Summer bodies are made in winter, or so they say. Well summer is here and you may be realising that, unfortunately, your summer body was not made in winter. Not to worry though – we’ve got you covered with seven of the best running routes the Mother City has to offer so you can bounce back into your summer clothes in no time.
1 Sea Point Promenade, Sea Point
Exercising with a view makes your workout routine 10 times better. Think of the waves crashing loudly along the banks as your motivation. They’re cheering you to run faster. Nature’s own gym trainer, if you will. Hundreds of people walk and run along the Promenade every day, so you don’t have to worry about safety. It’s always good to be aware of your surroundings though. Enjoy the scenic route along the Promenade and the pool, and don’t forget your headphones.
2 Newlands Forest, Newlands
Newlands has a running route for individuals of all fitness levels: steep, fairly flat or wide areas for group jogs. Newlands Forest is shaded so you’ll be out of the harsh sun, which is most welcome during the Cape summertime. There are various scenic routes for runners to choose from, some of which cross little streams. The forest is also filled with paths that link so you won’t wander too far away from your starting point.
3 Lion’s Head, Cape Town
Get on track for one of the ultimate running routes: the base of Lion’s Head. Do you know where Lion’s Head gets its name from? It was originally called ‘Leeuwen Kop’ by the Dutch, because the 669m peak above the Mother City looks like a lion watching over the busy city folk. Although your run can be peaceful and uninterupted, it can get busy during summer when hikers and runners of various fitness levels head up to take in the gorgeous view at the top. Looking to learn while you get fit? There are guided Lion’s Head tours, where you can discover new things in your own city, such as the Noon Gun at Lion Battery.
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4 The Pipe Track, Table Mountain
The Pipe Track is a common path with amazing views of Table Mountain and Camps Bay. You can park at Kloof Nek parking lot and climb the steps to the start of the Pipe Track. This area is secluded so it’s best to go in a group. There are also benches along the way for you to stop and take pictures of the awesome view.
5 Root44 Parkrun, Stellenbosch
Join a group of fitness fanatics for the Root44 Parkrun, come rain or shine. This is a timed 5 km run that happens every Saturday at 8 am. Not in the mood to run? That’s okay, take a nice stroll and enjoy the gorgeous views. You’ll pass a lake, some vineyards and enjoy a stunning mountain view.
Spot the eskimo ❄️❄️⛄️⛄️ #parkrun #root44parkrun #stellenbosch
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6 Tafelberg Road, Table Mountain Nature Reserve
A long, winding road with remarkable views at the base of Table Mountain, you’re only left with your thoughts and fantastic views as you run along Tafelberg Road. This running route is perfect if you’re looking for a flat road run without inclines. The Tafelberg Road is paved, so all you need is a good pair of running shoes.
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7 Red and Yellow Running Routes, V&A Waterfront
If you don’t mind exercising at one of Cape Town busiest spots, then the V&A Waterfront’s two running routes are great for blowing off some steam. Plus, Table Mountain and the Atlantic (with Robben Island in the distance) are on either side of you for your viewing pleasure. The two routes – one 5 km, the other 2.5 km – start and finish at the Information Office. On both, you’ll pass the Aquarium, the One&Only Hotel and the Cape Grace Hotel. The 2.5 km route is indicated by yellow markers at various points and ends as you pass round the Time Bay Tower to your left. If you’ve taken the 5 km route, indicated by red markers, you’ll go past the Tower and all the way around the northern part of the Waterfront. Check out the running route map (which you get for free at the Information Office) for further details.
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