Father’s Day experiences: From Ferrari simulators to winelands escapes

Swap the last minute gifts for a memorable experience. Image: Instagram/@kiabi.france

Dads are notoriously difficult to shop for. If the father figure in your life insists he "doesn't need anything" every year, you may find yourself scrambling for last minute gift ideas. This Father's Day, consider skipping the socks, mugs and last-minute braai tools in favour of something far more memorable: an experience.

Experiences offer the chance to create memories, share quality time and celebrate your father figure in a way that feels personal and thoughtful. Whether he's an adventure-seeker, a dedicated foodie or someone who simply enjoys a good day out, an experience-driven gift can make the occasion feel far more memorable than another last-minute purchase.

Hyde Park Corner’s Centre Court is transformed into a Father’s Day motorsport activation, featuring a Ferrari simulator challenge and a display of classic, modern and supercars from Zebra Square Automobile.

Hyde Park Corner will transform its Centre Court into a motorsport-themed activation over the Father’s Day weekend, featuring a Formula 1 and Ferrari simulator experience alongside a display of high-performance vehicles.

The activation runs from 19 to 21 June and allows visitors to test a racing simulator designed to replicate high-speed driving conditions.

Ferrari Simulator Challenge: Hyde Park Corner, Johannesburg | R100 per attempt 

Participants compete for leaderboard positions and prizes. The top performer will win a racing experience valued at R20 000, including a session in a Ferrari 360 Challenge race car on a real track under the guidance of a professional driver. Additional prizes include Hyde Park Corner gift cards for second and third place.

Alongside the simulator, Zebra Square Automobile will exhibit a selection of classic cars, modern classics and supercars within the centre’s public space for the duration of the weekend.

For the dad who appreciates good food and great conversation, a dining experience can be far more meaningful than another gift box. Think wine tastings, whisky pairings, brewery tours or a reservation at a restaurant he's been wanting to try. If he enjoys being hands-on, a cooking class can also be a fun way to spend time together while learning something new.

Franschhoek Hotel offers a winelands Father’s Day escape an hour from Cape Town, pairing vineyard views with its Hey Joe brewery experience, tastings and relaxed family time in the heart of the valley.

Franschhoek Hotel offers a winelands escape just over an hour from Cape Town. The hotel combines accommodation with a relaxed food-and-drink experience anchored by its on-site Belgian-inspired brewery and taproom, Hey Joe. The brewery experience includes a tour of the brewing process followed by a tasting or pint in the garden-style setting, making it an easy, all-day outing that can extend into an overnight stay.

Lunch at Benguela Cove, Moody Lagoon Restaurant: Hermanus

Treat dad to an oceanside experience at Benguela Cove Wine Estate. Guests choose between an indulgent brunch or a tribute lunch, with Benguela Cove’s usual à la carte menu, or the specially curated Father’s Day Blackboard Specials. Think: pan-fried line fish and smoky, flame-grilled steaks. Benguela Cove even offers special deals for the celebratory day, including discounts on award-winning wines and artisanal kitchenware.

Kloofzicht Father's Day lunch: Kloofzicht Lodge & Spa, Joburg | R650 per adult | R325 for children under 12y | R170 for children under 6y

Treat dad to a memorable dining experience centred around a traditional slow-roasted spit braai. Expect tender, expertly prepared meats infused with rich smoky flavours, served alongside a selection of indulgent sides and crowd-pleasing dishes that cater to a variety of tastes.

You don't have to book an expensive getaway to create a memorable Father's Day. A scenic road trip, hiking trail, boat cruise or wildlife experience can offer the perfect change of scenery. South Africa is filled with destinations that allow families to reconnect with nature while escaping the demands of daily life.

Self-care isn't reserved for women. Many dads would appreciate the opportunity to slow down and unwind, even if they wouldn't necessarily book it for themselves. Consider a spa treatment, massage, float therapy session or a wellness retreat designed to help him recharge and relax.

Gentleman's Recovery Ritual: Cape Grace Hotel, Cape Town | R1830 per gentleman 

Gentlemen can look forward to a back, neck, shoulders and scalp massage, while compression boots therapy revives tired legs and restores lightness to the body. The journey concludes with a curated whiskey tasting alongside a luxury Muscle Release Gel gift to continue the ritual at home.

Your dad could do with a long overdue spa day. Image: Instagram/@prettyyoulondon

Kloofzicht Father's Day spa package: Kloofzicht Lodge & Spa, Joburg | R1290 per person

Give dad the gift of total renewal with 75 minutes of treatment time. The experience includes 45 minutes tension reliever back massage and 30 minutes foot massage. Dad can also enjoy the spa's steam rooms, pools, and relaxation facilities. 

Experiences that involve learning something new can be especially rewarding. From photography workshops and golf lessons to woodworking classes and barista courses, gifting a new skill gives your dad something he can continue enjoying long after Father's Day has passed.

Sometimes the most meaningful experiences aren't the most expensive. Build a day around your dad's favourite things, whether that's breakfast at his go-to café, a visit to a local market, watching his favourite sports team or spending the afternoon outdoors.