As we hunker down at the end of the week with a glass of local Klein Constantia wine in our hands, our consultant team likes to shoot the breeze. The conversation turns to why we live in and why we love Cape Town. Here are 10 of their suggestions in no particular order:
So let us start, the 10 best things about Cape Town;
- The sea. Or rather two oceans. We have the Atlantic, but the remnants of the Indian Ocean hits our False Bay coastline. Surfing, kayaking, diving, swimming, sailing and every manner of water sport available.
- The beach. We enjoy some of the most beautiful coastlines in the world. Where even in the height of summer, you can park your car close to a beach with minimal crowds. Favourite surfing beach: Muizenberg. Favourite swimming beach: Water's Edge, Simon's Town. Favourite walking beach: Noordhoek. Favourite lying around, tanning and doing nothing at all beach: Camps Bay.
- Table Mountain. Not only our famous rock but the whole Table Mountain range which is made for hiking, mountain biking, walking and picnicking. Favourite hiking route: Skeleton Gorge, Kirstenbosch. Favourite Mountain biking routes: Tokai Forest. A favourite walking route with dogs and children: Cecilia Forest.
- Sundowners. There are so many beauty spots it's hard to know where to begin. My personal favourite is the enclave of Llandudno near Hout Bay. Visiting friends on their terrace and watching the crimson sun melt away on the horizon. Sublime.
- Wine. To go with your sundowner, we are not short of top quality wines. The vineyards of Constantia are the oldest in South Africa and produce some excellent wines. By international standards, still reasonable in price and you can visit these vineyards that have, very often, excellent restaurants attached. Favourite Cape Town wine: High Constantia.
- Braais. A definite South African term for barbecue. No South African get together is complete without a braai. Our outdoor lifestyle lends itself to eating outdoors. High-quality beef or Karoo lamb or boerewors (farm sausage) are the favourites.
- Kirstenbosch. These botanical gardens are deservedly world-famous. The unique aspect about the Kirstenbosch Gardens is that there are no areas off-limits, you can wander around and walk wherever you want. People are positively encouraged to have al fresco picnics and adult get-togethers and children's parties abound.
- Restaurants. Some of the best quality, locally sourced foods in the world at the most reasonable prices. A winning combination. Obviously, seafood is a local speciality but going out to dine is an affordable delight. Difficult to pin down an absolute favourite. My candidate? The Food Barn in Noordhoek village.
- Green Point Stadium. An odd choice perhaps but quite logical. Built for the 2010 Football World Cup, the stadium is an iconic piece of architecture and is a beautiful addition to the city with the backdrop of Table Mountain. Anyone who goes for a football or rugby match or a concert raves about the stadium.
- Proximity. What that means is that everything is close together. Which other cities could you name which has mountains, beach, outdoor and indoor recreational activities, fantastic restaurants and local vineyards all within half an hour drive? Coupled with an enjoyable temperate climate, it is a winning combination. Oh, I almost forgot, my daughter, says she loves the penguins on the beaches of Simon's Town!
Ten best things about Cape Town by Uyaphi.com
Ellerman House
Rates from R9 000.00 per person
Experience luxury at Ellerman House in Bantry Bay, South Africa. With stunning ocean views from its rooms, suites, dining areas, lounges, and pool, this property is among the finest in the country. Every detail, from the stylish interiors to the top-notch amenities, has been carefully crafted.
Ellerman House offers an unmatched stay with exclusivity and elegance. Its personalised service ensures guests feel cared for every moment. With stunning ocean views and beautiful spaces, Ellerman House delivers an unforgettable luxury experience.
Ellerman Villa Two
Rates from R150 000.00 per night
Nestled in the prestigious Bantry Bay, Cape Town, Ellerman Villa Two is a luxurious private retreat that redefines indulgence. Surrounded by mountain ranges and offering sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean, it's one of the most exclusive destinations for those seeking peace and refinement.
Perfect for families or small groups, the villa features three beautifully designed bedrooms, each with its own en-suite bathroom and private terrace, offering exceptional comfort and space. Every detail, from the elegant interiors to the stunning views, is crafted for an unparalleled luxury experience.
Twelve Apostles Hotel
Rates from R4 465.00 per person
Welcome to the Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa, where elegance meets natural beauty. Just minutes from Cape Town's Camps Bay, this hotel offers a truly unique stay. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and Table Mountain National Park from any of the 70 beautifully designed rooms and suites.
Savour exquisite dining and world-class wines while watching stunning sunsets from the hotel's scenic decks. Every detail is crafted to create an unforgettable experience, blending luxury with a deep connection to the surroundings.
The Bay Hotel
Rates from R4 190.00 per person
The Bay Hotel is a stunning retreat with 78 beautifully designed rooms located right across from the iconic Camps Bay Beach. Each room is crafted for ultimate comfort, offering a luxurious yet welcoming stay.
Camps Bay Beach, with its white sands, top restaurants, and vibrant nightlife, is one of the most sought-after destinations for an unforgettable getaway. Whether you're enjoying the beach, savouring great food, or soaking up the lively atmosphere, The Bay Hotel is the ideal base for an exceptional vacation.
Radisson Collection Hotel Waterfront
Rates from R4 565.00 per person
Radisson Collection Hotel Waterfront is a must-visit in Granger Bay, near the iconic V&A Waterfront. With stunning views of Robben Island and unforgettable sunsets, this luxurious hotel is perfect for travelers seeking comfort and beauty. Its 177 stylish rooms and suites are designed with sophistication and attention to detail.
For those seeking relaxation, the outdoor pool offers a serene spot to soak up the sun and enjoy the view. The luxurious on-site spa is perfect for unwinding and escaping daily stress. Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property makes it easy to stay connected, along with other thoughtful amenities.
Welgelegen House
Rates from R1 750.00 per person
Located near the heart of Cape Town, Welgelegen Boutique Hotel offers a peaceful escape with a perfect mix of luxury and convenience. Set in two restored Victorian houses, it features seven elegant suites designed for comfort and style.
At Welgelegen House's centre is a picturesque cobbled courtyard with an inviting plunge pool. Charming balconies decorated with fragrant roses and jasmine complete the dreamy, tranquil, and luxurious setting.
Tintswalo Atlantic
Rates from R5 510.00 per person
Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean's rugged boulders and the slopes of Constantiaberg, near the charming Hout Bay, Tintswalo Atlantic offers a serene escape. This hidden gem invites guests to relax in tranquillity, with stunning ocean views from private balconies or luxurious freestanding bathtubs.
The accommodations are beautifully designed, combining elegance and comfort, while the friendly staff ensures every need is met with care. Whether enjoying the stunning views or the tranquil atmosphere, Tintswalo Atlantic offers unmatched relaxation.
Franschhoek Country House
Rates from R2 800.00 per person
Nestled in the heart of the breathtaking Franschhoek Valley, this 5-star hotel offers an exceptional stay complemented by the renowned Monneaux Restaurant. Perfectly situated in the Cape Winelands, it features 14 exquisitely designed rooms and suites, each crafted with luxurious attention to detail.
Franschhoek Country House is, without a doubt, one of the finest options for anyone seeking a sophisticated getaway in Franschhoek. Whether you're indulging in world-class dining or simply soaking in the beauty of the valley, this accommodation promises a truly memorable experience.