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My Favorite Hikes and Walks in Cape Town
I have discovered some amazing hiking trails and walks in Cape Town that I absolutely love. The Table Mountain National Park is a true gem, and as part of the Cape Floral Kingdom World Heritage Site, it offers endless trails to explore. From coastal walks to strolls in Newlands Forest, Kirstenbosch, and even through the city itself, there is something for everyone.
Green Point Promenade
If you’re looking for a wonderful walk that is perfect for the whole family or even taking your dog for a stroll, the Green Point Promenade is the ideal spot. This four-kilometer promenade is filled with benches along the way, allowing you to sit and enjoy the beautiful scenery. The promenade has a vibrant atmosphere, especially in the early morning or late afternoon, when people venture out to get some fresh air. Start your walk at Mouille Point Lighthouse, take a moment to gaze at the ocean, and you might even spot Cape fur seals, dolphins, or even whales if you’re lucky. These magnificent creatures often come close to the shore between June and December.
Walking along the paved pathway, you’ll come across a variety of playgrounds, a putt-putt course, an outdoor gym, and great swimming spots. Finally, the path comes to an end in Bantry Bay.
Kasteelspoort
No article about hiking in the Cape would be complete without mentioning a trail up Table Mountain. Kasteelspoort is a simple, one-way trail that spans 2.2 kilometers and starts from Theresa Avenue in Camps Bay. While the trail is not shaded, it offers stunning views. However, be aware that it can become scorching hot during the summer months, so it’s best to tackle it in the early morning or late afternoon. During these times, Lion’s Head and Twelve Apostles are bathed in a beautiful burnt orange glow. The fynbos is always a sight to behold, but it’s particularly breathtaking in the spring when the lower slopes are covered in pink watsonia flowers. If you have a car parked on Tafelberg Road, you can continue your hike all the way to the Upper Cable Station and then either hike down Platteklip Gorge or take the cable car.
Muizenberg to St James
Hey there! Have you heard about the awesome walkway along the False Bay coast? It’s a super easy 3.4-kilometer walk that you can do round trip. To start, just head over to Muizenberg Station, and from there, you can follow the path that hugs the coast.
As you walk, you’ll pass by these adorable and colorful beach huts. They’re so cheerful and bright, you can’t help but smile when you see them. And don’t forget to check out the tidal pool at St James. It’s such a cool spot, perfect for a quick dip or just to admire the view.
But the real highlight of this walk is the stunning scenery. You’ve got the crashing waves, the majestic mountains in the background, and the beautiful rock pools filled with all sorts of sea creatures like mussels and anemones. It’s like stepping into a whole new world!
When you’re ready to head back, you can either retrace your steps or take a different route along the main road, known as the Historical Mile. This road is lined with impressive old buildings that have so much history and character. It’s really neat to see them up close.
Blackburn Ravine
This easy, 4.6-kilometer stroll on the mountains overlooking Hout Bay is perfect for people who walk their dogs. We begin at the East Fort car park right before the Chapman’s Peak Drive tollbooth. Make sure to check out the fort first before we start climbing the steps. Then, turn left onto a wide gravel path. This part of the route is the most challenging, but don’t worry, it’s the only tough part. The rest of the walk is along an old forestry road as we slowly ascend and then go around the mountain. You won’t find any shade until we reach a riverine forest in the ravine, but it’s worth the wait. There’s always water in a weir here, so we can take a breather and cool off. If we’re up for it, we can keep going up to the lookout deck at the top of Blackburn Ravine, but be warned, it’s a steep climb. Otherwise, let’s enjoy the forest and head back the way we came.
By the way, if you want more information about hiking spots in Cape Town, check out the list below!
Looking for a fun and exciting way to explore the beauty of Table Mountain? I’ve got you covered! Let’s dive right in and discover some amazing options together.
First off, if you’re a fan of hiking, then you’re in luck! There are some incredible guided hikes available that will take you up close and personal with the magnificence of Table Mountain. Two great websites to check out for guided hikes are www.thefynbosguy.com and www.walkinafrica.com. These websites offer a variety of options for all skill levels, so whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, there’s something for everyone.
If you prefer to venture out on your own, I highly recommend getting your hands on one of Peter Slingsby’s Table Mountain maps. These maps are not only informative, but they’re also beautifully designed and easy to follow. You can purchase them for just R99,95 at www.slingsbymaps.com. They’re a great resource to have when exploring Table Mountain independently.
Now, let’s talk about photography. Table Mountain is a stunning subject for any photographer, and there are countless opportunities to capture its beauty. If you’re into photography, you won’t want to miss the chance to take some amazing shots. To give you some inspiration, I’ve included two incredible photographs by Shaen Adey. These photos perfectly capture the awe-inspiring majesty of Table Mountain.
So, whether you’re a hiking enthusiast, a map lover, or a photography buff, Table Mountain has something to offer everyone. It’s a truly remarkable destination that will leave you in awe of nature’s wonders. So, grab your gear, get out there, and let Table Mountain show you its magic. Happy exploring!
