The Eastern Cape’s Wild Coast is one of the most under-explored parts of South Africa. A temperate wilderness of rolling hills dotted with wild aloes and flowering coral trees, it offers visitors an authentic slice of Africa and is ideal for those dipping a first toe into the world of safari.
Lying as it does at the end of the world-renowned Garden Route and near malaria-free Addo Elephant National Park, the Eastern Cape is the perfect spot to catch your breath before you make your way home. And there are few places more enticing to do so than Miarestate Hotel & Spa in the seaside village of Haga Haga. Set on 740ha of pristine beach, Miarestate consists of stylish timber cottages and luxurious hotel suites as well as a fine-dining restaurant and a top-notch spa.
From July to December, look out for whales and dolphins frolicking in the Indian Ocean but there is also plenty of wildlife to spot year-round: do not be surprised to see Burchell’s zebra, grey duikers, giraffes and blesbok grazing peacefully in the distance. Spend your days hiking, horse riding or mountain biking to return to Miarestate for a gourmet BBQ overlooking the ocean and an exceptional couples’ treatment in the spa.