Found on South Africa’s southern coast, Cape Town is often considered to be the country’s very best city. The combination of the buzzing city life paired with the beautiful coastline, not to mention the breathtaking mountainous backdrop and the lure of safari land just out of sight, are just some of the reasons for that. Beautiful, fun and sophisticated it’s a real treasure with endless appeal and here’s a taste of what you can expect from a holiday here…
City
As one of the only major cities in the country, you will find plenty to keep you entertained in Cape Town. Be sure to visit the very bohemian Long Street; an area littered with book, coffee and antique shops as well as a spattering of market stalls selling African knick-knacks and even hosting art exhibitions during the summer months. Elsewhere across the city, shopping plays a big part with a number of different shopping malls and markets to visit such as Greenmarket Square; the city’s largest market where you can browse all manner of items from clothing to candles and visit one of the many cafés and restaurants flanking the cobbled square. Museums are a good bet too with several regarded as “must-see” such as the District Six Museum and the South Africa National Gallery. Festivals are fairly frequent featuring everything from jazz to flowers, so do keep your eyes peeled for any upcoming events. When it comes to evening, you will not be disappointed with a fantastic selection of pleasing restaurants and a cosmopolitan, enjoyable nightlife scene.
Coast
The aqua waters of the ocean certainly prove a playground for both the locals and the many visitors to Cape Town. The local beaches are ideal for sunbathing and swimming, particularly on the False Bay side of the city as the water is much warmer. Clovelly and Fish Hoek beaches are especially pretty although the water is colder, while other beaches are better suited to surfing. If you are new to the sport, try Muizenberg Beach where you can take cheap surf lessons, or if you are experienced, the Kalk Bay reef break is a popular spot. Kite surfing is attracting more and more fans and Cape Town is often considered one of the best locations for it in the world, particularly Dolphin Beach or Langebaan Lagoon. That’s not all that the sea has to offer though; whales are a frequent sight and you can often spot various species less than 100m offshore from special viewing points such as Cape Point. Whale watching boat trips also run, so they are worth considering if you want to spot these beautiful creatures from the water, or you could even combine whale watching with some deep sea fishing. If you are more of adventurous soul, take the plunge and go scuba diving or for the really brave, go shark cage diving, both of which are very popular activities in Cape Town.
Country
Back on dry land, the countryside and environment surrounding the city is just as alluring with Table Mountain taking centre stage. Just on the outskirts of the city and forming part of the Table Mountain National Park, this flat topped mountain is one of the most recognisable natural sights in the world, with wondrous views across Cape Town and beyond. Ride to the top in the nail biting cable car or if you are more active, embark on one of the beautiful hiking trails which lead you to the summit on foot. It is here that you will find the highest commercial abseil in the world should you fancy a different route down! Africa is of course renowned for its game reserves and there are a few which can be reached within a 2 hour journey from the city. A safari will surely be an unforgettable experience so don’t miss out whilst in such close proximity to these stunning animals. Vineyard tours are also a great way to get out and enjoy the country whilst sampling delicious wine in the process.
With beautiful views at every turn and with a genuine variety of things to see and do, you surely won’t go far wrong with a holiday in Cape Town.
By Kerri Ware from Economy Car Hire
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