Road-tripping across South Africa? Buckle up! Here are some of the quirkiest, must-visit pit stops to stretch your legs, refuel, and stock up on the ultimate padkos.
Western Cape
- Calitzdorp Cellar (Route 62): Sip on the taste of the Klein Karoo while taking in the region's natural beauty. Designated drivers can stock up on some wine to enjoy off-duty.
- Peregrine Farm Stall (Grabouw): Famous for pies and fresh produce.
- The Blue Shed Coffee Roastery (Mossel Bay): A cosy spot to escape time with great coffee and sea views.
Eastern Cape
- Big Pineapple (Bathurst): The biggest pineapple in the world as your road trip selfie backdrop? Say less.
- Marilyn’s 60s Diner (Storms River): A retro American-style diner with classic burgers and shakes. The portions are enormous, so pack a plastic container for some leftovers!
- Nanaga Farm Stall (N2 near Port Elizabeth): Famed for its delicious pies, roosterkoek, and fresh pineapple juice.
KwaZulu-Natal
- Piggly Wiggly (Midlands Meander): A farm-style shopping and dining stop with gorgeous views of the vineyards.
- Nottingham Road Brewing Company: One of SA’s oldest microbreweries, perfect for craft beer lovers (who aren’t drinking and driving, of course).
- Blueberry Café (Nottingham Road): Scenic views and the best blueberry cheesecake.
Gauteng
- Irene Dairy Farm (Pretoria): A family-friendly experience with restaurants, a farm stall, walking trails, and the opportunity to say “hi” to the cows.
- MiMi se Plaaskombuis: Home-cooked goodness and a beautiful view of the Vaal River.
Northern Cape
- Die Pienk Padstal (Kakamas): A quirky landmark roadside stall selling local treats.
- Springbok Lodge & Restaurant (Where?): A great stop for hearty Karoo meals.
Mpumalanga
- Harrie’s Pancakes (Graskop): The ultimate pancake stop for road trippers.
- Alzu Petroport (N4 near Middelburg): Fill up while watching rhinos and buffalo roam!
Limpopo
- Warmbaths, A Forever Resort (Bela-Bela): Take a break and soak in the natural Bela-Bela Hot Springs.
Free State
- The Artist’s Café (Clarens): Artsy vibes and great coffee in SA’s ‘Jewel of the Eastern Free State.’
Protect Your Road Trip
Now that you have mapped out your pit stops, ensure your car is covered with dotsure.co.za car insurance before hitting the road!
RELATED: READY, SET, GO! YOUR ROAD TRIP PREP CHECKLIST
