As winter’s chilly grip settles in, South Africans will be looking for destinations where they can stay warm.
Luckily, the options are endless: you can embrace one of just countless places to experience a winter wonderland, enjoy a hot bath, indulge in the arts, or time travel with a Christmas in July!
Whatever your heart desires, there is a perfect venue to stay warm this winter or find cosy winter destinations.
Before starting our list, let’s talk about the best methods of staying warm.
Quick Tips On How To Keep Warm
Some South Africans (looking at you, Durbanites) don’t have much experience in handling the cold. So, here are some surefire tips to keep warm this winter:
Apply Layers
It seems like an obvious tip, but there is a technique for layering up properly.
- Your base layer needs to be moisture-wicking; this allows you to keep the sweat off your skin and prevent the chill from creeping in.
- The mid-layer is all about insulation, which means materials like fleece, down, or synthetic insulators; this lets you to trap the heat close to your body while allowing the moisture to escape.
- The outer layer is all about waterproofing and windproofing. You need this layer to protect you against rain, snow, and wind. Think about using something made from Gore-Tex, a breathable yet waterproof material.
- When putting on shoes and accessories, you’ll want them to be insulated and waterproof.
These are all tips people in the Northern Hemisphere use when venturing out, so they’lll come in handy for anyone down south struggling with cold.
Use Hot Water Bottles And Bean Bags
If you’re struggling to warm up after layering up, you can use a hot water bottle or microwaveable bean bag to help.
These methods can warm your body’s core temperature quickly before venturing outside, and keep your bed toasty for when you return home.
Keep Active
Keeping yourself active will increase your body’s temperature. Nothing too extreme—a gentle walk or stroll will do—but when layered up, it will make a difference.
Drink Warm Beverages
As you’d expect, drinking hot beverages is encouraged. Think tea or coffee. Or maybe treat yourself to a hot chocolate to raise your core temperature.
Now, let’s go and find the best places to stay warm around South Africa.
Tulbagh: Christmas In July
The picturesque Tulbagh Valley in the Western Cape becomes a true winter wonderland in July. Nestled between towering mountains that get a dusting of snow at their peaks, the village’s historic architecture only heightens its charm.
With loads of accommodation options, the local’s homes have been built to keep the cold outside. Expect to find indoor fireplaces ready to warm up any room.
For Christmas in July, the streets of Tulbagh are adorned with fairy lights and festive decorations. All the village’s local businesses get involved and wineries and restaurants cater to the celebrations.
As you’d expect, there is a market with local artisans and vendors. There are also loads of unique activities to participate in, such as horse-drawn carriage rides and carol singing.
It’s a well-loved annual festival, so make sure to book in advance.
Bela-Bela: Soak In The Warmth This Winter
Formerly known as Warmbaths, Bela-Bela is located in Limpopo and is a popular winter escape for many. The town’s springs are their primary attraction, as you’d expect.
The hot spring waters are known for their mineral content and therapeutic properties, which provide a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.
If you’re worried about finding a spa, you’ll be glad to hear there are multiple establishments offering many options. Some of the places also offer game drives and golf!
Bela-Bela is the perfect venue for everyone wanting to escape the winter blues comfortably, while enjoying one of South Africa’s hot spring locations.
Yzerfontein: Get Front Row Seats To West Coast Flowers
If you’re looking for the most amazing winter flower show, the West Coast of the Western Cape is the place to be. Every year, this region of the world transforms into a natural wonderland of cascading colours.
From August onwards, coastal grasslands bloom collectively. These flowers create a kaleidoscope of colours with dashes of pinks, purples, oranges, yellows, and white.
You can make your home base in many coastal villages, but Yzerfontein is incredibly central. The West Coast Park is just a stone’s throw away, the road to Darling is across the N7, and the Tienie Versfeld Wildflower Reserve is within a 40-minute drive through countless other stop-offs.
Yzerfontein is becoming a hot spot for Capetonians who want a quick break from the hustle and bustle. With its newfound attention, you can choose from a many options for your flower adventure.
Also, the village is known for its cuisine, namely the Rosemead Artisan Bakery & Cafe, which gets day travellers from the Mother City venturing out for olive sticks. And if you’re looking for something different, there’s also the Strandkombuis, which serves incredible seafood buffets.
Winterton: The Heart of the Drakensberg
Nestled in the heart of KwaZulu-Natal, Winterton is a charming village that serves as a gateway to the majestic Drakensberg mountain range.
Rich in history, the village’s surroundings take visitors’ breaths away. Travellers can explore Champagne Alley and the Cathedral areas of the central Drakensberg.
Also, you can watch the world-famous Drakensberg Boys’ Choir School. When the performance is complete, you can go home and cosy up to a roaring fire at one of the many accommodation options.
The Riebeek Valley: Indulge In The Arts
An hour outside of Cape Town, the Riebeek Valley is the hidden jewel of the Swartland region. From historical vineyards like Allesverloren to trendy coffee pitstops like Eight Feet Village, the valley is bursting with activities to do. Krematart restaurant at the famous Riebeek Valley Garden Centre is situated in the shade of a Baobab tree that thrives in its own greenhouse.
During the Solo Studios Intimate Art Encounters you can stroll the streets of this quaint valley and meet several of South Africa’s most talented artists.
Over this unique weekend, visitors can see numerous performances, join guided art tours, get access to private art collections, and so much more.
There are many great accommodation options, including the iconic Royal Hotel, with its veranda where guests can people-watch. Alternatively, you can cosy up to a fireplaces at the Tin Roof Taverna, or one of many beautiful guest houses.
While every one of these options to stay warm this chilly season is amazing, it’s always important to get your battery checked before going on a winter adventure to one of the warm winter getaways in South Africa. Whether you’re heading to a cosy winter destination or planning to relax at South Africa’s hot springs, ensuring your vehicle is in top condition is essential.
