Cape Dreams News from in and around the Cape
A six-day Heritage Rail journey from Cape Town to the Garden Route
Cape Town, South Africa, 14 March 2026 – Ceres Rail is proud to announce “The Mossel Bay Explorer”, a premium six-day rail adventure departing Cape Town on Thursday, 7 May 2026.
Billed as “The Soul of the Cape meets the Spirit of the Bay”, this relaxed journey offers travellers a genuine South African experience, gliding through vineyards, mountain passes and rolling farmlands; all from the comfort of vintage observation and lounge coaches.
Unlike flying or driving, the train lets passengers truly feel the transition from city bustle to coastal calm. The itinerary combines scenic daytime rail travel with comfortable off-train accommodation, selected meals, onboard hospitality and planned steam locomotive highlights.
Itinerary at a glance
Day 1 – Thursday 7 May 2026
Early departure from Cape Town, scenic route via Worcester to Swellendam. Light breakfast and finger lunch onboard. Overnight at select B&Bs with catered supper and breakfast.
Day 2 – Friday 8 May 2026
Continue through Heidelberg and Riversdale. Steam locomotive joins at Albertinia for evening arrival in Mossel Bay. Finger lunch onboard. Three-night stay at four-star hotels with supper included.
Day 3 – Saturday 9 May 2026
Free day in Mossel Bay. Breakfast and supper at hotels. Suggested activities (own account): beaches, museum, casino, golf.
Day 4 – Sunday 10 May 2026
Late-morning steam departure along the coast to the Great Brak River. Relaxed buffet lunch at Oppi-Stasie restaurant. Return to Mossel Bay. Breakfast and supper at hotels.
Day 5 – Monday 11 May 2026
Return journey through glorious Cape landscapes to Montagu. Finger lunch onboard. Overnight at select establishments with catered supper and breakfast.
Day 6 – Tuesday 12 May 2026
Breakfast at hotels, wine tasting and finger lunch onboard. Morning transfer to the train for onboard wine tasting. Early evening arrival in Cape Town.
Price: R24 750 per person (incl. VAT)
Deposit: Non-refundable R5 000 per person to secure booking
Included: 4 days of vintage train travel, 5 nights’ accommodation, breakfast daily, selected lunches/dinners, tea/coffee onboard, on-trip transfers, onboard host support.
Special dietary needs can be accommodated with advance notice
bookings@ceresrail.co.za | +27 (0)21 891 4193