Rolling lush hills, rugged mountains and the crashing blue waves of the Atlantic Ocean are just a minute taste of what you’ll get when exploring the Western Cape in search of quaint little towns.
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Avoid the crowds and walk the road less travelled with these charming small towns bursting with history and character – perfect for a mini escape.
McGregor:
The small village of McGregor is the gift that keeps on giving. Many of the inhabitants that make up this small village are either locals or individuals escaping the bustle of the city. Its 19th-century architecture and remote location (although nestled a few minutes from Robertson) make this a charming and secluded escape.

Riebeek Kasteel:
Riebeek Kasteel is perfect if you’re looking for a getaway that offers small-town charm that’s big on views. This quaint destination is nestled between scenic vistas, including the Kasteelberg Mountain, rolling vineyards and mesmerising olive groves, making it the perfect location to grab a tall glass of wine, a few olives and feel your city troubles melt away.

Stanford:
Prepare to have Stanford charm the pants right off you because this magical little destination is charismatic as hell. Located a quick 30-minute drive from Hermanus, it offers a tranquil lagoon, the Klein River and an electric market scene. If you love the outdoors, then you’ll love Stanford as it offers kayaking, canoeing and bird-watching all on the agenda.

Rooi-Els:
Rooi-Els is a beautiful destination if you’re not looking to travel too far as it’s the first seaside destination you’ll spot when leaving Gordon’s Bay. It’s a tiny coastal village that’s bound to captivate you with its narrow and untarred roads and non-existent street lights – perfect for watching the twinkle of the stars in the night sky.

Nature’s Valley:
While Nature’s Valley may not be a hidden gem, it’s a sparkling gem along the Garden Route that city-dwellers can’t seem to get enough of. Surrounded by lush forests, majestic mountainscapes and white-sandy beaches, Nature’s Valley is the perfect escape into natural beauty and tranquillity.

Also read:
Small Town Diaries: Towns around Cape Town for the history buff
Picture: Hangklip-Kleinmond Tourism / Facebook