There is so much of the Mother City that is worth exploring. Rather than getting caught up in the tourist traps, check out some local, alternative things that will give you a fresh perspective on the Mother City.
1. Signal Hill for a sunset picnic
Yes, the view from Lion’s Head is spectacular, but the view from Signal Hill is arguably just as beautiful. Driving up the winding road to get to the parking area never gets old. Grab some snacks and head up the Hill to watch the sunset over Cape Town.
2. Chapman’s Peak Drive after a pitstop at Ice Dream
Chapman’s Peak Drive is a sensational route. The road snakes between Hout Bay and Noordhoek, on the western side of the Cape Peninsula. The dramatic 9km drive has 114 curves, and is famous for its breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. If you are travelling from Hout Bay side, stop off at Ice Dream along Main Road. Their gelato is otherworldly. Light motor vehicles will be charged a R50 toll, see full tariffs here.
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3. Water bike around Simon’s Town harbour and spot an African penguin
See the Cape Peninsula from a different angle – from the water rather than the land. Cape Town Water Bikes takes you on a two-hour adventure through the Simon’s Town harbour, past the Naval Base and around to the African penguin colony at Boulders Beach. The bikes have no motor, making the experience truly environmentally friendly.
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#capetownwaterbikes Taylormade_adventures Makatini joined us today, kilt and all ??
4. Breakfast in Kalk Bay before a dip in the Dalebrook Tidal Pool
Lekker Kalk Bay is a sweet spot to satisfy your morning hunger pangs. The laid-back atmosphere kicks your day off on a good note. After fuelling up, mosey on down to the Dalebrook tidal pool, which holds a special place in many Capetonian hearts. Located in St. James, this ocean oasis is the perfect place to spend the rest of your morning. After a healthy dose of vitamin sea, dry yourself out on the sliver of sand.
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5. A visit to the Norval Foundation to celebrate South African art
Every first Thursday of the month there’s free entrance to the Norval Foundation. The centre is dedicated to researching and exhibiting 20th- and 21st-century visual art from South Africa and beyond. Take a walk through the Sculpture Garden and to the outdoor amphitheater. If you’re interested in art and architecture, an afternoon here will satisfy your creative fix.
6. Gear up for a mountain walk on Constantia Nek with a delicious cup of coffee
This hike is one of the more relaxed trails in Cape Town. If you meander along the jeep trail, you’ll spot some friendly pups accompanying their humans. The views over the Constantia Valley will stop you in your tracks, entrancing you in Mother Nature’s beauty. The higher you go, the more beautiful the view. On your way down or on your way up, stop at Black Box Coffeeworks for a delicious caffeine fix.
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7. Indulge yourself in a local gin tasting in the heart of Cape Town
Cape Town has been earmarked as the gin capital of the world, with an explosion of craft gins taking the country by storm. Pienaar & Son Distillery in the centre of Cape Town takes your tastebuds on a sensorial trip. Believing in creating traditions rather than following them, this distillery is the epitome of South African craft creativity. Tastings and tours are open on Saturdays from 10am to 2pm, free of charge and with a laid-back vibe, there is no need to book.
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8. Ogle over local farm produce and views of the Atlantic at the Oranjezicht City Farm Market
The Oranjezicht City Farm Market is a staple in most city-dwellers Saturday or Sunday agenda. The market showcases the freshest farm produce and speciality products. This is accompanied by various Cape Town eateries and their mouthwatering creations. Spending the morning here is a fun way to explore the Mother City’s incredible food scene. The choices can be overwhelming, but there is literally something for everyone to eat.
9. Venture out the city surrounds to the 18 Gangster Museum
The 18 Gangster Museum is the first of it’s kind in Africa, making it a truly unique cultural experience. The museum takes its visitors on a guided tour that has been curated by ex-offenders, which has given them a meaningful reintegration into society. Their experience helps to demystify gangsterism for locals and tourists. The museum was founded as a way to creatively curb gangsterism, to help reform and reintegrate current gangsters and to essentially prevent children from entering in to the life of crime.
10. Wine down in Jonkershoek Valley at the Postcard Café
The Western Cape winelands are world-renowned and Jonkershoek Valley in Stellenbosch is no exception. The views are mind-blowing, Mother Nature really took her time creating this picturesque paradise. The restaurant has an array of delicious dishes, inclusive of all dietary requirements and the rosé goes down like silk.
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Image: Cape Town Etc
