Cape Town is home to some seriously breathtaking views. There is no denying the fact that the Mother City is pure scenic bliss! Known for her stunning sherbet-coloured sunsets that set the sky alight in a beautiful celebration of colours.
Also read: Once again, Cape Town is voted 11th best city in the world
Going on the ultimate viewing chasing adventure has become one of the coolest things to do in Cape Town. But sometimes you need to wander a little off the beaten path to find the real hidden gems. Most require some effort to reach – either a short walk or longer hike – but all are worth the journey (which is almost always gorgeous in itself).
Explore these epic views in Cape Town:
1. The City’s hidden waterfall
Not too many people know about Silvermine Waterfall, and fortunately a brief 30-minute walk through the south-eastern part of the Table Mountain Reserve will take you to this hidden gem. The Silvermine Waterfall hike is really short and sweet providing a chance to go chasing waterfalls without too much effort.
Also read: 5 of the most spectacular waterfalls in and around Cape Town
The chilled walk from the Eastern Silvermine entrance will get you to this amazing waterfall and it’s best enjoyed in winter after heavy rain.
- Starting location: The start of the Silvermine Waterfall Hike trail is located on at the Silvermine East gate (gate 2).
2. Wolfberg Arch
If there’s a hike to do in the Cederberg Wilderness Area, this is it.
The Cedarberg is known for its impressive rock formations and the Wolfberg Cracks and Arch are two of the must-see sites. The catch (if at all a catch) is that you’ll have to hike to reach them. It’s quite a steep climb but the trail is well-marked and easy enough to follow.
Also read: Captivated by the Cederberg Wilderness
There is, however, no water on the Traill so make sure to pack enough to keep hydrated. The Wolberg Arch Hike can be completed in 5 to 7 hours or even spread out over 2 days, so cater your visit depending your level of fitness.
Once up the cracks, the hike along the top to the arch is easy and absolutely stunning.
- Starting location: Start and finish at the Sandrif farm in the Cederberg.
3. Die Hel
This lesser known gem lies a little outside the Mother City, although it’s surely worth taking the trip. Travel through the Swartberg Pass and you’ll reach Die Hel (The Hell), an untouched part of the vast Karoo offering visitors total peace and quiet.
Also read: Take a hike: The Other ‘Die Hel’ at the Groot Winterhoek
Die Hel lies within the Swartberg Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and leads travellers through one of the most breathtaking valleys in South Africa. The area is also known as Gamkaskloof, but Die Hel sounds so much more adventurous.
- Starting location: The road runs from the top of the Swartberg Pass to the bottom of Gamkaskloof (Die Hel). The expected driving time is about 2 hours.
4. The Look-Out Cave
You really can’t prepare yourself for the views from Look-Out Cave. This cave is nothing short of a braggard – a total show-off of the unrivalled beauty that is this part of the Cape.
In fact, the whole of the mountain pass known as Chapman’s Peak is popular for its breath-taking views and rugged appeal. But, this little cave lies in secret just below that pass; off the beaten track and holding on tight to its secret spot that only a few lucky ones venture to find.
Also read: Marvel at the majesty of Muizenberg Cave with a hike up St James Peak
This spot remains relatively quiet. But, some locals that know about the exquisite views may come here for sundowners or on weekends. Part of the appeal is that few people know about it. So, if you decide to explore Look-Out Cave, the hardest part is going to be trying to keep this little gem a secret.
- Starting location: Chapman’s Peak Drive is operated as a toll road and starts from Hout Bay and ends in Noordhoek.
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Picture: David Henning / Getaway