10 best things about Cape Town

10 best things about Cape Town

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;

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.
  9. 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.
  10. 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

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Map Of Hotels In Cape Town
Popular Accommodation Options In Cape Town

  • River Manor

    Rates from R1 300.00 per person

    River Manor nestles quietly under Stellenbosch's ancient oaks, just two mins walk from the town's centre, all rooms have been stylishly furnished with antiques in keeping with the theme "Colonial charm with a touch of Africa".

    A classic and yet upmarket guesthouse within walking distance of Stellenbosch's famed attractions.

  • The Bay Hotel

    Rates from R3 810.00 per person

    Experience the lavishness of The Bay Hotel, with its 78 alluring rooms just across from the illustrious Camps Bay Beach.

    The Bay offers guests an opulent and cosy stay, with each room and suite designed to provide maximum comfort.

    With its brilliant white sandy beaches, tantalizing restaurants, and lively nightlife, Camps Bay Beach is the ultimate destination for unforgettable vacation experiences.

  • Ellerman House

    Rates from R8 000.00 per person

    Indulge in a luxurious five-star experience at Ellerman House situated in the beautiful South African coastal suburb of Bantry Bay.

    With its breathtaking ocean views from each and every one of its rooms, suites, dining areas, lounges and swimming pool, this exclusive property is widely regarded as one of the most luxurious hotels in the country.

    Ellerman House guarantees guests an extraordinary experience with its five-star amenities, stunning interiors, and top-notch personalised service that can't be found elsewhere.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Babylonstoren Hotel

    Rates from R4 700.00 per person

    Babylonstoren Farm Hotel offers guests that something special they have been looking for by combining history with luxurious accommodation, superb cuisine and stunning vistas.

    One of the finest Cape Winelands boutique hotel options on offer, all within a working wine estate.

  • Birkenhead House

    Rates from R6 900.00 per person

    Birkenhead House is a luxurious five-star boutique hotel in the picturesque town of Hermanus, South Africa.

    Be awestruck by the magnificent sight of Walker Bay, the Southern Atlantic Ocean and its neighbouring mountains and fynbos.

    From indulgent spa treatments to exquisite dining experiences, guests can choose from their selection of comfortable rooms, suites and villas or opt for one of the exclusive private residences which feature personal butler service and private plunge pools.

    One of the most scenic swimming pool areas in South Africa.

  • Plumwood Inn

    Rates from R1 250.00 per person

    The seven tranquil and elegant rooms at Plumwood Inn offer up serene sophistication and timeless charm.

    Plumwood Inn is a place where you will be unobtrusively pampered and where you will wake up to glorious views, birdsong and clean air.