Exercise and yoga with ButterflyWellness

This exclusive fitness and yoga retreat is organised in collaboration between Helena Stenberg, founder of ButterflyWellness, and Jonas Sandström, founder of Gonana South African Travel. Together, they combine extensive knowledge of health and wellbeing with authentic experiences in South Africa.

Helena Stenberg is a qualified health coach and nutrition advisor with a passion for helping women create sustainable lifestyles through Pilates, yoga, diet, nutrition and a holistic approach to health. Since founding ButterflyWellness in Stockholm in 2017, she has helped numerous clients find balance, increase their energy levels and make lasting lifestyle changes.

She is also a certified Pilates and Yogalates instructor, medical yoga therapist, self-healing therapist and menopause coach. With a functional medicine approach that considers the body as a whole, and personalised tools tailored to individual needs, she inspires and guides each participant towards better health, inside and out.

Joining her is Jonas Sandström, who has a background in health and wellness and has lived in South Africa for many years. Today, he runs Gonana South African Travel and will serve as the group's guide throughout the journey. With his in-depth local knowledge and passion for the country, Jonas takes participants to some of South Africa's most spectacular places, sharing the country's unique landscapes, wildlife, culture and hidden gems.

Together, Helena and Jonas have created a journey where fitness, relaxation and unforgettable experiences go hand in hand.

Throughout the trip, you'll enjoy inspiring Pilates and yoga sessions, extraordinary encounters with nature and wildlife, time to unwind, renewed energy, wonderful company, and delicious food and wine.

The journey begins in Cape Town, where the group will experience the city's vibrant atmosphere, scenic excursions, and some of South Africa's finest food and wine experiences.

From there, the journey continues to Paternoster, a charming fishing village on the Atlantic coast. Here, daily wellness sessions, relaxation by the ocean and a stay at the beautiful Gonana Guesthouse await, just a few steps from the beach.

The trip concludes with a few days in the picturesque Stellenbosch Winelands, where participants can discover the region's award-winning vineyards, culinary delights and beautiful landscapes. For those who wish to extend their adventure, there is also an opportunity to add a two-day safari.

The daily wellness sessions feature a harmonious blend of medical yoga, strengthening Pilates, energising Yogalates, breathing exercises and meditation. Throughout the stay, participants can benefit from personal guidance and individually tailored adaptations, while also having access to a gym and swimming pool.

Gallery

Itinerary

Day 1

Welcome to Cape Town

After arriving at Cape Town International Airport, we will take a short tour and stop at Signal Hill for a breathtaking view of the city, the Atlantic Ocean and historic Robben Island. Raise a glass of Method Cap Classique, the local sparkling wine, to celebrate the beginning of our adventure.

After checking in at the hotel and having some time to settle in, we will gather for a welcome dinner at Gold Restaurant.

A local welcome, with Cape Town’s historic charm and lively atmosphere.

Day 2

Cape Town

Another wonderful morning begins with Pilates and a delicious breakfast. Today, we visit the Philani Maternal, Child Health and Nutrition Centre, founded by the much-loved Swedish-born Dr Ingrid Le Roux. Here, we gain insight into a very different reality of life in South Africa and learn more about Philani’s inspiring work supporting mothers, children, and families in local communities.

From there, we continue to the vibrant seaside suburb of Muizenberg, where a tempting selection of local street-food delicacies awaits to delight our taste buds. For those seeking a little adventure, there is also the option of an exciting surf lesson at Muizenberg Beach, famous for its colourful beach huts and welcoming surfing culture.

In the evening, we will enjoy a delicious dinner together at the cosy Between Us restaurant.

Day 3

Cape Town

We start the day with a rejuvenating Pilates session, followed by a delicious breakfast at the hotel.

In the morning, we explore the vibrant Oranjezicht City Farm Market, a feast for the senses with fresh local produce, artisanal delicacies and a wonderful atmosphere. In the afternoon, we visit the magnificent Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden, where South Africa’s extraordinary floral diversity and natural beauty take centre stage.

In the evening, the choice is yours: discover Cape Town’s dining scene at your own pace, or let us share a few of our personal favourite spots!

Day 4

Cape Town

Start the day with a delicious hot and cold breakfast at the hotel. Today we set off early for the Cape of Good Hope to experience its magnificent coastal scenery. Enjoy a Pilates session on the beach along the way.

Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at the famous Harbour House Kalk Bay restaurant. After lunch, we will get close to the African penguins at Boulders Beach. Explore the charming streets of the picturesque little village of Kalk Bay.

Dinner is on your own today, but we have a long list of restaurants to recommend!

Day 5

Cape Town

Start the day with an invigorating Pilates session, followed by a delicious hotel breakfast.

We then immerse ourselves in the vibrant culture of Bo-Kaap on a guided walk through its colourful streets. Here, we’ll take part in a local cooking experience and enjoy the delicious results over lunch.

In the afternoon, we head to the iconic Table Mountain, where we’ll enjoy a wonderful Pilates session surrounded by breathtaking panoramic views of Cape Town.

We round off the day with a lovely dinner at the local favourite, Black Sheep Restaurant.

Day 6

Cape Town to Paternoster

Today we check out and head to Paternoster, one of the oldest fishing villages on South Africa’s west coast. Along the way, we stop at the !Khwa ttu Heritage Centre, dedicated to the history and heritage of the San people. Enjoy a guided walk that follows in their footsteps. You will gain insight into traditional ways of life and the San people’s skills as hunters and gatherers.

In Paternoster, we check in at Gonana Guesthouse, beachfront accommodation with panoramic ocean views. Unwind and reconnect with nature during a sunset Yogalates session on the beach.

We end the day together at Voorstrandt, with the sound of the waves as our background music.

Day 7

Paternoster

The day begins with a gentle Pilates session on the beach, followed by a delicious organic breakfast buffet at the guesthouse. Afterwards, we get ready for an e-bike adventure, exploring the area’s scenic landscapes and local attractions.

In the afternoon, we enjoy an energising Pilates session, followed by some time to relax by the pool or take a stroll along the unspoilt beaches.

In the evening, the choice is ours. We can decide what we feel like doing, perhaps trying one of the restaurants on our recommended list.

Day 8

Paternoster

We awaken body and mind with a Pilates session on the beach before enjoying a generous breakfast.

You can choose how to make the most of your day with a range of relaxing activities. Perhaps a massage, a kayaking adventure on the water or something entirely different that takes your fancy.

Before dinner, we’ll come together for a wonderful Pilates or Yogalates session to unwind and restore balance.

For dinner, the choice is yours when it comes to where and when you’d like to dine. We’re happy to share our handpicked list of restaurant recommendations!

Day 9

PATERNOSTER

Another great start to the day with a strengthening Pilates session on the beach, followed by a lovely breakfast at the guesthouse. Today, we set out on an easy hike in West Coast National Park, where we’ll enjoy a picnic surrounded by nature’s beauty.

Back at the guesthouse, we’ll have some time to relax before coming together for a rejuvenating Pilates or Yogalates session to unwind. We’ll then round off the day with a memorable dinner together at Noisy Oyster.

Day 10

Paternoster to Stellenbosch

One last morning by the sea before we check out and continue our journey. Today we visit Boschendal estate on the way to Stellenbosch. Another lovely wine tasting, followed by a picnic lunch amid the beauty of the vineyards.

Then on to Stellenbosch to check in at our next accommodation. More comfort and relaxation await us here, in a completely different setting. We will enjoy a relaxing Yogalates session in the garden before choosing for ourselves where and when to eat.

Our handpicked list of restaurant recommendations is always at hand.

Day 11

Stellenbosch

Here too, we begin the day with an invigorating Pilates session followed by a wonderful breakfast at our accommodation. Today, we head to Franschhoek and Haute Cabrière for a tasting of their Cap Classique, South Africa’s equivalent of Champagne, guaranteed to delight your taste buds.

Then it’s on to the fantastic Babylonstoren, a haven for gardening and cultivation enthusiasts. We’ll enjoy a delicious lunch at its Greenhouse restaurant, followed by a memorable wine tasting and a visit to its wine museum.

Before dinner, we’ll enjoy a relaxing Pilates session in the beautiful garden, surrounded by Babylonstoren’s tranquil natural beauty. We end our last evening together with a wonderful dinner at The Fat Butcher in Stellenbosch.

Day 12

Homeward Journey

After breakfast at the hotel, we check out and head to the airport. It is time to return home to Sweden!

You will return with a stronger, more flexible body thanks to daily Pilates and yoga. Along with companionship, laughter and new friendships with like-minded women, you will gain both inspiration and tools to take care of yourself in the long term.

Thank you for travelling with us. We look forward to seeing you again!

ADD-ON: SAFARI EXPERIENCE | 01–03 MARCH 2027

Safari

If you want to make your trip even more unforgettable, you can add a two-night safari stay. A safari in South Africa is an unforgettable experience where magnificent nature, wildlife and deep immersion come together. Seeing animals in their natural habitat makes a powerful impression and creates memories for life, a journey that touches both body and soul.

Just 45 minutes from George Airport, or about a 4.5-hour drive from Stellenbosch, you will find Gondwana Game Reserve, the only free-roaming Big Five reserve in the southern Cape. This is a beautiful, malaria-free wilderness stretching across 11,000 hectares. Here you can see lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards and buffalo roaming through valleys covered in fynbos and alive with birdsong.

After checking out of your previous accommodation, you travel to Gondwana, where your safari adventure begins. On arrival, you settle into your lodge and get ready for your first afternoon safari, a chance to see wildlife up close and enjoy the incredible landscape.

All your meals are served at the lodge, and between safari drives you can simply relax at nature’s peaceful pace.

Gondwana offers a truly special experience: luxurious yet close to nature, surrounded by mountains, spectacular views and the sounds of the wilderness. It is the perfect way to end your South African adventure.

Rates

Included in the Trip

  • 12 Fantastic days in South Africa
  • Accommodation in carefully selected 4–5-star hotels
  • Private Swedish-speaking and local guides throughout the trip
  • Private transport with driver and airport transfers
  • Active experiences including daily Pilates, Yogalates and wellness, a surf lesson, an e-bike tour, a city walking tour and a hike in a nature reserve
  • Excursions as outlined in the programme
  • Exclusive tastings as outlined in the programme
  • Food experiences, including all breakfasts, 5 lunches and 6 dinners
  • Nature and wildlife
  • Culture and art

What You’ll Take Home

  • Memories to last a lifetime
  • New perspectives
  • New friends
  • A camera roll full of stories

Excluded

  • Flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal activities and expenses
  • Tips (always optional)
  • Two additional nights on safari