Cape & Coast Vintage Explorer (Flight Inclusive)

DAY 1

Tuesday 4th May
Arriving at our chosen flight check-in desk at London Heathrow Airport to board our evening British Airways flight to Cape Town.

DAY 2

Wednesday 5th May
On arrival at Cape Town Airport this morning, we transfer to the AC Marriott Waterfront Hotel for our overnight stay. Those on our Ground Only package will travel independently meeting us at the hotel and, after check-in, we enjoy free time to explore our new surroundings before dining at leisure.

DAY 3

Thursday 6th May
This morning, we board our vintage train from the platform right outside the hotel for the start of an exciting six-day voyage through the Cape Province. After leaving the suburbs, we can relax in the observation lounge and bar as the train travels through Bellville, Wellington, and Worcester, with a light breakfast and our lunch served on board. We continue through Robertson and Bonnievale, enjoying views of the majestic Langeberg Mountains and the winding Breede River, before arriving in the small town of Swellendam. Here, we transfer to our overnight accommodation (Hotel TBC) and enjoy our evening meal together at a local restaurant.

DAY 4

Friday 7th May
After breakfast, we re-board our train to travel via Heidelberg and Riversdale to Albertinia, where steam traction is attached. A highlight of our journey includes a photo stop at the spectacular Gouritz River Bridge on the famous Garden Route before our steam-hauled arrival into Mossel Bay. We transfer to our accommodation (Hotel TBC) and check-in for our three-night stay, enjoying our evening meal together.

DAY 5

Saturday 8th May
Today, we enjoy a full day at leisure to relax and enjoy this delightful coastal resort of Mossel Bay at our own pace. You can discover the pristine beaches, visit the Post Office Tree Museum, or explore the local entertainment and dining options for lunch. This evening, we will reconvene at the hotel in time for our evening meal together.

DAY 6

Sunday 9th May
After a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, we are treated to a fantastic steam-hauled journey along the coastline to the beautiful coastal village of Great Brak River, where we enjoy a buffet lunch at the Oppi-Stasie Restaurant. Afterwards, we make the return journey by steam to Mossel Bay and enjoy our evening meal together.

DAY 7

Monday 10th May
After breakfast this morning, we board the train and bid farewell to Mossel Bay as we begin our scenic journey back through Cape's landscapes towards Cape Town, with a light lunch served on board. Enjoy a day of nostalgia, relaxing on board, and taking advantage of the panoramic observation car before our arrival in Ashton where we transfer to Montagu and our overnight accommodation (Hotel TBC) to enjoy our evening meal together.

DAY 8

Tuesday 11th May
Today, we reboard our train for the relaxed journey to Cape Town and indulge in an onboard wine tasting experience sourced from local vineyards as we travel via Worcester, arriving in Cape Town in the early evening. Here, we return to the AC Marriott Waterfront Hotel for our five-night stay enjoying an evening at leisure.

DAY 9

Wednesday 12th May
This morning, we enjoy a private half-day panoramic tour of Cape Town, and a highlight of the day is the ascent of the iconic Table Mountain via the Aerial Cableway. Rising smoothly to the summit, we will take in the sweeping views across the city, coastline, and surrounding peaks. On arrival at the upper station, we enjoy time to explore the walking paths, admire the dramatic scenery, or visit the restaurant before retracing our steps to the city for an evening at leisure.

DAY 10

Thursday 13th May
Today, we enjoy a guided tour of the magnificent Cape Peninsula, travelling with both an English-speaking driver and guide. Our scenic adventure begins with the world-famous Chapman's Peak Drive, a thrilling coastal route carved into steep cliffs above the Atlantic, offering truly unforgettable views. We continue to the Cape of Good Hope, a spectacular nature reserve rich in wildlife and dramatic ocean scenery where we can ride the Flying Dutchman Funicular to the historic lighthouse, enjoying effortless access to the panoramic viewpoints that mark the most south-westerly point of the African continent. Afterwards, we travel onward to beautiful Boulders Beach, home to the beloved African Penguin Colony, before sitting down to an included meal at a local restaurant. With its beachfront setting, ocean vistas, and the chance to spot penguins nearby, it provides the perfect end to a wonderfully scenic day.

DAY 11

Friday 14th May
After breakfast this morning, we board the celebrated Franschhoek Wine Tram for a charming experience that showcases three renowned wine estates nestled within the picturesque Franschhoek Valley, each offering superb views, distinctive character, and award-winning wines. Travelling in the iconic double-decker tram, we are transported between the estates where a selection of wine tastings is available at each stop, and we take lunch together at a local restaurant. Our relaxing day in this world-famous region concludes back in Cape Town where we enjoy an evening at leisure.

DAY 12

Saturday 15th May
Today, we embark on a captivating train journey for a full day, 160km, round-trip to the vibrant Elgin Railway Market. This scenic journey takes us through stunning Cape landscapes including the iconic climb over Sir Lowry's Pass offering wonderful views over False Bay and Table Mountain and we will relax in vintage comfort enjoying snacks and drinks from the onboard services. On arrival in Elgin, we will have ample time to explore the lively Art Deco Railway Market packed with local crafts, food, and entertainment before returning to Cape Town for our final evening at leisure.

DAY 13

Sunday 16th May
After our fantastic South African adventure, we make our way to Cape Town Airport for our evening British Airways flight to London Heathrow. Those on our Ground Only package will make their way independently to the airport for their chosen flights home.

DAY 14

Monday 17th May
We land in the morning at London Heathrow Airport.

*Important Note: Whilst the arrangements for all described steam train travel are in place, we do reserve the right to make substitutions should it be deemed necessary for whatever reason.

B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner