
The Table Mountain Aerial Cableway is closing down from the 22nd of July till the 25th of August; it’s the longest closure for many years. Urgent replacement work is needed as well as seasonal repairs. So, no getting to the top by the cable car.
In your humble writer’s view, this is a blessing in disguise as it an opportunity to hike up the many paths which lead to the summit. My favourite, which I have made several times with my children, is via Skeleton Gorge.
Driving to the beautiful Kirstenbosch Botanical gardens, you leave your car in the parking. Almost immediately, you start to ascend the gorge made famous by the walking habits of Jan Smuts and which is almost entirely covered by a canopy of indigenous shrubs and trees. This canopy is a godsend in summer as it gives you much respite from the intense heat and moments to sit down in the shade. The ascent will take an averagely fit person about 2 hours and then a further 2.5 hours to reach the cable car station from which you can hike down.
After the shade of Skeleton Gorge, vistas open up, and you spend almost as much time looking at the sublime views as you do concentrate on your walk.
Talking of climbing, figures recently released confirm record numbers of visitors and tourists to Cape Town. The seasonally good weather always helps, but a convergence of good news is promoting Cape Town internationally. In no particular order: the designation of Cape Town as world design capital in 2014, its inclusion as one of the seven natural wonders of the world, as well as an acceleration of sporting, conferencing and business events. More international artists are touring in the mother city with Justin Bieber, Rodrigues and the Red Hot Chilli Peppers all appearing in the next month. The international Cape Town 10s rugby tournament in February and the largest mass participation bicycle race in the world, the Cape Argus in March, are just some of the sporting highlights.
We who live here always knew that Cape Town was special, but it was our private secret. It seems that the secret is well and truly out. Rock on 2013.
Climbing Table Mountain By Uyaphi.com
Radisson Blu Hotel
Rates from R3 510.00 per person
The Radisson Blu is a must-visit hotel located in Granger Bay and conveniently close to the V&A Waterfront.
With breathtaking views of Robben Island, this luxurious hotel is renowned for its stunning sunsets.
For those seeking to relax and admire the grandeur of nature, the Radisson Blu is an ideal choice with its 177 rooms and suites.
Guests can bask in the sun at the outdoor swimming pool, rejuvenate at the luxurious spa and stay connected to their loved ones with free Wi-Fi throughout the property.
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.
More Quarters
Rates from R6 120.00 per night
More Quarters Apartments is the ideal home away from home when looking for accommodation in Cape Town's bustling city centre.
Nestled right near the vivacious Kloof Street, these apartments provide an effortless path to some of Cape Town's premier restaurants and coffee shops as well as a plethora of activities and tourist attractions.
Refresh and unwind after a day of exploration in the luxurious comfort of More Quarters Apartments, where you can indulge in modern amenities and enjoy stylish furnishings.
Come experience the Cape Town city centre like never before!
POD Boutique Hotel
Rates from R3 600.00 per person
Escape to POD Boutique Hotel for the most lavish and remarkable getaway in the Suburb of Camps Bay.
The POD Camps Bay, located in close proximity to the beautiful beachfront and tranquil Atlantic Ocean, offers 15 luxurious suites that boast opulent extravagance coupled with sophisticated simplicity.
Enjoy ultimate relaxation and opulence as you savour the panoramic views of pristine white beaches and shimmering crystal seas that will make your getaway an unforgettable experience.
Just a few minutes away you can find south beach Camps Bay beach, several restaurants, and various bars, all within an easy stroll of less than three minutes.
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.
Franschhoek Country House
Rates from R2 245.00 per person
5-star hotel accommodation in the heart of the Franschhoek valley complimented by the famous Monneaux Restaurant, Cape Winelands accommodation, with 14 luxuriously appointed rooms and suites.
One of the best options for anyone when looking for a few nights in the Franschhoek valley.
Colona Castle
Rates from R1 850.00 per person
Colona Castle is an elegant and luxurious retreat close to Muizenberg with commanding vistas out over the Cape Flats, False Bay, the backside of Table Mountain and the Constantiaberg.
Very centrally located to both the Constantia Winelands (within 5 minutes), the Cape Town city centre (25 minutes), the famed Boyes Drive (a few steps away) and the Penguins at Bould beach (25 minutes).
Boasting comfortable accommodations, a swimming pool, room service, modern amenities and plenty of activities for all ages, Colona provides a unique experience that will leave you with lasting memories of False Bay for years.
Villas at Franschhoek Country House
Rates from R7 190.00 per night
These luxury Villas offer what is arguably the best accommodation in the Cape Winelands; the suites are each a total of 100sqm in size which includes a separate lounge, bedroom and bathroom and two private balconies.
A fantastic family-friendly option or for a couple looking for the ultimate in space.