Originally founded as a fishing village, this laid-back beach town is blessed with a gorgeous surf beach and some truly lovely natural scenery.

Named after the Afrikaans word for ‘beach’, the little seaside town of Strand is a fishing village that has turned into a lively beach resort. Now it charms its visitors with a comprehensive farmers market, a safe swimming beach, and a wide array of watersports available. At the foot of the Hottentots Holland Mountains, and with views across False Bay, Strand’s location is truly stunning.

Stroll along the wide beachside promenade and absorb the town’s laid-back atmosphere. Take your pick of the numerous cafés and restaurants with outdoor seating, and enjoy the lovely bay views with a drink or snack in hand. Local vendors set up their arts and crafts stalls here on the weekend, and every Friday the Strand Farmers Market springs to life with everything from local food and sweets to flowers and handicrafts on offer.

Mosey down to the beach, which is 5 kilometres (3 miles) long and very much the focal point of town. The main beach, Melkbaai, is one of the safest swimming beaches in the country and an all-round family favourite. Next to the Strand Pavilion is an Olympic-size swimming pool, and the nearby Waterworld Strand has water slides greatly beloved of visiting children.

If you’re feeling active, try out some trout fishing on the Lourens River or play a round of golf. Of all the activities in town, however, there is no doubt that surfing takes pride of place. The waves in Strand are suitable for all levels of expertise, absolute beginners included. Lessons and equipment hire are available at a slew of surf shops along Beach Road.

Head to the Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve, an expansive park whose rugged mountainous landscape holds more than 1,3000 kinds of fynbos and over 100 different bird species. The walking trails in the reserve vary in distance and difficulty. In the nearby Helderberg Nature Reserve, you will find some somewhat easier walks.

Strand is located just 35 minutes’ drive from Cape Town. Take a rental car and explore the Helderberg Wine Route, which crosses more than 20 wine estates on its way between the towns of Somerset West and Gordon’s Bay.