As we hunker down at the end of the week with a glass of local Klein Constantia wine in our hands, our consultant team likes to shoot the breeze. The conversation turns to why we live in and why we love Cape Town. Here are 10 of their suggestions in no particular order:
So let us start, the 10 best things about Cape Town;
- The sea. Or rather two oceans. We have the Atlantic, but the remnants of the Indian Ocean hits our False Bay coastline. Surfing, kayaking, diving, swimming, sailing and every manner of water sport available.
- The beach. We enjoy some of the most beautiful coastlines in the world. Where even in the height of summer, you can park your car close to a beach with minimal crowds. Favourite surfing beach: Muizenberg. Favourite swimming beach: Water's Edge, Simon's Town. Favourite walking beach: Noordhoek. Favourite lying around, tanning and doing nothing at all beach: Camps Bay.
- Table Mountain. Not only our famous rock but the whole Table Mountain range which is made for hiking, mountain biking, walking and picnicking. Favourite hiking route: Skeleton Gorge, Kirstenbosch. Favourite Mountain biking routes: Tokai Forest. A favourite walking route with dogs and children: Cecilia Forest.
- Sundowners. There are so many beauty spots it's hard to know where to begin. My personal favourite is the enclave of Llandudno near Hout Bay. Visiting friends on their terrace and watching the crimson sun melt away on the horizon. Sublime.
- Wine. To go with your sundowner, we are not short of top quality wines. The vineyards of Constantia are the oldest in South Africa and produce some excellent wines. By international standards, still reasonable in price and you can visit these vineyards that have, very often, excellent restaurants attached. Favourite Cape Town wine: High Constantia.
- Braais. A definite South African term for barbecue. No South African get together is complete without a braai. Our outdoor lifestyle lends itself to eating outdoors. High-quality beef or Karoo lamb or boerewors (farm sausage) are the favourites.
- Kirstenbosch. These botanical gardens are deservedly world-famous. The unique aspect about the Kirstenbosch Gardens is that there are no areas off-limits, you can wander around and walk wherever you want. People are positively encouraged to have al fresco picnics and adult get-togethers and children's parties abound.
- Restaurants. Some of the best quality, locally sourced foods in the world at the most reasonable prices. A winning combination. Obviously, seafood is a local speciality but going out to dine is an affordable delight. Difficult to pin down an absolute favourite. My candidate? The Food Barn in Noordhoek village.
- Green Point Stadium. An odd choice perhaps but quite logical. Built for the 2010 Football World Cup, the stadium is an iconic piece of architecture and is a beautiful addition to the city with the backdrop of Table Mountain. Anyone who goes for a football or rugby match or a concert raves about the stadium.
- Proximity. What that means is that everything is close together. Which other cities could you name which has mountains, beach, outdoor and indoor recreational activities, fantastic restaurants and local vineyards all within half an hour drive? Coupled with an enjoyable temperate climate, it is a winning combination. Oh, I almost forgot, my daughter, says she loves the penguins on the beaches of Simon's Town!
Ten best things about Cape Town by Uyaphi.com
Kensington Place
Rates from R3 050.00 per person
Perched atop the picturesque slopes of Table Mountain, Kensington Place is a lavish boutique hotel with breathtaking views of Cape Town's bustling downtown skyline.
At this intimate boutique hotel, visitors can enjoy a harmonious blend of city convenience and serene peacefulness.
Boasting 5-star amenities and services, Kensington Place has established itself as an ideal lodging option for those exploring Cape Town.
Guests can enjoy a tranquil refuge while still being near the numerous attractions and restaurants that make this bustling city unique.
Majeka House
Rates from R2 440.00 per person
Majeka House is owner run and managed and is ideally located just outside Stellenbosch in a quiet residential suburb.
This Stellenbosch 5-Star Hotel is set in a spectacular garden setting with mountains and vineyards as a backdrop.
Villas at Franschhoek Country House
Rates from R7 190.00 per night
These luxury Villas offer what is arguably the best accommodation in the Cape Winelands; the suites are each a total of 100sqm in size which includes a separate lounge, bedroom and bathroom and two private balconies.
A fantastic family-friendly option or for a couple looking for the ultimate in space.
Cellars Hohenort Hotel
Rates from R2 900.00 per person
Cellars Hohenort Hotel is an elegant and luxurious boutique hotel located in the picturesque Constantia Valley.
With its majestic views across 9 acres of internationally renowned gardens, vineyards and mountains, Cellars Hohenort Hotel provides guests a unique stay experience that will be remembered for years.
Cellars Hohenort in Constantia offers up 53 luxurious suites, each meticulously designed with modern amenities and comforts, as well as world-class dining options and exclusive spa treatments.
Hyde Hotel
Rates from R2 214.00 per person
The Hyde Hotel, Cape Town is the perfect establishment for a luxurious and relaxing stay in the trendy district of Sea Point, Cape Town.
The Hyde All-Suite Hotel offers guests beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean, Table Mountain and Signal Hill. The hotel's suites are designed with luxury and comfort in mind, providing discerning travellers with an unforgettable experience during their visit to South Africa's stunning Western Cape region.
With attentive staff on hand to assist with any needs or requests, The Hyde Hotel in Sea Point promises an exquisite getaway that will leave one feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel
Rates from R4 375.00 per person
The Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel is ideal for immersing yourself in luxury and blissful relaxation.
In the bustling heart of Cape Town lies a luxurious boutique hotel featuring 12 en-suite bedrooms adorned with modern and vintage furnishings that promise a truly unforgettable stay in Cape Town.
This is no ordinary hotel but a Bohemian chic heaven of sophistication and luxury. From the spectacular materials used to create maximum impact to the eclectic combination of modernity and vintage style - Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel offers it all!
Erinvale Estate Hotel And Spa
Rates from ZAR 2 950.00 per person sharing
Enter the elegant world of Erinvale Hotel and Spa, located in Somerset West, with Cape Town's stunning vistas as your backdrop. This luxury boutique hotel blends historical charm with modern sophistication, offering guests a sanctuary of relaxation and indulgence.
It's undoubtedly a top choice for a peaceful escape, romantic getaway, or memorable family holiday. Erinvale offers unmatched experiences with luxurious accommodations, gourmet dining, and exceptional amenities.
Table Bay Hotel
Rates from R3 500.00 per person
The Table Bay Hotel it the V&A Waterfront precinct, a luxurious and sophisticated hotel that offers guests an unparalleled experience.
Located in one of Cape Town's most iconic locations, The Table Bay Hotel offers its guests with panoramic views of the harbour and Table Mountain, world-class dining options, and personalised service.
With its state-of-the-art amenities and exceptional customer service, it is no wonder why this hotel continues to attract so many travellers from near and far.