Six Destinations for a Great Girls’ Getaway

Between back-to-back meetings, taking care of the kids and all the other day-to-day responsibilities modern-day women have on their minds, it’s not always easy to squeeze in some quality time with the girls. What you need is a stress-free weekend away with your besties! A girls-only getaway where the only things on your to-do list are to catch up over a glass of Merlot, blow off some steam with a wild outdoor adventure or simply indulge in all-out luxury.

 So turn off your laptop, leave the kids with hubby and grab your gal pals for a well-deserved girls’ getaway to one of these great destinations.

Johannesburg and Pretoria, Gauteng

Live it up in the city with a glam urban getaway in Jozi and Pretoria. Experience extraordinary luxury at African Pride Melrose Arch Hotel or get trendy at Protea Hotel Fire & Ice! Melrose Arch. With a privileged position right in the heart of the chic Melrose Arch Precinct, you and the girls won’t have to travel far to explore all the stylish restaurants, bars and boutiques in the area. Get the giggles at the new Goliath Comedy Club. Savour a to-die-for macchiato served inside an ice-cream cone at The Grind Coffee Company. Stroll through the Sunday Banting Market on High Street for some guilt-fee treats. And spoil yourselves with a pamper session at Camelot Spa. The Pretoria scene is just as exciting at funky Protea Hotel Fire & Ice! Menlyn. Chill out in the outdoor lounge area, sample the exotic African-inspired menu, then head to the nearby Mall of Africa for a serious shopping spree.

Umhlanga Ridge, Durban

If you and the girls go gaga for gourmet, then Durban is definitely the place to be. From fantastic curries and super-fresh seafood to beach-side coffee shops and sultry sundowners, it’s a foodies’ dream. Get close to all the action at stylish Protea Hotel Umhlanga Ridge just moments from the sought-after shops and restaurants of the Gateway Theatre of Shopping and beautiful uMhlanga Beach. Indulge in fragrant curries at Capsicum and Mali’s Indian Restaurant. Enjoy ocean-fresh cuisine and a glass of bubbly at the Cargo Hold in uShaka Marine World. Cycle along the stunning Golden Mile, followed by a delicious cappuccino at Bike & Bean. Then go sightseeing on a rickshaw tour around the city or indulge in a leisurely sunset catamaran cruise.

Western Cape and beyond

For the ladies who love a bit of everything, a road trip along the Garden Route is definitely the way to go. Meandering all the way from the Southern Cape to the Eastern Cape border, you’ll be spoiled for choice with all the artsy towns, beautiful beaches, off-the-beaten-track eateries, hiking trails and wildlife reserves along the way. Leave Cape Town behind and head to Protea Hotel Mossel Bay for a relaxing holiday vibe. Stop over at Protea Hotel Knysna Quays for some whale spotting and a sunset cruise to the famous Knysna Heads. Then venture out to the intriguing Cango Caves in the Karoo followed by an overnight stay at charming Protea Hotel Riempie Estate. All this and more is waiting for you along the beautiful Garden Route.

Clarens, Free State

It just doesn’t get quainter than the little town of Clarens. Tucked away at the foothills of the Maluti Mountains, this hidden gem is home to a treasure of eclectic art galleries, gourmet restaurants, friendly coffee shops and scenic spots. Spend a night or three at Protea Hotel Clarens close to the town’s bustling square. Browse beautiful artworks and clever handcrafted goods. Relax at the Lazy Gecko with a frothy cappuccino and some freshly baked scones. Then while away the afternoon with a craft beer tasting and hearty pub food at Clarens Brewery. In the evening, relax with some good wine and great company over a sumptuous meal at Mrs Simpsons Restaurant.