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AT Protea Hotel Fire & Ice! by Marriott Cape Town

Experience sophisticated luxury at our Sandton hotel.  Save up to 20% off our retail rate this Winter!

Marriott Bonvoy members get 25% off, including free breakfast. Join for free!

Valid 7 days a week.  No minimum night stay required.

Valid from April 21, 2019 to September 29, 2019Protea Hotel Fire & Ice! by Marriott Cape Town

Save up to 20% this winter!

It’s your day off. Why spend it lazing around, when you can get out into your own city and do something awesome? Find your new favourite food. Go somewhere totally different. Do something daring. Discover all the hidden gems tucked away in your very own neighbourhood. When it comes to the amazing Mother City, you never have to travel too far to experience something exciting.

Check out our list of fantastic things to see and do in Cape Town on your next day off. What’s more, with our great range of Protea Hotels in and around the city, you can make a night of it too!

 

SWEAT IT OUT SOMEWHERE SCENIC

Head to the V&A Waterfront for a 2.2 km or 5 km running route along Granger Bay and Cape Town Stadium. Keep an eye out for dolphins and seals along the way!

Green Point Urban Park is another great option for some exhilarating outdoor excise near the stadium. Run along lush pathways and pump some iron at the outdoor gym, then reward yourself with a healthy picnic in the garden. Another seaside option is the stunning Muizenberg Catwalk, a 3km stretch starting from Muizenberg and winding all the way up to St James. Don’t forget to cool off with a refreshing dip in the waves.

Fancy some above-sea-level action? Starting at the Silvermine Nature Reserve, take a gentle hike through indigenous fynbos up to the cave that gives Elephant’s Eye its name. Silvermine is also perfect for mountain biking and rock climbing along its many other trails.


HAVE A CULINARY MOMENT

Breezy Breakfasts
Get your day off to a good start with a tasty breakfast at Batavia Café in the heart of the Bo-Kaap. Those with a sweet tooth will want to head over to Observatory where the Queen of Tarts Bakery serves up freshly baked Parisian patisseries. Continuing the Parisian theme is enchanting C’est la Vie. Located in the quaint village of Kalk Bay, this artsy café was voted one of the top 10 coffee spots in Cape Town by Elle Magazine.

Something Sweet
Treat yourself to some late-afternoon refreshments at High Tea, a tranquil little coffee garden tucked away in the Southern Suburbs. Here you’ll find a selection of lovingly crafted cakes, savoury muffins and Florentines, complemented by freshly brewed Kamili coffee and exotic teas. The Velvet Cake Co. offers an irresistible array of handmade cakes, quiches and muffins for any occasion. Ice cream fans need look no further than The Creamery for an honest-to-goodness, made-from-scratch, not-your-average ice cream experience.


HEAD TO THE OCEAN

Hit the water on a guided kayaking adventure with Kaskazi Kayaks. Or test your balance with some stand-up paddling boarding through the beautiful V&A Waterfront Canals offered by SUP Cape Town. Brush up on your surfing skills at the Muizenberg Surf Emporium where professional surf coaches show you all the tips and tricks to ace the waves or head out for a swim in Cape Town’s best kept secret Dalebrook Tidal Pool in Kalkbay.Hire a bike from Up Cycles and whizz through the city. Or take a scenic jog along Sea Point Promenade to Camps Bay. Head out to the lush Northern Suburbs for challenging mountain bike rides through wine farms and verdant forests. The options are endless!


YOUR NEXT BEST INSTAGRAM PIC IS RIGHT OVER HERE

Looking for some Instagram inspiration? Hop in your car and take a scenic drive along gorgeous mountain passes, lush winelands, ocean vistas and city skylines. You’re bound to find more photo opportunities than you can shake a selfie stick at. Capture the sunrise in all its glory on Signal Hill. Take the winding road along Chapman’s Peak for some impressive sea views. Take a group photo with some waddling penguins at Boulders Beach. Or snap an iconic pic of Table Mountain on the shores of Bloubergstrand. For some spectacular views of the City Bowl and Table Bay, drive, walk or cycle along Tafelberg Road on a clear day. Next, head to the lush vineyards of Franschhoek for some artsy shots of chardonnay, chocolate shops and leafy landscapes.


EXPLORE A NEIGHBOURHOOD THROUGH A TOURIST’S EYES

Out and about in Woodstock
When it comes to artsy markets, Woodstock is where it all goes down. Discover some of the city’s most innovative designers, artists, photographers and foodies. From night and day markets and fascinating workshops to organic eateries and fantastic festivals, inspiration is around every corner. Catch a show at the Theatre in the District. Wander down Roodebloem Road with its many boutique shops, cafés and family-friendly hang outs. Then quench your thirst with a crisp craft beer at the famous Woodstock Brewery.


Go all out in Obs
Lovingly referred to by locals as Obs, Observatory is a bohemian wonderland located in the Southern Suburbs. Discover shabby chic restaurants, laid-back bars, live music and plenty of local art. Most of the action takes place in and around Lower Main Road, so that’s a good place to start your exploring. Enjoy a home-away-from-home breakfast at cosy Florentine. For lunch and dinner, try the nautically themed Hello Sailor Bistro for some vibey rock ‘n roll bistro and fantastic food.

In the mood for something really different? Head to the Circus School where contortionists and fire jumpers will wow you with their skills. You can even try out the trapeze if you dare. Be sure not to leave before stopping by the South African Astronomical Observatory, where every second and fourth Saturday of the month you can take a peek at all the wonders of the cosmos.

Discover stunning Stellenbosch
Have a fun family day out at Polkadraai Farm where you can pick your own strawberries and eat them fresh off the stalk. Kick it up a notch at Pete’s Adventure Farm where you can get active with everything from quad biking and horse riding to game drives and archery. Mad for markets? You’ll certainly find your fill in Stellenbosch! The Root44 Market comes alive every Saturday and Sunday with great food, live tunes and a vibey atmosphere. Take it easy at the Slow Market on Saturdays where you’ll find incredible culinary delights including organic treats from local suppliers, craft beer and loads of cool things to splurge on. The Blaauwklippen Family Market is on every Sunday and promises a relaxing family day surrounded by beautiful scenery, live music, tasty treats and pony rides for the kids. For some late-night market action, head to Woodmill Lifestyle Market on the last Friday of every month where artisanal snacks, live music and vintage fashion stalls set the scene.

Last but certainly not least, is the iconic Oom Samie Se Winkel. Dating all the way back to 1904, this eclectic farm stall is jam packed all sorts of edible and eccentric goodies.

Authentic experiences in colourful Bo-Kaap
Discover all the Cape Malay culinary secrets with a cooking tour in the Bo-Kaap on the slopes of Signal Hill. For the very best in traditional Cape Malay cuisine in Cape Town, visit the Bo-Kaap Kombuis with the warm and welcoming Yusuf and Nazli as your hosts. Get a glimpse of the past with a trip to the fascinating Bo-Kaap Museum. For traditional dishes, vibrant handcrafts and a cool cultural experience, swing by the Bo-Kaap Food and Craft Market.


Check-in then checkout your all the exciting sites in Durban and Umhlanga

 

PROTEA HOTEL UMHLANGA RIDGE

Urban tranquility set in the hub of the Umhlanga Ridge new Town Centre
Conveniently located opposite the Gateway Theatre of Shopping and just minutes from uMhlanga Beach and King Shaka International Airport, Protea Hotel Umhlanga Ridge exudes urban tranquillity. Our leisure GUESTS have the freedom to indulge in entertainment activities near the hotel, while business GUESTS can get everything done using our conferencing facilities.

BOOK NOW

 

PROTEA HOTEL UMHLANGA

Stunning views overlooking the dolphin coast
If you want stunning views overlooking the KwaZulu-Natal coast, look no further than Protea Hotel Umhlanga. Conveniently situated minutes from the protected beach and 10 minutes from Durban, the hotel offers friendly service and comfortable accommodation.

BOOK NOW

 

PROTEA HOTEL EDWARD

A well place, luxurious base with a snse of relaxation and familarity on Durban’s Golden Mile
Protea Hotel Edward harks back to a time of Victorian elegance. This world-famous hotel has played host to princes and presidents, field marshals, millionaires and movie stars since 1911. For the leisure GUESTS we have gorgeous stretches of golden sands, the warm waters of the Indian Ocean only 100m away and the promenade that allows you to walk from uShaka Marine world to Suncoast Casino.

BOOK NOW

 

PROTEA HOTEL KARRIDENE BEACH

Where business and pleasure meet
Only 20 minutes south of Durban, this modern and luxurious South Coast hotel resort is well-known for its excellent accommodation, wonderful food, friendly hospitality and first-class service. Situated between the lagoon and the beach at Illovo, Protea Hotel Karridene Beach also boasts an award-winning caravan park, as well as sporting and recreational activities and nearby facilities that include golf, squash and swimming.

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PROTEA HOTEL HILTON

Opulent elegance in the heart of the Kwazulu-Natal Midlands
The four star architectural showpiece that is Protea Hotel Hilton, with its imposing Tudor lines is a must-stay for the meandering country charm seeker, as well as being the perfect venue for conferences, weddings and banquets. The Midlands meander, only 5 hours from Johannesburg is perfect to rekindle romance and enjoy a private dinner on a floodlit pool deck with cascading water.

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PROTEA HOTEL EMPANGENI

Where Zululand exploration starts

In the heart of Empangeni’s business district, yet off a quiet side avenue, nestles the Protea Hotel Empangeni.  Protea Hotel Empangeni is ideally situated for a business or leisure stop-over, being almost in the middle of the Zululand Coastal stretch, halfway between Durban and Swaziland

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PROTEA HOTEL UMFOLOZI RIVER

Luxury in the heart of Zululand

This brand new hotel is ideally located in the Greater Hluhluwe/Umfolozi Game Reserve area, just 40km north of Richards Bay.Activities near Protea Hotel Umfolozi River include the Greater St. Lucia Wetlands Park, Hluhluwe/Umfolozi Game Reserve, world-renowned birding spots, whale and dolphin watching, boat cruises, horse riding, golf, fishing, kayaking, beaches and quad bike trails.

BOOK NOW 

 

Check-in then check out your favourite parts of Jozi!

PROTEA HOTEL FIRE & ICE! MELROSE ARCH

Old Hollywood glamour in an urban experiential and edgy hotel!
Smack-dab in the middle of Joburg, the Protea Fire & Ice! is located in the hot lifestyle precinct of Melrose Arch. It’s thinking of the moment, not the consequences. Just as fire and ice are a singular combination, the dash of silver screen heroes and heroines, luxury-inspired decor and the exciting backdrop of Johannesburg combine to offer a truly unique experience. We offer friendly and bespoke service, an extremely quirky character, a fabulous gourmet restaurant and a myriad of exciting things to keep you busy!

BOOK NOW

AFRICAN PRIDE MELROSE ARCH HOTEL

If it were for everyone it wouldn’t be extraordinary
Located in the sought-after Melrose Arch Lifestyle Development, this unique urban hotel offers an elegant and exquisite experience incomparable to other 5 star hotels in Johannesburg. The outstanding combination of world-class service and distinctive design ensures that every detail is as exceptional as our GUESTS.

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PROTEA HOTEL O.R TAMBO AIRPORT

Best location, ultimate convenience
Whether you’re stopping over or have an extended business stay ahead, Protea Hotel OR Tambo Airport has everything you need and more. Time-conscious local and international business travellers will enjoy this convenient hotel 35 minutes from Sandton and Pretoria and is situated 800m from the Rhodesfield Gautrain Station.

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PROTEA HOTEL WANDERERS

Style, comfort and elegance in the leafy surrounds of Northern Johannesburg
Situated in the prestigious suburb of Illovo, Sandton, the hotel is ideal for both the business and leisure traveller. A mere 4 minutes’ drive away, the M1 freeway allows for easy access to all business centres, the O.R. Tambo International Airport and various other attractions the great city of Johannesburg has to offer.

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PROTEA HOTEL MIDRAND

Where you want to stay between Sandton and Pretoria
This four star hotel in Midrand is situated halfway between the dynamic, bustling cities of Johannesburg and Pretoria. The luxurious Protea Hotel Midrand provides optimum access not only to this prestigious business district’s numerous corporate headquarters and conference venues, but also to business and shopping destinations throughout the Gauteng region.

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PROTEA HOTEL BALALAIKA SANDTON

A little bit of country in the heart of Sandton

The Protea Hotel Balalaika Sandton is a tranquil oasis in the heart of the bustling business and entertainment hub of Gauteng.  Both sections of the Protea Hotel Balalaika have pools that are set in their own lush, landscaped garden, each boasting a sparkling swimming pool where guests can relax, unwind and momentarily experience the timelessness and calm of a bygone era.

Nicholas Barenblatt, Group Marketing Manager for Protea Hotels by Marriott® & African Pride Hotels, shares his top tips on how to avoid feeling tired throughout your business trip:

While I enjoy the opportunity to see new places and experience different foods, travelling regularly for work has its challenges in terms of keeping one’s energy levels high and a regular routine in check. I certainly used to struggle with this when I first had to travel internationally for my job, but I’ve learned a few strategies that really help me cope.

The biggest factor is the time zone issue: being based in South Africa means I’m pretty much dead centre in the world in terms of time zones and so, if I have to go west to the USA where our parent company, Marriott International, is based, I must cross quite a few time zones. And when I’ve gone off to Australia, it’s been the same thing but in an easterly direction.

Since it takes some time for our bodies to adjust to the change in time, I do as much as possible to help my internal system cope. As exciting as it might be to get out and explore a new city or destination, one has to be cognisant of adjusting to the local time; so ensure you listen to your body and get your mindset into the local time as opposed to thinking what time would it be at the origin of where you reside. A simple thing like making sure that there is natural light around during the daytime helps – I always open curtains in meeting rooms, for instance, and I try to get outside the building to stretch the legs and get some fresh air and vitamin D during the day. So, too, it’s not a good thing to have bright lights on when it’s dark outside, so I make sure that at night I switch on very few of the hotel bedroom lights.

In a way, light at night is like a stimulant – and the same applies to stimulants such as nicotine, alcohol and caffeine. Because the chemicals in these items stay in one’s body for a long time, they can wake you up at night even if you used them much earlier in the day. It’s best just to limit them as much as you can.

I’ve also found that exercising helps a lot when I’m feeling tired after a long flight. I concentrate much better in meetings the day after I’ve arrived in my destination if I try to keep to an exercise routine which is similar to what I would do at home. The easiest way to do this is to pack a pair of running shoes as they don’t take up too much space in one’s luggage and you then have the ability to run on a treadmill in the hotel gym or, better still, enjoy experiencing the city with a run around the hood.

Another thing I’ve learned is that I must have a few solid nights sleep of at least 7 or 8 hours before I leave on a trip. Being well rested before I start out is a big bonus. I then don’t feel the need to drop off at the start of a long-haul flight but often have a nap closer to the end of the flight, leaving me feeling far more rested when I reach the other side. To ensure that I have a good sleep the night before I leave, I make sure that everything is packed and ready well in advance of the trip so that I don’t have to scurry around the night before I leave getting everything ready.

Being properly rested really goes a long way to making a business trip a success.

Nicholas Barenblatt, Group Marketing Manager for Protea Hotels by Marriott® & African Pride Hotels, shares his insights on hotel guests’demand for greater fitness choices:

People have become far more conscious of the need to take action to improve their health; more than ever, they watch what they eat, exercise regularly, cut out smoking and limit their alcohol intake.  The millennial generation particularly is far more aware of the need to limit the impact of the sorts of diseases that affect their parents – cardiac problems, high cholesterol, diabetes – and they are taking action.

Health-conscious people know that maintaining regimens are core to maintaining fitness levels. There’s little positive effect if one trains hard for one whole day, and then does nothing for three weeks.  Hour-long visits to the gym three times a week – every week – are far more likely to produce the desired results.

But for those who travel regularly – usually for business purposes – the interruption in the fitness routine poses a problem. “This is true for me,” explains Nicholas Barenblatt, Group Marketing Manager for Protea Hotels and African Pride Hotels, a proud member of leading global hotel group Marriott International. “I run and gym regularly so that I remain healthy and balanced, but I find it increasingly difficult to maintain a regular exercise pattern since the need for me to travel for work has become far greater over time.  I find running is a great way to maintain a routine as running gear doesn’t take up much space in one’s suitcase and then one can have the ability to either run in the hotel gym or explore the neighbourhood or city.”

And since all predictions point to business travel being on the rise, Barenblatt’s concerns are likely to be shared by many other travellers in the years ahead.  Given that research indicates that young adults value the fitness options offered by a particular hotel property, counting it in as a significant factor for their selection of hotel stay, the hotel industry is listening.

“We understand the need for guests to be able to continue with their usual fitness regime, even when they’re away from home,” Barenblatt explains. “Traditionally, this has led to hotels providing a small fitness room with gym equipment that’s available for guests to use,” he says.  “These have been around for many years now and they are quite well used in some hotels.

“But, we are finding that there is a demand for other types of exercise options among guests.  Some choose to use the hotel swimming pool for more than just a relaxing time sunbathing; they do their usual swimming exercise routine, often very early in the morning when the leisure users of the pool are not around.”

The industry has moved a lot further in the United States, in particular, and there are now hotel properties that offer organised running circuits with group runs led by a special hotel concierge. Others arrange stand-up paddle board classes, rooftop or waterfront yoga classes, and there is now a move towards providing fitness equipment inside rooms – pilates balls, a training wall – and hotel mini-bars stocked with fresh produce from local farmers’ markets.  In some hotels, running shoes and exercise clothing can be hired, so one doesn’t get caught out if one forgot to pack these items.

“The demand in South Africa is certainly lower than in the US,” Barenblatt comments, “but we have picked up an increase in the number of enquiries relating to exercise options at Protea Hotel and African Pride properties.  In response, new exercise facilities have been established at certain hotels. “The mountain bike centre, the Cog & Sprocket, at the African Pride Mount Grace Country House & Spa in Magaliesburg is a case in point,” says Barenblatt.  “The Arabella Hotel & Spa also offers dedicated routes in the nearby proximity to the estate which are accessible directly from the hotel grounds, and offer a treat for both mountain bike and running enthusiasts.  The Park Runs which are hosted in most cities and larger neighbourhoods have gained a great deal of support from locals and our guests as our hotels actively promote this weekly event to in-house leisure guests who are looking to start their day with a fun 5km run.”

So, while the extent of changes to hotels is more limited in South Africa than in the USA, it is certainly a trend to watch.

7 Destinations For The Perfect Guys Getaway

When it comes to spending quality time with your mates, sometimes a quick after-work drink just doesn’t cut it. What you need is an all-out, action-packed, no-ladies-allowed weekend away with the guys. Think padkos, pit stops and ice-old beers around the braai. Imagine challenging hiking trails, action sports and wild safaris. Or indulge in five-star fairways, fine wine and gourmet foodie experiences.

 All-Out Bushveld Action

Bela Bela, Limpopo

Leave the hustle and bustle of Jozi behind and head out to amazing Protea Zebula Lodge where a world of excitement awaits. Located on a wide stretch of bushveld surrounded by the Waterberg Mountains, this is the great outdoors at its best. Challenge your mates on the 5-star golf course, then cool off at the club house with an ice-cold brew. Enjoy a game drive or an elephant safari. Hit the dirt road on quad bikes, MTBs and running trails. Sharpen your sniper skills on a paintball mission. Or go old-school with a game of tennis, squash or archery practice.

Book your outdoor adventure today!

 The Great Outdoors Meets Luxury

Magaliesburg, Gauteng

It’s all or nothing on this luxury adventure escape. Splash out with your mates at African Pride Mount Grace Country House & Spa, where exhilarating activities and indulgent leisure meet. Watch the sunrise from a hot air balloon over the Magaliesburg Mountains. Catch the big one on a fly fishing trip. Get your heart racing on the dedicated MTB trails at the Cog & Sprocket Mountain Bike Club. Sample some of the best craft beers at The Black Horse Brewery. Then head back to the spa for a soothing massage.

Book your luxurious adventure weekend today!

Wild West Coast Road Trip

Saldanha, Western Cape

Ready for some rough and tumble in the great outdoors? Then a road trip along the West Coast is your best bet. Just 1.5 hours out of Cape Town, Protea Hotel Saldanha Bay is the perfect base for exploring the exciting activities of the coast. Quad bike, 4×4 or sandboard over the Atlantis dunes. Visit The Cape Sports Centre for some first-class windsurfing. Then play a leisurely round or three at the champion links-style golf course nearby. Back at the hotel, relax with a crisp beer and fresh seafood dishes at Mussel Cracker Restaurant.

Book your West Coast getaway today!

 Gourmet Getaway

Stellenbosch, Western Cape

Protea Hotel Stellenbosch is located in the heart of town and just moments from the area’s most sought-after attractions. Hop on the Franschhoek Wine Tram for a whistle-stop tour of the best wine farms, eateries and cultural hot spots. Explore the inspiring Spice Route in Paarl. Pop into the Postcard Café. Go organic at delicious Babylonstoren and so much more!

Book your culinary adventure today!

 Hiker’s Paradise

Hazyview, Mpumalanga

Put on your hiking boots, pack some trail snacks and don’t forget your bino’s before heading to Protea Hotel Hazyview. Located close to Kruger and the spectacular Blyde River Canyon, this awesome escape offers access to loads of beautiful hiking trails nearby. Start off with the leisurely Kadishi-Tufa Trail which winds up to a tumbling waterfall. Trek the Leopard Trail with sweeping views over the incredible Blyde River Canyon. Then try the more challenging Loerie Trail across rippling rivers and lush forests. And that’s just to name a few!

Book your getaway today!

Surfer’s Escape

Durban, KwaZulu-Natal

Whether you want to kick back on the beach, catch a wave off the coast or just chill out on the boardwalk, Durban’s famous Golden Mile is the perfect playground. Relax at Protea Hotel Umhlanga Ridge where beautiful beaches and the warm Indian Ocean water are ideal for a game of beach bats and volleyball. Or head to Protea Hotel Edward where the surf’s always up and the summer fun never stops. The famous Gateway Theatre of Shopping also has plenty of opportunities for great food, action and entertainment.

Book your Surfer’s Escape at Protea Hotel Edward or Protea Hotel Umhlanga Ridge today!

Golfer’s Getaway

Kleinmond, Western Cape

Get on the green for a 5-star golfing experience of a lifetime. Located within the breathtaking Kogelberg Biosphere, Arabella Hotel & Spa sports a championship golf course that’s as challenging as it is scenic. Next up, hit the trail with a hike or cycle through the natural surrounds, go kayaking on the ocean, spot whales, and explore the surrounding countryside. After all the action, head back to the hotel for a soothing massage at the award-winning spa.

Book your Golfer’s Getaway today!

TAKE A DRIVE ON THE WILD SIDE

The Wild Coast – Eastern Cape

Leave the city behind and head to the untamed beauty of the Eastern Cape’s Wild Coast. Drive past dramatic seaside cliffs, serene bays and crashing ocean waves. Then stop off at one of the many quaint seaside towns for a tasty lunch of freshly caught fish. Take a break from behind the wheel and hike through lush ancient forests, explore the surrounds on horseback, go on a fishing expedition or dive for treasures among the ghostly shipwrecks at the bottom of the ocean. This one’s for the real adventurers.

Nearby Hotels: Protea Hotel Marine

CHASE THE SUNSET

The Sandstone Route – Free State

Take a leisurely drive along the foothills of Lesotho’s beautiful Maloti Mountains. Famed for its dramatic rock formations and rugged scenery, the Sandstone Route will take you on a journey of ancient history, rambling streams and vibrant culture. Go cherry picking in the quaint towns of Ficksburg and Fouriesburg, then make your way to artsy Clarens where cosy restaurants, colourful crafts and a lively brewery await. Last but most certainly not least, take a drive to the Golden Gate National Park where the iconic Sentinel Rock dominates the skyline, turning fiery shades of red as the sun sets on the horizon. Better get going!

Dark & Misty // Road to Golden Gate #MeetSouthAfrica #TheGiantFlag

A photo posted by Roy Potterill | South Africa (@roywrench) on

Protea Hotels in Clarens: Protea Hotel Clarens

WHAT’S THE RUSH

Mpumalanga Escarpment & Lowveld – Mpumalanga

When it comes to amazing scenery, incredible wildlife and fascinating culture, Mpumalanga has plenty to offer. It goes without saying that Kruger National Park should be right at the top of your must-see list. But for those in search of something a little more hair raising, take the plunge with some shriek-worthy rafting on the fast-flowing rapids of the Sabie, Blyde and Olifants Rivers. Then take it easy with a gentle meander through the many spectacular nature trails teeming with colourful birdlife. With so much to see and do, you might even spend more time outside your car than in it.

Sometimes there are just no words. Who would you like to see this insane view with?? #blyderivercanyon

A photo posted by Shawn Ogulu (@shawnogulu) on

Protea Hotels in the Lowveld: Protea Hotel Hazyview, Protea Hotel Kruger Gate

YOU’RE GOING TO WANT TO SEE THIS

The Valley of the Olifants Route – Limpopo

Every wondered what a 1000-year-old Baobab tree looks like? Hop in your car and head to Sunland Farm to find out. There’s even a fully stocked bar inside the tree trunk for thirsty travellers. And that’s just the beginning. The Olifants Route in Limpopo has plenty of impressive sites and natural beauty to keep you going. Wind your way through the dramatic passes of the Northern Drakensburg. Keep an eye out for roaming elephants. Meet the mythical Rain Queen, and get in touch with nature at the lush Modjadjiskloof Cycad Forest. From jaw-dropping scenery and elephant encounters to fascinating culture, this is one road trip you don’t want to miss.

Hotels in Limpopo: Protea Zebula Lodge, Protea Hotel Ranch Resort

NATURE, ADVENTURE, CULTURE AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN

The Garden Route – Western Cape

Pack your swimsuit, hiking boots, binoculars, wet suit, snorkelling gear and pretty much everything else. You’re going to need it all. The Garden Route stretches all the way from the Southern Cape to the Eastern Cape border, with tons of towns, beaches, lagoons, forests, nature reserves and more along the way. Love art? Visit one of the many artists’ communities on the route. Beach bunny? Head to the coastline for some swimming, surfing and diving. Hikers will have plenty of peaks to conquer, while bird lovers, whale spotters and flora fundis won’t be disappointed either. Whatever you’re into, you’ll find it on the beautiful Garden Route.

Protea Hotels along the Garden Route: Protea Hotel King George, Protea Hotel Knysna Quays 

THIS ONE’S FOR THE FOODIES

Midland’s Meander – KwaZulu-Natal

Also known as the ‘arts and crafts’ route, the Midlands Meander isn’t just one of the most beautiful routes in SA, it’s also the tastiest. With over 80km spanning between Pietermaritzburg and Mooi River, the route winds through plenty of picturesque towns famous for their home-made cheeses and locally brewed beer and wine. Work off some of those extra calories with a range of exciting adventures and activities. Go horse riding through beautiful forests, get wet with some river tubing, whizz through the air on a thrilling canopy tour or trade your car for a quad biking tour through the rugged terrain. Whether you have a taste for adventure or delicious artisanal treats, the Midlands Meander is right up your alley.

Quintessential Midlands farm entrance …

A photo posted by Marita Nell (@marita_elements) on

Protea Hotels near the Midlands: Protea Hotel Hilton

 

Enjoy a well deserved break from 22 April – 2 May 2016 and save 15% on your stay when booking one of the below Protea Hotels.

Whether your ideal holiday involves the renowned Johannesburg markets, a hike up Lions Head in Cape Town or strolling down Durbans Golden Mile. We’ve got you covered.

Simply click Book Now and plan ahead for your break over the long weekend.

Terms: Valid 7 days a week. Valid for stays between 22 April – 2 May 2016. Minimum 2 night stay required. Subject to availability.

CAPE TOWN

Protea Hotel Fire & Ice! Cape Town
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Protea Hotel Sea Point
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Protea Hotel Victoria Junction Waterfront
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Protea Hotel Tyger Valley
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African Pride Crystal Towers Hotel & Spa
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STELLENBOSCH

Protea Hotel Stellenbosch
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DURBAN

Protea Hotel Umhlanga Ridge
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JOHANNESBURG

Protea Hotel Fire & Ice! Melrose Arch
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Protea Hotel Wanderers
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African Pride Melrose Arch Hotel
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PRETORIA

Protea Hotel Fire & Ice! Menlyn
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NELSPRUIT

Protea Hotel Nelspruit
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Are you ready to come on an unforgettable adventure with us?
As a Prokard Explorer member, you’re in for a whole world of exciting experiences, amazing destinations, inspiring sights and tempting delights!

This month, we’re serving up a taste of our favourite eateries and foodie experiences in Cape Town, Jozi and Durbs. So bring your appetite as we take you on a journey of edible delights and tempting cuisine that will have you coming back for more.

CAPE TOWN

Oranjezicht City Farm Market: Now at Granger Bay the V&A Waterfront
This one specialises in fresh food and has lots of awesome breakfast options to choose from, from Lebanese to German fare (and many more glorious options that are too overwhelming to list). If that’s not quite enough for you, fill the gap with a red velvet brownie or a potjie pie. There are gluten-free and sugar-free options available too (that look darn good). Wash that down with some fresh orange juice or a warm cup of coffee as you sit on a hay bale enjoying the view of the sea.

Bay Harbour Market
The Bay Harbour Market in Hout Bay brings together crafters, artists and busking musicians every Saturday and Sunday. The smell of fresh fish grilling on the coals and the aroma of just-baked bread wafts in the air, whetting the appetite and giving shoppers a hint of traditional Cape food.

Neighbourgoods Market ( aka The Biscuit Mill)
Every Saturday rain or shine, the Woodstock Old Biscuit Mill comes alive. It is as much a source for farm fresh as well as organic foods and locally produced specialty goods, as it is a meeting point to enjoy community, swap ideas and stories, and become educated about what we buy and eat by going directly to the source. Look forward to excellent brewed coffee at Origin and Espresso Lab, refreshing middle eastern style salads, beef or chicken shwarmas. Or go Asian with delicious noodle dishes and dim sum. Then satisfy your sweet tooth with Nutella crepes, Belgium waffles or Dutch poffertjies. Yum!

City Bowl Night Market
Every Thursday evening and first Friday of every month Hope Street traders from in and around Cape Town gather together in an exquisite, historical building to cook up a storm! They have around 30 different stalls to choose from, all of which are carefully handpicked whilst they scour the Cape for traders that offer the highest quality, freshest ingredients & a passion for food. Build up an appetite for Durban curry, Kaapse Limoncello, La Petite Moo brownies and more.

Cape Point Vineyards Thursday market.
Weekly outdoor food market at Cape Point Vineyards in Noordhoek. Home cooked food using fresh, local and free range ingredients wherever possible! Al’s Schwarmas, fresh hummus. German cakes and confectionery – This mother and daughter team create delicious desserts, cakes, biscuits and treats with a traditional German twist.

JHB

Maboneng eateries
Market on Main – this city-slicker market is part of the Maboneng CBD regeneration. Mingle with hip urban types at the food, design and arts space. Ethiopian coffee, organic veggies and scrumptious cup cakes are some of the delights that await. Check out the grow-your-own gourmet mushroom kits. Upstairs, rummage through the vintage clothing and china stalls or admire the art and photography displays while the guest DJ spins uplifting tunes. Canteen ( part of Arts on Main) offer great breakfasts.

Pata Pata
This 1960s styled restaurant offers a wide range of culinary options. Enjoy jazz music in the global rustic-styled interior. Their signature dishes include stuffed chicken breast, lamb shank and oxtail stew. Don’t miss out on Uncle Merv’s Original Shakes & Coffee on Fox street.
Uncle Merv’s Original Shakes & Coffee (Fox street)

Fox Street Studios

Neighbourgoods Market, Braamfontein
The Neighbourgoods Market is a concept that originated in Cape Town which now exists in Braamfontein too. Happening every Saturday, this trendy space offers great coffee, seafood paella served up in massive woks with lots to go around, sensational confectionaries, delicious dim sum, crispy fried chicken dishes and more. Tuck into something tasty and then head upstairs for cocktails and live music on the roof top.

27 boxes
27Boxes is the realisation of edgy design and practical implementation. A radical departure from the shopping malls of our generation, 27Boxes showcases the best of a shopping centre set in a garden, surrounded by the boheminian suburb that is Melville.The establishment is built entirely from shipping containers, with an industrial meets hipster look and feel. This is your go to for excellently brewed coffee, cronuts, Paul’s Homemade Ice-cream and bunny-chow.

DURBAN

Old Town Italy
Indulge at this authentic Italian food emporium where you can shop, talk, eat and learn. There’s a butcher shop, bakery, fresh produce section, gelato station and restaurant. The food emporium offers a wide selection of cheeses and cold cut meats. Pair that up with your favourite red wine and you have a little taste of Italy in Durban. Before heading out, we highly recommend a delectable dessert from the bakery or a scoop or two of gelato from the gelato station.

Tree Natural
Based in Umhlanga this wellness concept store combines tree yoga with the tree café. After your yoga class, the tree café offers a selection of smoothies, fresh juices and healthy meals. Our favourite pick is their green matcha juice! Energizing stuff!

The Factory Cafe
Housed inside the Colombo Coffee & Tea roaster, you’ll find delicious artisan coffees and a wide selection of teas on offer. Their breakfast menu is changed up often and the smell of coffee fills the space. A welcomed sensory overload.