When the chill of winter sets in and the school bell rings for the last time before the holidays, it’s time to trade homework for hot chocolate and family adventures. The winter school holidays are the perfect opportunity to slow down, reconnect, and explore some of the country’s most scenic destinations. From mountain retreats to coastal escapes, a winter break is just what your family needs.
Chill, Play, Stay: The Coolest Family Holiday Spots
Our collection of resorts across South Africa offers something for every family – whether you’re craving adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both this Winter.
Magalies Park – Where Nature Meets Family Fun
Just an hour from Johannesburg or Pretoria, Magalies Park is a scenic winter escape set alongside the Magalies River, near areas like Hartbeespoort and Harties Dam. Perfect for families wanting a quick but memorable break, where kids can enjoy play areas, adventure golf, and a games room, while adults take to the tennis courts, hiking trails, or the 18-hole golf course.
There’s plenty of space to slow down too, with peaceful walks, birdwatching, and riverside picnics. With indoor and outdoor heated pools, a wellness spa, and fun holiday programmes for the kids, there’s something for everyone. Self-catering chalets are cosy and well-equipped, with fireplaces or heaters for those crisp winter evenings.
Whether it’s an action-packed weekend or a quiet midweek retreat, Magalies Park is a place where families can reconnect with each other and with nature – all while enjoying the comforts and convenience of a full-service resort.
Mount Sierra – Cape Town Urban Adventure
For families looking to mix city culture with comfort, Mount Sierra in Cape Town is the perfect base. Located in the leafy suburb of Gardens, this central spot puts you within easy reach of iconic attractions like the V&A Waterfront, Table Mountain, and the vibrant atmosphere of Long and Kloof Streets.
Spend your days exploring local winter markets, visiting museums and galleries, or enjoying the city’s diverse food scene. On cooler days, hop on a sightseeing bus, discover hidden gems, or warm up with a hot chocolate at a cosy café. After a day out, return to a spacious, self-catering apartment with all the comforts of home – including fully equipped kitchens, comfortable lounges, and heaters to keep you warm.
The relaxed, family-friendly vibe makes it easy to unwind, while the city’s energy is always just a short stroll away.
Champagne Sports Resort – Family Fun in the Heart of the Drakensberg
For a winter holiday that combines crisp mountain air with wide-open spaces and endless activities, Champagne Sports Resort in the Drakensberg is a clear winner. Tucked beneath the dramatic peaks of the Central Berg, this scenic resort is a haven for families looking to reconnect and recharge during the school break.
Days here are filled with choice – whether its nature walks along picturesque trails, a friendly round of adventure golf, or simply letting the kids burn off energy at the play areas while parents soak up the views. Cosy accommodation, warm meals, and crackling fireplaces make it easy to settle in and enjoy the peaceful pace of mountain life.
With something for everyone – from toddlers to teens to tired parents – Champagne Sports Resort delivers a classic winter escape where laughter echoes off the mountains and every moment brings families a little closer together.
Mabalingwe Nature Reserve – A Wild Winter Escape for Adventurous Families
If your family is craving a school holiday with a touch of wild adventure, Mabalingwe Nature Reserve in Limpopo delivers the perfect winter wonderland – Bushveld-style. Just a couple of hours from Johannesburg, this malaria-free reserve is home to the Big Five and offers an unforgettable blend of wildlife, wide-open landscapes, and family fun.
Cooler weather means ideal game viewing, and guided safaris, self-drives, and bush walks give families a chance to spot elephants, zebras, and even elusive leopards up close. When you’re not out exploring, there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained – from heated pools and outdoor play areas to tennis courts and a wellness spa for the grown-ups.
With cosy, self-catering chalets and lodges nestled in the natural surroundings, Mabalingwe is all about embracing the great outdoors while enjoying creature comforts. It’s a winter getaway that brings the whole family closer to nature and each other.
Now that you know where to find the perfect winter getaway, explore some simple and fun ways to beat those winter blues, because a great holiday is just the beginning of staying warm and happy all season long.
How to Beat the Winter Blues: 5 Easy (and Fun) Steps
- Step Outside—Seriously!
Bundle up and enjoy some natural sunlight. Just 20 minutes of fresh air can do wonders to lift your mood.
- Keep Moving (Even if It’s Just a Dance Break at Home)
Exercise isn’t only for fitness buffs—whether it’s a quick stretch or a little dance, moving your body boosts both energy and mindset. - Connect with Loved Ones
Organise game nights, movie marathons, or simply share a warm drink together. Because winter is better when enjoyed in good company. - Nourish Your Body
Choose wholesome meals and stay hydrated. Proper nutrition is key to feeling your best during the colder months. - Plan a Change of Scenery
Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a cosy day with a good book at home, a change of environment can refresh your spirit and shake off the winter blues.
Whether you’re seeking cosy family moments by the fire or sun-soaked adventures along the coast, a winter getaway is calling. It’s warm, it’s welcoming, and it’s ready to make memories with you.
“Winter is the time for comfort, for good food and warmth, for the touch of a friendly hand and for a talk beside the fire.” — Edith Sitwell
Flexi Club 