the cape peninsula

The loop shaped Cape Peninsula and Cape Point Route begins in Cape Town central and extends along the Atlantic coastline, finally heading back in the direction of the city via False Bay (or reverse). Prepare to be left speechless at the awe-inspiring scenery, the spectacularly rugged coastline, beautiful reserves and multitude of activities that lures thousands of nature lovers annually. The Cape Peninsula stretches south from Cape Town, towards Cape Point, for approximately 75km. Unparalleled in its beauty, this landscape forms part of the Cape Floral Region and boasts over 250 bird species and 1100 unique plant types.

A tour of the Peninsula is one of Cape Town’s top attractions: make your way towards Cape Point, the ‘Tip of Africa’, via the rugged Atlantic coastline and the quaint villages on your way. From the CBD, make your way along the M6 motorway and head for the bustling fishing suburb of Hout Bay, the drive boasts remarkable panoramas and you’ll probably want to stop along the way to take photos of the first class views. Once in Hout Bay, be sure to visit the famous World of Birds sanctuary – always a hit with children. This bird park is the largest in Africa and spans over four hectares, housing spectacular walk through aviaries and over four 3 000 birds and small animals. (It is open daily from 9:00 to 17:00.)

Hout Bay, also known as ‘Dungeons’ to the surfing community, hosts the annual Red Bull Big Wave Competition and has been recognised as one of the 16 big wave spots worldwide, with swells as high as 14 metres having been recorded here. The beach itself is still relatively safe, however, although somewhat windy and times. On Sundays, there is a lively craft market in the village centre, which has become one of the town’s most popular attractions. It offers an assortment of clothing, wirework, woodwork and other odds and ends and runs from 10:00 to 17:00 Hout Bay has a thriving harbour and, with its picturesque fishing boats and quays, it is an ideal spot to take photographs. The harbour’s famous seafood emporium, Mariners Wharf, includes the distinctly nautical 350-seater restaurant, as well as a popular take-away outlet, offering fresh fish, grilled lobster and mouth-watering calamari rings. Seafood picnics on the nearby beach are always a treat, especially on wind-free days. Another highlight is a short boat cruise from the harbour to Duiker Island, home to a large colony of South African Fur Seals (and, therefore, sometimes confused with Seal Island in False Bay). Numerous charters will take you there, and the cost per person is reasonable, considering what a wonderful experience it is. There are also a number of breathtaking walking trails in this area, the most popular of which is the two-hour hike starting at the Silvermine Reserve and ending at the Hout Bay look-out deck – the perfect place to crack open some refreshments and enjoy the view. Note: you will have to park at the Silvermine West parking lot and pay a nominal fee. Follow the signposts along the 4×4 track, up the right side of the reservoir. The track is fairly steep atfirst, but as you head in the direction of Hout Bay, it gets easier.

After enjoying the various delights of Hout Bay, take the spectacular Chapman’s Peak Drive to Noordhoek, the next seaside town on your route to Cape Point. This masterpiece of road construction was re-opened in 2005 as a toll road, after being closed for three years due to the threat of rock falls. The 9km stretch hugs the rocky coastline of the Atlantic sea and has a total of 114 curves! There are plentiful places along the way to enjoy a picnic as you bask in the splendour of this incredible part of the earth. The Chapman’s Peak hiking trail is an added must do for outdoor lovers.

Once you’ve descended Chapmen’s Peak, the child and pet friendly Noordhoek Farm Village awaits you. Relax under the oak trees, sip on some of the Cape’s finest wines and enjoy an el fresco lunch at one of the restaurants. You’ll want to leave time to wander through the specialty shops and perhaps visit the local Tourism Information Centre. The complex includes a kids’ playground and hosts free children’s activities every Saturday from 10:30 till 12:30 (it is open 365 days a year) Noordhoek Beach covers over 8km of unspoiled white sands and is, therefore, a popular horse-riding destination, especially at dusk when the horizon is a kaleidoscope of pinks and oranges. View the century-old Kakapo shipwreck from horseback and, if you’re lucky, watch dolphins and seals frolic in the nearby waters. There are a number of horse-riding schools in the area that take both novice and experienced riders on tours.

The relatively gentile walks through the beautiful Silvermine Nature Reserve are another much-loved outdoor activity in Noordhoek. The reserve has over 150 bird and 22 mammal species and is also great for picnicking, mountain biking and rock climbing. As you head further along the Cape Peninsula, take a small detour via the M65 to Kommetjie, one of South Africa’s best spots for seabird watching. Highlights in this rustic village include the 30 metre high Slangkop Lighthouse (which dates back to 1919), as well as Imhoff Farm, where you can pet the animals, visit the snake park, ride a camel and enjoy a delicious lunch – all in one afternoon! Note: camel rides occur daily, except on Mondays, at 12:00 and 16:00 From Kommetjie, the drive through the conservation suburb of Misty Cliffs and the quaint town of Scarborough is particularly lovely. Stop along the way; breathe in the fresh ocean air and revel in the expansive views of the open seas ahead.

Cape Point is the southernmost tip of the peninsula and, at 249 metres above sea-level, it’s one o the highest sea cliffs in the world. This beautiful narrow strip of land is filled with Peninsula Sandstone, Fynbos and picturesque bays, making it one of the most awe-inspiring regions in South Africa. The Portuguese sailor, Bartholomeu Dias, was the first to sail around the Cape in 1488. He named the tip of the Peninsula ‘Cape of Storms’ on his return-journey, which must have been particularly treacherous. The King of Portugal, looking more favourably upon the landmark, later renamed it ‘Cape of Good Hope’. (This cape lies approximately 2.3 km east of Cape Point.) The discoveries by these explorers led to the establishment of the Cape Sea Route and the more frequent usage of the adjacent seas.

From Cape Point, a rugged sandstone ridge rises into two peaks. You can reach the higher pinnacle on foot or by means of the environmentally friendly ‘Flying Dutchman’ funicular, which runs from the parking lot to just below the Cape Point Lighthouse. Built around 1911, this lighthouse sits 87 metres above sea-level and has a range of 63 metres, making it the most powerful of its kind along the South African coast. Although Cape Point is mistakenly considered to be the most southernmost tip of Africa, that point is, in fact, at Cape Agulhas – 150km to the east. Cape Point is also often cited as the place where the cold Benguela Current of the Atlantic Ocean and the warm Agulhas Current of the Indian Ocean meet. In reality, the meeting place of these oceanic currents fluctuates between Cape Point and Cape Agulhas. Although there is no physical effect of the collision, the surrounding waters are still dangerous, with strong currents, and high swells. Not surprising then, that these seas have witnessed plenty maritime disasters since ships started sailing here centuries ago.

Cape Point offers its visitors a host of activities: mountain bike or hike through the breathtaking nature reserve; have a lazy braai or picnic at the nearby beach, or enjoy the swimming sports at the Buffels Bay and Bordjiessrif tidal pools. There is also the option to treating yourself to lunch at the chic Two Oceans Restaurant as you enjoy the sound of crashing waves below (booking is essential). A stopover is at the informative Buffelsfontein Visitors Centre, where you can learn everything that there is to know about the region, its advisable. Tip: one of the best walks in the area is the 3km trail from the parking lot at Cape of Good Hope to Cape Point. It takes approximately 1 hour 45 minutes, allowing you to appreciate the striking coastal views along the way. (those not wishing to walk can drive from one point to the next). Remember to keep an eye out for the many bird and wildlife species, which include Chacma Baboons, buck, small mammals and reptiles. Cape Point is open daily from 06:00 till sunset in summer and from 07:00 till 17:00 in winter. Tickets can be purchased at the gate.

As you make your way towards Simon’s Town, take a quick detour to the Cape Point Ostrich Farm. Established in 1996, the 65 hectare farm includes a restaurant, where you can taste ostrich meat (the healthier alternative to beef). Visitors can also browse the ostrich leather and egg shop for curios to take home. Guided tours are possible. (The farm is open daily from 09:30 till 17:00).

The delightful village of Simon’s Town is home to South Africa’s naval base and is not to be missed on your journey back towards the city centre. One of the highlights here is a visit to the ‘Jackass’ African Penguin colony at Boulders Beach. The roughly 3000 penguins on this idyllic, child-friendly beach have been living shoulder-to-knee-cap with the human community of Simon’s Town for may years. Stroll along the boardwalk to observe these curious waddling creatures in their natural habitat, or take a swim and experience them up-close in the (relatively) warm waters of Boulders Beach. This wind-protected beach is one of Cape Town’s most secluded and is perfect for a family outing. Note: there is an entrance fee to Boulders Beach and the tides can be tricky, so don’t leave children unattended. The quaint Waterfront Centre in the heart of Simon’s Town rests on the harbours edge and is a lovely spot at which to enjoy a tasty lunch or browse the arts and crafts outlets. Since the settlement is the third oldest in South Africa, why not walk the Simon’s Town Historic Mile (St. George’s Street). Along the way, you’ll be able to appreciate the old buildings and cobbled streets, the SA Naval Museum and the Warrior Toy Museum. At Jubilee Square, you can admire the life-sized bronze statue of Just Nuisance, the world famous Great Dane who was adopted by the British during the Second World War. Just Nuisance was the only dog ever to be enlisted into the Royal Navy. Between 1939 and 1944 he served at HSM Afrikander, a Royal Navy Shore established in Simon’s Town. He was discharged from the navy on the 1st of January, 1944 due to illness and died later that year. Just Nuisance was buried with full military honours. One of the most exhilarating attractions in Simon’s Town is unquestionably a boat trip to Seal Island, where you can witness the spectacular Great White Shark. The island, which is home to 75 000 Cape Fur Seals, is famous for its ‘flying sharks’, a term used to describe the hunting and breaching behavior of the Great White. Various shark viewing and diving packages can be arranged. No qualifications are necessary for cage diving, and safety is of utmost importance to a highly trained crew.

With its cobbled streets, dusty antique stores and seaside cafes, Kalk Bay oozes old-school, unpretentious charm. You will find some of the freshest fish in town at the nearby marina (one of the largest working harbours in the country) and whale watching from Boyes Drive above the Kalk Bay village is a phenomenal experience. (The Southern Right Whale swims up from Antarctica, arriving in False Bay around June and leaving in November every year). The warm waters and tame swells of Muizenberg Beach makes this a superb place learn to surf. There are a couple of surf shops towards the south end of the beach, from which you can hire a board and a wetsuit. See whether you can learn to stand before the end of the day! The opulent national monument of Casa Labia (Main Road) makes a visit to Muizenberg worthwhile all on its own. Nestled in between the turquoise sea and Fynbos covered hills, this old Italian-style building beautifully reflects the spirit of Eighteenth Century Venice, and has undergone extensive restoration to now include an exquisite garden and cafe, an art gallery and an African boutique. (Casa Labia is open Tuesday till Sunday, between 10:00 and 16:00).

A couple of minutes drive from Muizenberg is St. James. With its brightly coloured changing rooms and delightful tidal pool, this is another one of Cape Town’s top family beaches. The Atlantic Seaboard, also known as ‘millionaire’s Mile’ is the playground of the city’s rich and famous. Begining at the coastal suburb of Mouille Point and stretching all the way to Llandudno, it is home to some beautiful beaches, glamorous restaurants and views that are without equal.  Situated within five minute’s walking distance of the V&A waterfront, Mouille Point is a much-loved haunt with locals and tourists alike. This coastal suburb has several fantastic delis and restaurant, as well as a couple of trendy bars that buzz with activity on sun-kissed evenings. It is also here that the famous Sea Point Promenade begins. This scenic pedestrian strip is ideal for taking leisurely walks or perhaps more energetic jogs if you’re feeling like shedding those extra holiday calories. If you have the whole day, walk the length of the promenade to Bantry Bay and then take Victoria Road to Camps Bay. You’ll be able to take in the breathtaking views of the ocean to your right and the majestic peaks of the Twelve Apostles to your left, and you might even spot a pod of dolphins, so keep your eyes peeled. Note: early morning and evening (around sunset) are particularly good times for this walk. Remember to visit the iconic Mouille Point Lighthouse, the oldest of its kind in South Africa. The landmark dates back to 1824, when it was erected by Herman Schutte. (Lighthouse tours are at 09:00, 12:30, 13:00, and 15:30 on weekdays.) There are a number of activities nearby to keep the kids amused, too. Why not treat them to a round of putt-putt on the beachfront or take the blue train ride with them around the children’s play park?  The serendipity maze – claiming to be the third largest in the world – is another option and is sure to keep young ones entertained for some time.

The residential area of Sea Point has enjoyed a new lease on life since the 2010 FIFA World Cup, which was partly held at the nearby Cape Town Stadium. The salt water Sea Point Pavilion Pools on Beach Road are a highlight, especially on an outing with the whole family. The complex includes and Olympic-sized pool, a diving pool and two splash pools, as well as a refreshment kiosk. Tip: it can get overcrowded here during peak season, so try and get going as early as possible. (The pools are open from 07:00 to 19:00 in summer; and 08:30 to 17:00 in winter).

Nestled in the enclave between Bantry Bay and Camps Bay, Clifton is home to some of the country’s most sought-after real estate, as well as four beautiful beaches, each of which has its own unique appeal and can be accessed via the walkways from Victoria Road. The beaches, which are naturally divided by granite boulders, are well protected, making Clifton a popular escape from Cape Town’s notorious south-easterly winds. First beach (the smallest of the four) has the strongest surf and is, despite the icy water temperatures (of 12 to 16 degrees C), is a great spot for water sports. Second beach is mostly frequented by the 20-something year olds, who play volleyball and beach bats on the sugar-white shores. Cape Town’s gay community congregate at third and fourth beach, with its international blue flag status and excellent facilities, is the perfect family hangout. Note: finding parking on Victoria Road can be tricky in the summer, so rather catch a taxi or your hotel shuttle bus if possible.

The affluent suburb of Camps Bay is situated on the slopes of the Twelve Apostles and the Lions Head and is arguably Cape Town’s most high-flying place to see and be seen. The main section along Victoria Road is packed with sensational restaurants, night clubs and a few small shops to the one side. On the other side, a palm-treed pedestrian walkway runs the length of the beach. The beach itself is popular with Cape Town’s bronzed and beautiful, although it is also great for families and children, due to the level shores and tidal pool towards the south end of the shoreline. After spending a day in the sun, make your way to one of the numerous restaurants for a refreshing sun-downer and some people watching. The Bungalow or Grand Cafe are always popular options for this. If you’re in the mood for a little cultural entertainment after that, head on over to the intimate capital Theatre on the Bay, where you can enjoy some of the best shows in town (tickets are available online through Computicket). The nearby Roundhouse in the lush green valley of the Glen was established in 1756 and is the second oldest building in Camp’s Bay. Now a National Monument, the structure houses an award-winning, contemporary, french cuisine restaurant – open for dinner from Tuesday till Saturday. The setting is truly magnificent, and picnic baskets can be arranged from the Roundhouse to be enjoyed at your leisure, in the surrounding greenery. (picnic baskets can be ordered during summer only – booking is advised).

Making your way further along the Atlantic Seaboard, in the direction of Cape Point, you will come across the lavish suburb of Llandudno, which was named after the Welsh town of the same name. A world of its own, this neighbourhood has no street lamps or commercial outlets. Its unspoiled atmosphere adds to the charm of this private valley. As a result of its unbeatable position, the beach is possibly one of the Mother City’s most picturesque, offering dramatic sunsets over the horizon. Thick Fynbos vegetation stretches along the slopes of the surrounding Little Lions Head and Karbonkelberg mountains and Sandy Bay, the famous nude beach is a twenty minute walk away. Situated primarily along the backbone of Table Mountain National Park, the southern suburbs offer various attractions, ranging from leafy, green parks to historical buildings, and some of South Africa’s oldest wine farms.

Also home to the University of Cape Town (UCT) this part of the city often has a distinctly youthful and bohemian feel to it. Being relatively close to UCT, Observatory is primarily a student neighbourhood. Its lower Main Road is where you will find some of the most reasonably-priced drinks in town, as well as a couple of great restaurants, live music and poetry-reading venues. With its laid back atmosphere, Obz is the perfect hangout for a night on the town that is a little easier on the pocket. (an interesting fact: much of present day Observatory was once a swampy estuary, in which zebra, hippopotamus and elephant roamed freely). The quaint quarter of Obz derives its name from the fact that it housed the first Royal Observatory. Now known as the South African Astronomical Observatory, the museum is open every second Saturday of the month at 20:00 for night tours and a chance to marvel at far away galaxies through one of its many telescopes. During apartheid, the suburb was one of the only mixed race residential areas in Cape Town. This historical detail is noticeable by the fact that the area has a markedly alternative, holistic feel to it.on the first Sunday of every month (10:00 to 16:00), for example, Obz hosts the Holistic Lifestyle Fair, one of the city’s oldest and most atypical markets.

Groot Schuur Hospital, where Christiaan Barnard performed the world’s first heart transplant in 1967, is another interesting outing. The Groote Schuur is now home to one of the main teaching hospitals in the country, as well as the Heart of Cape Town Museum, where you can learn about the medical breakthrough that was carried out there. There is a curio shop and two-hour guided tours can be arranged throughout the day; booking is recommended. The nearby driving range and nine hole golf course at the River Club is a great place to practice your swing outdoors with your whole family.

Although primarily a residential area, a visit to leafy Rondebosch is worth your while on numerous accounts: Rondebosch has a high density of educational institutions, the most note-worth of which is UCT, South Africa’s oldest and one of Africa’s highest ranking universities. No visit to Cape Town is complete without a stopover at the national landmark of Rhodes Memorial. Built in 1912 in honour of Cecil John Rhodes (who was the Cape’s former prime minister) the monument boasts panoramic views of the city and is a great place for afternoon tea and cake. (Open until 18:00 in winter and 19:00 in summer).

The Baxtor Theatre Centre on Main Road belongs partly to UCT and is one of Cape Town’s top live performance venues, as well as its second largest, after the Artscape Theatre Centre. Close by is Mostert’s Mill dating back to 1796 and is the only working windmill in the country. The museum of the world famous South African Irma Stern is an additional worthwhile stopover in the area. Set in the house that she lived in for forty years, it showcases her own collections as well as work by other contemporary local artists (the museum is open Tuesday till Saturday from 10:00 to 17:00).

South Africa is a big sporting nation, and nowhere else is this more obvious than in upmarket Newlands, Cape Town’s wettest suburb. Here you will find both the Newlands Cricket Ground and the second oldest rugby stadium in the world; the 51 000-seater Newlands Rugby Stadium, where the Springboks won the Rugby World Cup in 1995. The South African Rugby Museum is a touch-kick away from the stadium, and should not be missed if you are interested in tracing the counties legendary and thought-provoking relationship with the game over the years. (tours of both the rugby and cricket grounds as well as of the museum, can be arranged Mondays to Fridays during office hours). If you would like to know more about the production of beer in South Africa, the World of Beer Tour at the South African breweries in Boundry Road is a good place to start. During this tour, you can follow the brewing process from the grain to the point of consumption and afterward you’ll be provided with two ice-cold frosties of your own. (Tours are at 11:00 and 14:00. The cost per person is donated to charity and pre-booking is advised. Note: the legal drinking age in South Africa is eighteen.

As you leave Newlands, you’ll find the development project of the Montebello Craft and Design Centre. The centre was originally funded by Cecil Michaelis, and has since helped several crafts-people earn a living through their creative designs now showcased in the twenty-odd studios which can be visited on weekdays. The old farm property also includes a delightful green house, a fully operational forge, an organic deli shop and a restaurant with some of the best cake in town.

Kirstenbosch National Botanical gardens: set in the backdrop of Devils peak, Kirstenbosch Gardens, also known as “the most beautiful garden in Africa”, is the perfect place to revel in the natural beauty of Cape Town, and it’s floral kingdom.  During the summer, the Sunday afternoon concerts are a Cape Town tradition. Bring the kids, a bottle of wine and a blanket, and relax on the lawn as you enjoy this special live music experience.

Dating back as far as 1685, Constantia Valley is the oldest wine growing area in Southern Africa. There are five notable wineries and some award winning restaurants to explore here. Steenberg and Buitenverwachting offer classic tasting options that are free of charge. Klein Constantia, Grootbos and Constantia Uitsig charge a nominal fee for their tastings.

As an alternative outdoor activity, spend the day picking your own flowers and fruit (season depending) at Wynberg’s Chart Farm, just a few minutes drive away. (Open daily from 09:00 to 16:30) The nearby suburb of Wynberg is best known for it’s open-air theatre in Maynardville Park. Maynardville’s annual Shakespeare-in-the-Park productions are perfect for whiling away the time on a mid-summer’s night. The residential neighbourhood of Tokai has two attractions that are worthwhile on your tour of the suburbs. The peaceful Tokai Forest, a much loved picnic spot in Cape Town. From here it is possible to hike up to the Elephants Eye Cave, one of Cape Town’s many natural wonders. If you are in the area on a Saturday morning between 09:00 and 13:00, be sure to pop into the organic Porter Estate Produce Market, where you can indulge in a farm style breakfast and purchase fresh fruit and other produce.

Reference: Tinkers Great Cape Town Map and Guide book.