Discover the Magic of Cape Town: Exploring the Beauty of South Africa
South Africa was at the top of my list for as long as I can remember and in December 2017 I finally made it to Cape Town (without my luggage, but at least I made it!). I decided to book some crazy connections (NY - Barcelona - Madrid - Johannesburg - Cape Town) because I was in the middle of completing a 90-day challenge to reach Platinum status with American Airlines, so every mile counted. Eventually my things made it there too and I got to purchase some new clothes. I also got my status :)
Cape Town is one of those places where you arrive and immediately think "I could definitely see myself living here". The landscapes are some of the most breathtaking anyone could ever imagine. I was shocked though to learn about the severe water shortage crisis the city was dealing with at the time, that could’ve made Cape Town the first major city in modern times to run out of drinking water. I quickly learned how to take a 2 minute shower, turn off the sink every chance you can and other ways to conserve water which really we can and should all be applying around the world. Luckily, since my visit, Cape Town has had a long and rainy winter and the dams are now at 70 percent (even 80 percent plus in some regions).
I spent a little over two weeks exploring Cape Town from the ground up and had the chance to celebrate Christmas and New Years there. I even ventured on a last minute road trip out west to a small town called Jeffrey's Bay for a concert, stopping by an elephant reserve and wine country on my way back.
Here are some of my favorite things...enjoy.
MY FAVORITE PLACE TO STAY
I found Airbnb to be the most affordable and flexible option for booking my stays. For the most part they were all good experiences. Below is the Airbnb I found to be absolutely exceptional and one I will definitely plan to stay at again the next time I visit Cape Town.
Table Mountain Views Luxury Apartment
MY FAVORITE PLACES TO EAT
Nourish'd
My (almost) daily breakfast spot introduced me to the smoothie bowl. I try to make it back home, but it's still not quite the same.
Nourish'd vs. Homemade (definitely not as tropical!)
Chardonnay Deli
Located in the beautiful suburb called Constantia, Chardonnay Deli has a quaint garden in the back which is the best place to enjoy a chocolate croissant and a coffee.
Tintswalo Atlantic
One of the best dining experiences of my life. From the spiral ride down the mountain to reach the dining room, to the welcome drink you enjoy as you watch the sunset, to the exquisite multi-course meal - Tintswalo is absolute perfection.
MY FAVORITE THINGS TO DO
Get your hiking boots and set your alarm, because this will involve a lot of early mornings and late afternoons.
SUNRISE HIKE UP LION'S HEAD
The best hike I did in Cape Town hands down was Lion's Head. There are two paths you can choose from; the Chains route (most challenging, straight up the mountain, guide advised) or the Spiral route (moderately challenging, weaves around the mountain, can be done on your own). The ideal time to start is 4 a.m. to make it in plenty of time to the top before sunrise. It takes about 1.5 hours to hike up to the summit on the Spiral route. Though often times it's steep, the views can keep anyone motivated. Don't forget a flashlight and long sleeves as the initial portion of the hike can be chilly before the sun comes out. The hike back down is about an hour.
SUNRISE FROM TABLE VIEW
The early morning, 30 minute ride out to Table View will be worth it to see the sunrise up against Table Mountain. Park by the beach for a peaceful sunrise filled with the sound of ocean waves and seagulls playing.
SUNSET CABLEWAY RIDE UP TABLE MOUNTAIN
It seems like no matter where you are in Cape Town, you can always see the dramatic backdrop of Table Mountain across the city. For a better chance at a clear view, take the Aerial Cableway up to the top of Table Mountain at sunset. Weather conditions may cause the Cableway to be closed, so definitely check the website (linked in the title) for the latest schedule. Once you reach the top you'll have a front row view to majestic clouds rolling over the table top as well as across Lion's Head. Best sunset in town!
sunset from signal hill
There's always room for another sunset. For the best view of Lion's Head at sundown, drive out to neighbor Signal Hill. You can hike around the flat table top until you find a nice spot to settle into just in time to see the sun go down.
Llandudno Beach
One of the prettiest residential towns, Llandudno feels like a playground for adults with its giant boulders you can hop around on - if you can fight the wind. I had actually scored an affordable Airbnb apartment here, nestled in the canyon, but due to water shortage issues the toilet stopped working (which, as you can imagine became a problem real fast), so I had to relocate.
Cosy BEACH
If you really want to climb giant boulders, stop in Cosy Beach. You'll get a straight on view of Lion's Head.
SEE CAPE TOWN FROM THE SKY
A helicopter ride was one of those things I always wanted to do, but wasn't sure where it would ever happen. The day I knew I was going to Cape Town, I knew that would be the place. It's not cheap, but if you ever wanted to do it, there's nothing like seeing the South African coastline from up in the air. I booked with Cape Town Helicopters, which I found to be very professional, friendly and had well-maintained helicopters.
MY FAVORITE PLACES OUTSIDE OF CAPE TOWN
simon's town (boulders beach)
About 40 minutes southeast of Cape Town, you'll find one of South Africa's oldest towns called Simon's Town. I went to Boulder's Beach, which is part of the South African National Parks and home to the African Penguins. It was spectacular to see penguins in their natural environment for the very first time!
CAPE OF GOOD HOPE
Take an entire day to explore the Cape of Good Hope. Aside from the magnificent cliff views, there are some incredible hikes including one that will take you down to the beach.
Wine Country: Stellenbosch & Franschoek
It's the Napa vs. Sonoma of South Africa and the truth is they're both fantastic. A magical ride across wine country will land you in one spectacular place after another. Stay 2 or 3 nights if you can. Here are some places I stopped in for tastings and food.
GLENELLY ESTATE
STELLENBOSCH
HAUTE CABRIERE
FRANSCHOEK
GUARDIAN PEAK WINERY & GRILL
STELLENBOSCH
KNYSNA ELEPHANT PARK
Elephants are my favorite animal because of their gentleness and kindness. What I liked most about Knysna Elephant Park is that there is no riding of the elephants, of any kind. These rescued elephants roam as freely as possible in this sanctuary. The zebras were a happy surprise.
UNPLANNED FUN
Because anything can and will happen on a trip.
BEN BROWN AND NICOLE EDDY
RUNNING INTO TWO OF OUR FAVORITES
IN GREEN POINT
Found out last minute Jeremy Loops would be performing in Jeffrey's Bay, so got in the car and drove 7 hours east for one nigh and it was totally worth it!