Only when it rains - what to do on the Cape Point Route

Stormy clouds loaded with raindrops are hanging over the Cape Point Route, and with that Capetonians have a tendency to retreat indoors. The great news is that it is not all doom and gloom, evidenced by the striking rainbow that danced colourfully over Silvermine Reserve this morning. I was tempted to grab my binoculars and start looking for the pot of gold at its base when I realized that I was on the goldmine. (Technically an old Silvermine but gold or silver works for me either way.)

A crisp wintery walk on one of the short trails at Silvermine Reserve is one solution for getting the blood flowing and absorbing the winter treasures on the Cape Point Route. I still love the wildness of walking on Long Beach or Fish Hoek beach on a blustery day with other like minded souls, often with dogs or kids. Another personal favourite is taking in a thrilling live Nature show at Cape Point or from Chapman’s Peak Drive – complete with crashing waves and storm clouds racing across the sky.

The beauty of getting outdoors early is the delight of retreating to a comfy cozy corner at a seaside restaurant or coffee shop. The smell of freshly brewed coffee after a fresh air start and the pleasure of sipping slowly on a warm beverage with a copy of next 48 hours and planning the rest of the day is a wee slice of fantasy.

After your refreshment, grab an umbrella and explore the nooks, crannies and small lanes of the seaside villages on the Cape Point Route. Cobbled alleyways in Kalk Bay and Simon’s Town, accompanied by quaint and original stores gives bargain hunting and treasure seeking a new meaning. There are some excellent book stores, so choose a mood tome to wile away a grey afternoon.

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