Napier: The Beginning of a great holiday in Cape Agulhas

In the last few years Napier has become well-known as the perfect weekend getaway for those seeking true peace and quiet. The unassuming little village is made up of large open garden plots where you will often see a horse and a few chickens grazing and a lazy housecat curled up in the sun on the front porch. Dotting the main road you will find a collection of art galleries and restaurants with deliciously surprising menus. And even though Napier is considered quiet and unexciting, the small town in fact holds the doorway to the best of both worlds, Cape Agulhas and the Overberg.

Heading towards the southwest you will find yourself in the beautifully exciting Overberg. Including coastal towns such as Gansbaai, Hermanus, Kleinmond and beyond, this area is packed full of adventure. Known as the Great White Capital of the World, the small fishing village of Gansbaai holds a total of 9 Shark Cage Diving operators and a myriad of hiking, biking and forest trails to enjoy. 

Next stop, you will find the friendly village of Stanford. The only town in the Overstrand to be proclaimed a Heritage Site, this countryside hamlet is known for its spectacular wine farms and river adventures. Continuing along the coast, you find yourself in the captivating Hermanus. Known as one of the best whale watching spots in South Africa, Hermanus is constantly buzzing with people and events to entertain. These towns also form part of the Whale Coast Route and throughout the months of June to December Walker Bay becomes a playground to the gentle giants of the ocean, Southern Right Whales. 

Alternatively, heading down the R316 you find yourself in the famous Cape Agulhas region. A short drive from Napier you will find the bustling town of Bredasdorp. Surrounded by endless stretches of farmlands and the Heuningberg Nature Reserve, Bredasdorp is the go-to shopping destination in the region and also home to the Cape Agulhas Tourism Bureau Offices.

Continuing on the R316 will bring you to the off-the-beaten-track fishing village of Arniston/Waenhuiskrans. The only town in South Africa with two official names, the history of this town is divided between the impressive Waenhuiskrans Cave and the unfortunate wreckage of the HMS Arniston. West of Arniston/Waenhuiskrans you will also find the exceptionally beautiful De Mond Nature Reserve home to various bird- and wildlife; the perfect spot for a family outing.

Turning onto the R319 form Bredasdorp you will find yourself in the joined towns of Struisbaai and L’Agulhas and ultimately the southernmost tip of Africa. Struisbaai is known for its colourful harbours and holding the longest beach in the Southern Hemisphere which lends itself to superb beach and outdoor activities. L’Agulhas is of course, the southernmost town in Africa housing the second oldest working lighthouse in South Africa. Here you can spend your day standing on the edge of the world or exploring the Agulhas National Park and viewing various species of game and birds.

So when planning your next holiday Napier might just be the answer. Ample peace and quiet but never too far from excitement!