While 2024 brought plenty to learn – including the Oxford Word of the Year, ‘brain rot’ – this year doesn’t have to mirror its meaning: the dilution of quality brain activity due to the consumption of unchallenging digital content.
For many parents, the key to avoiding this phenomenon might be as simple as getting the kids out of the house.
Luckily, Cape Town and its surrounds offer plenty of ways to keep young minds engaged and active. With the load of public holidays and school breaks in the pipeline, finding creative ways to keep children happy and occupied becomes essential.
Here are four activities to inject some much-needed fun and adventure into a new and exciting year:
Bounce, swing and putt at Playrock Adventure Park
Located in the Cape, Playrock Adventure Park in Paarl is a haven for active kids. Featuring trampolines, mini golf, an outdoor soccer pitch and more, this park promises hours of energetic fun.
Meanwhile, parents can unwind at the family-friendly restaurant while the kids explore the indoor and outdoor play zones.
- Times: Tuesday to Friday 12pm to 6pm | Saturday and Sunday 9am to 6pm
- Cost: R40+ per child, spectators enter free
- Booking: Recommended for weekends and group visits.
Get active at the Spice Route Destination with Paarl Adventure Trails
Whether you’re hiking, biking or just taking a stroll in a beautiful and safe environment, Paarl Adventure Trails, located at the Spice Route Destination in Paarl, offers something for every family member.
With routes ranging from an easy five-kilometre for little legs to more challenging 35-kilometre trails for the adventurous, there’s plenty to do.
If you don’t own a bicycle, you can simply clock in and book a premium mountain bike. The pump track is free and provides lots of fun for the kids.
After working up an appetite, consider treating the family to wood-fired pizzas and refreshments at La Grapperia Pizzeria & Bistro, just a short walk from the trailhead.
- Spice Route Destination times: Monday to Sunday 8am to 5pm
- Paarl Trail cost: Day passes and annual permits are available (SnapScan payments available for Paarl Trails)
- Paarl Trail booking: Bookings are not compulsory but recommended
Unleash more indoor energy at Freedom Adventure Park
For an adrenaline-filled day, head to Freedom Adventure Park, with locations at Canal Walk and Tokai. This premium indoor play park caters to kids (and adults!) of all ages, offering climbing zones, trampolines and an in-house restaurant for refuelling.
- Times: Monday to Sunday 9am to 9pm
- Cost: R150 per hour (kids) | R85 for toddlers | R400 for an all-day pass
- Booking: Walk-ins welcome, but pre-booking is wise for peak times
Embark on a family-friendly hike at Newlands Forest
If your kids need a breath of fresh air, Newlands Forest offers a gentle introduction to hiking. With beginner-friendly trails, shady picnic spots and even a waterfall to discover, this Table Mountain National Park gem is a perfect spot for families.
Enjoy a braai at one of the designated areas or simply soak in the serenity of the forest.
- Location: Off the M3 Highway, Newlands
- Cost: R42 per adult | R21 per child (SA citizens with ID)
- Booking: No booking required – just pack your picnic basket and go!
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Picture: Paarl Trails / Facebook
