A spring (holiday) in your step

Here in South Africa, every season holds its own allure. But there’s always something particularly special about spring. The mornings become a little lighter (and warmer), the landscape is slowly painted green, and as if by magic, new flowers burst from the ground. 

This optimistic time of year offers plenty of travel opportunities, with fewer crowds and special rates – and the chance to step back out into the sunshine with loved ones. 

Get ready to grab your floppy hats and floral prints, then read through our shortlist of where to go this spring: 

Stop to smell the wildflowers 

Each year between August and October, South Africa’s West Coast undergoes a brilliant transformation with the anticipated arrival of the Cape wildflowers.  

Take full advantage of this year's display on an affordable self-drive up the West Coast. The West Coast National Park is the go-to, as are the towns of Yzerfontein, Hopefield and Darling. The local dorpie of Citrusdal, where Piekenierskloof Mountain Resort is situated, presents another hotspot for flower spotting. The earlier you get there, the better! 

A springtime safari 

Aside from the spectacular colours that appear, springtime also brings new life to the South African bush. It may be a little harder to see some of the larger animals in all the new foliage, but the diversity of creatures that comes with the change in season more than makes up for it.  

If you’re based in Gauteng, head to Finfoot Lake Reserve, and experience a boating or Segway safari as a change of pace. You could also escape into the wilderness at Mount Savannah Game Reserve. Since spring is still considered a low season on South African travel calendars, this means wonderful opportunities to enjoy sightings without jostling around other self-drivers. 

Seasonal springtime dining

This is the time of year for spring greens, aromatic herbs and fresh fruits. The best place to go, you ask? The “gourmet capital” of the Cape: Franschhoek.  

Snap up a table at one of Le Franschhoek Hotel and Spa restaurants. Rising temperatures mean High Tea may be served outdoors, with a chance to saunter the grounds. You’ll find everything from rose bushes galore to fragrant pear, fig, lemon, and apple trees – most of what is cultivated here is incorporated into menus.  

September not only marks the beginning of spring. It is also Tourism Month in South Africa, and coincidentally, Heritage Day on the 24th. That said, there really is no better time to book your next family holiday. Get in touch with our team: reservations@dreamresorts.co.za / 0861 010 347