Happy birthday babe! When my daughter turned 18, she asked if we could get away and travel to AfriCamps Stanford Hills for a couple of days.
So we loaded up the car and hit the road for about 2.5 hours – and even as teens, they still want the road trip music, play car games and just have lots of laughs!
Before you arrive at the camp you will receive a WhatsApp message letting you know what tent number you will be staying in, but incase you missed that or don’t have WhatsApp, there is the Tasting Room wall which you’ll see on arrival that has your name and tent number showing.
In addition to make everything easier, they have an app that you can download and they’ll send you the instructions for this when you make a booking.
How to Get to AfriCamps Stanford Hills
Africamps Stanford Hills is an easy drive from Cape Town.
Just try not to leave Cape Town at lunch time on a Friday or you will find yourself stuck in the worst weekend traffic. It can literally add a couple of hours onto your drive.
The town of Stanford itself is small, but growing. You’ll find it nestled about 20kms after Hermanus, and about 20 kms before you hit Gansbaai (the most popular spot for shark cage diving) on South Africa’s southern coast.
Staying in Stanford takes you out of the busyness of Hermanus, but it does also means that you’re still close enough if you want to explore the area.
If you look at the map above, it does look like Stanford is quite far from the sea, but it really isn’t. The Indian Ocean is only a couple of minutes drive away.
When you’re driving to Stanford from Cape Town and once you’ve driven through Hermanus, keep your eyes open for a local restaurant on the left called The Zesty Lemon. These guys were super welcoming to travellers and it’s also great place to stop and pop in for a drink. I mean, you are in wine country!
From Zesty Lemon, its a short drive, a turn to the left and then just follow the signs along a gravel road, past a couple of farms and you’ve arrived at AfriCamps Stanford Hills.
The camp is on a beautiful wine farm in the Stanford Hills, and it’s surrounded by vineyards and rolling hills—it feels so peaceful and away from it all, but still so accessible to many things.
Definitely a wine lover’s paradise because you are right in the heart of wine country, and there are quite a few top notch wine estates around.
AfriCamps Stanford Hills is the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure, and just far enough away from everything feel like a proper escape.
Accommodation at AfriCamps Stanford Hills
AfriCamps Stanford Hills offers luxury glamping in spacious, fully-equipped safari tents.
The tents are set on an estate with stunning views of the surrounding mountains, making it an ideal escape for those who just want to get away and kind of be at one with nature, you know what I mean?
The tents are custom-built in South Africa and are raised off the ground. They are modern and spacious, and definitely big enough for a family of five who want to stay together.
When you enter the tent, you walk into the kitchen/ dining room/ lounge area. The kitchen has all of the utensils you’ll need, and everything that you need to cook a good meal indoors.
Or, to enjoy a laid-back braai (barbeque) outside.
Behind the wall of the kitchen on one side is an extra-length queen size bed with cupboard space, and on the other side of the kitchen is the second bedroom that has double bunks; a queen bed at the bottom and a single bed on the top.
And the beds are amazingly comfortable.
The two rooms have their own private doors leading into the bathroom that has a big, most divine, shower (no bath).
The bedrooms have one air-conditioning unit that is shared between the two rooms, as South Africa’s summers are gloriously hot and you’ll probably need it, and in winter they switch over to electric blankets. (Don’t you just love climbing into a bed that is already toasty warm?)
Personally, my favourite element was the wood-fired indoor fireplace. I love the relaxing sound of a crackling fire – and it makes the indoors toasty and warm.
Out the front of the tent is a large wooden deck next to the braai area, where you can have supper, or play games, or just chill out with family and friends.
And a couple of steps down from the deck is the hot tub. We absolutely LOVED this!
You can bring your own wood, or order some to be delivered to your tent at an extra cost.
The hot tub heats up by fire that you make in a special compartment at the back of the tub, but be warned! It does take a couple of hours for the water to warm up, and depending how you like your temps, it can get actually get super hot!
The water in the tub is pure, fresh mountain water and that is why it’s brown – it definitely isn’t dirty.
The perfect end to a perfect day is relaxing in the hot tub, sipping on a sundowner to celebrate life, love and all things great in this world, with the fire going getting ready for the braai later!
Where to Eat at AfriCamps Stanford Hills
This is a self-catering spot so you can cook indoors or braai outside, but if you don’t feel like that, Africamps does have a menu for you where you can order a breakfast basket to be delivered to your tent.
Braai baskets are also available to order from the camp reception if you don’t feel like driving into town and going shopping.
Or, a short walk away there is a restaurant on the farm next to the vineyards – and there’s a play park for the kiddos too.
There is something for every aged member of your family!
Otherwise, there are so many restaurants to explore in Hermanus, with limited restaurants in Stanford itself.
Activities & Experiences in the Area
Stanford itself is a small town. It’s cute and quaint with one main road running through it. And while nature and being outdoors is what this area is all about, Hermanus and Gansbaai are close by and when you combine these three areas, there are some really great activities you can enjoy.
Activities in Stanford
Stanford is a charming village in the Overberg region, and is known for its rich history and natural beauty.
Here are some top activities to enjoy in Stanford:
1. River Cruises
Take a relaxing river cruise along the Klein River. You can opt for a guided boat tour to spot birds like kingfishers and fish eagles or enjoy a sunset cruise with snacks and drinks.
2. Wine Tasting
When you’re in wine country, it would almost be a sin not to go wine tasting! Stanford is part of the Cape Whale Coast wine route. Visit boutique wineries like Stanford Hills and Raka Wines to savor exceptional wines and enjoy vineyard views.
3. Explore the Village
Stroll through the village to admire its historic architecture, quaint shops, and art galleries. Don’t miss the Saturday morning markets for fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local crafts.
4. Hiking and Nature Trails
Discover the beauty of the Overberg region by hiking in the nearby Wandelpad Nature Reserve or the Phillipskop Mountain Reserve. Both offer trails with stunning views and a chance to see indigenous flora.
5. Beer Tasting
Birkenhead Brewery is a haven for all lovers of craft beer. This brewery is one of South Africa’s first microbreweries and has tables set up for lunch and tastings on the beautiful lawns (or you can sit indoors if the weather isn’t great).
You can also enjoy wine tastings or go on a tour to see how all this goodness happens.
Activities in Hermanus
Hermanus is most-famous for its whale-watching opportunities which area usually around July – October, but there’s much more to explore in this coastal town:
1. Whale Watching
Between June and December, Southern Right Whales migrate to the area. Watch them from the shore along the Cliff Path or join a whale-watching boat tour for an up-close experience.
2. The Cliff Path
This 12 km walkway offers breathtaking views of the ocean, opportunities for whale spotting, and a chance to enjoy the rugged coastline.
3. Hermanus Wine Route
Explore the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, home to award-winning wine estates like Creation Wines and Hamilton Russell. Many offer tastings paired with gourmet meals.
4. Beaches
Relax on Hermanus’s beautiful beaches, such as Grotto Beach or Voëlklip Beach, both great for swimming and picnicking.
5. Birdwatching
The whole area is a birdwatcher’s paradise. The Klein River Estuary is home to a variety of bird species, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
6. Fernkloof Nature Reserve
Hike through this reserve to experience diverse fynbos vegetation, waterfalls, and panoramic views of the bay.
Activities in Gansbaai
Gansbaai is a hub for adventure seekers and nature lovers, offering unique experiences that attract visitors from around the globe.
1. Shark Cage Diving
Known as the Great White Shark capital of the world, Gansbaai offers thrilling shark cage diving experiences in Dyer Island’s waters.
2. Dyer Island and Marine Big 5 Tours
Join an eco-tour to see the Marine Big 5: whales, sharks, dolphins, seals, and penguins. Dyer Island Cruises provides a memorable wildlife experience.
3. Walker Bay Nature Reserve
Explore this reserve with its stunning coastal scenery, secluded beaches, and opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and whale watching.
4. Klipgat Cave
Klipgat Cave, near the De Kelders gate of Walker Bay Nature Reserve, offers a glimpse into human history with evidence of Middle and Late Stone Age habitation. The cave has two chambers, including one with ocean views and another showcasing its rich archaeological significance. And if you’re creative with your camera, there are some amazing silhouette pics you can take. It’s accessible via a boardwalk and some rock-hopping, so just be wear of that if you have balance or mobility issues.
5. Fishing and Boating
Gansbaai is a fishing village at heart. Charter a boat for a deep-sea fishing experience or simply relax by the harbor to watch the local fishing boats.
Each destination has its own unique charm, offering a blend of adventure, relaxation, and nature. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a foodie, or a history enthusiast, Stanford, Hermanus, and Gansbaai have something for everyone.
Southernmost Tip of Africa
Hey, you’re in the area, so why not visit, snap that pick, and brag to your friends how YOU have travelled to the southern-most point of Africa?
You’ll be on the road for about an hour, heading to the town of Cape Agulhas.
This is the actual point where the warm Indian Ocean and the cold Atlantic Ocean meet, not at Cape Point like many mistakenly think.
Travelling with Children?
AfriCamps Stanford Hills is a perfect spot for kids! And even dogs (just double check this incase rules have changed).
Nature always makes the best playgrounds and here your kids can run around outside, go down to the park, take selfies with Crackling, the resident pig (just mind because apparently he does bite)
Pack in a ball and things to keep them busy outside. I know it’s the tech age and its difficult to get kids off their phones, but this place is too good to be with your face stuck in a screen.
Take some board games, playing cards, and books and things for when it’s that time of the day to wind down as the sun sets.
And they will also love the hot tub. Actually they might love it a little too much and take over!
Wildlife & Nature
The camp is obviously outdoors in nature, but it’s not a dangerous area.
There aren’t any predators lurking around so its safe enough from that perspective, but there are baboons, snakes, porcupines and animals like that, but just be vigilant, keep your distance, don’t approach them if you see them.
I think the resident pig on the farm is something I’d rather keep a closer eye on! haha!
Final Verdict
If you’re an traveller and looking something a little more chilled out but with solid, modern, glamping-style accommodation, gorgeous naturalness surrounding you, and a wood-fired hot tub, you cannot go wrong with Africamps Stanford Hills.
