News / 21 June 2023
Our winter travel tips & must-dos
Winter holiday tips to help you leave the couch
There's no shortage of holiday boltholes to cosy up in this winter. But if roaring hearths and hot chocolate isn’t enough to get you out the door, lower rates, fewer crowds, and last-minute availability might.
Not sure where to go? Here are our top recommendations and travel tips from our teams across our portfolio of lodges, hotels, and resorts:
"With fewer crowds and quieter roads, winter is the perfect time to snap up a stay in the heart of the Mother City. Why not make the most of our off-peak rates?"
The Peninsula All-Suite Hotel, Cape Town ![]()
"Come to the Cape Winelands, where you can scooch in close to the fire with a glass of something lovely. Here's a hidden secret: Franschhoek's vineyard-clad landscape is even more handsome during winter!"
Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa, Franschhoek![]()
"From June, The Garden Route becomes a hotspot for whale watching. Book a few nights with us along the banks of the Hartenbos Lagoon, where you can nip across to Mossel Bay and catch Southern rights making their way down the coast."
Hartenbos Lagoon Resort, Hartenbos![]()
"Travel how you like this winter with a self-catering holiday at Oaklands on the Knoll. We're just 500 metres from Knysna, where the Oyster Festival kicks off from 30 June to 9 July."
Oaklands on the Knoll, Knysna![]()
"With jaw-dropping mountain views and spacious villas with crackling fireplaces, Stonehill ticks the right box for a winter retreat. Join a guided walk, walk our labyrinth or explore all the local wonders of Swellendam."
– Stonehill River Lodge, Swellendam![]()
"Between August and October, head up the West Coast to catch the Cape wildflowers in bloom. Make a holiday out of it with a stay at 'Piekies'. We have ample availability and plenty of activities to keep the kids preoccupied."
Piekenierskloof Mountain Resort, Citrusdal ![]()
"After a recent revamp, we're ready to welcome local travellers looking to soothe their aches and ailments in our warm, mineral-rich spring water. Families can still make a splash at Avalon Springs even if the sun isn't out in full force."
Avalon Springs, Montagu![]()
"Wintertime heralds the start of the annual Sardine Run along the KZN South Coast, known as the 'Greatest Shoal on Earth'. With the warm Indian Ocean on your doorstep, there's no better time to visit to catch that South Coast fever."
Blue Marlin Hotel, Scottburgh![]()
"Want to escape the cold? Zimbali is your gateway to exploring the warmer North Coast of KZN. Just 20 minutes' drive from King Shaka International Airport, a tropical resort-style holiday is right at your frozen fingertips."
Zimbali Lodge, Ballito![]()
"Don't let the cold stop you from enjoying the outdoors. Here at Jozini, sunset cruises and tiger fishing excursions top the agenda. You'll have even more choice with increased availability during the low season."
Jozini Tiger Lodge & Spa, Jozini Dam![]()
"Wintertime at Nibela allows you to make the most of off-season rates with breakfast and an activity included! Hang up the car keys and catch a ride on our exclusive ferry service from False Bay."
Nibela Lake Lodge, St. Lucia![]()
"If getting out into the bush tops your winter wish list, head to the game-rich Tembe Elephant Park. Aside from the guided drives and walks, this region offers a treasure trove of activities that won't keep you stuck indoors."
Royal Thonga, Tembe Elephant Park![]()
"If you're travelling between Joburg and Durban this winter, make a game-viewing pitstop Tala. Time your visit just right, and you might even experience a rhino dehorning with the team at Rave Rhino."
Tala Game Reserve, Camperdown![]()
"Turn up the winter charm with a stay at Little Switzerland. Our Alpine-style accommodation offers roaring fireplaces, walking trails, and ponies grazing out front. If that's not enough to lure you in, our glorious mountain views and pet-friendly chalets should."
Little Switzerland Resort, Bergville![]()
"Mount Savannah is less than 45 minutes' drive from central Gauteng. Situated within the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site, you can discover the birthplace of humanity or simply get some much-deserved peace and quiet."
Mount Savannah Game Reserve, Cradle of Humankind![]()
"The bush is a wonderful time to be during winter! Here at Finfoot, the fun continues for families with bush walks or game drives, sunset barge cruises and Segway safaris. We're also just a 90-minute drive from Johannesburg!"
Finfoot Lake Reserve, Elands River Game Reserve![]()
"The best time for game viewing in South Africa is always during the winter months when the bush thins out, making it harder for the animals to hide. Located between Johannesburg and Gaborone, Madikwe River Lodge is just the place to be!"
Madikwe River Lodge, Madikwe Game Reserve![]()
"Spend quality time with loved ones in our self-contained bush lodges. Light up the braai, bring out the boardgames and bundle up with sundowners in hand. We're also only a kilometre from the Paul Kruger Gate."
Burchell's Bush Lodge, Sabie Park![]()
"Hike, bike, and trout fish to your heart's content at Highland Run. Remote and romantic, there's no better place to hideout this winter than our cosy cottages."
Highland Run Fly Fishing Estate, Lydenberg![]()
"No need to rough it on your next winter safari. Our self-catering accommodation near the Kruger strikes the right balance between comfort and authenticity. Families are more than welcome, too!"
Jackalberry Ridge, Marloth Park![]()
"The best time for game viewing within the Greater Kruger is, you guessed it, winter! As the foliage thins out, it gets much harder for the animals to hide, which results in generous sightings."
Mjejane Bush Camp, Kruger National Park![]()
"With lower rates, Olifants River Lodge offers a welcome respite for those on a budget. Guests can camp, caravan, or stay in one of our comfortable cabins, chalets, or apartments."
Olifants River Lodge, Middelburg ![]()
"Follow that summer sun across the border into Mozambique. If you're looking for an affordable winter holiday, pack your passports and head to the seaside town of Bilene."
Bilene Lodge, Praia do Bilene![]()
