is a fantastic destination to do just this! From yoga sessions and wellness retreats to relaxing spa days and mindful time spent surrounded by stunning scenery, Cape Town offers it all in a gorgeous setting!

Take a look at these health and wellness activities that you can enjoy in and around Cape Town in 2023:

Spa Day

A day at the spa is a classic “treat yourself” experience. It’s a chance to completely relax with several treatments that are sure to rejuvenate your body. A day at the spa also gives you a chance to completely switch off for a few hours and disconnect from the everyday stresses of life. Cape Town offers a number of world-class spas and wellness retreats. Better yet, these spas are located in truly stunning locations! From the slopes of Table Mountain to the rolling vineyards of the Cape Winelands.

Spas at hotels including the One&Only, Amani Spa at the Radisson Blu, Librisa Spa at the Mount Nelson, the Cape Grace and more in Cape Town offer enticing treatments and day packages, while further outside of the city in the Cape Winelands you can enjoy a relaxing day out at Babylonstoren, Mangwanani, Majeka House, Lanzerac Spa and more!

Yoga

When people think of health and wellness, yoga is probably one of the first things that spring to mind. Yoga is a combination of physical, mental and spiritual practices that, when practised regularly, greatly improve both fitness and mental health. Yoga has a history reaching back millennia and today it is practised globally both as part of religion and as a general wellness activity.

Practice your best downward dog, flow through a Sun Salutation, relax into a Shavasana and more at private yoga studios around Cape Town. Yogalife, Hot Dog Yoga, The Shala and AWAKE Yoga studio are a few great options.

Be sure to keep an eye out for outdoor yoga events around the city - you’ll most likely find these events advertised on Facebook and Instagram. You could even try out SUP (Stand Up Paddle Boarding) yoga in the city at the V&A Waterfront’s canals or at Clifton and Camps Bay beaches!

Meditation

Meditation is another classic health and wellness activity. As a practice, meditation is the act of clearing and calming your mind using a combination of mental and physical techniques. Managing anxiety, reducing stress and lowering blood pressure are just some of the incredible benefits of regular mindful meditation. It’s all about finding your “zen”!

While it is pretty simple to practice meditation at home or solo in a beautiful outdoor area, many people enjoy community-led meditation. Join a meditation class and practice spirituality at several spots around the city. Shambala South Africa, The Art of Living, Tushita Kadampa Buddhist Centre, and Yoga Life are some wonderful options.

Wellness Festivals

You could also enjoy time away at a wellness festival! Events like Retreat Yourself offer people the chance to embrace wellness for a weekend in a beautiful location! Activities include yoga, meditation, pilates, movement classes, dance and soul-stirring activities like Talk Circles, combined with champagne brunches, cooking masterclasses and experiential bars!

Fitness

Staying active is a huge part of staying healthy! And Cape Town offers countless opportunities to get active in a number of exciting ways.

Join a local gym where you can use the equipment and facilities that cover a range of fitness areas including weights and cardio as well as sports-specific facilities such as spinning, tennis, volleyball and squash. You can also join the classes and enjoy instructor-led sessions! Virgin Active and Planet Fitness are two big names with several locations in the wider Cape Town area. Alternatively, join niche gyms that focus on specific sports like Brazilian Ju Jitsu, MMA, Karate and more.

Another popular activity in Cape Town is rock climbing. You can do this outdoors or in one of the city’s climbing gyms such as Block11 or CityROCK.

One of the best things about Cape Town is the natural scenery. So, combining staying fit and getting active with the chance to experience Cape Town’s natural scenery is unbeatable! There are several excellent outdoor fitness activities to enjoy including hikes, trail runs, cycling and mountain biking. For something at a slower pace, why not enjoy some of the beautiful nature walks in national parks and mountains located around the peninsula and the along the West Coast? Kirstenbosch National Park, Silvermine Nature Reserve and West Coast National Park are three excellent options. Be sure to slow down and “smell the roses” while you’re at it!

Love the water? Get active on and in the cool ocean waves surrounding the city. Grab a paddle and hit the waves when you go sea kayaking. Cruise the waves while enjoying the relaxing atmosphere and breathtaking views of the shoreline and the horizon. Plus, you’ll get the chance to catch glimpses of local marine life including dolphins, seals, sunfish and even penguins! Get an even closer look at life beneath the waves when you go snorkelling (one of the best places to do this is Hout Bay!) and scuba diving which is also popular around the Southern Peninsula.

Alternatively, keep it simple with a cold water swim! It’s widely known that Cape Town’s oceans are not always the warmest… but the good news is that taking a dip in cold water has a number of health benefits! These mental and physical benefits include improving your circulation, exercising all your muscle groups, and burning more calories (when compared to swimming in warmer water - this is thanks to the shivering!). It also reduces stress and encourages the release of endorphins also known as a “cold water high!” Additionally, joining a swimming group or community also encourages making more friends and building relationships - these are all things that boost our mental health. So why not take a leap into the chilly water this year?

In Cape Town, whatever you’re doing, simply make sure you’re moving and being mindful to experience a positive impact on your health and wellness in 2023!

A brand new year has arrived and there is so much to see and enjoy around Cape Town in 2023! From epic races and sporting events to world-class festivals and natural sights sure to wow the senses, the city plays host to a variety of incredible events in 2023.

To help you make the most of it all, dk villas has put together a list of the top events taking place in Cape Town this year. It was no easy task to limit the list to just 7! There are many more exciting events set to take place so be sure to keep an ear out for them. Take a look below and start planning your bucket list!

Here are the top 7 events not to miss in Cape Town in 2023:

1. The Ocean Race

Date: 5 - 26 February 2023
Location: V&A Waterfront

Calling all sailing enthusiasts! And anyone who enjoys great sports spectacles; head to the V&A Waterfront in February 2023 to experience The Ocean Race. The 14th edition of the annual round-the-world sailing event makes its stop in the Mother City from 5 to 26 February. The Ocean Race is the world’s toughest sailing event. This year, the event takes place over 6 months with competitors racing high-performance ocean-going racing yachts, traversing 4 oceans and visiting 5 continents. Each team will have completed a whopping 32,000 nautical miles by the end of the race!

In Cape Town, make a stop at the V&A Waterfront, which is an official Race Village, in February and look forward to several exciting events. There will be a variety of engaging activities including an Ocean Sports Festival. The activities are specially curated to raise awareness for important issues of sustainability and keeping our oceans healthy.

For more information on the Cape Town stopover take a look at The Ocean Race Cape Town’s Facebook, Instagram and Twitter pages.

© Sailing Energy | The Ocean Race

2. Investec Cape Town Art Fair

Date: 17 - 19 February 2023
Location: CTICC

Discover the best in contemporary African art at the 2023 Investec Cape Town Art Fair! This is Africa’s largest contemporary art fair and this year is the event’s 10th anniversary. Visitors can look forward to hundreds of exhibitors with artists, curators and galleries attending the event hosted at the CTICC in Cape Town’s bustling city centre. Both local and international guests attend to make connections and engage with the incredible art pieces. The art fair will be a hybrid with exhibitions available to view online and in person. Look forward this year’s theme “The Notion of Time” expressed via ideas illustrating the past, present and future. For more info and to book tickets, check out the official website.

3. Cape Town E-Prix

Date: 25 February 2023
Location: Green Point Stadium and surrounds

Another epic racing event will be taking over the streets of Cape Town this year! Electricpowered racecars will speed around the circuit surrounding Cape Town’s Green Point Stadium and the waterfront district. Cape Town is officially the first sub-Saharan African city to host a Formula E race and new high-powered Gen3 machines will be racing around the turns of the 2.8km track. Seats are available in the stands, at great viewpoints located around the circuit, or the Fan Village. A range of ticket prices and package offers are available. More info available here.

4. Cape Town Cycle Tour

Date: 12 March 2023
Location: Cape Town

Get ready for the biggest timed bike race in the world! In 2023, the Cape Town Cylce Tour will be celebrating its 45th year. Cycle around the Cape Peninsula with 109km and 42km distances available. Touted as the most beautiful bike race in the world, register for the race and you’ll cycle through Kalk Bay, Misty Cliffs and Chapman’s Peak; starting and finishing near the magnificent Table Mountain. Spectators can have almost as much fun as the cyclists! On the day, grab friends and family, pack a picnic and head to one of the great view points. Edinburgh Drive, Glencairn Beach, Simonstown, Noordhoek, Hout Bay and the finish line in Sea Point are fantastic options. Take a look at the official website for more info.

5. Two Oceans Marathon

Date: 15 April 2023
Location: Cape Town

Next up is a marathon often voted as one of the most breathtaking in the world! The Two Oceans Marathon route winds through Cape Town’s southern suburbs and towns in the Cape Peninsula, finishing up at the stunning University of Cape Town. Choose from competing in the 56km ultra marathon, 21.1km half marathon (taking place on 16 April), an international friendship walk and variety of fun runs taking place on the day.

6. Wildflowers (Clanwilliam Wildflower Show)

Date: August/September
Location: The West Coast region

When August and September roll around, the West Coast bursts into bloom. Spring brings with it fields of beautiful wildflowers. One of the most popular activities in Cape Town during this time period is to take a day trip to see the wildflowers. Head to destinations such as the West Coast National Park, Darling and Paternoster. In addition to this, Clanwilliam hosts an annual wildflower show where you can admire the beautiful blooms. Located 200km outside of Cape Town (about a 2 ½ hour drive), Clanwilliam is one of the oldest towns in South Africa and is also famous for being the Rooibos capital of the world! The annual wildflower show takes place in September. Keep an eye on their website for updates.

Psst… would you like a travel tip? Clanwilliam is just over a 1 ½ hour drive from Dwaskerbos making it a great day trip destination if you’re staying at our Skilliepark Dwaskersbos property!

Rocking the Daisies

Date: 6 - 8 October
Location: Cloof Wine Estate, Darling

Number 7 on this list is an event for the music lovers! This is one of Cape Town’s favourite events. Rocking the Daisies is an annual mutlti-day music festival that takes place on Cloof Wine Estate in Darling. Attendees from South Africa and further afield gather to camp, socialise and listen to world-class artists perform on the epic stages. You can look forward to both local and international big names performing. In previous years, Rocking the Daisies has been headlined by Black Coffee, the 1975, Mac Miller, MGMT, The Kooks, Wolf Alice and more!

Artist announcements will be revealed soon so be sure to stay up to date with the latest news and get your tickets!

Bonus: Musicians rocking Cape Town in 2023

Luckily for those of us who are living in or visiting the Mother City in 2023, there are several bigname singers and bands performing in Cape Town this year! Catch Imagine Dragons and Sting in February, Calum Scott in April and UB40 in May with more performers sure to be announced as the year goes on.

This is just a taste of what’s on in Cape Town this year. Keep up to date with the best things to see and do by checking out Cape Town Tourism, local tourism groups, What’s On in Cape Town and our Instagram and Facebook where we share info on all the best ways to experience this city. Here’s to an exciting and fun-filled year. Happy 2023 everyone!

Just like that, we are already saying goodbye to 2022! It’s been a bumper year for travel as the world has returned to a new normal and travel has recovered. The same goes for Cape Town; the city and its surrounding suburbs has been welcoming travellers from around the globe once again.

Here at dk villas, we have enjoyed a tremendous year. Each guest that we have welcomed to our properties in 2022 holds a special place in our hearts. Now, we would like to take a moment to look back on the year that was, express our gratitude to our new and returning guests, and offer a sneak peek into the upcoming year. Read on to hear more from dk villas owners Johan and Petra de Kock.

Dk villas 2022 Year in Review:

1. What have been the biggest achievements for dk villas in 2022?

We feel that 2022 has been the recovery phase after the impact of the Covid-19 epidemic that utterly dominated the previous two years. We have gone out of our way to maintain dk villas in high-profile visibility throughout and we are delighted that we have had a positive year with many new guests and many returning guests.

One common thread of comment among returning guests is that they had never expected to find the amazing quality of accommodation, fittings, fixtures and appliances, and that having experienced it once, and realising the enormous value of dk villas, they would not stay anywhere else.

2. Have there been any challenges in 2022? If so, how did you overcome them?

Regrettably, one of the big challenges that has really hit all South Africans this year, has been the massive impact of ongoing loadshedding. It has now become a very much permanent part of everyday life. Understanding how massively inconvenient and disruptive this can be for our guests, we have installed inverters and backup batteries in all of our Hout Bay units, providing our guests with sufficient power the keep their lights, television and WiFi on when the electricity is switched off. Installations at our Dwarskersbos unit will follow early in 2023.

3. For you two, what is the best thing about working in hospitality?

We are both from a hospitality background. Working with people and providing them with a special, rewarding and memorable experience is a great pleasure for us. We get to meet a wide variety of visitors to our city and have the opportunity to give them tips, help and guidance as to how to get the most out of their stay here.

Whether it be for a quick weekend visit or a leisurely month in Cape Town, we love to interact with our guests and provide them with as much input as they would wish. In each of our units, we also offer a custom-produced dk villas Guest Guide which gives the details of all attractions, places of interest, outdoor activities and restaurants in the area.

4. Are there any exciting new plans for dk villas in 2023 that you could share with us?

There are always plans at dk villas! The first plan is always to improve in any way possible on whatever it is that we do. Success is an ongoing journey, not a destination. We strive to improve on perfection constantly.

As for specific plans, keep following our website, our blogs, and our social media platforms to remain up to date with our forthcoming active and agile developments!

5. Why do you think people should visit Cape Town and the Western Cape in 2023?

Cape Town is regularly on lists of the most desirable city destinations in the world. As covered in the questions below, Cape Town boasts world-class sophistication, in conjunction with some of the most spectacular scenery and sights, offering visitors every opportunity to indulge in whatever sort of holiday you seek! The mere fact that one city offers Table Mountain, Robben Island, Cape Point, a variety of wine regions (some within the city itself), as well as the worldfamous V&A Waterfront is a strong drawcard to entice anyone to visit Cape Town.

Moving on to the remainder of the Western Cape, the West Coast region offers the rugged beauty of the Atlantic coastline. Inland, you’ll find the various regions and districts of the Great Karoo and Little Karoo. In Oudtshoorn, the Cango Caves and ostrich farms are a great attraction. Along the Garden Route are various towns, resorts and beaches offering visitors a vast choice of destinations. The growth in this part of the Western Cape has been substantial and it is served by George Airport, which offers a quick access point to all the destinations of the Garden Route, from Mossel Bay in the west to Plettenberg Bay in the east.

6. What makes South Africa a unique destination for travellers?

South Africa offers every possible form of holiday to suit the tastes of almost all travellers. A city like Cape Town is right up there amongst the most sophisticated and desirable cities in the world. Even better, we have every form of outdoor activity that one could wish for right on our doorstep. Hiking, serious mountain climbing, surfing, sailing, windsurfing, swimming, diving, offroad trails, and many more. The surrounding wine-growing regions within a 90-minute drive from the city offer the most amazing scenery and culinary delights. Moving beyond our city, the rest of South Africa offers a vast variety of big game viewing at incredible safari destinations. South Africa truly has it all!

7. What would you like to say to your guests from this year?

Our thanks to all of our new and returning guests for your support and wonderfully favourable comments. We strive to continuously provide you with the finest facilities and service. In terms of setting standards of perfection for you, we regard 100% as being the pass-mark that we always aim to achieve, and aim never to drop below 100% service, facilities and value.

To all of our guests - thank you once again and we wish you a peaceful and prosperous New Year. Never stayed with us before? We hope to be welcoming you to a dk villas property soon! Here’s to an amazing 2023 filled with great people, great adventures and great memories!

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! In just a few short weeks, Christmas Day will be here. Cape Town is getting into the swing of things with some excellent festive season events taking place around the city and its surrounding areas.

South Africa celebrates Christmas in the summertime. This means, that while we may not experience any snowy days and won’t necessarily be cosying up next to any fireplaces, we will be making the most of the festive season under the sun! Locals and visitors in Cape Town get to embrace the long days, warm weather, sandy beaches and ocean waves. Don’t worry about missing out on a Christmas experience though as the festive spirit is still strong! Take a look at the festive events below to enjoy during December 2022.

The Best Christmas Events around Cape Town in December 2022:

Makers Market Festive Edition - Dates: 26 November - 31 December

Throughout the year, Makers Landing in the waterfront hosts several exciting markets, cooking classes and food and drink festivals. The Makers Market Festive Edition takes place every weekend from late November until the end of December. Visit and enjoy festive handmade gifts, local artisanal food and drinks plus fun activities for the whole family! Find Makers Landing at the V&A Waterfront Cruise Terminal.

Kirstenbsoch summer sunset concert series - Dates: Various dates during the summer season

Embrace the best of the festive feeling this season while enjoying one of the city’s most beautiful outdoor spaces! Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden hosts a Summer Sunset Concerts series from December to January. During the 2022/23 season, head to the beautiful Kirstenbosch gardens to watch performers such as Mi Casa, Goldfish, Majozi and more! Get tickets here.

Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol - Dates: 29 November - 10 December

Watch one of Charles Dickens's most famous tales come to life on stage this festive season! Theatre on the Bay is putting on a production of the classic Christmastime favourite for the whole family to enjoy - find tickets here.

Interestingly, 2022 is the year for this famous Dickens story! Two new Netflix films are premiering this festive season. Spirited is a musical version of A Christmas Carol starring Ryan Reynolds and Will Ferrell while Scrooge: A Christmas Carol is a new animated version of the classic tale. If you can’t make it to Theatre on the Bay, be sure to add these two films to your watch list!

The Nutcracker at the Artscape - Dates: 7 - 23 December

Why not watch the Cape Town City Ballet perform a Christmas classic? Enjoy a festive night out with an evening spent enjoying the talented performers of the Cape Town City Ballet in action! The Nutcracker is the tale of a family gathering on Christmas Eve; taking the audience on an enchanting adventure featuring the Nutcracker Prince, the Sugar Plum Fairy and the Mouse King. The ballet will take place at the Artscape Opera House and the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra will perform at select shows. Find more information here.

Imhoff Farm Christmas Market - Dates: 19 - 22 December

Around the Southern Suburbs and looking for a great way to spend an evening in the week before Christmas? Visit the Imhoff Farm Christmas Market in Kommetjie! Browse vendors offering a variety of local food and crafts at the evening market, from art, clothing and handmade gifts to great local food and produce. It’s a wonderful way to round off a day in this beautiful part of the Cape Peninsula!

Franschhoek Village Christmas Market - Dates: 16, 17 and 18 December

Enjoy the incredible scenery of the Cape Winelands with a visit to the Franschhoek Village Christmas Market. Franschhoek is famous for its wine farms and gourmet cuisine. The village itself is warm and welcoming with a weekend market. During December, the market gets into the festive swing of things! Shop for unique gifts while enjoying the live music and food stalls of this family-friendly market. Furry friends are welcome too!

DARG Christmas Night Market - Date: 16 December

Feel the joy of giving back this festive season! Visit DARG (Domestic Animal Rescue Group) in Hout Bay on Friday 16 December for a wonderful Christmas Night Market. Support the adorable animals during your visit while doing your Christmas shopping or simply enjoying the vibe! You can browse crafts, fresh produce, home decor, art, second-hand books and antiques. Tuck into dishes hot from the food trucks, listen to the live music and enjoy the company of the DARG pooches!

Christmas Special at Warwick Wine Estate - Date: 10 December

Have you had your fill of markets and Christmas shopping? Try something different with a visit to Warwick Wine Estate in Stellenbosch for a festive day out on 10 December! Enjoy a joyful Christmas atmosphere with live music and a gourmet picnic. This is the perfect way to sit back and relax under the sunshine and enjoy the South African summer Christmas-time experience!
Dress up for the occasion in your best festive gear and look forward to a jolly afternoon. As Warwick Wine Estate says, this event is sure to put you in the ho ho ho-liday mood! More information and tickets can be found here.

City Centre Christmas Lights Dates: Miscellaneous

Finally for this list is a perennial Christmas classic - Christmas lights! Each December, Cape Town city centre comes to life with a skyful of Christmas lights! While it was a more subdued affair during 2020 and 2021 due to travel restrictions, this year, the lights are back in full force! The Christmas lights were officially illuminated ay the end of November during the official Festive Lights Switch-On ceremony. With a crowd of 80,000, performances by famous South African artists and an impressive light show, the Festive Lights Switch On was an incredible way to launch this Christmas tradition! You can take a wander around the city centre either on foot or by car and admire the lights. Seeing the bright, sparkling colours is sure to get you into the festive spirit!

Jump straight into the festive season with these fun Christmas-time events! You get to see some of Cape Town’s most beautiful spots while celebrating with friends and family, what could be a better way to end off the year?

These are just a selection of the fun activities taking place around the city at this time of year so be sure to keep an eye on your social media channels for more exciting events!

South Africa is world-renowned for many reasons. The country is home to beautiful landscapes, rich history, stellar safaris and wildlife, warm hospitality and award-winning wines of course! Luckily, here in the Western Cape, we have a vast amount of wine farms and estates right in our backyard! Visiting these farms to experience the unique tastes and terroirs is truly a treat. In this blog, we cover a visit to Constantia Glen; a stunning wine farm located in Cape Town’s Southern Suburbs.

Read on below to find out more about what it’s like to spend an afternoon at Constantia Glen.

What is Constanita Glen?

Constantia Glen is a boutique wine farm in the Southern Suburbs of Cape Town. Situated on the Constantiaberg mountain slopes, just below Constantia Nek, the wine farm offers beautiful views of the vineyards and surrounding area in a picturesque setting!

The wine farm has a history dating back to the early 1800s, having been operated by several different families for several different functions over the generations. The Waibel family became custodians of the Constantia Glen in 1960 and set about the challenging task of transforming into a high quality wine-producing farm. Constantia Glen as its known today began in the early 2000s with the first Constantia Glen wine being produced in 2005.

The wine farm produces bespoke, cool climate wines. There are four Constantia Glen flagship wines available to order online or at the farm in person: Constantia Glen Sauvognon Blanc, Constantia Glen TWO, Constantia Glen THREE and Constantia Glen FIVE. When you’re visiting the farm, you’ll find these are joined on the menu by Van Wyk family wines and Constantia Saddle wines. The farm describes their award-winning offerings as including “crisp white wines and fresh, vibrant reds of great elegance and structure.”

Where is Constantia Glen?

As mentioned above, Contantia Glen is located in the Southern Suburbs, along the Constantia wine route. The Constantia Wine Route is located a short 20-minute drive from Cape Town City Centre, making it an excellent option for a wine farm trip while in Cape Town! Sitting in the heart of the suburbs, Constantia is easily accessible from neighbourhoods around the Cape Peninsula including Hout Bay (an afternoon trip while staying at a dk villas Hout Bay property, anyone?), Muizenberg, Simon’s Town and more.

The Cape Winelands, which includes famous wine destinations such as Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl, is 45 minutes to an hour outside of the city centre. While the Cape Winelands is an amazing day trip or longer sojourn, the Constantia Winelands are perfect for people looking for a wine experience close to the city.

What can I expect from a visit to Constantia Glen?

Visiting a wine farm like Constantia Glen is a super fun way to spend an afternoon. Visit, and you can look forward great wines, great views, great food and a great time! The tasting venue is split into inside and outside areas; with outside courtyards, a sun room, cosy private spaces and tables outside. The space is a great combination of elegance and modern comfort which creates the perfect atmosphere to sit back and enjoy yourself with family and friends. There are also beautiful lawns offering spaces to relax as well as great photo opportunities!

Enjoy several tasting options of offer which showcase the farm’s different products. You can sip your selection while enjoying the picturesque scenery! Not keen on a tasting? Order a bottle (or two) of your preferred wine and enjoy! Constantia Glen’s Cellar Door is the perfect place to buy a few of your favourite bottles during your visit.

Feeling hungry? Worry not, there is some incredible food on the menu! Tuck into the generous cheese and charcuterie boards or order one of Constantia Glen’s salads, soups or gourmet mains (including burgers, fish, beef fillet, goulash and more with lovely vegetarian optoins). Why not try a slice of flammkuchen? This thinly rolled flatbread originated in Alasace in France and the Palatinate region in Germany and is a must-try.

When is the best time to visit Constantia Glen?

One of the best things about Constantia Glen is that it is open year round and great to visit in any season. Warm summer days are perfect for lounging under the sun with a glass of white, spring and autumn offer milder weather and stunning views of the changing foliage while winter is perfect for cosying up inside next to a heater or under a blanket and sipping on a robust red.

Visit now to enjoy the sunshine and toast to the festive season with a glass of MCC!

Add Constantia Glen to your list of destinations to visit along the Constantia Wine Route. Be sure to keep an eye on our blog and social media channels for more recommendations on great things to do around Cape Town!

This week, Lonely Planet published its Best in Travel 2023 list. Several incredible destinations received accolades this year but the inclusion we are most excited about is South Africa! The Best in Travel list is Lonely Planet’s selection of destinations which they feel will be “buzzing in the year ahead”. While we already know how wonderful of a destination South Africa is, it is always exciting to see this incredible country recognised internationally!

For 2023, to help people discover more of the world and embark on unforgettable adventures, Lonely Planet has split the list of 30 destinations into five categories: eat, journey, connect, learn and unwind. Read on to find out how South Africa ranked!

The “Eat” list: Must-visit destinations for 2023

South Africa is placed in the “Eat” category, alongside five other mouthwatering destinations including Lima in Peru, Umbria in Italy, Fukuoka in Japan, Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia and Montevideo in Uruguay. Interestingly, South Africa is the only country on the list that is mentioned in its entirety (as opposed to selecting a single city). Locals and visitors who love South Africa will know this is due to the fact that no matter where you go in South Africa, you’re bound to stumble across something tasty!

Lonely Planet lauded South Africa as a wine destination, thanks to its internationally accoladed vineyards, many of which are not only wine-centric but offer incredible culinary experiences too! Beyond the vineyards, the publication also praised the country’s new generation of chefs who are propelling the South African culinary scene into the future. All of the above makes South Africa a must-visit destination for foodies in 2023!

South African food is a unique, social adventure

From traditional dishes like bobotie, chakalaka and pap, potjiekos and melktert, to South Africa’s signature snacks including biltong, vetkoek, droewors and “walkie talkies” (deep fried chicken head and feet), you’re guaranteed to come across something unique in South Africa.

In the “Rainbow Nation”, eating is a social activity. Whether you are sipping beer and swapping stories around a braai (also known as a shisa nyama), picnicking while on a beautiful hike, gathering around the table for Sunday lunch or catching up with friends over a meal at a renowned local restaurant, you’ll likely be enjoying great food and company!

A mix of flavours and influence

South Africa is often described as a “melting pot” of cultures. Looking back on the country’s history and the mix of different nations which have left their mark on South Africa over the centuries, it's no surprise that there has been an impact on our culture and cuisine. Examples are the French Huguenots in the Cape Winelands, the diaspora of African nations across the country, the Indian community in Durban and the Cape Malay community in and around Cape Town. The influences are felt in homes and restaurants around the country.

From laid-back local fare to fine dining

Over the past few years, South Africa has steadily grown as a culinary destination. Our favourite aspect of South Africa’s foodie scene is that you can enjoy the full spectrum; from cheap and cheerful local finds and warm and welcoming eateries to fine dining in award-winning restaurants.

South Africa is no “one-trick pony.” Walk around popular central destinations in cities such as Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban and you’ll find an eclectic mix of restaurants with cuisines from around the world to suit a range of tastes! Think Italian, Vietnamese, Chinese, Mexican, Indian, French cuisine and much more!

Two of the country’s most famous restaurants are the award-winning La Colombe in Cape Town’s southern suburbs and Wolfgat in Paternoster on the West Coast.

The best places for food lovers to visit in South Africa

A foodie-based trip will likely take you all over South Africa. Here are a few of the places we feel are the best for food lovers to visit:

• Cape Town
  Cape Town boasts a number of incredible experiences for foodies! Visit Bo Kaap and discover Cape Malay cuisine which you can try at local restaurants and during local cooking classes! For fine dining experiences, visit award-winning restaurants including the Test Kitchen, the Pot Luck Club and Belly of the Beast.




• The Cape Winelands & the Spice Route
  Of course, the beautiful Cape Winelands are included on this list! Visit the incredible variety of vineyards and wine estates in Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl, enjoying great wine and food as you go. For a great stop that offers a variety of excellent foodie options, visit the Spice Route in Paarl.




• The West Coast
  Travel up the West Coast for an unparalleled seafood experience! With the waves of the Atlantic Ocean lapping on the shore, you can look forward to fresh, tasty seafood at destinations along the West Coast. Die Standloper restaurant is one of the most popular spots in the region.




• The Karoo
  For a journey that is as unique as it is beautiful, travel through the stark and striking landscapes of the Karoo and Klein Karoo. While here, enjoy the famous Karoo lamb - you won’t taste anything like it elsewhere!




• The KZN Midlands
  For a truly Instagram-worthy road trip, venture along the Midlands Meander in Kwa-Zulu Natal. This beautiful part of South Africa boasts rolling green hills, sparkling blue dams and quaint towns and villages which lead up to the majestic Drakensburg Mountains. Throughout the Midlands, you can find welcoming local eateries as well as high-brow, fine-dining destinations.




• Durban
  Finally, if you find yourself in Durban, be sure to try an authentic Durban curry! The Indian cuisine scene in Durban is strong with variety and flavour and features dishes from the north and south of India. During a visit, be sure to try the uniquely-named Bunny Chow, which, interestingly, does not contain any bunnies!

More reasons to visit South Africa

In addition to the incredible cuisine, there are a number of reasons to visit South Africa. The landscapes are varied and offer exciting outdoor activities. Bustling cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg offer world-class shopping and eating while also boasting the allure of laid-back coastal and countryside getaways nearby. The wildlife, including the famous Big 5, in places such as the Kruger National Park is simply incredible and cements South Africa’s position as a top safari destination! Add all this to the affordability and welcoming locals, and a trip to South Africa will stay in your heart long after you return home!

Is exploring South Africa to experience the cuisine (and more!) on your bucket list for 2023 yet? It should be! Whether you are a first-time visitor, a long-standing South Africa fan or a local who wants to discover more of their home country, 2023 is the year to do it! Find your next adventure in South Africa.