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
Commodore Hotel
Rates from R2 225.00 per person
Located in a prime location, the Commodore Hotel offers 236 elegantly furnished superior rooms as well as suites for those seeking extra space and amenities.
Each room and is equipped with air conditioning, tea and coffee-making facilities, a bathroom with a separate bathtub and shower, ensuring that guests have everything they need for an enjoyable stay.
The Commodore Hotel provides everything you need for a perfect holiday or business trip.
From chic bars to elegant restaurants to well-equipped meeting spaces, the Commodore in the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town has it all.
Steenberg Hotel
Rates from R2 050.00 per person
Steenberg Hotel & Spa is an exquisite five-star boutique hotel situated on the foothills of the majestic Constantiaberg Mountain.
Steenberg offers guests a unique combination of luxurious hospitality, fine wines, and exceptional fine cuisine dining experience, a championship golf course and a luxury spa and wellness experience that will leave visitors feeling rejuvenated and relaxed.
With its rich history dating back to 1682, the Steenberg Hotel & Spa provides an unforgettable stay in Constantia for those looking for a romantic or relaxing getaway.
Ellerman Villa Two
Rates from R135 000.00 per night
Located in the affluent neighbourhood of Bantry Bay, Cape Town lies Ellerman Villa Two - a lavish private villa offering unparalleled opulence.
Escape to a paradise of unrivalled beauty and tranquillity when you visit this exclusive villa nestled between majestic mountain ranges and overlooking the breathtaking Atlantic Ocean.
Whether it is for your family or a small group of friends, this exquisite destination offers an unforgettable experience.
With three luxurious private bedrooms, each accompanied by a terrace and en-suite bathroom, guests are ensured ample space for relaxation and comfort during their stay.
The Portswood Hotel
Rates from R1 710.00 per person
The Portswood Hotel, located in an idyllic setting within the V&A Waterfront, this stylish hotel offers guests exceptional service and amenities that are sure to make one's stay unforgettable.
From comfortable rooms and suites to views of Table Mountain and the Cape Town harbour, the Portswood Hotel is an ideal destination for those seeking a luxurious stay whether it be business or pleasure.
Enjoy fine dining options at one of the many restaurants' in-house or a short walk away in the V&A Waterfront or relax with a drink at the chic bar or swimming pool.
Birkenhead House
Rates from R6 900.00 per person
Birkenhead House is a luxurious five-star boutique hotel in the picturesque town of Hermanus, South Africa.
Be awestruck by the magnificent sight of Walker Bay, the Southern Atlantic Ocean and its neighbouring mountains and fynbos.
From indulgent spa treatments to exquisite dining experiences, guests can choose from their selection of comfortable rooms, suites and villas or opt for one of the exclusive private residences which feature personal butler service and private plunge pools.
One of the most scenic swimming pool areas in South Africa.
Cape Milner Hotel
Rates from R2 620.00 per person
Immerse yourself in cosmopolitan luxury at the 4-star Cape Milner Hotel, ideally situated in downtown Cape Town. 57 modern and sophisticated rooms with stunning views of Table Mountain or the cityscape provide a perfect retreat after exploring all this vibrant city and region has to offer.
With a wealth of room options and an outstanding restaurant and dining room, your stay in Cape Town, no matter the duration, will be one to remember.
Whether seeking a cosy romantic escape or an unforgettable family holiday, Cape Milner's luxurious accommodations will cater to your every need and desire.
Tulbagh Hotel
Rates from R925.00 per person
The Tulbagh Boutique Hotel is centrally located, making it easy to explore the town and its historic Church Street.
The main hotel building dates back to 1859, and it is here that one will find the restaurant, bar, and swimming pool, as well as a luxurious selection of contemporary-styled rooms and suites.
Table Bay Hotel
Rates from R3 500.00 per person
The Table Bay Hotel it the V&A Waterfront precinct, a luxurious and sophisticated hotel that offers guests an unparalleled experience.
Located in one of Cape Town's most iconic locations, The Table Bay Hotel offers its guests with panoramic views of the harbour and Table Mountain, world-class dining options, and personalised service.
With its state-of-the-art amenities and exceptional customer service, it is no wonder why this hotel continues to attract so many travellers from near and far.