When June rolls around, Capetonians tend to wrap up and hibernate, sheltering from the winter rains. To entice them out of their homes, restaurants and attractions around Cape Town begin to offer all kinds of special offers, making it an excellent time to find great bargains. Luckily, the rain is not relentless, and in any given week, you can expect at least one day of sunny skies.
Find a Bargain at One of the City’s Restaurants
Throughout the winter months, restaurants across the Cape Peninsula aim to entice patrons out into the cold with a variety of enticing restaurant specials. These can include reduced prices on main courses paired with a glass of red wine, or themed menus at discounted costs. Expect to see plenty of options offering soup nights, pie pairings, and potjiekos – hearty stews crafted in the traditional three-legged cast iron potjie. The winter set menus at some of the city’s most upscale restaurants, such as La Colombe, La Mouette, and Foxcroft, are particularly noteworthy. Many restaurant specials are often available only at lunchtime, so it is advisable to make reservations, especially for the more exclusive venues.
Sample Award-Winning Wines
The Old Mutual Wine Trophy is perhaps the most prestigious wine competition in South Africa, judged annually by a panel of carefully selected wine judges from around the globe. Once the judges have sifted through the entries, the wine-loving public have the opportunity to taste the best at a popular event held at Cape Town’s convention centre on June 20. In addition to tastings of all the medal winners, the event offers a rare opportunity to converse with dozens of winemakers under one roof. If you’re seeking gifts to take home or some liquid refreshment for the rest of your South Africa journey, you can purchase the winning wines at special show prices.
Celebrate Christmas
‘Christmas in Winter’ is a refreshing concept in the southern hemisphere, with numerous places to enjoy festive celebrations in June and July. The most renowned mid-year Christmas celebration is held just 90 minutes from Cape Town in the charming town of Tulbagh on June 23 and 24. Restaurants serve hearty festive banquets, wineries host special events, and there are concerts and parties throughout the town. Of course, the jolly old Saint Nick makes an appearance to deliver candy to smiling children. For more information, check the annual programme with Tulbagh Tourism. It is wise to book accommodations and dining in advance, as the town attracts many visitors during this time.
Keep the Kids Occupied
South African school holidays commence in the latter half of June, leading to a plethora of family-friendly activities advertised throughout the city. Most theatres present special performances suitable for children, while several museums, particularly the Cape Town Science Centre, provide additional activities during the school break. It is essential to note that this influx of families results in busier family attractions, so early arrival is advisable for those wishing to avoid long waits.
