As we deal with the final few cold fronts of winter it’s worth remembering that spring is just around the corner. September 23 is the official date, although the greening leaves and morning light on the drive to work shows that we are well on our way to waving winter goodbye.

If you’re anything like us you enjoy a good spring clean as well, the cold weather clothing getting bumped to the back of the cupboard. The house might also get a good once-over in preparation for entertaining friends with a lekker braai and a few games of the Rugby World Cup.

Once you’re prepped and ready it’s only fair that you reward yourself with a lekker weekend away at a cost that won’t dent the finances, something that is more than possible if one looks at this list of popular getaways. Here’s 10 spots that you should be looking at and what’s in store for you at each.

Mandalay Guest House, Blouberg (Western Cape) – From R370 p/p

Mandalay Guest House is a luxury Four Star guest house located in the exclusive suburb of Bloubergstrand, just 20 minutes’ drive from Cape Town International Airport. The guest house is conveniently situated between the city centre and the West Coast, providing excellent service for holidaymakers, water sport enthusiasts and business travellers. We are also within close proximity to a number of trendy restaurants, shops, lively bars and pristine beaches.

Baysands Lodge, Blouberg (WC) – From R400 p/p

The expansive open-plan living and entertainment areas of Baysands Lodge offer magnificent views of Table Mountain, the ocean and Robben Island, while the dining facilities cater for all indoor and outdoor experiences, serviced by a well-equipped modern kitchen. Features include four terraces, all with sea and mountain views, as well as a sparkling solar heated lap pool set in a private and secure garden.

Primi Royal, Camps Bay (WC) – From R400 p/p

The exclusive Four Star Primi Royal Hotel is situated on the slopes of the Twelve Apostles Mountains in Camps Bay. They offer 10 sophisticated rooms, and no two are alike. Each room holds its own African culture with a mixture of Moroccan and Asian artefacts.

Guests are greeted by the view of the Atlantic Ocean and Lion’s Head every morning when arriving for breakfast. No matter where you may be in the Primi Royal Hotel, the views will always take your breath away and leave you standing in complete amazement.

Cornerway House, Plettenberg Way (WC) – From R410 p/p

Cornerway House is situated in a residential area which is only a seven-minute walk from the famous white sands of Robberg Beach. The house is decorated with a colonial flavour. Relax in our pretty garden where you can read and unwind.

Your hosts will try and make your stay as fun and relaxing as possible. They can arrange picnic baskets for a romantic evening on the beach and are happy to arrange whatever outings you would be interested in.

Allstar Villa Guest House, Milnerton (WC) – From R390 p/p

Allstar Villa is located at stunning Sunset Beach, just a stone’s throw away from the Atlantic Ocean and with picturesque views of Table Mountain.  The guest house’s exclusive setting is the ideal starting point from which to explore the magnificent Cape area.

After an exhausting day of sightseeing or a strenuous business meeting, arrive back to the privacy of the homely estate and enjoy a glass of world-famous Cape wine or relax in the pool area.

The Wesley, Bryanston (Gauteng) – From R475 p/p

Set in idyllic surroundings, there are few experiences that can rival sipping sundowners on the deck, listening to the gurgling of the waterfalls, basking amongst the unique bird life, and watching the setting of the magnificent South African sun.

The Wesley is situated in the heart of Bryanston and Sandton, surrounded by beautiful gardens and a natural bird haven which has been cultivated over decades opposite the Bryanston Golf Course. The Wesley is conveniently located near many popular venues such as Fourways, Cresta, Rosebank, MonteCasino, the highway, and the Gautrain.

Lemontree Self-Catering Apartments, Fontainebleau (Gauteng) – From R375 p/p

 Lemontree offers self-catering accommodation in Randburg, Gauteng, and specialises in short or longer stays for private, corporate and relocations.

Accommodation is available in four stylishly decorated, sunny, self-contained apartments, set in a beautiful established garden with many varieties of birds and water features, including an original farm windmill. The property also features a swimming pool, Jacuzzi, braai areas, a gazebo and garden furniture, laundry and a housekeeper.

Aqua View at 27, Deneysville (Gauteng) – From R450 p/p

Aqua View 27 Guesthouse is located on the banks of the Vaal Dam in a quaint town of Deneysville, one hour from Johannesburg. You are sure to have a glorious stay in luxurious surroundings, conveniently situated between three yacht clubs.

Activities in the area include boating, skiing, cycling, fishing, horse riding and golfing, and great fun for the children is ten-pin bowling, wall climbing and putt-putt. There are also game drives available, pigeon shooting, 4×4 trails and quad bike trails. Take a day trip and visit the crocodile and lion farm, bikers museum, bird sanctuary and Animal World or visit Emerald Casino and Africa Spa. Eat out at one of the restaurants in the area.

Accolades Boutique Venue, Glen Austin (Gauteng) – From R480 p/p

Accolades Boutique Venue is centrally located in Midrand, between Johannesburg and Pretoria in close proximity to Oliver Thambo and within a kilometer of Grand Central Airport.

Meticulous care and attention to detail makes Accolades a venue with a difference and your visit a memorable one.. This four star venue prides itself in services rendered and the experience each guest or visitor takes away with them.

 64 Perissa, Ballito (KZN) – R950 per six-sleeper unit

64 Perissa is located in the Santorini Estate in Ballito. This Greek-styled villa is set in the Perissa Village and overlooks the Santorini semi-private beach.

The living and dining area leads out onto a balcony which has amazing views of the sea. The balcony also has sun loungers and a Weber braai. It is only a 50 metre walk to a semi-private beach and Thompson’s Bay is only a five minute meander away.

You see that, we just have to ride out one or two more nasty showers and a few thunderstorms and spring will be upon us. In the mean time start working on that beach bod and tossing away all the junk you’ve accumulated this winter, it will make welcoming the sun back into our lives all the more enjoyable.