Cape Town is blessed
with a diverse array of beautiful scenery and attractions. It is a
mixing pot of numerous cultures which lends an exotic touch to the
cuisines on offer. Visitors even have the chance to experience
traditional villages, along with the vibrant city life on offer. Here
are our top 5 picks of things to see and do if you visit.
Table Mountain
The most prominent
landmark in Cape Town is the towering Table Mountain, which is home
to a National Park, wildlife, and an overabundance of flora. In fact,
there are more flora species within the 22 000 hectares (ha) of the
park than in the entire British isles! You can catch the cable car
up, and enjoy a meal at the restaurant on top, or else try hiking to
the plateau from one of the many access points. One of the more
challenging but visually appealing trails on offer is Skeleton Gorge,
which can be accessed from Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens.
Robben Island
Thousands of years ago,
the island was inhabited and joined with the Cape Peninsula. The
waters rose and covered the strip of land connecting these two areas,
and when the Dutch settled here they turned the secluded island into
a prison. Today, it is a World Heritage Site and a monument to hard
won freedom. Cell number 46664 was Nelson Mandela’s living space
before his release in 1994, and visitors around the world have been
moved to tears when entering. The stark colours and minimal space
must have been a nightmare indeed for a man who has a love of open
skies, and endless plains. The on-site museum is fascinating to walk
through, and has many interesting exhibits.
The Winelands
The fertile farmlands
of Stellenbosch onwards have the perfect conditions for growing
grapes, and a thriving wine industry was born. The valley of
Franschhoek, meaning French corner, has many beautiful restaurants
tucked away that often sell their fresh produce. The Cape Route 62
encompasses numerous wine farms, and currently stands as the longest
wine route in the world. Along the route, you will find many
historical and fascinating wine estates, places to enjoy a quiet
picnic in the shade, or even enjoy a river cruise combined with a
deli lunch, and wine, of course.
Township Tours
For many visitors, the
townships that have sprung up and now encircle the road to the
airport, are eye-sores; but it is called “home” by the people who
travelled far and wide in hopes of a better life. On township tours
you’ll experience what life is like for those who struggle under
the bread line, see their unconquerable spirit, and even share a meal
with them. The Khayelitsha Township offers a great variety of
experiences, from having a beer at a shebeen, to browsing traditional
outfits, to sitting and chatting with the friendly residents, who
will share their rich culture with you
Beaches
Cape Town has a great
variety of beaches available to tourists. From the cliffs and narrow
beaches at Scarborough, to the trendy Camps Bay strip, there’s a
spot for everyone in the sun. For surfing, Muizenberg beach offers
decent waves, and a surf shop on the beach rents equipment and offers
lessons to beginners. Fish Hoek beach is great for families as there
are some small tidal pools the little ones can splash in, and
Blouberg beach is a must for kite surfers.
Author Bio: Roseanna
McBain is a Cape Town resident who is constantly inspired by the
beauty all that surrounds her. She writes for TravelGround, a CapeTown accommodation and booking website.
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