Mpande Beach

This magical, unspoilt destination is set on what has been voted one of the country's best beaches: a wide cove of creamy-coloured sand lapped by the temperate waves of the Indian Ocean and backed by the lush, steep hills typical of the Transkei. For the world-weary, Mpande offers a blissful escape from the urban environment, with only local huts and a laid-back backpackers lodge dotted onto the undulating surroundings. Horse riding is a favourite pastime here, with trails winding over the scenic rises and along the coast, while surfers will be in their element riding Mpande's excellent waves.