10 best things about Cape Town
Discover the Magic of Cape Town: A Perfect Blend of Oceans, Mountains, and Vibrant Culture
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
Travel To Cape Town Now
Map of Hotels in and around the Cape Town and the Western Cape
Cape Town Travel Topics
Tintswalo Summer House
Tucked into the charming seaside village of Glencairn, Tintswalo Summer House is a beautifully restored heritage villa where refined luxury meets the wild beauty of the Cape Peninsula. Individually decorated suites, each with its own character, offer an intimate retreat designed for slow mornings and unhurried afternoons. Savour thoughtful, locally sourced coastal cuisine at the Summer House Eatery, with the Atlantic as your backdrop, before exploring the Southern Peninsula's pristine beaches and the dramatic scenery of Cape Point.
Tintswalo Boulders
Tucked away in the seaside village of Simon's Town, Tintswalo Boulders is an intimate boutique villa and one of the Cape Peninsula's best-kept secrets. Just steps from the famous Boulders Beach and its beloved penguin colony, this retreat offers stunning ocean views and the quiet exclusivity that discerning travellers seek. Nine elegantly appointed suites each have their own unique outlook over the Atlantic, with daily breakfast, sunset canapés and cocktails, luxurious en-suite bathrooms, complimentary Wi-Fi and free parking included.
Camps Bay Village
At Camps Bay Village, you'll discover a stunning collection of luxurious crash pads, charming seaside studios, inviting garden studios, and deluxe holiday villas. Perfectly suited for a romantic escape or an adventure-packed family getaway, this accommodation truly stands out. These exceptional villas not only offer incredible value but also provide an unmatched combination of comfort, style, and location. Whether you're soaking up the sun or exploring the city, Camps Bay Village ensures an unforgettable stay.
Waterfront Village
Experience unparalleled luxury with a stay at the Waterfront Village, an exquisite retreat nestled in the heart of the vibrant V&A Waterfront precinct. With a stunning collection of 80 private residences, each meticulously designed with exceptional attention to detail, these accommodations offer a perfect blend of comfort and indulgence. From the thoughtfully curated amenities to the serene atmosphere, every element of your stay promises to pamper and delight. Without a doubt, this is the ultimate setting to immerse yourself in Cape Town's charm while enjoying the pinnacle of elegance and relaxation.
Ellerman Villa Two
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.
Ellerman Villa One
Ellerman Villa One offers a truly extraordinary escape. Overlooking Bakoven, Bantry Bay, the Twelve Apostles, and the ocean, this three-story villa defines coastal luxury. With five stunning bedrooms, a private deck, and a pool, every detail is designed for a seamless, indulgent stay. The villa includes a dining room and a fully equipped kitchen, giving guests the freedom to create their own experiences. Offering privacy and independence from Ellerman House, it's the perfect retreat for those seeking sophistication and exclusivity.
Colona Castle
Colona Castle is a luxurious retreat near Muizenberg, offering stunning views of the Cape Flats, False Bay, Table Mountain, and the Constantiaberg. Ideally located, it's just 5 minutes from the Constantia Winelands, 25 minutes from Cape Town's city centre, and close to Boyes Drive and Boulders Beach's famous penguins. Colona Castle offers accommodations that seamlessly blend comfort with modern amenities, creating an experience that is both indulgent and effortless. What truly distinguishes the hotel is its unique ability to craft unforgettable moments, pairing its opulent surroundings with an unparalleled location.
Tintswalo Atlantic
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.