There is something quite magical about South Africa – and with its breathtaking beauty, it is no wonder Cape Town has won its reputation as one of the most gorgeous regions in the world, writes Vicky Nash.

First-time visitors cannot help but be blown away by the stunning scenery, white sandy beaches and crystal blue waters that await them.

Cape Town is a rare cultural gem which has been created with the amalgamation of Indonesian, French, Dutch, British and German settlers, the local Bushman and Hottentot tribes and the Bantu tribes from the north.

It provides a setting for many scenic wonders, including magnificent seascapes and panoramic views as well as beautiful coastal areas and tranquil winelands, such as Constantia, Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franshhoek.

The impressive presence of Table Mountain, flanked by the legendary Devil’s Peak and historical Signal Hill, stands proudly above the city and provides a view which can never truly be captured from behind a camera lens.

Cape Town is a city of culture, built on a history that is reflected in both its architecture and cuisine.

And even those who have visited time and time again can find new things to do on each trip and never tire of its countless offerings.

Emirates have now made it easier for people to reach Cape Town after launching new flights from Birmingham International Airport, which is a real blessing for Midlanders.

It banishes any grumbles about a long drive ahead of a flight and, for those whose budget will stretch, the airline’s business class is a level of luxury sure to make any trip completely unforgettable.

It is an experience in itself and one which made the long flights to first Dubai, and then South Africa, literally fly by.

From dedicated lounges in which to relax at both airports to quick check-ins and priority luggage retrieval, every step is taken to give first class customers the star treatment.

Luxurious reclining seats, extensive menus and a hi-tech in-flight entertainment system make a business class flight a real treat.

Cape Town has plenty of entertainment, ranging from outdoor activities and adventures in the sun to exciting night life and a huge variety of superb restaurants.

It was the setting for countless unforgettable memories, including a tour of Table Mountain, viewing penguins at home in Boulder Bay, wine tasting amid stunning tranquil surroundings in Stellenbosch and a day among baboons in their natural environment.

But perhaps the most memorable adventure of the action-packed trip was cage diving with great white sharks off Gansbaii, which, although terrifying, is a memory which will stay with me forever.

Accommodation can make or break any holiday and during a four-night stay in Cape Town I was lucky enough to stay at some of the best it has to offer.

The Mount Nelson Hotel oozes old-school elegace and the huge four-poster beds were almost lost in the massive rooms, which were furnished each day with fresh fruit or complimentary cakes and pastries.

The last call on our trip was to the Franschoek Hotel and Spa surrounded by stunning wineland. This hotel provides a perfect secluded escape and its large rooms with exposed beams are stunning.

It is hard to imagine anybody not developing a thirst for more after just one trip to Cape Town and I’m sure many leave brainstorming their return – I certainly did.

Factfile:

Vicky travelled to Cape Town with Emirates Tours. Prices for a one-week holiday staying at The Mount Nelson Hotel for four nights plus three nights in the Winelands at La Residence, start from £2,241.

A one-week holiday with three nights at The Bay Hotel in Camps Bay, Cape Town and four at Grand Roche, Paarl, in the Winelands starts at £1,271 per person. Both packages include bed and breakfast, economy flights from Birmingham and transfers.