Great Winter Places To Experience The Cold in South Africa

Nieu-Bethesda: Winter in the Karoo

The Great Karoo is a barren landscape, and during the colder months, it takes on a new look and feel. A small Karoo village that still retains all of its charm is Nieu-Bethesda.

If you want to spend some tourist cash in this quaint village, make sure to stop off at the ATM in Graaff Reinet, as there is no banking service.

The village is surrounded by arid landscapes, which makes it perfect for stargazers. Most will have heard about the Owl House, created by local artist Helen Martins. Over her life, Martins made over 300 concrete sculptures, including owls, camels, peacocks, and more.

Now a museum, it is filled with intricate sculptures and mosaics. Another amazing attraction the village offers is the Kitching Fossil Exploration Centre, which showcases the groundbreaking discovery of ancient creatures from millions of years ago.

Also, on the village’s doorstep is the majestic Camdeboo National Park, home to awe-inspiring towering rock formations.

As you’d expect, there are ample cosy accommodation options, including charming guesthouses with fireplaces to keep you warm during chilly evenings.

 

Paternoster: Coastal Winter Retreat

There’s arguably nothing more calming than watching the waves crash from the comfort of a warm room.

Located on the West Coast, Paternoster is a picturesque fishing village with pristine beaches and charming white-washed cottages. It offers a tranquil winter getaway.

When visiting Paternoster, expect time to stand still while you take peaceful strolls along the deserted beaches, watching the ocean heave against the shore.

A historic fishing village, Paternoster has numerous fresh seafood restaurants known for their delectable dishes. When the meal is over, you can retreat to your cosy beachfront cottages, which are equipped with fireplaces and heated floors.

If you’re looking to escape, there’s no better place to wind away the time than Paternoster.

 

Clarens: The Jewel of the Eastern Free State

What kind of list would this be without mentioning Clarens? Situated in the foothills of the Maluti Mountains, it is known for its stunning landscapes and its artistic community.

The village hosts numerous events throughout the year, and visitors can browse the many art galleries that stock local work.

And if you’re looking for something to nibble on, Clarens is home to several fantastic gourmet restaurants, one of the top picks for South African winter destinations.

For those wanting to stretch their legs, the Golden Gate Highlands National Park is nearby. Visitors can take in dramatic sandstone formations, abundant wildlife, and snow.

 

Riebeek Valley: A Hidden Treasure

Just an hour from Cape Town, the Riebeek Valley is the hidden gem of the Swartland region.

The valley is made up of two villages, Riebeek Kasteel and Riebeek West. Riebeek Kasteel is a quaint village packed with art galleries and restaurants.

Just on the outskirts of the village is the Wunderkammer, which stocks unique items that are carefully sourced and curated. Travel a bit further out of town, and you’ll come across Deli-Co’s farm store, which is more of an artisanal grocery, butchery, and restaurant combined, serving amazing food (including a veggie burger).

Just 4km away. Riebeek West is home to the historical vineyards of Allesverloren, which have been known for decades for making South Africa’s best fortified wines. Travel a bit past the old farm, and you’ll come across the Riebeek Valley Garden Centre.

Affectionately known as the Garden Centre, this nursery has an exceptional selection of plants, and the cosy restaurant, Krematart. The thriving Baobab tree in the “Boomhuis” (tree house), surrounded by the owners’ personal collection of rare plants set into a waterfall feature sets this nursery apart from any in the world.

When you’re done exploring the valley, you can wind down the evening in front of a warm fireplace at one of the many gorgeous guesthouses or hotels in the area.

 

Greyton: The Gem of the Overberg

Tucked away amongst the picturesque Overberg mountains is the charming village of Greyton. Ths perfect winter getaway has lush landscapes and quaint streets lined with historic cottages. You can expect to see locals riding their horses around town.

On Saturday mornings is the village market known for its fresh produce, homemade goodies, and local crafts.

For nature lovers, the village is surrounded by the Greyton Nature Reserve, which is home to multiple beautiful trails and diverse flora and fauna.

We know that one of these five South African villages will offer you the unique winter experience you’re looking for when planning a truly magical winter escape.

We know that one of these five charming villages in South Africa will offer you the unique winter experience you’re looking for when planning a truly magical escape. These South African winter destinations are perfect for cosy winter getaways. And, before leaving your home, make sure that your car’s battery is working correctly.