Horse Riding in Cape Town

Horse Riding in Cape Town

New Zealand has taken over the mantle as the adventure capital of the world. From bungy jumping to rafting, from mountain biking to hiking. What people sometimes forget is that you can do all these activities and more, right here in Cape Town. We just don't shout about it as much.

A 30-minute drive from the centre of town past the elysian Constantia valley and over the mountain pass will take you to the sleepy community of Noordhoek. This rural outpost is perhaps most famous for its beach. The white sand stretches for over eight kilometres and is bordered by wetlands of the national park and the natural boundary of Chapmans Peak on one side and the man-made Kommetjie lighthouse on the other. The clarity of light is hypnotic. With the sun shining and views over the breaking Atlantic waves to Hout Bay, there is perhaps no more beautiful vista in the world.

The great director David Lean shot the beach scenes of the classic film "Ryan's Daughter" on this beach. It was supposed to be the west coast of Ireland, but as happens so often in that country, rain and no clear light was too much of an interruption, and so South Africa became Ireland.

With nature making its beauty so abundant and large, it is natural that so many locals ride and keep horses on their properties. There are several riding schools in the area, but Sleepy Hollow Horse Riding stands out. For over a decade, they have been pioneers in South Africa in hippotherapy and riding for the disabled. For the abled but not so competent riders like myself, they organise outrides on the beach on a daily basis.

Under the watchful Germanic eye of my instructor Nadine, I mounted their largest Frisian horse, Black Velvet, and after a short walk past several residential properties, we meandered through the dunes to the vast expanse of white beach. The winter rains provide large pools of water to trot through and arrive on an endless tract of sand. We headed to the skeletal remains of the SS Kakapo, a steamship that has been wrecked on this beach since 1900. The wreck provided the furthest point we travelled down the beach, and we turned around, cantering back westwards. I try to bluster over my lack of skill with enthusiasm on the saddle but the ever watching Nadine helped to correct my posture.

I must admit I was distracted by the view: the sea giving out to a beach, then to wetlands and finally, magnificent mountain slopes, densely overgrown with green coastal fynbos. Your mind does wander over the ride; sitting high on your horse looking at such vast and pristine nature. We dismounted back at the yard and for myself, with a certain tightness in my thighs. The yard has a certain harmony and tranquillity; dogs were lazing on the grass with horses grazing overlooked by the mountain range. I could not think of a better way to spend four hours.

My thanks once again to the team at Sleepy Hollow.

Horse Riding In Cape Town by Uyaphi.com

Horse Riding in Cape Town
Horse Riding in Cape Town
Horse Riding in Cape Town
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Map Of Hotels In Cape Town
Popular Accommodation Options In Cape Town

  • Glen Avon Lodge

    Rates from R2 265.00 per person

    Glen Avon Lodge the perfect getaway for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

    Nestled in the beautiful Constantia Valley Winelands, this hidden gem offers a tranquil setting with breathtaking views of the majestic Constantiaberg mountains.

    Glen Avon Lodge is within a few minute's drive from the gates of Buitenverwaghting, Steenberg and Groot Constantia vineyards.

    Enjoy luxury accommodation, delicious meals prepared by our award-winning chef and access to some of South Africa's best attractions - all within easy reach from your private sanctuary.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Abalone Guest Lodge

    Rates from ZAR 2 960.00 per person sharing

    Nestled against the serene backdrop of Hermanus's picturesque coastline, Abalone Guest Lodge offers a luxury retreat that epitomises coastal elegance. Boasting a prime location at Sievers Point, Abalone is an oasis of tranquillity, offering bespoke accommodations with breathtaking views.

    The lodge's intimate size and attentive service ensure a personalised stay, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful getaway amidst the natural splendour of the Cape Overberg.

  • Ellerman Villa Two

    Rates from R135 000.00 per night

    Located in the affluent neighbourhood of Bantry Bay, Cape Town lies Ellerman Villa Two - a lavish private villa offering unparalleled opulence.

    Escape to a paradise of unrivalled beauty and tranquillity when you visit this exclusive villa nestled between majestic mountain ranges and overlooking the breathtaking Atlantic Ocean.

    Whether it is for your family or a small group of friends, this exquisite destination offers an unforgettable experience.

    With three luxurious private bedrooms, each accompanied by a terrace and en-suite bathroom, guests are ensured ample space for relaxation and comfort during their stay.

  • Tulbagh Hotel

    Rates from R925.00 per person

    The Tulbagh Boutique Hotel is centrally located, making it easy to explore the town and its historic Church Street.

    The main hotel building dates back to 1859, and it is here that one will find the restaurant, bar, and swimming pool, as well as a luxurious selection of contemporary-styled rooms and suites.

  • Cape Milner Hotel

    Rates from R2 620.00 per person

    Immerse yourself in cosmopolitan luxury at the 4-star Cape Milner Hotel, ideally situated in downtown Cape Town. 57 modern and sophisticated rooms with stunning views of Table Mountain or the cityscape provide a perfect retreat after exploring all this vibrant city and region has to offer.

    With a wealth of room options and an outstanding restaurant and dining room, your stay in Cape Town, no matter the duration, will be one to remember.

    Whether seeking a cosy romantic escape or an unforgettable family holiday, Cape Milner's luxurious accommodations will cater to your every need and desire.