Nestled between Hout Bay and Noordhoek, Chapman’s Peak Drive is a world-famous route. It’s hailed for its engineering marvels, stunning ocean-meets-mountain-cliff views and spectacular sunsets. It’s been tested numerous times by the forces of nature (resulting in several long-term closures), but Chappies, as it’s known to locals, will always prevail as one of the world’s most special coastal drives. It’s an integral part of the city. Not only because it links the different coastal suburbs, but for the tourism and beauty it brings to the Mother City’s table. There are picnic spots along the way, and both walkers and cyclists have as much access to Chappies as drivers do. There is a fee for travelling the full distance, but if you turn around at the toll office, the drive is entirely free. Still, it’s worthwhile to experience the full route in all its majesty, with the cliffs and ocean on either side of you… However, please note that this route is purely weather-dependent so check online or call ahead. For more information on Chapman’s Peak Drive, contact (021) 791 8222.
Offering ocean views and sweeping views of Lion’s Head and Table Mountain, Sea Point Promenade is understandably popular. This family-friendly stretch is perfect for walking dogs, strolling with loved ones or jogging and cycling. Photo credit: www.capetown.travel If you tire of walking, there are endless stretches of lawn, and benches to recline on. It also offers great access to rocky, secluded beaches. Add to that great children’s play areas and outdoor exercise equipment… and you’re pretty much sorted! There’s also a putt-putt course and kiddies’ train for extra fun. The Mouille Point lighthouse and Green Point Urban Park are also worth getting excited about. Oh, and it’s also one of the best places to enjoy a sunset in Cape Town, with a host of street-facing restaurants – like Lily’s, Three Wise Monkeys and Strolla Bar – a short saunter away!
No trip to Cape Town is complete without visiting Camps Bay, Clifton’s four beaches, Llandudno or even Oudekraal. Take your pick because they’re all stunning! The Camps Bay and Clifton beaches are certainly the most popular. Sun lovers, surfers, families and celebs all grace these pristine, beautiful beaches. With unique granite boulders and panoramic views of Lion’s Head and Table Mountain, these beaches are real winners. That’s before you even add the mesmerising aqua waters, which, even during summer, are quite nippy! While you’re there, dine out or hit the club. Azure Restaurant, Mantra Café, La Parada del Mar, Paranga and Mezepoli to name a few. Photo credit: www.modernoverland.com Llandudno is a more sheltered beach, and it’s a popular surfing spot but, if you have the time, don’t leave it out of your Mother City travel itinerary. Oudekraal is a SANParks-protected beach. It falls within the Table Mountain National Park, so although you will have to pay an entry fee*, it is worth every penny. *(During Heritage Week in September, entry is free for South African citizens with valid green IDs to all SANParks areas.) Granite boulders rest in Mediterranean-type waters, which kiss smooth shores. There are also some wonderful braai facilities and picnic spots. This beach is a popular, yet preserved, local braai and chill-out spot for families and groups of friends! For more information on Camps Bay, contact (021) 438 3972. For more information on Clifton and Llandudno beaches, contact (021) 487 6800. For more information on Oudekraal, contact (021) 438 9555. Conclusion: These are just a few of the amazing things you can – and should – do when exploring Cape Town’s amazing Atlantic Seaboard!