The Western Cape is a myriad of beautiful landscapes, bustling restaurants, and exciting attractions. For those wishing to explore the beauty of the Western Cape on a budget, there is an array of wonderfully quirky backpackers to rest your weary head that won’t threaten to put you out of pocket. Check out these great places to stay along the way:

Hout Bay Backpackers, Hout Bay

Overlooking the harbour, Hout Bay Backpackers offers a picturesque haven just 20 minutes from Cape Town, within easy access of the harbour, beach, Seal Island, and the World of Birds. The accommodation consists of private twin and double rooms, as well as 6-bed dormitories. The backpackers features a games room and a fully equipped kitchen to make self-catering a breeze. Nearby activities include boat trips, hiking Table Mountain, cycling Chapman’s Peak, surfing, fishing, sea kayaking, and sailing. Read more.

Franschhoek Travellers Lodge, Franschhoek

Situated in the heart of the Franschhoek valley, Franschhoek Traveller’s Lodge offers accommodation in a historic school hostel. There are 22 rooms with 70 beds in total, from double and twin rooms, to family units and 4, 6, or 8-bed dormitories. You can make use of the guest lounge with DStv, braai area, fully fitted kitchen, laundry facility, pub, dining room, and conference hall. Breakfast is served daily and other meals can be organised on request. Read more.

Stone Cottage Backpackers, Plettenberg Bay

Stone Cottage Backpackers is situated in Plettenberg Bay and offers a charming “home away from home” to the weary traveller. There are three twin and double suites in the lodge, and accommodation for 12 in the backpacker dormitories.  There is a guest lounge, braai area, Jacuzzi, and wooden deck overlooking the glittering ocean in the distance. Room service, breakfasts, and lunches are offered and any other meals can be organised on request. Massage and beauty treatments can be arranged to soothe your tired muscles before the next leg of your journey. Read more.

Barrydale Backpackers, Barrydale

Situated in the charming little village of Barrydale, Barrydale Backpackers offers a quiet and refreshing stop-over for the avid traveller. It offers accommodation in tasteful 6 or 4-bed dormitories that all have self-catering facilities. There is a travel centre, restaurant, bar, swimming pool, braai area, games room, laundry facility, and a guest lounge for your convenience. Read more.

Karoo Backpackers, Beaufort West

Karoo Backpackers, situated in Beaufort West, features lovely accommodation ranging from single rooms to dormitories. There is a bar, guest lounge, well stocked kitchen, laundry service, and a night porter available at all times. Breakfast is offered and all other meals are available by arrangement. As the town is so rich in history one can enjoy an array of wonderful activities, from exploring the museums and fossil exhibitions, to visiting national monuments. Read more.

Dolphin House Backpackers, Mossel Bay

Dolphin House Backpackers offers self-catering accommodation in Mossel Bay, within easy access of restaurants and attractions. Choose between twin and double rooms or 4 and 6-bed dormitories. There is a guest lounge with DStv, braai area, bar, laundry facility, and a restaurant on the premises. An open-plan kitchen and dining room is available for those wishing to self-cater. Massage and beauty therapy treatments, as well as meals can be arranged on request. Read more.

Let us know which Western Cape attractions are on your bucket list.