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

  • 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.

  • Ellerman Villa One

    Rates from R160 000.00 per night

    For those seeking an unparalleled living experience, Ellerman Villa One awaits.

    With sweeping vistas of Bakoven, Bantry Bay, the Twelve Apostles and the sea views from its three-story façade, this luxurious villa boasts five bedrooms, a private deck and pool area, as well as a dining room and a fully equipped kitchen to ensure absolute comfort throughout your stay.

    Boasting unique autonomy from Ellerman House, Ellerman Villa One is the perfect choice for those seeking an impeccable experience. Comfort and privacy are guaranteed with this distinctive villa!

    Indulge yourself in the height of luxury at Villa One - located close to some of the finest destinations and attractions in Cape Town.

  • One&Only Cape Town

    Rates from R4 975.00 per person

    The One&Only Cape Town is a luxurious five-star hotel located in the heart of South Africa's vibrant Mother City V&A Waterfront.

    Each room and suite has been designed with comfort and convenience, featuring air conditioning, spacious bathrooms with rain showers and marble vanities, and dark African woods for added luxury.

    Guests can also enjoy access to exclusive amenities, including 24-hour concierge services, onsite spa treatments and in-house dining options at some of the city's most popular restaurants.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Camps Bay Retreat

    Rates from R3 360.00 per person

    Situated on the majestic slopes of Signal Hill, Camps Bay Retreat is a five-star boutique hotel boasting sumptuous luxury and unparalleled views.

    Nestled in an oasis of 4 acres of a small nature reserve and boasting breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Retreat provides a tranquil escape from the hectic pace of city living.

    This luxurious retreat boasts unparalleled amenities, a calming ambience, and attentive staff that combine to create an unforgettable experience sure to leave you feeling immensely revived.

  • Twelve Apostles Hotel

    Rates from R4 465.00 per person

    Welcome to the luxurious Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa, located not to far from the famous Camps Bay suburb of Cape Town.

    Enjoy breathtaking views of both the Atlantic Ocean and the Table Mountain National park from any one of the 70 rooms and suites available.

    Indulge in fine dining and wine-tasting options while taking in one of the most beautiful sunsets for any one of the decks!

    With so much to offer, it's no wonder the Twelve Apostles is a favourite destination for travellers looking for an unforgettable and unique Camps Bay experience.