Romantic Experiences for all sorts on the Cape Point Route...

Adventure loving romantics can paddle into quaint coves in sea kayaks from Simon’s Town, before saddling up for a canter on horseback at sunset along Noordhoek’s Long Beach. Love and nature have something in common and given the right circumstances both can be reliable methods to get the pulse pounding. The Cape Point Route with its’ fynbos covered mountain slopes and oceans throbbing with marine life is only limited in romantic possibilities by your own imagination. Have no fear if you run out of amorous yet active ideas, we have plenty.

Surround yourself with the outdoors and try hiking in the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve. Don’t rush to the lighthouse for a snapshot, but take the time to absorb the grandeur of some of the highest sea cliffs and freshest air in South Africa. There are countless hikes, following rocky sea paths with a fascinating history of shipwrecks scattered along the coastline. The park is home to 1 200 species of indigenous plants, various small mammals and antelope. The changing moods, the physical certainty of the landscape and the tangible sensations will inspire the least romantic of souls. If in any doubt, take the traditional route of a long lazy lunch overlooking the sea at the Two Oceans Restaurant – one of the most dramatic locations of any restaurant I have ever eaten in. They have finished a new look with a wooden deck, delectable modern menus and they are even offering catering for picnics, cocktail functions and oyster tastings. It’s one of those places that you go back to whenever you can, and think about whenever you can’t.

Bagging a 60 -70 kg tuna on an all day deep sea fishing trip may not seem romantic to some, but catching the proverbial fish in the sea can be as much of a love tonic as catching the girl. Bait, hook, strike and fight for the fish. Feel the rush of adrenalin as you seize the slippery silver creature into your possession. Admire your catch with pride, then gloat as you cook it over the fire with a chilled Cape wine with your loved one. The methodology is a dead cert for some and the analogy is not lost on me!

Yes adventure lovers, there is romance at every surface. Discover the intimacy of an underwater world with a scuba diving experience. Think cool water at dawn, the soft blue light of a submerged eco-system, a watery peaceful silence and stolen kisses amidst the kelp forests. The heroes of romance novels move beyond the ordinary laws of nature, transcended by their abilities to overcome what seems unnatural to most of us. How often does the hero glide around a shipwreck in the ocean depths, diving off the boat into the unknown below the surface? On the Cape Point Route you can become the star of your personal romance by conquering the ocean.

A love story should be emotionally satisfying and have an optimistic ending. The tale does not have to include drama and adventure. An unhurried romantic retreat is more suited to many couples. Taking a leisurely drive to a scenic location with a picnic hamper in tow is as pleasurable and invigorating as your first kiss. Meandering along the spectacular Chapman’s Peak Drive with waves crashing below you on one side and mountains towering above you on the other is a blissful experience. The hot tip from Cape Point Route is to cruise this scenic wonder just before sunset and stop at one of the picnic sites to watch the golden hues in a vortex of beautiful energy. Cuddling your favourite someone at sunset with an uninterrupted ocean view with bottled bubbles is romance reincarnated.

As you descend into Noordhoek after your leisurely drive, turn into Noordhoek Farm Village. The charming character of this small white cottaged village, set amongst large oak trees is a peaceful haven for lovers. Being romantic means different things to different people and Noordhoek Farm Village offers countless options to woo your loved one. If you show affection by giving gifts, there is a range of quality stores to select an item of memorablia reflecting your love. If your idea of romance is a leisurely meal, then linger at one of the excellent restaurants or simply visit the studios of the local artists who display their works at “the Cellars”.

Romance after all is about indulging in your companion and the gift of time with your partner. Technically you could be at the end of the earth as long as you are with your loved one. Let’s be honest though – a seductive retreat, with the smell of salt in the air, the feel of sand between the toes, bird song on the breeze and the sight of a shimmering ocean in the moonlight sure beats the middle of nowhere to get you swooning. The Cape Point Route is perfect for lovebirds, whether you’re wanting to pop the question, tieing the knot, renewing your vows or simply in the mood for romance.

For more information on romantic venues, attractions or activities please contact the Cape Point Route. Tel: 021 – 782 9356 or visit www.capepointroute.co.za