What to do and see in Western Cape, South Africa: The Best Free Things to do

The V&A Waterfront is a 123-hectare mixed-use destination, and one of Africa’s most visited cultural and historical hubs. Set on the edge of a natural, historic working harbour with the iconic Table Mountain as its backdrop, it offers local and international visitors a cosmopolitan mix of experiences ranging from leisure, shopping and exclusive entertainment. It also offers prime residential and commercial property. The prime positioning of the V&A Waterfront boasts sweeping views of the ocean, city bowl and mountain peaks. Up to 100 000 people visit every day during peak season. Contributing R259.1 billion in nominal terms to the South African economy over the last twelve years, the V&A Waterfront’s cumulative contribution to the provincial GGP since 2002 was over R227 billion. The property also reported a 19% increase in retail trade sales for 2014, marking four consecutive years of consistent growth since 2011. By end 2014, total visitor numbers to the property had grown to 24 million a year. Although the V&A Waterfront remains South Africa’s favourite attraction for international visitors, they account for only 23% of all visitors. Visits by locals increased to 63%, while 14% of visitors were from upcountry. With 22 official landmarks on-site, it is also part of South Africa’s historical legacy. Jointly owned by Growthpoint Properties Limited and the Government Employees Pension Fund (GEPF), represented by the Public Investment Corporation Limited (PIC), the V&A Waterfront was developed in 1988 by the state-owned transport corporation, Transnet Limited, while official commercial trading commenced in November 1990.

Just up Kloof Nek Road from the center of town is this thriving beach community. Plenty of trendy nightclubs, shops and cafes bring diners and shoppers, while tranquil seas and fine white sand draw sun worshippers and swimmers.

Lion's Head in Cape Town is a peak situated at 669 meters above sea level. The hike up Lions Head takes approximately 90 minutes at a moderate pace. Lions Head trail is steep but do-able, while the 5.5km trail packs a punch (Both ways). The views from Lions head are amazing. Take a look around you and see the beauty. Lions Head hike is the preferred route for mountain enthusiasts, the easiest of the routes in Cape Town.

Signal Hill is so named because it was a site for flying flags to communicate weather conditions, thus providing opportune vistas of spectacular views.

With a proud history dating back to 1791, the Nederburg winery, set against the imposing Drakenstein Mountains near Paarl, is dynamic, forward-thinking and progressive. A famous South African heritage wine brand, Nederburg is a leading example of the country’s wine excellence and innovation. Nederburg creates hand-crafted micro-cuvées for specialist wine lovers and beautifully balanced and accessible wines for everyday enjoyment, with equal commitment. They offer an exciting taste discovery. When the farm claims a reputation of wine excellence, it's no empty boast. Its recipe? Impeccable quality credentials, an ongoing award-winning track record, and a talented team led by cellar-master Lizelle Gerber, that strongly focuses on continually exploring ways to better their best efforts.