There’s something magical about Sundays—the slower pace, the lingering sunlight, the chance to disconnect from the week’s chaos. It’s the perfect excuse to hit the road, explore hidden gems, and uncover the stories behind South Africa’s most scenic routes.
A heritage drive isn’t just about the journey; it’s about connecting with landscapes, history, and culture, one winding road at a time.
1. Clarence Drive (R44) – Overberg Region
Clarence Drive/Gustav Ludick/Wikimedia Commons
Starting from Gordon’s Bay, Clarence Drive hugs the coastline with dramatic cliffs dropping into the azure waves below. Recognized as one of the world’s most scenic drives, the route combines natural beauty with history and culture. Stop along the way to explore the Hemel-en-Aarde valley, where boutique wineries and artisanal treats provide a perfect Sunday indulgence. Whether it’s whale watching in season or a seaside picnic, Clarence Drive is an effortless escape.
2. Route 62 – Klein Karoo
Route 62 between Montagu and Ashton/Hendrik van den Berg/Wikimedia Commons
Stretching from Cape Town to Oudtshoorn, Route 62 winds through quaint towns like Montagu, Barrydale, and Robertson. Dubbed South Africa’s answer to the US’s Route 66, this route is a celebration of small-town charm, craft food, and historic architecture. Don’t miss the farm stalls offering fresh produce, local wines, and quirky souvenirs—a feast for the senses as you take in the semi-arid landscapes of the Klein Karoo.
3. District Six Heritage Drive – Cape Town
Buildings in Albertus Street, District Six, Cape Town/HelenOnline/Wikimedia Commons
In the heart of Cape Town lies a journey through the city’s complex history. The District Six Heritage Drive leads travellers through neighbourhoods impacted by forced removals during apartheid. Each stop tells a story, from memorials to art installations, celebrating the resilience and cultural richness of the displaced communities. It’s a route that prompts reflection and appreciation, perfectly paired with a stroll through the area’s vibrant streets.
4. Panorama Route – Mpumalanga
“God’s Window”, near Graskop, Mpumalanga/Marco Schmidt [1]/Wikimedia Commons
For those who crave dramatic vistas and geological wonders, the Panorama Route is a Sunday drive like no other. Stretching from Graskop to Blyde River Canyon, the route features awe-inspiring sights like God’s Window, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, and the Three Rondavels. Alongside its natural beauty, the area is steeped in history—from early gold mining settlements to the cultural heritage of the local Bapedi people. This drive is a feast for photographers, hikers, and history buffs alike.
5. Wild Coast Heritage Route – Eastern Cape
Sunrise at Port St. Johns coastline/Thomas Fuhrmann/Wikimedia Commons
The Wild Coast is raw, untamed, and endlessly captivating. The route from Port St Johns to Coffee Bay offers dramatic cliffs, hidden beaches, and rich Xhosa cultural experiences. Stop at small villages to engage with local craftspeople, enjoy fresh seafood, or simply watch the sun sink into the Indian Ocean. The Wild Coast Heritage Route is an immersive journey, where every detour brings stories of history, legend, and natural wonder.
6. Freedom Route – KwaZulu-Natal
Isandlwana the hill in Kwazulu Natal/Wikimedia Commons
For history lovers, the Freedom Route connects battlefields, museums, and monuments that chronicle South Africa’s turbulent past and triumphs. Stretching from Durban to the Drakensberg, travellers encounter sites of Zulu resistance, Boer settlements, and pivotal events from the Anglo-Zulu and Anglo-Boer wars. Scenic mountain passes and rolling valleys provide as much awe as the stories themselves, offering a journey that’s both visually and historically enriching.
7. Cederberg Heritage Route – Western Cape
Cederberg/dconvertini/Wikimedia Commons
Venture into the rugged Cederberg mountains for a drive that pairs striking sandstone formations with San rock art sites. The route winds through fynbos-covered valleys and past ancient shelters, offering hikers, climbers, and nature enthusiasts a glimpse into the area’s deep human history. Stop at local wineries and boutique lodges, or even try your hand at guided rock art tours to immerse yourself in the landscape and stories of the region.
Planning your ideal Sunday drive
- Plan Stops: Mix scenic viewpoints, historic landmarks, and cultural experiences.
- Pack Light & Snack Well: Farm stalls, local bakeries, and picnic spots abound along these routes.
- Engage Locally: Speak with locals, artisans, and guides—many have stories you won’t find in any guidebook.
- Take Your Time: Heritage drives aren’t about speed—they’re about savouring the journey and the stories along the way.
Follow us on social media for more travel news, inspiration, and guides. You can also tag us to be featured.
TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter
ALSO READ: 7 sizzling street food experiences to taste your way through SA
