South Africa – between wind, water and wilderness

South Africa is not just a destination; it’s an experience that gets under your skin. For us, the adventure began with the wind – windsurfing brought us there – but we soon discovered that this country has so much more to offer than just a sporting challenge.

 

At the edge of the Cape Point Nature Reserve lies Platboom Beach, a place where the South Atlantic Ocean crashes powerfully onto the shore. Here there is nothing but wind, waves, dunes and silence. No buildings, no traffic, only pure nature. For windsurfers it’s challenging terrain with heavy swell and constant wind, but for photography – especially with a drone – it’s a dream location thanks to the untouched landscape.

 

A little further up lies Scarborough, a small village that feels like a well-kept secret. Popular with surfers, kiters and windsurfers who aren’t afraid of raw power. The waves are strong, the wind steady and the setting spectacular: steep cliffs, endless ocean and an almost spiritual calm. It’s the perfect place for an intense session on the water, followed by a sunset with camera or drone in hand.

 

Witsands, near Misty Cliffs, is a spot that commands respect. Both feared and loved by experienced windsurfers, as the wind can be unpredictable here. But those who take the risk are rewarded with big waves, raw power and a backdrop of cliffs and white water. It’s a place where nature is always close – seabirds soar effortlessly on the thermals, and at low tide magical patterns appear in the sand. Not for beginners, but for adventurers it’s an absolute must.

 

Closer to Cape Town lies Sunset Beach, world-famous among wind- and kitesurfers. As the name suggests, the sunset here is a spectacle in itself: the sky turns fiery red, surfers glide like silhouettes across the water and Table Mountain forms a majestic backdrop. It’s South Africa at its liveliest – perfect to experience, and to capture.

 

And then there’s Paternoster, further north. This charming fishing village with white cottages and bobbing boats exudes peace and authenticity. Windsurfing here depends on the conditions, but the surroundings more than make up for it. It’s a paradise for nature lovers: seals on the rocks, pelicans and even flamingos in the lagoons. For photographers, Paternoster is a dream – colourful, pure and full of character.

 

Our windsurfing trip to South Africa became much more than a sporting journey. It turned into a voyage of discovery along beaches, villages and nature that impressed us again and again – and showed us that here, the wind not only shapes the waves, but also the adventure.