From diving with and dining on crocodiles to pondering the concept of the afterlife on a ghost tour, the Cape Winelands District has a range of out-of-the chocolate box, ideas and activities for you and your significant other to celebrate your love. As an added bonus, the area caters to those of us who have kids or want to turn the day into a weekend since Valentines’ day falls on a Friday this year. There is no better way to build memories and cement love than to escape, from the hustle and bustle of daily life, slow down a bit and cruise into the magic of the Cape Winelands.
Franschhoek
The popular Franschhoek Village Market which is open to all every weekend will celebrate love with a special Valentine’s themed market. Bring your four legged kids, shop for supper, grab brunch and spend some time enjoying the outdoor vibe to the notes of local musicians.
Montagu
You can have a faBOOlous time on Valentine’s Day with Flying Feet. Explore Montagu by twilight on Dutch-style town bike, hand painted by one of the local artists while local story teller, Marchelle van Zyl shares hair raising ghost stories of the town as passed down by the locals. Don’t worry a local in a ghost costume won’t jump up on you from behind the trees though. There are day time trips too and all ages are welcome. Bookings are essential.
Paarl
If you need a little more excitement – get your adrenaline rush this Valentine’s Day at Le Bonheur Reptiles and Adventures where you can experience a close encounter from the safety of a Crocodile Cage. Divers can watch the fascinating Nile crocodile during feeding time. The venue houses over 1000 crocodiles so if close encounters are a bit much for you, view them from a distance. You can even go all the way and enjoy one of the delicious crocodile dishes on offer at the restaurant.
Tulbagh
Oudekloof Wine Estate are offering a romantic Sunset Tractor Trip that takes you to the top of the historic Oudekloof pass where you will be treated to premium wines and abundantly filled platters while the sun kisses the day good-bye. This activity harks back to a time where everything happened at a slower pace.
Pictures: Supplied