Beach Huts for Hire

Muizenberg beach is confidently characterised for it’s long stretch of white sand, with 2 rows of colourful beach huts, which were traditionally used as bathing boxes in Muizenberg’s heyday at the beginning of last century.
Today Muizenberg is regaining it’s fame as a hot spot of surf culture and the seafront and beach is crowded with surfers with flowing sun kissed locks, carrying various length boards and battling to stand in the gentle waves. Others are mere observers, sitting at the restaurants and cafes calming sipping on steaming capuccino’s and pretending to read the morning paper.

Further round the corner, kitesurfers try their luck at that combination sport of surfing and flying a kite – the latest in balance skills. Younger children shriek as the fly down the giant waterslide at the supertube, and others still put their best foot forward as they attempt the championship trophy of their own tournament at the mini –golf putt-putt.

Yes Muizenberg is buzzing and the bathing huts have prime viewing of all the action and activity that happens on Muizenberg beach. But here is the Cape Point Route HOT TIP of the day – I bet you didn’t know you could hire one to use yourself? Daily, monthly and annual rentals are possible – and for a bargain at today’s places. A day rental is R43.10 and a monthly rental is R299.20. Contact Edwin Genade at the City of Cape Town : edwingenade@capetown.gov.za if you would like to apply for a bathing box of your own.

I’d like to quote an excerpt written by Despine King/Burton in the book “Muizenberg Remembered” by Barbara Titley (2008) about her time as a child on Muizenberg beach around 1915. “In those days the beach was a very splendid one, dazzling white and stretching for countless miles, and a gently sloping floor. At low tide one walked a considerable distance to meet the first small waves. Very small children were allowed to swim unchaperoned as it is absolutely safe. High tide provided more problems as the waves broke high up the beach at the foot of the bathing boxes. No beach that I have seen in Europe, in North or South America, was as beautiful and safe as Muizenberg was in those early days. There were two rows of bathing boxes well to the left of the pavilion. Ours was number 18, a double box in the front row. I think that we had it for the best part of twenty years. The pavilion was in constant use by all the people who did not hire bathing boxes. Beyond the pavilion, close to the rocks below the railway line, was an area reserved for the young bucks of the day and their current girlfriends. We used to stand in great awe of them as we watched them on what were then called Hawaiian surfboards. The young men were extremely adept on these. Behind the bathing boxes was a long white stretch of hot sand where we warmed up after swimming.”

For additional information on what to see and do in Muizenberg or on the Cape Point Route please call +27 21 7829356.

Thanks to Peter Haarhof from Cape Photogaphic Company for some of these Muizenberg pictures!

Cape Point Vineyards opens a tasting venue

Cape Point Route is very excited to announce some hot off the press news from our favourite Cape Point Route wine estate - you guessed it Cape Point Vineyards! A new tasting facility has opened to the public offering a first hand opportunity to see what Cape Point Vineyards is all about. The tasting room has been a long awaited and much anticipated event for us local fans and we have no doubt that our visitors will be just as thrilled.

As their ninth year in production comes to an end, Cape Point Vineyards are finally in a position to welcome you to their new home!Having attended a special tasting and viewing I can highly recommend making a detour if you are planning on traversing Chapman's Peak Drive or visiting the Noordhoek Valley!

Cape Point Vineyards opened the doors to their new tasting room at our Chapmans Peak Estate on the 1st of November 2009. According to Duncan the tasting venue provides tourists and local wine-lovers with the opportunity to taste Cape Point's wines in their unique surroundings.

"People want to see where the wine is made and where the grapes grow. Offering wine-tastings and opportunities to purchase wines a stone's throw from the vineyards themselves enables us for the first time to bring our customers into this special environment that is the very essence of what Cape Point Vineyards is about."

Cape Point vineyards is proud to add a wine-tasting venue to the array of attractions visitors can enjoy in this special part of the world, so the next time that you travel through the beautiful Cape Point Route do stop and visit them at the new tasting room whether it be for a taste of our award winning wines, a cheese platter or to purchase a picnic basket to enjoy in any one of the areas magnificent sundowner spots.

Opening times:

Mon to Fri: 09:00 - 17:00; Sat: 10:00 - 17:00; Sun: 10:00 - 16:00

The Cape Point Vineyards Tasting Venue is on Chapmans Peak Estate, Chapmans Peak Drive, Noordhoek - literally just before the booms to Chappies.

GPS: 34° 5.697'S, 18° 22.288'E.

In other exciting news - Cape Point Vineyards reaped more awards in 2009.
Platter's once again awarded 3 of their wines with five stars!
2009 Cape Point Vineyards Isliedh (for the 4th consecutive year!)
Woolworths Limited Release Sauvignon Blanc
Cape Point Vineyards CWG Auction Reserve Barrel Fermented Sauvignon Blanc.

The 2008 Cape Point vineyards Sauvignon Blanc adn the 2007 Cape Point Vineyards Semillon were awarded DOUBLE GOLD at the Veritas Awards!

And finally more good news. Cape Point Vineyards has launched a new wine: a fantastic and unashamedly cloaked, vibrant and fruit forward Splattered Toad Sauvignon Blanc 2009.
The Splattered Toad is dedicated to their loveable neighbour, the Western Leopard Toad. Ever dodging traffic in nightly pursuit of refreshment, this rather large (up to 140mm) and beautiful amphibian remains endangered. To help protect it Cape Point Vineyards is donating R1 for every bottle sold to the CPV Sustainability Fund.

Retailing at approximately R38 per bottle, the Splattered Toad Sauvignon Blanc is available from their tasting room and from selected Cape Town retailers and restaurants. For more information please visit www.splatteredtoad.com

Jager's Walk in Fish Hoek is open!

One of the Cape Point Route's most loved amenities - Jager's Walk in Fish Hoek has reopened to the public after being closed for 15 months. Jager's Walk was closed after heavy storm damage in August 2008 for safety reasons.

Jager's Walk has been reconstructed & repaired and is once again filled with walkers, joggers and anglers. People of all ages can be seend along this gentle undulating path which takes you along the rocky coastline from Fish Hoek to Sunny Cove.

Informative sign boards explain the life history of the dolphins that play in these waters throughout the year and of the Southern Right and Humpback Whales that come during late winter and early spring to calve.

Access to Jager's Walk is via Fish Hoek Beach - a glorious kid friendly, white sandy beach with colourful Victorian bathing boxes that add a festive flavour. The beach is popular with wind surfers, lifesavers, paddlers and hobie cat sailors.

Look out for the trek fishermen who can often be seen pulling their haul onto Fish Hoek beach. Trek is the Dutch word for pull and refers to the pulling in of the fishing nets. Harders and yellowtail are the fish most frequently caught. In the early days of European settlement, fish were plentiful in False Bay and fishing was one of the major activities along with open boat whaling which took place until 1868. Fortunately the whales avoided extinction and are now one of the main attractions on the Cape Point Route between May and November. They are often seen from Jager's Walk.

After your walk, stop in at Fish Hoek Galley - a local and international favourite as one of the only restaurants quite literally on the beach. They have a huge range of cuisine - from sardines on toast to full seafood platters. Indulge under the umbrellas or in the big sunny open room. Drifters take way sells pizza, pasta, salads, burgers or ICE CREAMS to go! It's a great spot for parents who can enjoy a meal whilst the kids play on the beach or in the playground in full view of the parents who can then relax and enjoy a quiet meal.

For more information on Fish Hoek or the Cape Point Route please contact +27 (0)21 782 9356 or visit www.capepointroute.co.za

Emzantsi Carnival - Sat 5th Dec 09

The 2009 eMzantsi Carnival will take place on Saturday 5th December, and as it is the fifth time the annual event has been staged, it seems appropriate to make the theme "The Big 5". But the indigenous animals we aim to celebrate are not lions, giraffes or elephants but our local wildlife: the penguin, the whale, the baboon, the shark - and the leopard toad!

We will also take the opportunity to highlight the contributions 5 local celebrities have made to our cultural heritage. Nominations from the communities of the south peninsula will be welcomed in a competition later in the year.

Most excitingly, this year will see the return of the eMzantsi schools programme, with 10 lucky local schools being offered free workshops in carnival percussion skills, recycled costume making, interactive drama and diversity awareness in 5 'twinned' intercultural groups.

Spectators are advised to park at the Sun Valley Mall and walk down Ou Kaapse Weg to the fourway junction to watch the parade approach from each side of the Kommetjie Road from 10am. The free stageshow, compered by comedian Mark Sampson, runs from 12pm on the Sun Valley green opposite Pick'n'Pay, featuring a wonderful array of local bands, singers and dancers. Toilets and security are provided.

The Kommetjie Road will be partially closed between Masiphumelele and the fourway junction from 9.45am, and traffic delayed along Ou Kaapse Weg until 11.30am. Drivers wishing to get to and from Ocean View and Kommetjie are advised to go earlier or via Red Hill. If you want to go to the Longbeach Mall from Fish Hoek, please use Corsair Road.

For more information, email info@emzantsi.org.za or call 021 785 1515.

Cape Point Route 5th Birthday Party & Brochure Launch!

Destination marketing organization for the South Peninsula, Cape Point Route launched their 2010 guide to the Cape Point Route at a function held at Café Roux at Noordhoek Farm Village on 18 November.
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The evening was combined with the company’s 5th birthday celebrations and was attended by over 100 members of the tourism industry, who all came dressed in orange to support Cape Point Route.

Barbara Elshove-Schmidt, founding member of Cape Point Route commented, “it is so wonderful to see a room full of orange. The Cape Point Route is nothing without our relationships and without the wonderful tourism offerings in the South Peninsula”.

Guests were greeted with wine from local estate, Cape Point Vineyards (who have recently launched a tasting room at the bottom of Chapman’s Peak Drive) and were amongst the first people to taste the new cultivar of Pinot Grigio from Two Oceans Wines.

During the speeches, Cape Point Route reflected on the past 5 years of this successful shared marketing program for the South Peninsula. They acknowledged the global recession and the challenges that faced the tourism industry resulting in cut backs in marketing budgets. With this in mind, Cape Point Route is particularly proud to launch the 5th guide which has remained fully comprehensive to provide information for visitors to the south.

The highlight of the evening was typical 5 year old party games including Pin the Penguin, Sack Race, Treasure Hunt, Donut eating competition and of course Twister. Exited guests rushed to find their team members to participate in the games, which were run by Enchanted Parties, in hope of winning grand prizes valued at over R60,000!

The next Cape Point Route shared marketing project is the Indaba Travel Show taking place 8 – 11 May 2010 in Durban. Tourism businesses from the south are invited to attend the Indaba introduction meeting taking place at 10h00 on Wed 25 November at Calders Hotel in Fish Hoek. If you wish to attend this meeting, please contact Cape Point Route on Tel 021 782 9356 or email info@capepointroute.co.za

Shipwrecks & Lighthouses on the Cape Point Route!

With the wilder winter weather we thought it would be interesting to tap into the darker side of the Cape Point Route which consists of 2 coastlines wrapped around a national park and runs from Hout Bay down the Atlantic coast to Cape Point and up the False Bay coastline to Muizenberg. The ancient seafarers called this region by another name - the “Cape of Storms”.

Since the first ships called in Table Bay more than 500 years ago, more than 450 known ships have been lost to the treacherous coastline of the Cape Peninsula. It is no wonder that the Cape Point Route now boasts 4 lighthouses – 2 of which are accessible to visitors and the other 2 provide great photo opportunities.

Slangkoppunt lighthouse in Kommetjie is the tallest cast iron lighthouse in South Africa and became operational in 1919, although it was commissioned in 1906 to safeguard against shipwrecks. For a mere R15 you can walk up the lighthouse, complete with prisms and lots of stairs and from the top are the most astounding views (weather dependent of course) and some excellent seabird viewing. The coastline around the lighthouse has many reefs and headlands that stretch far out to sea, hence the vast number of ships that have come to grief here. The most famous shipwrecks are the Kakapo in1900 which now lies on Long Beach and is accessible via a long and wild walk along the beach; the SS Clan Munro that was wrecked a little to the north of the lighthouse in1905 and the SS Maori that was shipwrecked in 1909 and can be visited by boat from Hout Bay.

At Cape Point Nature Reserve there are 2 lighthouses – the original one built in 1860 and one of the most famous and most photographed lighthouses in South Africa due to its easy access by the funicular or the walkways at Cape Point. It now functions as a lookout point as it stands at the highest peak. The old lighthouse was often obscured by fog and mist so a new lighthouse was commissioned after the Portuguese luxury liner the Lusitania ran aground on Bellows rock in 1911. Despite some phenomenal building challenges at the lower site, it was first lit in 1919 and today it is the most powerful lighthouse in South Africa. The new lighthouse can’t be seen from the viewpoint due to the shape of the promontory but there is a dramatic and seldom used walking trail to view the lighthouse.

Some of the famous shipwrecks are the Lusitania itself, Le Napolean which ran aground in 1805 and is one of the only pirate ships to be shipwrecked on the South African coast and the Thomas T Tucker which was a military ship that hit Albatross Rock in 1942 and parts of which can be seen on the beach at Olifantsbos. In Smitswinkel Bay alone there are 5 shipwrecks that now make up an artificial reef and have attracted so much marine life that it has become one of the most popular winter dive sites.

The final lighthouse is Roman Rock in Simon’s Town, which like the other 2 operational lighthouses also has a claim to fame in South African lighthouse lore, being the only one to be built on a rock. It is also the 3rd oldest lighthouse in South Africa being built in 1861 as a beacon to guide naval ships into Simon’s Town harbour. Incidentally Simon’s Town was established as the winter anchorage site for the Dutch East India Company as it was the best place to be in the Cape in winter – a great tip if you are looking for a winter destination!

Needless to say we usually prefer the term “Tavern of the Seas” to Cape of Storms as that implies a warm pub with a convivial atmosphere – and conveniently there are plenty of excellent taverns to warm up and refresh after a lighthouse or shipwreck extravaganza. It is easy to drive along the stunning coastline of the Cape Point Route via a network of excellent roads to visit these shipwreck and lighthouse sites. It’s a wonderful way to spend a couple of days and there is a huge variety of accommodation, refreshment and activity options.

Contact Cape Point Route for more information on how to enjoy the Cape of Storms this winter. 021 782 9356 or visit www.capepointroute.co.za

The longest night on the Cape Point Route.

The winter solstice on Thursday 21 June 2009 is the longest night of the year. Although South Africa has no official rituals or festivals to celebrate mid Winter, the longest night is still valued for emotional comfort. There is the knowledge that spring is on the way and seeking out places with light, fires, music, singing, dancing and feasting is high on the recommended list to stave off the winter blues and rekindle human spirit. Here’s our take on lighting your fire this weekend of long nights and short days.

In Muizenberg, Fogey’s Restaurant has live music on a Friday and Saturday night which is worth it just for the beat, but they have Sunday jazz over lunch as well. Not bad to keep you warm day or night.

Kalk Bay is high on the list of a Capetonian choice of evening out. New kids on the block are Winesense with a fabulous offering of wine tasting, where you stay master of your selections, rate them and sample quantity and quality as you choose. Some great tapas dishes enhance the wine tasting experience.

Fish Hoek Galley is a regular favourite being right on the beach. A good doze of fresh sea breeze is an excellent aide for a seafood extravaganza, but they do offer everything from captain’s breakfast to decadent meat dishes for the carnivore crowd. It’s a winner for any meal, 7 days a week.

In Simon’s Town, Pescados on the main street is keeping the prawns rockin’ and rollin’ with all you can eat specials on a Tuesday night complete with local Cape Point Route favourite musicians Dave Gomersal and Gordon Mackay alternating the Tuesday night sessions. Saturday nights are host to Shand who has one of those soothing voices that makes any meal slide down.

On the Atlantic side of the Cape Point Route one of our current favourites is the Cape Farmhouse in Scarborough. They have massive breakfasts and regular Saturday music sessions which take place indoors or out, irrespective of the weather. The Lone Sharks are a collaboration of Cape Town musicians and will be playing on Sat afternoon the 30th June so plan ahead and schedule an afternoon at Farmhouse Rocks – a family friendly affair.

Noordhoek Farm village is a must for winter warmers. There are three fabulous restaurants, shops, wine boutique, art galleries – you name it, you are sorted. Atmospheric by day or night, you can’t go wrong here for a winter tune-up.

The Red Herring in Noordhoek is a “far south” institution in its own right, with big screen sport, happy hours, live music and a convivial atmosphere, but a new secret is the restaurant Thoryfynns at Monkey Valley Resort almost across the road. Set in the milkwood forest this is a treat of a venue and open to the public.

Hout Bay itself has 2 great options at either end of the beach. Chapman’s Peak hotel has some of the best calamari in town and Mariners Wharf at the opposite end has a take out section as well as the Wharfside Grill. We recommend booking a dining cabin themed to famous ships for a treat. Whilst there check out the Fish market and wine shop as well as the antique store.

So when the nights are long and the days are short, it is an easy choice to head to the Cape Point Route for entertainment, fine food, warm fires, good views and excellent company. For any queries on where to go and what to do contact the Cape Point Route for suggestions. www.capepointroute.co.za Tel: 021 782 9356.

Easy Riders

Hop on a bike and explore the Cape Point Route (or part thereof) with the wind in your hair, mountains on one side and sea on the other.

You can get a great workout as you discover Cape Town from two wheels – plus it’s exhilarating.

The Cape of Good Hope National Park is the perfect place to explore: it’s relatively flat with excellent tarred roads and numerous bays to ‘park off’ and admire the view. What better place to spend the entire day in one of the wonders of the world, free of crazy traffic, and with some of the purest air. You could enjoy a picnic lunch watching bontebok graze and Cape sunbirds flit over proteas or better yet visit the Two Oceans restaurant which does some fantastic pasta dishes for carbo-loading. Cycling is permitted on all the routes but please don’t leave the path or feed the baboons. Cape Point Route offers guided tours in the park as well as other cycling trips on the Cape Point Route.

Muizenberg is the gateway to the Cape Point Route on the False Bay side and a perfect place to start your Cape Point Route cycle journey. You simply follow the coastline of the M4 down through St James and Kalk Bay (a fabulous bohemian and fishing town if you need an early rest). You head south through Fish Hoek and it is worth taking the detour past the beach, if only for a quick dip on this beautiful beach. The road bears left towards the naval and very nautical Simon’s Town which is jampacked with history and restaurants and is a worthwhile overnight stop.

From the gate at Cape Point the road route takes you past the hamlets of Scarborough and Misty Cliffs and around Slangkop Point through Kommetjie with the wild waters of the Atlantic on your left. There is a small climb to Ocean View on your right and take note of Masiphumelele on your left, which is a worthwhile excursion to experience Xhosa culture and discover township life by bike.
A fascinating stop is the BEN bicycle workshop which has mechanics that fix and repair bicycles. The BEN (Bicycle Empowerment Network) programme imports second hand bicycles from Europe and sells them at affordable rates to people in the communities as well as offering township bike tours.

As you come along the Kommetjie road, you will take a left turn onto the M6 that will take you past Longbeach Mall and towards Chapman’s Peak. You pass through Noordhoek, a peaceful cycle in a rural setting. When you hit a small but steep climb at the entrance to Noordhoek Farm Village, you’ll know your Chappies ascent has begun! It might be a good idea to stock up on refreshments at Noordhoek Farm Village before you tackle this magnificent road. Every bead of sweat is worth it as you crest the viewpoint at the top and descend into HoutBay for a well earned rest.

Please contact the Cape Point Route for more details on bike tours, bike guides or bike routes. Accommodation, restaurant and other activity information available on www.capepointroute.co.za or Call: 021 782 9356.

Chill out on the Cape Point Route...

Not every day or family activity has to be adrenaline packed. Slow things down with long walks on Noordhoek Beach to the Kakapo shipwreck. This long, wide stretch of sand is perfect for gentle kite flying, sand-castle building and sundowners. Beach boardwalks on the Cape Point Route are about dunes, water and wildlife – not amusement parks, gaming arcades or “your-name-on-a-grain-of-rice” stalls. There is a rustic wooden boardwalk to access Noordhoek’s Long Beach and elevated boardwalks to view the penguins at Boulders Coastal Park. “Board-less” walks along the waters edge include Jaggers walk from Fish Hoek Beach to Sunny Cove and the St James to Muizenberg walkway, along the tidal rock pools and with views up to the colonial stone mansions that line the Millionaires’ Mile. For a decadent experience stay at the exclusive Rodwell House in St James and they can assist with booking “strandloper safaris” with a marine biologist or taking care of any whims you may want to indulge – be it food or wine or any other extravagance.

Whether your days are energetic or lazily languished from lounging under the suns rays, it is worth contemplating the watery wonders from the land. Flip flops and bathing suits are welcome at most outdoor beach cafes by day. Many of these restaurants transform into fine dining locations by evening, with superb opportunities for over-eating. With two coastlines on the peninsula, it is hardly surprising that seafood tends to be the speciality at most restaurants. There are plenty of excellent restaurants with meat and vegetarian fare as well as a wide range of international cuisine. One has to ask what’s better than eating a meal with an ocean view? Perhaps the only suitable answer is an ocean view with wine. The Cape is known for its wines but we recommend trying the local Cape Point Wine of origin available at most restaurants.

The Cape Point Route is sensitive enough to satisfy the environmentally anxious but sufficiently cosmopolitan for the jet- setters. In addition to the sand and the swimming, the food and the fun, there is a fantastic combination of hotels, bed and breakfasts and self catering accommodation to satisfy any needs for groups, families, couples or individuals. With long wide stretches of sand, secret coves, swelling waves, quaint villages and a range of beach and land activities to indulge in, the Cape Point Route allows any visitor to choose from being a beach junkie one day to an informed contempory gallery hopper the next day. From stylish beach bohemia to rustic pleasures, energetic pursuits to relaxed lazy days the Cape Point Route has a beach for everyone.

For more information on beaches, activities, attractions or accommodation on the Cape Point Route, look at www.capepointroute.co.za.

Muizenberg Beach gets Blue Flag Status!

National Marine Month in October 2009 came to an end on a high note when the new season of Blue Flag South Africa was launched at Muizenberg beach yesterday (Thursday 29 October 2009) with the announcement that 29 beaches had been certified prior to the 2010 Soccer World Cup. Muizenberg Beach is the only beach on the Cape Point Route to be awarded Blue Flag status.

Speaking at the launch, Minister of Tourism, Marthinus van Schalkwyk, said the increase of Blue Flag beaches from 19 last year to 29 this year was extremely good for tourism in South Africa. “In order for South Africa to optimise its tourism potential, it is critical that we offer both domestic and international visitors clean, safe and well-managed beaches.”

“The success of the Blue Flag programme in South Africa can be attributed to the commitment of participating municipalities to provide beach-goers and holiday-makers with world-class beaches offering safe, clean and well-managed facilities,” says Alison Kelly, the Blue Flag Programme Manager.

The award of a Blue Flag beach is based on compliance with 29 criteria covering the aspects of:
1) Environmental Education and Information
2) Water Quality
3) Environmental Management
4) Safety and Services
Click here for full list of criteria

The South African beaches that have received Blue Flag accreditation are:• MacDougall’s Bay, Port Nolloth (new)
• Yzerfontein Main beach, Yzerfontein (new)
• Big Bay beach, Bloubergstrand Cape Town (new)
• Clifton 5th beach, Cape Town
• Camps Bay, Cape Town
• Muizenberg, Cape Town
• Strandfontein beach, Cape Town
• Mnandi beach, Cape Town
• Bikini beach, Gordon’s Bay
• Kleinmond beach, near Hermanus (back in programme)
• Hawston beach, near Hermanus
• Grotto beach, Hermanus
• Lappiesbaai, Stilbaai, Southern Cape
• Santos beach, Mossel Bay (new)
• Hartenbos beach, Mossel Bay (new)
• Robberg 5 beach, Plettenberg Bay (new)
• Dolphin beach, Jeffrey’s Bay
• Humewood beach, Port Elizabeth
• Hobie beach, Port Elizabeth
• Wells Estate, north of Port Elizabeth
• Kelly’s beach, Port Alfred
• Kariega Main beach, Kenton-on-Sea (new)
• Boknes beach, Kenton-On-Sea (new)
• Gonubie beach, East London (back in programme)
• Trafalgar beach, south coast KZN (new)
• Marina beach, south coast KZN
• Ramsgate beach, near Margate
• Margate beach
• Alkantstrand, Richards Bay (new)

Muizenberg is known for its 36km long wide expanse of sandy beach with kid-friendly waves, colourful bathing boxes and has the added bonus of warmer water for bathers. Behind the beach are added extras like miniature putt-putt and the super-tube (waterslide).

Muizenberg beach front is a Cape Town hot spot for surfing, kite surfing and land sailing for learners and professionals alike. Surf school takes place daily and the beach is extremely popular during summer and on weekends.
Muizenberg recently gained another claim to fame when a Guinness World Record was set for the most surfers on a single wave on 4 October 2009. 103 surfers managed to ride a wave together for at least five seconds to take the world record which was previously held in Brazil.
The Muizenberg – St James walkway is a scenic undulating path that takes you along the rocky coastline to St James.

For more info on Muizenberg and the surrounding areas, please contact Cape Point Route on 021 782 9356 or visit our website www.capepointroute.co.za

Summer romance on the Cape Point Route...

There is no shortage of fun on the Cape Point Route – it is a popular sea kayaking and surfski destination with kayak trips from Simon’s Town and surfski school at Fish Hoek or Hout Bay beaches. Off the water, book a horse ride on Noordhoek beach and gallop through the waves with a sense of unrequited freedom. You can book your horse-ride through Imhoff Farm, an unassuming spot where the kids can pet farm animals or visit the snake and reptile park. The whole family can take a camel ride into the bush and come back for handmade cheese or a meal at the Gift Restaurant.

The Cape Point Route has a lot to offer on land as well – try hiking in the mountains and looking down at the miniature sized beach goers from above. Hire a bike and cruise the coastline on wheels, enjoy a round of golf or game of tennis. The area is easy to navigate with a road on each coastline and a few links over the mountains. There is spectacular Boyes Drive for views of False Bay and Chapman’s Peak Drive on the Atlantic Coastline and you can travel by car, motorbike or try a Cape Side Car experience in vintage World War II side cars.

Surfers will be in their element with no shortage of point breaks, reef breaks, a few barrels and a good wave to be found on one coast or the other depending on the prevailing winds. Some of the surfing hot spots are Hout Bay, Kommetjie, Scarborough, the beaches in the Cape Point Nature Reserve, Glencairn, Kalk Bay and of course Muizenberg. Stay at Whale Watcher’s Luxury apartments in Muizenberg to watch the waves from your bedroom window. When the surf is up you can dash onto the beach faster than you could put on your wetsuit!

Sand is not a major part of the experience at Kalk Bay, despite a small stretch of sand near the harbour, but you won’t miss it with all the harbour activity. The fisherman return each afternoon with their catch of the day and Sundays are ever popular with local anglers off the harbour wall. An unusual activity is to head out in the early morning with the fisherman and try your hand at traditional line fishing. For those wanting to catch the big game fish, there are various operators who head into the deep sea for a full or half day experience to hook a big yellowtail, tuna or mako. Blue on Blue B&B in St James is a short stroll from all the Kalk Bay action, should you wish to base yourself near the harbour, restaurants, cafes and shops.

For more info on the Cape Point Route, contact us on 021 782 9356 or visit our website www.capepointroute.co.za

Beach-Ville continued....

Nature and wildlife experiences are an integral part of the Cape Point Route with an entire nature reserve set aside for pleasure. The area is home to many marine species including whales during July – November which are easily seen all the beaches on the False Bay coastline, Schusters Bay in Scarborough and Chapman’s Peak Drive on the Atlantic Side. It is easy to book a whale watching boat trip from Simon’s Town or Kalk Bay harbour and there is a high chance of seeing dolphins if you are out on a boat.

For many of the marine experiences you will have to negotiate the waves to reach the open ocean. Hout Bay and Simon’s Town both offer boat trips to visit the Cape Fur Seals on Duiker Island and Seal Island respectively. For a more adrenalin packed experience head out to view the flying great white sharks of False Bay with viewing or cage diving options. Look out for the Cape Clawless otter on Kommetjie’s Long Beach and of course don’t miss the African Penguins at Boulders Beach. The Cape Point Route is a beloved birding destination with a year-round revolving door of exciting species especially in the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve and at the Kom. Soetwater Recreational Area is another hotspot for marine coastal birding or try a pelagic boat trip to see up to 20 off- shore bird species.

Lighthouses have fascinated and attracted people for centuries, not only for their symbolic nature as beacons of safety, refuge and hope. Visiting and photographing lighthouses has become a popular hobby. Cape Point Route has 3 active lighthouses presiding over their respective points and numerous myths and legends related to each. You can climb to the top of South Africa’s tallest cast iron lighthouse - Slangkoppunt Lighthouse in Kommetjie, where you can see the back of Table Mountain, or take the funicular in the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve to see the original lighthouse at Cape Point. A short stroll along the cliffs leads you to the new lighthouse, with the most powerful beam in Southern Africa. Roman Rock lighthouse in Simon’s Town has the accolade of being the only lighthouse built on a rock. For a novel experience take a helicopter flip over the Cape Point Route and watch the craggy cliffs become jigsaw puzzle pieces and the historic lighthouses become significant beacons.

Romantics will be seduced by the smaller hidden coves that most drivers miss from the road. Hike down to Smitswinkel bay just before the road turns towards the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve entrance – a bay frequented only by private residents or fisherman – the effort is worth the privacy. Scarborough or Misty Cliffs on the Atlantic Coastline are beautiful sandy beaches, dotted with an occasional surfer or windsurfer. The crowds seldom visit Windmill Beach or Fisherman’s Beach on the southern end of Simon’s Town, both as picturesque as the more famed Boulders Beach.

Beach Weddings are extremely popular on the Cape Point Route to seal your always and forever promise. The options range from barefoot elegance to exclusive and intimate beach front properties like Villa St James for your special day. Some beaches require permits for the wedding ceremony but with professional co-ordinators to arrange the details at Boulders Beach, Millers Point, St James or Kommetjie or in Cape Point Nature Reserve itself, all details can be taken care of on your behalf.

For more information on the Cape Point Route and surrounding areas, call us on 021 782 9356 or visit our website www.capepointroute.co.za

The Cape Point Route to Beach-Ville

Been to Bali? Cruised in California? Swum in Sydney? Dived near Durbs? Suntanned in Spain? Honeymooned in Hawaii? Married in Mauritius? Idled in Italy? Beach escapes are not new to travelers. The desire for white sand and blue ocean water, lying on a beach with golden sunshine warming your body, eyes closed, thoughts drifting to the sound of seagulls and the caress of waves is the idyllic dream of many a holiday maker.

Finding a beach is not normally something most vacationers find difficult, but finding the right beach for your needs is sometimes trickier, so here are the previously undisclosed tips for your Cape Point Route beach holiday to ensure those dreams come true.

The Cape Point Route spans 2 coastlines and is wrapped around a national park so it is no wonder that the area is impossibly picturesque, surprisingly affordable and loaded with humanity.

There is no shortage of options for families. You can sign up for a family friendly surf lesson at Muizenberg beach – complete with all equipment and the instructors. Behind the beach are some great family fun extras like miniature golf (putt- putt) and the super-tube - a fast moving waterslide which is a perennial favourite amongst kids.


St James beach is characterized by the colourful beach houses and a tidal pool which is ideal for kids. For an educational experience visit the rock pools in Dalebrook Marine Reserve and discover the rocky shore creatures that spend half of each day under water.


Fish Hoek beach is the ultimate family friendly beach with a wide swathe of sand for building sandcastles, gentle swell for the kids to body board and swim, a playground and the Fish Hoek Galley restaurant right on the beach for ice creams, kid friendly meals and plenty of choices for the adults. There is a glorious shoreline path with informative sign-boards about the whales that come annually to calve and the dolphins that frolic in the bay. Glencairn and Hout Bay are wonderfully safe swimming beaches for the kids, with stretches of white sand to play on or in.


Boulders Beach was voted best family beach in the world by the UK Telegraph in March 2007 which is hardly surprising considering the safe swimming, beautiful setting amongst granite boulders and of course the opportunity to swim with penguins. Hang out with the feathered friends a little longer at Boulders Beach Lodge, located just footsteps from the beach.

For more information on the Cape Point Route and surrounding area, contact us on 021 782 9356 or visit our website www.capepointroute.co.za

Leopard Toads on the Cape Point Route!

Escaping into nature is a relative term on the Cape Point Route as the entire region is a smorgasbord of mountain and sea, plants and animals. There are some unexpected animals to find in the area if you keep your eyes open, including the highly endangered Western Leopard toad (which is also called the snoring toad and the August frog). The breeding call is very loud and sounds like a cat purring or a motorbike and can be heard easily – hence the alternative name!

They are very charismatic creatures and live quite happily in gardens, where they eat caterpillars, snails and small chongololos. The patches on their heads are unique to each toad and are like a fingerprint, so you can keep track of your own toad by keeping photographs to see if it is the same one every year.

Although they are dry land creatures, they go to wetland areas every year during July and August to breed. The breeding process takes a mere 5 – 10 days in total and because of their migration to the wetland areas they are vulnerable when crossing roads, so please look out for them especially at night. They are fairly easy to spot as the males are about 8cm in size and the females up to 15cm.

The sensitive wetland areas on the Cape Point Route are Lakeside, Zandvlei, Silvermine Wetlands in Fish Hoek, Noordhoek wetlands, Kommetjie (Wireless Rd), Sun Valley wetlands and Glen Cairn. The 1mm toadlets emerge from the wetlands in Dec/ Jan and have a hard time surviving to full maturity which we think takes 3 – 4 years.

There is a Toad Awareness morning for children at the Fish Hoek Library hall on August 4th at 10 am. Admission is free, but donations will be welcome. A research project is being undertaken by UCT and a record of all sightings is needed – dead or alive. Please contact Evanne Rothwell with these – 084 711 5413 or 021 782 6144.

Please look out for these Leopard Toads which are listed in the Red Data Book of endangered species. Whilst in the Cape Point Route area keep your eyes peeled for some of our other creatures on your explorations – porcupines, the Cape Clawless Otter, Cape Fox, genets, polecats & molerats in addition to the Cape Fur Seals, penguins and whales that have achieved a higher status in the headlines! The Cape Point Route may not be home to Africa’s Big 5 but it is certainly home to some intriguing eco-nature experiences. For places to stay and eat when visiting, please contact 021 782 9356 or visit the website: www.capepointroute.co.za

Cape Pointers!

The landmark attraction of the Cape Point Route is Cape Point itself, located at the end of the Cape Peninsula, just 60 km southwest of Cape Town’s city centre. Far too many visitors do the speed tour to the old lighthouse that rises 238 metres above the sea, when a journey into the Good Hope Section of the Table Mountain National Park is a day of discovery all on its own.

South African residents can take advantage of the current Weekender Package that is being offered to anyone arriving at the gate before 10h00 on a Friday, Saturday or Sunday with their Identity document. This is a Two for the price of one offer and includes the gate entry for two adults, a hearty fynbos breakfast at the Two Oceans Restaurant, a return trip on the Flying Dutchman funicular and one free Cape Point certificate per package from the Logo Store. The whole lot will set you back a mere R135.00, instead of R 278.00.

Cape Point is Africa’s most south westerly point and here you can experience the grandeur of one of the highest sea cliffs and freshest air in South Africa. The most well known spot for visitors is the old lighthouse which can be reached by ascending the steep slope via the Funicular, called the Flying Dutchman after a ghost ship that haunts the seas. The environmentally friendly funicular is the only one of its kind in the world and replaced the old diesel bus for maximum safety and minimum impact on the environment.

At the top, there is a spectacular view of the rugged point and if you want to escape the crowds at the top, take a stroll along the dramatic path that links you to the new lighthouse. The old lighthouse was frequently obscured by fog and mist resulting in numerous shipwrecks and hence the commission of the new lighthouse which today is the most powerful lighthouse in South Africa. Walking the path on top of sheer cliffs, that descend into False Bay is a truly memorable experience.

Once you descend from the viewpoint it is well worth planning a breakfast or lunch stop at the Two Oceans Restaurant – which is probably one of the most dramatic locations of any restaurant. They have finished a new look with a wooden deck, new menus and they are even offering catering for picnics, BBQ’s, cocktail functions and oyster tastings. Give them a call for more details or preferably just grab a meal when hunger strikes at this restaurant perched high above the crashing waves.

For more info on Cape Point and the entire Cape Point Route, contact us on 021 782 9356 or visit our website www.capepointroute.co.za

Pamper yourself on the Cape Point Route....

We were sitting relaxing under the oak trees at Noordhoek Farm Village one morning with the aroma of newly brewed coffee emanating from Café Roux and the expectant air of the countryside preparing for the day. Children’s laughter drifted musically through the clear skies. There was talk of love, households, kids, the Argus Cycle tour, world economy and infallible remedies to solve African poverty. The conversation evolved to work, stress & survival. Within seconds it was abundantly apparent that there was a collective crisis! Each of us was craving time to be spoilt, time to refresh & time for personal gratification.

The absolute necessity to rejuvenate the physical and mental aspects of our souls with a pamper session was not negotiable. The definition of what a pamper session entailed however was an intense discussion with varied definitions and solutions. Despite disparate views on pampering techniques we concurred that there was an indulgent option for everyone on the Cape Point Route – the southern peninsula stretching from Hout Bay on the Atlantic Seaboard down to Cape Point and up the False Bay Coastline to Muizenberg. The Cape Point Route is an area of natural beauty where mountains meet the sea in each village along the route. The dramatic scenery is almost therapy in itself as most Cycle Tour riders will discover as they traverse the route on the 8 March in the world’s biggest timed cycle race.

Sally, being a Duracell energy bunny, categorically stated that hiking, cycling, paddling and exploring the Cape Point Route was her pamper treat. A run through Cape Point Nature Reserve with a hearty breakfast at Two Oceans Restaurant at the end of a good exercise session was dangerously addictive. Getting "that fix" from a pleasurable activity produces positive effects in the body and she is definitely a happier, healthier, more focused person as a result. The endorphins released after a cycle along the dramatic twists and 114 curves of the 9 kilometre route of Chapman’s Peak Drive cannot be reproduced by any artificial substance. Top it off with a long lazy well-deserved breakfast or lunch at Noordhoek Farm Village ….

Shayne shook her head in disbelief as she gazed wistfully across the grassy space to the shoes, handbags, flowing frocks and funky pants posing against the white-washed walls of the Old Milking shed. She pronounced that she felt exhausted just thinking about all the energy involved in merely getting a kayak to the waters edge let alone having to balance and paddle against the wind and the waves. Seeing a penguin from Boulders Beach was a simpler alternative than experiencing the tuxedo-looking birds from a water-based craft. "I am sure it is amazing to see the penguins from the sea…but talking of tuxedos – did we know there was a penguin shop at Boulders Beach Lodge with all kinds of penguin paraphernalia?" Shayne promptly changed the subject back to her healing remedy – retail therapy.

A shopping marathon of browsing, searching, restyling, testing, trying and buying was pure bliss for Shayne. Spending an entire day meandering the cobbled lanes of Kalk Bay for jewellery, beadwork, books or "whatever" was her chill- out distress technique. Throw in some mates, a seaside lunch, a chilled glass of Cape Point Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc, followed by more shopping is her paradise.

Kelly could not contain herself any longer, "Majestic, Majestic, Majestic. If you are in Kalk Bay you have to go to the Majestic Spa – pampering is about having a spa treatment". Kelly is a regular – booking 2 ½ hours of heaven at least once a month. The building is beautiful and the fresh sea air adds to the atmosphere of calm, peaceful relaxation. The staff are kind, friendly and exceptionally well trained with the latest equipment resulting in the blissful self- indulgence of having something done to you, without any active participation. Facials, manicures, pedicures, waxing, massages, hot stone massages – Kelly has tried them all and is adamant that pampering means finding that river of oblivion, not wanting to be with anyone, not wanting to be anybody (not even herself) and not knowing where she was.

Barbara agreed that finding a transcendent zone is pure pamper. She treats herself at the Divine Day Spa in Glencairn – a small retreat set on the mountainside overlooking False Bay. In addition to Kelly’s proclaimed routine therapies, the Divine Day Spa has wonderful packages for Divine Divas, Divine Couples, Bridal Parties or just Divine Indulgence. The latter is a full day affair with your soul incorporating a total healing experience of the five senses. There is a swimming pool with loungers to relax, a thatched boma called the Crystal room, a fireplace lounge, an infrared sauna and the chocolate room. Yes they have a signature chocolate body wrap – particularly intimate for the Divine Couples.

That is Barbara’s other pamper – time with her husband. She actively seeks out romantic retreats, because part of what makes life so wonderful and meaningful is to have time with a loved one. An essential step is to ensure that the daily stresses are removed from one’s immediate surroundings - so it’s getting a babysitter for the kids and heading off to a dreamy location where you don’t have to wash dishes or fetch kids. Sunset Beach Guest House is literally right on the beach in Kommetjie. Although it is hard to leave the comforts of the manicured fynbos garden, the sparkling swimming pool or the comfy lounge, it is worth stepping from your room onto the beach for a stroll. Gratification comes easily with pristine white sand, the scurrying Black Oystercatchers and if you’re lucky, you may catch a glimpse of the Cape Clawless otter. Staying at Sunset Beach Guesthouse is indulgence, especially when you can choose an evening meal or have a picnic basket organized so you don’t have to cook! Alternatively you can saunter down the beach into the village of Kommetjie and dine at one of the quaint restaurants, like the Green Room, which has superb Mexican style cuisine.

Heads nodded in agreement as the contradictory pampering solutions began to merge a little like that feeling of hanging out with a familiar old friend. Getting away from it all was a universal feel good factor to de-stress. The style of the retreat varied…

Sally voted for Sundollar in Noordhoek. A homely B&B with a huge large garden (for playing Frisbee), a swimming pool and wooden deck for chilling out and watching the sunset over the Noordhoek wetlands.

Kelly voted for De Noordhoek Hotel at the Noordhoek Farm Village, "Concierge, concierge, concierge". Our spa girl just happened to know another health and beauty spot in the village, loved the semi-private swimming pool and the choice of 3 fabulous restaurants within a few steps of her room. The Foodbarn for some fine dining at the hands of chef Franck Dangereaux, glamorous pubgrub at Bobby Skinstad’s new establishment called the Toad in the Village ("nothing wrong with a hot celebrity when you’re eating", she proclaimed) and of course the chill out zone under the oaks Café Roux.

Shayne agreed De Noordhoek Hotel could easily be managed especially with all the shopping available but would prefer Boulders Beach Lodge with it’s beach styled décor, on site restaurant, proximity to the beach and the penguins and of course the Curious Penguin Shop.

Some of us gain energy from sitting peacefully on a mountainside, celebrating the silence and some of us revive our physical being through experiences – be they in retail, activity or passive

luxuriating spa treatments. Releasing everyday tension and getting the boost you need on the Cape Point Route caused us all to share a moment that made soul and belly rejoice. Cheers!

For more information on where to stay, eat, shop and play on the Cape Point Route please call 021 782 9356 or visit: www.capepointroute.co.za

The last few discoveries on the Cape Point Route...

The wandering coastline leads you through Fish Hoek. This seaside village is surrounded by rugged mountains and boasts one of the safest swimming beaches and is a favourite with wind surfers, lifesavers and hobie cat sailers. Visitors mingle with the locals who swim and walk their dogs on the accessible beach or stroll along the catwalk which heads southwards to Sunny Cove. Fish Hoek Galley situated right on the beach offers a restaurant and a bistro and a great viewing spot for Southern Right whales in season. Fish Hoek is actually a centre of human civilisation and is home to an early stone age historic site where the remains of the 12 000 year old Fish Hoek man was found at Peers Cave.

It’s hard to believe that retro Kalk Bay is actually part of Cape Town. The pace differs – interesting people stroll along the wharf and browse the quirky shops, relaxed citizens sip on superb Cape Wines and cold beers while surfers ride the breakers. The fishing village is a buzz with local fisherman, bohemian shopping, antiques, crafts and superb restaurants. If you stay on the Cape Point Route long enough you can arrange to go out with trek fisherman, who leave the harbour in the early morning and return with shouts of “Hottentot, kabeljou, Red Roman” or the appropriate catch of the day. There is an arty vibe, a growing nightlife, with great theatre and the art, architecture and cuisine are much sought after.

Colourful bathing boxes are the trademark of St James and the start of grand stone houses that line the road to Muizenberg. The homes reflect a wealthy colonial past and despite a slight fading in the grandeur of its heyday it is easy to see why this section was called “Millionaire’s Mile”. Muizenberg itself was an exclusive seaside resort for the rich and famous and there is something of a rejuvenation happening in the town with an expanding gastronomic and theatre culture. Muizenberg today is more famous for its long wide expanse of sandy beach with kid-friendly waves, colourful bathing boxes and the added bonus of warmer water for bathers. Behind the beach are added extras like miniature putt-putt and the super-tube (waterslide). "The Corner" is a Cape Town hot spot of surfculture for learners and professionals alike. Muizenberg is an easy access point for hiking off Boyes Drive which is a scenic travel road and also lies within easy reach of Zandvlei a popular bird watching and water sport destination.

An area of natural beauty, diverse cultures and unique attractions, the Cape Point Route is the ultimate playground where there is something for everybody, young and old. With a host of activities in the area, from golfing to aqua action, leisure and entertainment comes easily to those who stay. SO, if you are looking for vast open spaces, outstanding cuisine, theatre, live music, magnificent scenery, a sense of tranquillity, and your blend of choice is a combination of mountain and sea with a touch of earthy elegance, make the Cape Point Route your weekend getaway. Only 30 minutes from Cape Town city centre its quick, accessible, affordable and definitely worth more than a one night stand.

For more information on the Cape Point Route, contact us on 021 782 9356 or visit our website www.capepointroute.co.za

More and more discoveries on the Cape Point Route...

Scarborough is a seaside conservation village where nature is at its most superb. With the chilly Atlantic on your side, the road from Kommetjie winds past the tiny hamlet of Misty Cliffs (a popular surf spot) to Scarborough, a beautiful village with unspoiled beaches and mountains. It is right on the doorstep of Table Mountain National Park with views of the Cape of Good Hope. Scarborough feels like a forgotten outpost, so enjoy the peace and the tranquillity with the luxury of easy accessibility to the rest of the Cape Point Route.

The landmark attraction of the route is Cape Point at the end of the CapePeninsula. Far too many visitors do the speed tour to the old lighthouse that rises 238 metres above the sea when the journey is a day of discovery all on its own. You can get to the lighthouse like the average bipedal human or experience a more exhilarating ride in the Flying Dutchman funicular. Cape Point is located within the Good Hope Section of the Table Mountain National Park and has the highest sea cliffs and freshest air. Lesser known details are the 1 200 species of indigenous plants, various small mammals, antelope, zebras and even ostriches that call this park home. You can take a leisurely stroll on the beach or follow a one hour trail from the peak down to the sheltered cove of the Cape of Good Hope. When hunger strikes you can grab a meal at the restaurant which is perched high above the crashing waves. And one more point – the Chacma baboons will entertain and amaze you with their human likeness but please do not feed them.

The spectacular road takes you past SmitswinkelBay (treasure seekers and divers know about the 6 shipwrecks in that tiny bay!) and Millers Point to Simon’s Town – home to the African penguin colony at Boulders Beach. Here humans and penguins share the sand and the sea – the swimming is fabulous – flat, calm and the warmest water in Cape Town as it is protected by giant boulders. The main penguin viewing area is from Seaforth with boardwalks taking tourists to the viewing platform above FoxyBeach. For a more intimate experience and a chance to swim with the penguins, turn down Bellevue Road at the sign posted for Boulders Beach.

Simon’s Town is a maritime naval town with a quaint historical mile and a variety of architecturally interesting buildings, shops and walks. The Waterfront area incorporates exclusive shops and restaurants and looks out over the yacht basin and harbour. A host of water activities and boat trips head off in different directions from the jetty. These range from 40 minute harbour cruises or voyages into the middle of False Bay to Seal Island or down to spectacular Cape Point itself. You can even get closer to the water in a stable sea kayak that leaves from the jetty and can give you the edge on penguin viewing. Seals will wave their flippers at you and the birdlife is astounding. Professional sea kayak experience is not necessary!

At the edge of Simon’s Town is the hidden gem of Glencairn with a great family beach, a wetlands area and a meeting place for most activities on the Cape Point Route. There’s an information office, a dive centre, baboon walking and a sports bar which is the hot spot for entertainment in the area with live music.

For more information on the Cape Point Route call us on 021 782 9356 or visit our website www.capepointroute.co.za

More discovering on the Cape Point Route

Chapman’s Peak Drive, fondly called “Chappies”, rises out of Hout Bay – once a self declared republic! This phenomenal marine road with 114 curves was initially carved out of the mountain during the First World War. It sets the pace for your Cape Point Route sojourn as speed seems less important. The 9km road has sheer drops to the ocean below and is a photographers dream. Actually it is a paradise for runners, hikers and bikers (both the motorised and the manual varieties).

On the Southern slopes of Chapmans Peak you will overlook the 8km stretch of Noordhoek beach. Noordhoek itself is Cape Town’s rural treasure with a farm atmosphere. It is famed for its long white sandy beach but don’t be surprised to find horses, pigs, cows, hens, ducks, geese and rabbits roaming around the gardens and open public spaces. Noordhoek feels like a step out of time with its relaxed, unhurried pace but don’t be fooled- the artists and crafters in the area are cutting edge. Most of them are gathered at Noordhoek Farm village, which is also a great playground stop if you have kids.

Look out for the peaceful settlement of Masiphumelele off the Kommetjie road, where you experience an interactive walk-in township tour of this largely Xhosa speaking community. Ocean View on the opposite side of the road, is a traditional fishing community with a captivating history of relocation and seafarer tales. This animated, energetic populace will welcome you on a walking tour or invite you to dine with them on traditional dishes and karaoke. You may even experience the local Cape Minstrel troupe!

Kommetjie is the next town and is not a drive-through. Kommetjie is well known for its windsurfing, but surfing and scuba diving are also hot activities and it is a fabulous town for bird watching. If you’re interested in legends (or even just the views) then get up Slangkoppunt lighthouse – the tallest cast iron lighthouse in South Africa.

Watch this space for more discoveries on the Cape Point Route or contact us on 021 782 9356. www.capepointroute.co.za

Noordhoek on the Cape Point Route!

Noordhoek is famed for its rural atmosphere and long white sandy beach – the atmosphere and lifestyle is tranquil with a relaxed unhurried pace. The delight of Noordhoek is that you can be transported to a gracious less hurried era in less than 30 minutes from Cape Town CBD. You can go “over the mountain” (Ou Kaapse Weg) or “around the mountain” (Chapman’s Peak Drive) on 2 of the most beautiful road drives on the globe (and you can practice your prepositions at the same time!)

But don’t be fooled by Noordhoek’s rural setup. The artists and crafters are cutting edge. Most of them are gathered in and around Noordhoek Farm Village – a great location at the base of Chapman’s Peak Drive. The craft shops host everything from horse tack to African crafts, art galleries, an antique store, clothing, pottery and the Light from Africa Foundation which produces sensational ceramic art created by local artists and sculptors. The LFA Foundation supports AIDS orphans. It is a complete one stop experience without the bustle of a mall. There is also the convenience of an ATM machine.

For those requiring pampering there is a beauty salon, and for gardeners a full organic nursery. Parents can enjoy a great meal while knowing that their kids are safely being entertained in the playground area or are just running freely on the lawns under the oak trees. Another great attraction in the playground area is a “Worm Farm” where kids can attend workshops and experience the process of making compost for gardens. Ideal for a lunch stop as there are 3 restaurants and 2 pubs. The Foodbarn is divided into a bakery, a patisserie, a delicatessen and a restaurant so you can shop for daily necessities or pick up some special ingredients for some home made kitchen magic. The food is excellent owing to the skill of renowned chef Frank Dangereux.

Café Roux is a family, friends, food and wine kind of place. It’s about atmosphere and relaxation as much as the food, and is a great breakfast beginning or fresh lunch stop. Always check the blackboard for daily specials. The Toad in the Village has a pub upstairs and a restaurant downstairs and is very popular with locals and visitors alike.

For more information on Noordhoek and the surrounding areas on the Cape Point Route, contact us on 021 782 9356 or visit our website www.capepointroute.co.za

BREAKING NEWS....CHAPMANS PEAK DRIVE REOPENS TODAY!

As of today the 9th October 09 at 13h00, Chapman's Peak Drive reopens! This iconic nine kilometre drive, which winds along cliffs above Atlantic breakers, had been closed since June last year, following recurrent rockfalls.

The reopening ceremony was performed by Western Cape transport MEC Robin Carlisle, who has been pushing concession operators, the Entilini consortium, to make the road useable again.

Chapman’s Peak Drive winds it way between Noordhoek and Hout Bay. Situated on the Atlantic Coast, at the south-western tip of South Africa, it is one of the most spectacular marine drives anywhere in the world.

The 9km route, with its 114 curves, skirts the rocky coastline of Chapman's Peak, the 593m high southerly extension of Constantia Berg. The drive offers stunning 180° views with many areas along the route where you can stop and take in the scenery or sit down for a relaxing picnic.

Chapman’s Peak and the surrounding areas offer local and foreign visitors a myriad of things to do, and forms the gateway between Cape Town and the South Peninsula.

The route starts at the picturesque fishing harbour of Hout Bay and the climb winds steeply up to Chapman's Point, revealing breathtaking views of the sandy bays down below, until the road reaches lower levels again at Noordhoek.

Initially constructed during the First World War, Chapman’s Peak Drive has now implemented rock-fall protection measures that were selected on the basis of what is considered to be best international practice and consist of a half tunnel, catch fences, slope stabilisation and canopy structures. In 2004, Chapman’s Peak Drive received an excellence award for rock fall protection.

For more info on Chappies and the Cape Point Route, contact us on 021 782 9356 or visit our website www.capepointroute.co.za