Off the Beaten Track: Top Summer Holiday Spots

From quiet seaside villages to picturesque inland towns, there is no denying the fact that South Africa puts on a stellar show for holiday makers during the summer months. With the year-end holiday season quickly approaching, it is hard to ignore the infectious festive air that seems ever-present during the last few months of the year.

Which leads to the inevitable question – where can one go to escape the hustle and bustle of city life? While the sunny beaches of Cape Town, Durban and St. Francis Bay may seem appealing, South Africa boasts a number of holiday destinations that lie off the beaten track and are often far less populated over the festive season. If you’re dreaming of spending a week of bliss in Mauritius but your most recent lotto ticket has produced less than favourable results, it may be time to explore a few local wonders that promise unforgettable experiences and a slower, refreshing pace.

While defying the high odds of a lottery Powerball win would be welcome during the festive season, and would probably be the deciding factor on a much-coveted trip to the Bahamas, there are a number of local holiday spots that boast incredible scenery, relaxation and a variety of activities (for those who can’t sit still for too long). From rolling hills and majestic mountains, to quaint seaside villages and bushveld hideaways, there are a number of summer holiday hotspots that are ideal for families and couples alike.

1. Napier

Off the beaten track and located in Overberg, Western Cape, Napier is an idyllic town that is best suited to those who are searching for calm and relaxation. With a handful of farm stalls, wine tasting farms and restaurants, the small town of Napier is a paradise for those who are looking to slow down the pace while set against the backdrop of the beautiful Overberg. With cycling and hiking activities on offer for the adventurous, it is recommended that you take along a new book (or two) for your holiday to Napier.

2. Camdeboo

If the best star gazing in the southern hemisphere is what you’re after, be sure to add Camdeboo to your list of holiday destinations! Set against the backdrop of the Karoo, the small town of Graaff-Reinet lies at the heart of the Karoo, and boasts a number of quaint, old-world shops, restaurants and attractions. The ideal spot for those who are looking to soak up the best of what the Karoo has to offer, the Camdeboo region is the perfect place in which to put your feet up and let down your hair.

3. Cintsa

A 15 kilometre stretch of surfer’s paradise, Cintsa Beach is one of South Africa’s best kept secrets. Surrounded by lush natural forest, this holiday hotspot in the Eastern Cape is ideal for sun and adventure seekers alike. With a semi-tropical climate and mild temperatures, Cintsa is a local spot of paradise for holiday makers who are looking to steer clear of the crowded beaches of more popular destinations.

As the countdown to the festive season begins, be sure to take the time to figure out the best way in which to spend your getaway, whether it’s by enjoying your favourite book or by taking advantage of the magnificent landscape. And if Mauritius is on the list for the New Year, be sure to keep a close eye on those lotto results!

Written by Thomas Moyse, editor of lotteryresults.co.za