Want to spend a couple of days in Cape Town over the festive season? Here’s how to make the most out of limited time in the beautiful Mother City:
Cape Town has everything: the sun, sea, sand, mountains, the list is endless. Don’t get overwhelmed when visiting this energetic city, get organised.
The Waterfront: Spend a few hours browsing the curio and clothes shops at this prestigious shopping centre before you watch the sun set. You may be joined by one of the many resident seals that love taking long naps on the dock.
Time for dinner: With so many restaurants to choose from it could take you a while to choose just one. If you’re in the mood for some of the best Indian food the city has to offer then book a table at Bukhara (021 424 0000) in Church Street. Otherwise try Greens (021 674 5152) in Claremont for a mouthwatering meal.
Top of the table: Make sure you grab the opportunity to see incredible views from 1, 085 metres above the city. The weather in Cape Town can change quickly and Table Mountain is often shrouded in a cloudy “tablecloth”. If you can see the top go to the cable car immediately and take the relaxing trip up to the top. If you feel adventurous you could hike up, which will take you about four hours. The Cableway Cocktail Bar is an ideal spot to sip cocktails in the late afternoon.
Some penguins: If an overcast day means no visit to the iconic mountain, you can always head down the peninsula to Simonstown. Stop off at Boulders Beach to get a glimpse of the resident African penguin colony. Continue along the main road and take in the breathtaking scenery before heading into Cape Point Nature Reserve for some great photo opportunities and a chance to stretch your legs.
Fish of the raw kind: On your way back grab a table at Just Sushi (021 786 4340) for some of the freshest, most scrumptious fish you’ll ever try.
Get a tan: On the western side of the peninsula you’ll find popular, picturesque beaches and lighthouses. Spend a few hours lazing on the shore before heading to one of the trendy cocktail bars lining the Camps Bay coastal road.
Eat African: Experience a traditional eating experience at Mama-Afrika (021 424 8634) in Long Street. The menu offers a medley of authentically prepared African dishes, and while you wait for your meal to be served you’ll be entertained by the lively band of the night.
Party: After you’ve enjoyed your meal amble along the energetic Long Street. It’s lined with clubs, bars and coffee shops, and is a magical stretch to spend a night out.
Relax: For a chilled-out last day visit Kalk Bay. This eclectic village is full of creativity and is a stunning setting to spend a sunny day walking around. The bohemian shops and eateries along the main road and found up quaint side alleys will keep you busy for hours. For some good ole fish and chips, head to Kalk Bay Harbour and find a seat at Kalkies (021 788 1729).
Jade Scully is a copywriter excited about writing copy and stories, blogging about the world and editing. She currently and regularly publishes her stories on a number of blogs. Jade loves animals and hopes to begin writing copy for the animal rescue charity TEARS as her contribution to the cause.
