When the summer in Europe beckons with hot temperatures between June and September, most travelers are drawn to destinations such as Greece, Italy or Croatia. After all, these destinations are not only extremely attractive, but also close by. It's also winter in the southern hemisphere. This is not necessarily the best time for many long-haul destinations. However, South Africa is a different story. Here, the so called secret season begins in June and there are many reasons to travel to Cape Town in winter:

Lush flora ...

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Where normally desert-like conditions prevail, numerous wildflowers bloom at this time of year. Like a sea of flowers, they cover large areas. Botany fans will be delighted by the renosterbos with its small and yellow flowers, or the splendid amaryllis with their striking petals. The colorful Cape margarites, the striking protea and the winter snowdrops compete for attention as well. You can also find snow in and around Cape Town: Cape Snow (African rosemary) covers the higher elevations of the Cape region with its many small, white flowers. In the west in particular, you can admire a sea of wildflowers alongside idyllic fishing villages and secluded beaches.

... and fauna

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But it's not just the flora that shows its best side in Cape Town in winter. Animals are also spotted along the coast. Certain whale species come to the region's waters to calve or mate and dolphins do the same. Good places for sightings include Hermanus, False Bay and the Cape of Good Hope. It's best to book a tour with experts. In Simon's Town you can also spot African penguins.

Pleasant temperatures

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Although it's winter in Cape Town during the secret season, that doesn't mean you have to freeze. The climate is temperate, meaning that the average temperatures are rather mild. During the day, the highs are between 15 and 20 °C. Rainfall is frequent, but usually only lasts for a short time. The air is remarkably clear and the water temperature is around 16 °C. Winds, for example the strong south-easterly wind Cape Doctor, occur occasionally. They are ideal for surfers and sailors. All in all, Cape Town in winter is also ideal if you long for a so called coolcation in summer and don't fancy the heat.

Fewer people, lots of choice

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Few people from Europe take a long-distance trip in summer. Nearby areas such as Italy, Greece or Croatia are just too beautiful then. If you visit South Africa then this means you can enjoy many attractions and activities without crowds. The restaurants are quieter and the choice of hotels is also particularly large. Due to a lack of demand, prices are often lower in Cape Town in winter.

Varied activities

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Whether you take advantage of the climatic conditions to go surfing, climb Table Mountain or travel to South Africa's most beautiful wine-growing regions: Secret season in Cape Town is perfect for active guests.

Hotel tip: Ellerman House

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The Ellerman House is one of the best addresses in Cape Town. The hideaway attracts guests with gourmet cuisine, great service and a particularly beautiful ambience. It's also a dream destination for art fans: numerous original works by South African artists adorn the walls.

Relais & Châteaux Ellerman House
180 Kloof Road, Bantry Bay 8005, Cape Town, South Africa
Tel.: +27 21 430 3200
Web: ellerman.co.za
Price: Doubles, incl. breakfast, drinks and transfer from € 700