For years I sat at my desk, dreaming about doing a road trip up, or down the west coast of South Africa. I have been to some towns along the coast before, but this time I did spent a bit more time exploring and a bit less time driving. My desk dream became a reality.

Bloubergstrand

Sometimes I drive here just to relax. It is close to Cape Town and does have the best views of Table Mountain (so always take a picture). It is also the best place to start a road trip from. I drove there early morning to start my trip and stopped at Blue Peter for coffee, and then breakfast. Soon it was lunch and the next moment I stayed the night in Blouberg. The next morning I started fresh with great memories and an even better breakfast – the perfect start to my trip, of yesterday! The cocktails on the beach as the sun set was worth it. When you do go on a road trip it is better to take it slow, even from the start, because taking it slow you get to experience a place and more importantly the people. It is the people you remember a year from now or even 10 years from now – and that is what travel is about.

Langebaan

I knew I had to move on, but it wasn’t easy. To get to Langebaan, I took the slower route and drove through the West Coast National Park. I did this once before during the flower season – even now without the colour it is worth it. The white sands and crystal blue waters of the lagoon is the biggest attraction in Langebaan, but I was joined by my sister and her family for a different type of attraction. We stopped at Die Strandloper for some open air beach dining. The food and atmosphere was something else. Delicious food that is prepared fresh on site. I made sure to investigate how they braaied some of the fish for my personal reference. Notes taken. The food and setting is spectacular, but all too soon,with full bellies it was time to go further north.

Paternoster

I have only been here once before and very quickly at that. This time I decided to stay 2 days and at the end of my visit I wished I could stay a lot longer. I stayed at the beautiful Paternoster Hotel and after walking and driving around town I think it has the perfect location. With friendly staff and a great restaurant I won’t stay anywhere else. It is also the location of the famous Panty Bar. Yes, it is exactly what you think. A bar full of panties. Paternoster is the most photogenic town on the West Coast. I spent every evening at sunset snapping hundreds of pictures of the sun, the town, the boats, the people, everything! You won’t be disappointed at any picture you take here. The best thing is there are many restaurants with beautiful views to enjoy the Paternoster sunset with a cold beer.

Cederberg

I can not catch a glimpse of this mountain range and not wander into the depths of it’s beauty. Even on a coastal drive I soon found myself traversing gravel roads, chasing beautiful destinations and falling asleep under a star lit sky. This is the place to replenish your soul. Enough said.

Elands Bay

Elands Bay bring back memories of a broken down car, midnight swimming and a great party at the Elands Bay Hotel. On a road trip this small town is the perfect place to stop over for a couple of nights or as I decided to do, for some delicious fish and chips on the beach. With a camp ground on the beach, a backpackers, hotel and other options – Elands Bay is the perfect destination to get away from anywhere and everywhere.

Strandfontein

Driving into a town for the first time I get this feeling about the town. Sometimes good, sometimes bad. Strandfontein made me smile. I have never been here before and after arriving I never wanted to leave. A beautiful beach – perfect for early morning jogs or late afternoon lounging – it has it all. A tidal pool for kids, a bar overlooking the tidal pool for everyone else, a camp site that was packed. I am sure you have to book now for next year already. After the sand has made it’s way into every part of your body and a break from the beach is needed, a short drive away is Vredendal. There are a couple of vineyards – like Lutzville Vineyards – that offer tastings or appetizing meals. Now who am I to resist a chocolate and wine pairing at Namaqua Wines? I did not actually stay in Strandfontein, but ended up being there more then anywhere else. I almost changed my entire schedule just so that I could extend my stay. Now where did I put that property listing?

Before I went on this trip, I overheard someone say: ‘Don’t go further than Bloubergstrand. The west coast is boring!’. How wrong was that person. The west coast has more to offer then you think, and it is best discovered slowly. With wine. And chocolate.