While there are a good few reasons why Cape Town’s traditional attractions (think Signal Hill, The Waterfront and Iziko museums) are as globally renowned as they are, there’s something enchanting about the alternative gems slightly hidden within the lesser-beaten tracks of the Mother City.
Also read: Discovering Cape Town’s unique charm: 10 reasons that set the city apart
If you’re looking for something slightly lesser-known, but still as memorable as its popular counterpart, here are some treats you can look forward to – now that you know where to look:
‘The Rock’ sunset spot
Admittedly, not so hidden given its increasing popularity and adoption of a local nickname, it’s still one of the best alternative sunset spots when Signal Hill gets too crowded to fully soak in the views.
Tucked away in what seems to be Ocean View Drive’s dead-end in Fresnaye, Sea Point, lies a giant flat granite boulder that overlooks the beautiful Camps Bay and Clifton.
You may need to bundu-bash your way there, but it’s definitely worth a few minor scratches.
The Labia Theatre
The Labia Theatre is an icon on Orange Street. The old-school cinema is renowned for its charm and has been a popular old sport for decades.
A vintage aesthetic, unique film selections (alternative films alongside the big-named blockbusters) and the choice of adding a little something extra to your slushie, just add to the Labia’s charm.
Thrifting
While strolling through the Waterfront, Canal Walk and Cavendish will undoubtedly reward you with the latest in international fashion trends, the thought of the gathering crowds is enough to keep you in last season’s clothes.
For timeless pieces, unique fashion and less fighting your way through clothing rails, Cape Town is home to an ever-growing pool of the coolest vintage and thrift stores around.
Also read: Exploring Cape Town’s unique thrift stores and markets
Street art touring
There’s no place like Zeits MOCCA, but there’s also something to be said about the multitude of art pieces adorning the city’s landscapes. Woodstock alone has been deemed Cape Town’s Urban Gallery, courtesy of the murals on almost every corner of the neighbourhood.
Street art tours are a definite must for the artistically adventurous. If you’re not sure that your navigation skills will hold up, let Juma Art Tours show you the way.
Also read: Juma Art Tours connects locals and visitors through ecotourism
Little Lion’s Head
If Lion’s Head is the ultimate ‘cool kid’ when it comes to popular hiking trails in the Mother City with its breathtaking views and kaleidoscopic sunset scenes, then Little Lion’s Head is undoubtedly the alternative sibling serving equally picturesque views on a silver platter.
Located between Hout Bay, Sandy Bay and Llandudno, Little Lion’s Head may be shorter and relatively smaller in comparison, but the surrounding vistas speak for themselves.
Cape {town} Etc discount: Enjoy a drive-in movie experience in Cape Town for a car of five people for R175. Get it here.
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Picture: Matt Halls / Unsplash