Back to the Cape

As a Gold Crown apartment, it provides everything you'd expect for a luxury accommodation. It is one of the biggest hotels in the area and everyone knows it. It is known for its size and benefits, as the views are brilliant.

All units are hotel-size, sleeping four. There is a double bed and a sleeper sofa in the main room. The staff makes the sleeper sofa into a bed, which is more than comfortable. A large mattress is added for extra comfort.

The only downside at this resort is that all units surround the restaurant and entertainment area, which I found made the apartments noisy. There is no kitchen facility either. Tea and coffee, with a small fridge, is provided, and I found the restaurants a little on the expensive side considering what other options you have outside the resort.

I was hesitant to stay at this resort, as there were no pictures on the Internet of it, but there was no reason for concern, as the resort was lovely. It had brilliant secure parking, a lovely reception (the staff was outstanding), and a nice entertainment area. It was also in a good location. It wasn't a beachfront property, so we didn't have nice views. But it was within easy walking distance to the beach, and for the first time, we were in an apartment where a sea view wasn't necessary.

The apartment was basic but adequate; it was cleaned every day. It was too small for four adults, but for two I was more than happy. To sum it up, it was a pleasant resort as a base. Although Gold Crown, the apartment wasn't luxurious, but it was more than what we needed, and the staff couldn't do enough to help. I'd return in an instant.

This is a great way to experience a TRUE South African environment and cuisine. During your stay in South Africa, you will come across many township tours. I didn't feel comfortable doing this, as I felt I was looking at disadvantaged people as if they were in a zoo. Alternatively, there are restaurants within these townships that you can book through selected tour companies, and so I went for a meal in a restaurant.

I was nervous at first, but it was, without a doubt, the highlight of my holiday. The music was phenomenal, people were personal and friendly, the food was nice, and I doubt I will ever experience anything like it again. I can’t recommend it highly enough, and even though the food isn't quite to my pallet, the atmosphere, the insight, and the music is worth the visit alone. This restaurant is a must for any South African holiday

Don’t expect a huge catamaran sunset cruise ship; this is a personal one on one sunset boat cruise you can book through Wayne at take2tours. At first I was hesitant, as having lived in South Africa, I wasn't aware that they had hippos in the Cape Town area, but they do, right here at Rondevlei. The cruise is predominantly made up of bird-watching. Graham has a great passion for birds, and the cruise takes you right into the nesting areas, fantastic for photo opportunities. It's great if you like quiet scenery and birds. Although a little pricey, it is definitely worth a visit.

My husband and friend were complete novices at horseback riding, but the company made us feel more than at ease.

The scenery in Noordhoek was spectacular, and although I'm not a great scenery-lover, even I had to stop and admire the views. The horses were some of the best I've ever ridden (I'm not a novice), and as a rider, there is nothing better to ride along a beach at sunset. It wasn't expensive and entertained all of us.

Hermanus is the best place to see whales from the shore. Particular good months are from September to November. Hermanus is not only a whale-watching centre but also a beautiful, peaceful area worth a one- or two-day visit en route to the garden route.