Canter the Cape

Noordhoek beach is best explored on the back of a big horse.

If you’ve ever dreamed of riding a pony along a pristine white beach, there is an easy way to make your fantasy a reality. And you get to ride a real horse, so you can leave the ponies for the school fete. One of the most popular activities on the Cape Point Route is horse riding on Noordhoek beach. One of the best beach horse rides in South Africa, the route takes you on a 2-hour trot along the wide white swathe of Kommetjie and Noordhoek beach. It’s easily accessible for complete novices and enjoyable for accomplished riders too.

There are three commercial horse-riding establishments in the area and it’s advisable to book at least 24 hours in advance as they’re all popular. Imhoff Equestrian Centre is located at Imhoff Farm just outside Kommetjie and offers three rides each day – at 9am, 12 noon and a 4pm sunset ride. Times vary according to the season, so check in advance. Bring long pants and closed shoes and don’t forget the sunscreen.

On arrival you’ll be kitted out with a compulsory helmet and introduced to your trusty steed, chosen according to your level of experience. The horses at Imhoff are fit, friendly and well-cared for. The guides are professional and as safety is a priority, the ride begins with a brief riding orientation as the stirrups are adjusted.

The journey starts with a gentle stroll through Imhoff Farm and the Noordhoek wetlands. If you’re lucky, you’ll hear the cry of the fish eagles and witness the powerful circling motion of these beautiful birds. There is an abundance of bird life in the bush section of the ride, particularly water birds, ibis and cranes. You’ll encounter flocks of seabirds when you get to the beach – seagulls and many black oystercatchers scurrying around the shoreline, foraging for food with their distinctive red beaks.

Arriving on the beach is a jaw-dropping experience – the contrast of white sand, blue water and open space will take your breath away. The rhythmic motion of the horse and the gentle lapping sound of the waves is therapeutic and will help you unwind from the hassles of everyday life. A unique feature of this ride is that it takes you past the wreck of the Kakapo – a ship that was stranded on the beach in 1900.
The scene is framed by the distinctive Sentinel guarding Hout Bay and the dramatic cliffs of Chapman’s Peak Drive.

This relaxing ride combines the beauty of bush and beach in a naturalist’s paradise and is a great way to hit the beach, while gaining respect for the graceful creatures who carry you. Contact 082 774 1191

For more information on activities, places to eat or stay on the Cape Point Route visit: www.capepointroute.co.za

HORSE-RIDING CENTRES
Imhoff Equestrian Centre
Sleepy Hollow
Dunes

RESTAURANTS AFTER YOUR RIDE:
Blue Water Cafe at Imhoff Farm
Rioja on Kommetjie Road
Café Roux at Noordhoek Farm Village
The Food Barn at Noordhoek Farm Village
The Toad at Noordhoek Farm Village