5 Days of serenity and Adventure in Struisbaai: A Guide to the Perfect Getaway

Struisbaai is a stunning seaside village located on the southernmost tip of Africa.   With a mere 180 kilometers from Cape Town, you drive through the picturesque Overberg in one of the most beautiful areas of South Africa.  It's an off the beaten track stop for travelers, with mostly the locals frequenting this hidden gem.   

Let us take you on a five-day getaway, with a recommended itinerary of what to do in Struisbaai in five days.

After checking in at the Landsedge Eco Friendly self-catering accommodation, you can unpack and stretch your legs for a short walk to the beach and wooden walkway.   Stop on the way back at the local shops, and stock up on goodies from the local bakery, wine store or butchery.    Have a lazy afternoon before getting ready for dinner at Michael Collins, - the local pub and grill across the street.  After a great meal and good banter with the locals and catching up on all the stories, you are ready for a great night’s rest.

Day One: Start your trip with a visit to the Agulhas National Park. You will see a variety of antelope like the Eland, Red Hartebeest Bontebok, Cape Grysbok, Steenbok and Grey Rhebok roaming the coastal plains area. It is also an important habitat for species such as the Honey Badger, Cape Clawless Otter, and Caracal.

As you walk or drive along the coastline, you will likely see Fur Seals frolicking in the waves just offshore. Take some time to explore the park and enjoy the stunning views. Afterward, stop at the Southernmost Point of Africa, a popular tourist spot. About 200 metres further, you can visit the Struisbaai lighthouse and take in the breathtaking views of the Indian and Atlantic Oceans.  Ask a local why they call it the shipwreck coast. Don’t miss a visit to the local gift and art shops for beautiful crafts.  You can end the day with late fish and chips at the Agulhas Fisheries. (be warned though, they are very popular, and often close early if they run out)

Day Two: Treat yourself to an early invigorating swim in the Indian Ocean side. The Atlantic side is four degrees colder, so it's best to stick to the Indian Ocean side. In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely bike ride around the village. Then, have dinner in Zuidste Kaap, where the specialty fare is traditional Eisbein.

Day Three: Drive out to Oystercatcher Winery for a delicious lunch. Then, explore the Waenhuiskrans Caves, which are filled with fascinating rock formations. You must watch the tides though, if you get stuck inside the cave, you’ll have to wait a few hours to get out.  Have a late afternoon sundowner at the Arniston hotel, soaking up the colourful history of the area.

Day Four: Get your hiking shoes on and arrive early for a day hiking in the Heuningberg Nature Reserve.

On most days, the summit boasts magnificent views in all directions, east to Arniston and De Hoop Nature reserve, south to Struisbaai and Soetanysberg.  To the southwest, you can see Elim and to the north, the hiker is rewarded with splendid views across the Rûens to the Riviersonderend Mountains. There is always an abundance of beautiful flowers to delight.  This Reserve is home to more than 260 species of plants, 34 of which are indigenous, and a number of these, e.g. the Bredasdorp Lily are found only on Heuningberg Mountain. You will also find South Africa’s well-known and beloved Protea species here.  

Day Five:   On your last day, take a day trip to the Elim Village, best known for its beautiful Cape Malay houses and lifestyle. It was established in 1824 by German missionaries as a Moravian mission station. This is also where you will see the famous fynbos.  The best time to see this is late winter and spring, but at any time of year, this part of the world is beautiful. Spend some time exploring the village and learning about the culture.   Drive further along to little villages with names like Baardskeerdersbos and Stanford.  You will find many a wonderful place along the way to lunch and unwind.

Back at Landsedge, you can settle in for a last night of deep sleep, with the ocean lulling you to sleep in the distance.

Your 5 days is up, and you have not done whale watching, fishing off a charter, or many of the adventure sport and activities.  You will have to visit again, as this quaint little town is known to enchant every traveler passing through. Book your stay now!