Since 2007 the authoritative foodie magazine and website, Eat Out, has recognised independent South African food producers at a ceremony that is now sponsored by DStv Food Network. Eligible produce must be grown or developed locally. Markets, outlets and blogs are also recognised for their hand in publicising and promoting these products. Whether it be a delicious new jam, organic yoghurt, rib-eye beef or organic herbs, the winners are a celebration of the best South African food producers have to offer. more

The Satyagraha House was built in 1907 and was where Mahatma Gandhi lived in Johannesburg with architect Hermann Kallenbach for a short time during his 21-year stay in South Africa. Guests can overnight in the guesthouse and arrange a yoga or meditation session in the beautiful garden. more

Die Kleipot restaurant is part of the Die Kleipot B&B situated in Colesberg in the Northern Cape province. For many, this little backwater would simply be a pitstop on the road to somewhere else, but if you take the time to stop here, you are in for a treat. You will get a real taste of South African country cooking in a very homely environment. Owned and run by Darren and Lindsay Stewart, this little restaurant makes the most of local produce. It is relaxed and unpretentious in the very sense of the word, and a welcome culinary surprise in the heart of the country. You might even wish to sample one or two of their more creative dishes such as springbok stroganoff or warthog belly...  more

The Amani Spa on Knysna’s Thesen Island is located in the Turbine Hotel, which was once a power station. Industrial yet trendy, the facility enjoys great views of the Knysna Lagoon, and echoes colours and scenes of the Knysna forests. This Garden Route facility presents a perfect, peaceful setting. more

The Mowana Spa in Fourways, Johannesburg, is a relatively new spa with an African feel. The spa is located in the gardens of the popular Indaba Hotel and offers a wellness experience with a difference. Using Mowana Spa Baobab Signature products, there are a range of special treatments and package deals on offer – all you need do is relax and let Africa work her magic. more

Fresh, the award-winning country restaurant on the Paul Cluver wine estate in Elgin, 70km from Cape Town, concentrates on organic ingredients, grown on the estate itself or on nearby farms. Enjoy the sociability of a meal prepared in an open kitchen, eaten at communal trestle tables. Who knows, you may make new friends! more

The Royal Natal Yacht Club is the perfect place to sip on a gin and tonic as you watch the yachts in the harbour. Once known as the Durban Regatta Club, this esteemed yacht club is recognised as one of the stalwarts of the Durban social scene. more

Through song, dance, the telling of stories and divination – and, possibly, a good game of pool at the after-hours shebeen – the Motseng Cultural Village at Sun City offers visitors a fascinating insight into the traditions and lifestyle of eight South African cultures. Add this to your Sun City bucket list when you’re there… more

From its roots as the home of the San, followed by the Zulus, the traders of old and the mainly-Norwegian colonialists who settled in the area and the hinterland of what is known today as KwaZulu-Natal, Port Shepstone’s modern identity is closely tied with beach holidays, romance and rich fishing grounds. more

The restaurant at Hartford House on a stud farm in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands is claimed as one of the country’s Top 10. Celebrated chef Jackie Cameron makes sure that whether you drop by for tea or a five-course dinner, the experience will be remembered. more

Since the late 1800s, the Durban July has been one of South Africa's most revered sporting events. These days it's a highlight for South Africans and overseas visitors, who flock to the Greyville Racecourse to witness what has become known as 'Africa's greatest horse-racing event'. more

Litha Ncokazi is a young man, but the legends he puts into his ceramic art are the millennia-old Xhosa cultural icons, told to him by his grandmother in his home village. Critics are already tipping Ncokazi as one of the leading young South African artists of his generation – and a man to invest in. more

Where hardened prisoners used to sit and make shoes, there is now a fashion school. Where once convicts had to take their meals in a courtyard, there is now a good restaurant. Project Gateway of Pietermaritzburg has turned city’s Old Prison into a cutting-edge venue for community benefit. more

Dinokeng is a destination that has it all. Just west of Pretoria, it has a large Big 5 game reserve, it has authentic experiences in townships, rich birdlife, quaint villages like Cullinan and plenty of accommodation. Now it has another asset – its great feel-good factor thanks to its responsible tourism credentials. more