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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
Welgelegen House
Rates from R2 475.00 per person
Indulge in the peace and luxury of Welgelegen House, situated conveniently near the hustle and bustle of Cape Town's city bowl.
This striking hotel comprises two Victorian houses and seven lavish suites, linked together by a magnificent cobbled courtyard with an inviting plunge pool encircled by vibrant balconies adorned with iceberg roses and star jasmine.
At the Welgelegen House, you will discover a tranquil abode to just chill and appreciate the breathtaking sites, sounds and attractions of Cape Town.
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!
Steenberg Hotel
Rates from R2 050.00 per person
Steenberg Hotel & Spa is an exquisite five-star boutique hotel situated on the foothills of the majestic Constantiaberg Mountain.
Steenberg offers guests a unique combination of luxurious hospitality, fine wines, and exceptional fine cuisine dining experience, a championship golf course and a luxury spa and wellness experience that will leave visitors feeling rejuvenated and relaxed.
With its rich history dating back to 1682, the Steenberg Hotel & Spa provides an unforgettable stay in Constantia for those looking for a romantic or relaxing getaway.
POD Boutique Hotel
Rates from R3 600.00 per person
Escape to POD Boutique Hotel for the most lavish and remarkable getaway in the Suburb of Camps Bay.
The POD Camps Bay, located in close proximity to the beautiful beachfront and tranquil Atlantic Ocean, offers 15 luxurious suites that boast opulent extravagance coupled with sophisticated simplicity.
Enjoy ultimate relaxation and opulence as you savour the panoramic views of pristine white beaches and shimmering crystal seas that will make your getaway an unforgettable experience.
Just a few minutes away you can find south beach Camps Bay beach, several restaurants, and various bars, all within an easy stroll of less than three minutes.
O On Kloof
Rates from R1 575.00 per person
O On Kloof is a stunning boutique hotel located in the heart of Cape Town's Sea Point suburb. Here, guests can experience the best of South African hospitality with easy access to all the local attractions.
Indulge yourself in all the extravagances on offer, including a heated pool, soothing spa treatments, delicious cuisine and opulent guest rooms and suites.
Boasting its advantageous position and exceptional service, O On Kloof in Sea Point ensures your time in Cape Town is an unforgettable experience.
The Marly Camps Bay
Rates from R3 875.00 per person
Experience a stay of refined elegance and unparalleled luxury at the Marly Boutique Hotel, located on the stunning Camps Bay beachfront in Cape Town.
Boasting breathtaking ocean vistas and providing direct access to one of South Africa's most stunning shorelines, this Camps Bay boutique hotel offers its guests an unforgettable experience.
Make memories to last a lifetime while staying at The Marly Camps Bay in Cape Town - where luxurious facilities, impeccable service, and ultimate comfort come together for an unforgettable experience.
All of this is directly above some of the best restaurants and bars in Cape Town.
Cape Grace Hotel
Rates from R5 700.00 per person
Indulge in the majestic beauty of Cape Town and its waterfront with a stay at The Cape Grace Hotel.
Nestled on the serene waterfront of bustling V&A Waterfront, this luxurious hotel offers guests an experience that is incomparable in terms of luxury, comfort and service.
Relishing in opulence and unparalleled amenities, it's no surprise that The Cape Grace is the epitome of luxury and one of South Africa's most coveted hotels.
From romantic escapes to family-friendly adventures, The Cape Grace offers something for everyone seeking the perfect getaway.
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.