Horse Riding in Cape Town

Horse Riding in Cape Town

New Zealand has taken over the mantle as the adventure capital of the world. From bungy jumping to rafting, from mountain biking to hiking. What people sometimes forget is that you can do all these activities and more, right here in Cape Town. We just don't shout about it as much.

A 30-minute drive from the centre of town past the elysian Constantia valley and over the mountain pass will take you to the sleepy community of Noordhoek. This rural outpost is perhaps most famous for its beach. The white sand stretches for over eight kilometres and is bordered by wetlands of the national park and the natural boundary of Chapmans Peak on one side and the man-made Kommetjie lighthouse on the other. The clarity of light is hypnotic. With the sun shining and views over the breaking Atlantic waves to Hout Bay, there is perhaps no more beautiful vista in the world.

The great director David Lean shot the beach scenes of the classic film "Ryan's Daughter" on this beach. It was supposed to be the west coast of Ireland, but as happens so often in that country, rain and no clear light was too much of an interruption, and so South Africa became Ireland.

With nature making its beauty so abundant and large, it is natural that so many locals ride and keep horses on their properties. There are several riding schools in the area, but Sleepy Hollow Horse Riding stands out. For over a decade, they have been pioneers in South Africa in hippotherapy and riding for the disabled. For the abled but not so competent riders like myself, they organise outrides on the beach on a daily basis.

Under the watchful Germanic eye of my instructor Nadine, I mounted their largest Frisian horse, Black Velvet, and after a short walk past several residential properties, we meandered through the dunes to the vast expanse of white beach. The winter rains provide large pools of water to trot through and arrive on an endless tract of sand. We headed to the skeletal remains of the SS Kakapo, a steamship that has been wrecked on this beach since 1900. The wreck provided the furthest point we travelled down the beach, and we turned around, cantering back westwards. I try to bluster over my lack of skill with enthusiasm on the saddle but the ever watching Nadine helped to correct my posture.

I must admit I was distracted by the view: the sea giving out to a beach, then to wetlands and finally, magnificent mountain slopes, densely overgrown with green coastal fynbos. Your mind does wander over the ride; sitting high on your horse looking at such vast and pristine nature. We dismounted back at the yard and for myself, with a certain tightness in my thighs. The yard has a certain harmony and tranquillity; dogs were lazing on the grass with horses grazing overlooked by the mountain range. I could not think of a better way to spend four hours.

My thanks once again to the team at Sleepy Hollow.

Horse Riding In Cape Town by Uyaphi.com

Horse Riding in Cape Town
Horse Riding in Cape Town
Horse Riding in Cape Town
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Map Of Hotels In Cape Town
Popular Accommodation Options In Cape Town

  • Mount Nelson Hotel

    Rates from R6 700.00 per person

    Nestled in the bustling city of Cape Town, on the slopes of Table Mountain, lies a legendary accommodation - The Mount Nelson Hotel. Experience five-star luxury with an unparalleled view that will take your breath away!

    Mount Nelson is conveniently situated within a beautiful garden residence close to the vibrant V&A Waterfront, Table Mountain, Signal Hill and numerous other attractions.

    The iconic luxury hotel is the perfect destination for the well-travelled looking for relaxation and adventure. With its luxurious facilities, excellent service and prime location, the historic Mount Nelson Hotel provides guests a truly unforgettable experience.

  • Grand Daddy Hotel

    Rates from R2 200.00 per person

    Grand Daddy Hotel is a unique and exciting hotel located in the heart of the lively Cape Town CBD.

    A luxury hotel with a difference offers guests an unforgettable experience with its stunning views of Table Mountain and its "penthouse" trailer park filled with classic Airstream caravans.

    If you are searching for a romantic getaway or desire to explore the wonders Cape Town has to offer, the Grand Daddy Hotel promises an exquisite stay.

    From luxuriously outfitted rooms and suites with contemporary features to scrumptious breakfasts lovingly crafted by master chefs - the Grand Daddy will surely leave you with memories for years ahead!

  • Abalone Guest Lodge

    Rates from ZAR 2 960.00 per person sharing

    Nestled against the serene backdrop of Hermanus's picturesque coastline, Abalone Guest Lodge offers a luxury retreat that epitomises coastal elegance. Boasting a prime location at Sievers Point, Abalone is an oasis of tranquillity, offering bespoke accommodations with breathtaking views.

    The lodge's intimate size and attentive service ensure a personalised stay, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful getaway amidst the natural splendour of the Cape Overberg.

  • Twelve Apostles Hotel

    Rates from R4 465.00 per person

    Welcome to the luxurious Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa, located not to far from the famous Camps Bay suburb of Cape Town.

    Enjoy breathtaking views of both the Atlantic Ocean and the Table Mountain National park from any one of the 70 rooms and suites available.

    Indulge in fine dining and wine-tasting options while taking in one of the most beautiful sunsets for any one of the decks!

    With so much to offer, it's no wonder the Twelve Apostles is a favourite destination for travellers looking for an unforgettable and unique Camps Bay experience.

  • River Manor

    Rates from R1 700.00 per person

    River Manor rests peacefully beneath the shade of Stellenbosch's ancient oaks, just a short two-minute stroll from the vibrant town centre. Each room has been thoughtfully and stylishly furnished with antiques, perfectly capturing the essence of "Colonial charm with a touch of Africa."

    This guesthouse strikes the perfect balance between classic elegance and modern luxury, offering an upscale retreat within walking distance of Stellenbosch's renowned attractions. River Manor promises an exceptional stay that blends sophistication with a warm, inviting atmosphere.

  • Ellerman House

    Rates from R8 000.00 per person

    Indulge in a luxurious five-star experience at Ellerman House situated in the beautiful South African coastal suburb of Bantry Bay.

    With its breathtaking ocean views from each and every one of its rooms, suites, dining areas, lounges and swimming pool, this exclusive property is widely regarded as one of the most luxurious hotels in the country.

    Ellerman House guarantees guests an extraordinary experience with its five-star amenities, stunning interiors, and top-notch personalised service that can't be found elsewhere.

  • 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.

  • Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel

    Rates from R4 375.00 per person

    The Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel is ideal for immersing yourself in luxury and blissful relaxation.

    In the bustling heart of Cape Town lies a luxurious boutique hotel featuring 12 en-suite bedrooms adorned with modern and vintage furnishings that promise a truly unforgettable stay in Cape Town.

    This is no ordinary hotel but a Bohemian chic heaven of sophistication and luxury. From the spectacular materials used to create maximum impact to the eclectic combination of modernity and vintage style - Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel offers it all!