We’re approaching that time of the year where one simply must start to work on their summer tan. The days are growing longer, mornings see first light creeping in between the bedroom blinds and you can plan a braai without fear that the weather will ruin your day.

Now September 24 will see South Africans celebrate National Heritage Day, also known by many as National Braai Day. That being a Thursday, We’re pretty sure that many of you have already booked Friday off for “personal reasons”…

What we have here are seven places you should look at going to, places perfect for a braai and a swim and a dop amongst great company. Let’s get ready for the long weekend!

Beach House on Fairway, Langebaan (Western Cape) – From R1 700 per six-sleeper unit

Beach House on Fairway is a crisp and spacious beach house, tranquilly decorated with relaxed pool and entertainment areas to give both young and old the sense of being on a tropical island.

There is an under-roof braai pit, an eight seater dining table, hanging chairs and outdoor pool futons to soak in the surrounding nature. Together with breath-taking views of the Langebaan Lagoon, wild animals of the golf course, bird life, wild flowers and falling waters, and the opulent accommodation of the Beach House on Fairway, you have the ideal holiday destination

Brown Jug Unit 2, Hermanus (Western Cape) – R1 300 per six-sleeper unit

A pristine garden, private units, an 11m sparkling salt water swimming pool, sounds of nature and a good dose of R&R are all on offer. The Brown Jug invites you to relax on your private patio or on one of the pool loungers and enjoy full or filtered sun while enjoying the tranquillity of the sound of birds. A short stroll will take you to the seafront, the quaint shops and antiquities Hermanus is renowned for, and to the restaurants for a long lazy lunch overlooking the sea, with the distinct possibility of a whale show.

Edgewater Cottage, Knysna (Western Cape) – R2 700 per eight-sleeper unit

Edgewater Cottage is a three-bedroom house with a one-bedroom self-contained flat that is situated on a corner stand, on the water canals at Thesen Island in lovely Knysna. All bedrooms are en-suite, with TV sets, underfloor heating and ceiling fans.

The cottage offers a beautiful outdoor entertainment area with a swimming pool, Jacuzzi, gas braai and braai pit for everyone to gather around and soak up the beauty of the surrounds.

Winelands Golf Lodges (WL11), Stellenbosch (Western Cape) – R2 950 per six-sleeper unit

These self-catering lodges combine wonderfully with the Old World charm of South Africa’s second oldest town, offering guests good times, grand wines and great golf.

These lavishly furnished lodges are adjacent to the 10th fairway and they enjoy spectacular views across the golf course to the Overberg Mountains beyond.

A superb 18-hole golf course surrounded by vineyards, olive groves and lavender fields adds to the appeal, making this a veritable golfers’ paradise.

Villa Azul, Plettenberg Bay ( Western Cape) – R2 500 per eight-sleeper unit

The home was designed by an award-winning Australian architect using cutting edge environmentally friendly principals and is rented as single property, giving you exclusive use of the entire villa.

Villa Azul is an entertainers dream, featuring three separate pavilions, a plunge pool with martini seats, a sunny private central deck and huge front balcony with awe inspiring views of the bay and mountains.

Lonehill Village Estate, No 301, Sandton (Gauteng) – R1 440 per four-sleeper unit

Lonehill Village Estate, No 301 is a beautifully furnished apartment found in the attractive Lonehill Village Estate. The estate is conveniently located close to major highway and is only a 15 minute drive to Sandton CBD.

The dining room has sliding doors leading onto a covered patio with private walled garden. The kitchen is fully equipped and the lounge with French-style doors opens onto a stunning balcony with sundowner views, best washed down with a glass or three of bubbly.

139 Barrington, Ballito (KZN) – R1 600 per six-sleeper unit

139 Barrington is a lovely penthouse flat located approximately 2 km from the Lifestyle and Ballito Junction shopping centres, where excellent retail therapy awaits you.

In addition the complex itself has two pools, a tennis court, squash court and clubhouse with a pool table – making this a seaside holiday getaway with a difference. The Flag Animal Farm and Crocodile Park are not far away and will keep the kids entertained.

So whether you’re a fan of somewhere with an ocean view, or if you’d prefer a bachelor pad for the weekend, we hope there’s something above that’s grabbed your attention. Now it’s just a matter of choosing who’s coming along for the ride – may we suggest someone who can handle themselves behind a braai…this could make your weekend all the more relaxing!