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We have moved our blog post and invite you to view all the latest happenings and up to date news from the Cape Point Route here. http://www.capepointroute.co.za/blog/

Feel free to contact us at any time for news, information or booking details for anything on the Cape Peninsula, Cape Town, South Africa

Tel: +27 (0)21 782 9356
Email: info@capepointroute.co.za
Website: www.capepointroute.co.za

Navy Festival - Beat the traffic - take the train !

If you thought I was joking about the traffic to Simon's Town during the SA Navy Festival - look at these images found on www.saairforce.co.za of the traffic coming into Simon's Town on festival day.

Click HERE for details of the Navy Birthday Festival in Simon's Town.

So BEAT the traffic and take the train. See also update regarding later train schedule on the Southern Line (Cape Town - Simon's Town).

If you don't want to drive and you don't want to take the train and you still want to go to the festival, Cape Point Route recommends STAYING in Simon's Town and walking and exploring with no parking hassles. Contact Cape Point Route if you are looking for last minute accommodation in Simon's Town for the Navy birthday festival 01 - 03 April 2011. Tel: 021 782 9356

Don't forget to find Just Nuisance statue on Jubilee Square and pay tribute to the famous Great Dane whose birthday on the 01 April!

Images:

1. Traffic on Main Road - navy Festival 2010 taken by Allan Roy and posted on www.saairforce.co.za

2. traffic of Navy Festival 2010 on Main Road - posted by Monique on www.saairforce.co.za

3. Right of Entry parade - Navy Festival Simon's Town. Courtesy of SA Navy

4. Ships and submarines open to the public at the Navy Festival - picture courtesy of SA Navy

Later Trains for Southerners

Great news for Commuters to the Cape Point Route- the train times have been extended with later service hours on the Cape Town - Simon's Town line. Please see press release below.

Monday 28 March 2011 sees the introduction of an extended commuter train service between Cape Town and Simon’s Town. The existing afternoon services have been supplemented with three additional trains departing from Cape Town Station.

South bound commuters now have the flexibility of twenty-one trains leaving the city between 16:10 and 21:10. Twenty of these afternoon trains stop at Retreat, eighteen stop at Fish Hoek and nine operate as far as Simon’s Town. The trains will stop at all stations en route.

The pilot is one of several collaborative initiatives between public transport partners Metrorail, the Provincial Ministry of Transport & Public Works and the City of Cape Town’s Directorate for Transport, Roads & Storm Water to improve public transport provision.

Metrorail’s Regional Manager Lindelo Matya said: ‘We are confident that the extended hours will find favour with our existing customers’. He added: ‘The convenience and affordability of the later service is aimed at attracting new markets from within the CBD.’

The City of Cape Town will extend the operational hours of security guards at 10 park-and-rides along the Southern rail line, to coincide with Metrorail’s extended operational hours. These park & ride facilities include Simon’s Town, Fish Hoek, Muizenberg, Lakeside, Retreat, Heathfield, Diep River, Plumstead, Kenilworth and Claremont.

“The benefits of the security guards at park-and-rides and the extended commuter train service include reducing congestion and the pollution associated with motor vehicles, reducing the public’s dependency on private vehicles, reducing time spent traveling each day, as well as a significant saving in travelling costs”, said Councillor Elizabeth Thompson, Mayoral Committee Member for Transport, Roads and Major Projects. “Accordingly the City of Cape Town will provide security guards at ten park-and-rides along this line until 30 minutes after the last train has left the particular station” said Cllr. Thompson.

The MEC for Transport and Public Works, Robin Carlisle assured commuters that they have put measures in place to make it safe for commuters to use this service. “I urge all motorists to make full use of these extended services. Those who work late now have the opportunity to use safe, reliable and affordable train services that suit their unique work schedules. We have put in place strong safety and security measures to safeguard the park and ride facilities and ensure that the safety of commuters is not at risk during train tips”. “The re-introduction of the extended services for Simon’s Town is our first attempt to revive the late night train service that was once a common feature of our public transport system in the past.”

The extended rail operational hours now provide Capetonians the option of working flexi-hours, whilst still using public transport. The City’s Sustainable Transport Section continues to encourage large employers to explore the notion of flexi-hours, an idea supported by Metrorail and the Cape Regional Chamber. The later trains provide an opportunity for some employees to vary their working hours and revise their shifts, reducing hour peak demand on public transport. Students too can remain on campus later while assured of a train home.

This extended service is a pilot project that will run for six months. The successes and challenges of this pilot project will be monitored and evaluated, as it will inform the decision to permanently reinstate evening trains or not. The success of this pilot could see similar services introduced on other lines in the city.

Detailed information is available from the City’s Transport Information Centre on 0800 65 64 63, transport.info@capetown.gov.za or on www.capetown.gov.za. The rail time tables are available on www.capemetrorail.co.za

Cape Point Route offers a wide range of Accommodation, Activities, Attractions, Restaurants, Venues, Shops, Tours and Packages on the CAPE PENINSULA, CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

SA Navy Festival - 01 - 03 April 2011

The South African Navy Festival has a new name for 2011 and will now be called the “SA Navy Birthday Festival”. The SA Navy was established on the 1st April 1922. Next year's festival will coincide with the SA Navy's 90th birthday.

The South African Navy will open its doors to the people of South Africa to come and explore the navy culture and environment at the East Dockyard in Simon’s Town.

Entrance to the festival is free and gates will open daily from 10am until 6pm. There will be various events in the main arena and around the dockyard that both young and old will find entertaining. It is recommended to stay in Simon’s Town due to traffic or get there early. Contact Cape Point Route for accommodation availability. Tel" 021 782 9356

Here are some of the standard attractions to look forward to during the festival:
• Ships and Submarines open to the public
• Tug Rides
• Flea Market
• Entertainment for children and a Tea Garden
• Please note that the popular tea garden and children’s entertainment will move to the I.C.E. workshop next to the pump house

The following events will take place in the Arena area:
• Gun Run Display
• Navy Band performance
• Fire Fighting Display Competition
• Dog Display by the SA Navy’s Dog Unit
• Mast Display
• SA Navy Precision Drill
• The Sea Cadets Precision Drill
• Izivunguvungu Youth Band.


There will be Various Live and Static Displays such as:
• Ship boarding display by the Maritime Reaction Squadron
• Lynx & Oryx Helicopters Display
• Live Canon Firing
• South African Navy Diving Display
• Tug ‘ballet’
• Silver Falcons
• Coca Cola SA Navy Talent Show
• Coca Cola SA Navy 5-a-side Soccer Tournament
• Diver’s Exhibition and Divers Tank
• Submarine Museum SAS Assegaai – Adults R20 and Children R10
• SANAD Gun Display

Major Events: SA Navy Birthday Festival 01 – 03 April 2011

01 April: 09:00 Right of Entry parade through Simon’s Town
01 April: 20:00 Dry Dock Concert at East Dockyard (free entry)
02 April: 09:30 – 10:00 Unveiling of SS Mendi Plaque, Jubilee Square
02 April: 17:45 Navy Choir performance in SAS Simonsberg Cinema Hall (free entry)
02 April: 10:00 Night Gunnery Shoot from Lower North Gun Battery
03 April: 08:00 – 09:00 Navy Remembrance Parade, Fleet Command HQ
03 April: 17:20 – 18:00 Retreat Ceremony, East Dockyard, Arena area

BRING YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS TO EXPERIENCE SOME NAVY CULTURE.
Enquiries: Sub-Lieutenant Leverne Benjamin Telephone: (021) 787 4620

LOGISTICS: Getting to Simon’s Town

Take the train! The Simon’s Town Line is OPEN and you will beat the traffic!

Or take the train to Kalk Bay and Catch the Water Taxi to Simon's Town

DRIVING: OPTION A:
M3 highway – at the t-junction at the end of the highway turn left to Main Road (M4)
Continue along the M4, through Fish Hoek (bearing left at the traffic circle) until you reach Simon’s Town
(please note that the M4 between St James and Kalk Bay is southbound traffic only)

DRIVING OPTION B:
M3 highway – at the t-junction at the end of the highway turn left to Main Road (M4)
Turn right at Boyes Drive (near Westlake arms) for the scenic drive above Muizenberg.
Turn right onto Main Road when you reach the T-junction with the M4 and continue as above.

DRIVING OPTION C:
M3 highway – at the t-junction at the end of the highway turn right.
Bear left at the Ou Kaapse Weg (M64) turnoff, travel over the mountain and past shopping mall on your right once you are over the other side. Travel through 2 sets of traffic lights, then climb over the hill on the Glencairn Expressway.
At the T-junction with Main Road (M4) turn right in direction of Simon’s Town.

DRIVING OPTION D:
M3 highway – at the t-junction at the end of the highway turn right.
Bear left at the Ou Kaapse Weg (M64) turnoff, travel over the mountain and past shopping mall on your right once you are over the other side.
At the 2nd set of traffic lights – turn RIGHT onto Kommetjie road (M65) and follow the road, Before you reach Kommetjie , turn left after Ocean View.
Follow the road through Scarborough and continue for approximately 3km.
At the Red Hill/Scarborough/Cape Point intersection – turn left at the Red Hill sign (M66) – recognisable by the art and craft stall.
Traverse the mountain (amazing views) and when you reach the T- junction on the other side (M4), turn right to Simon’s Town.

Let Cape Point Route book your accommodation for the South African Navy Birthday Festival in Simon's Town.

IMAGES:
All images taken by Dean Wingrin at SA Navy Festival 2010 as found on www.flyafrica.info
1. SA Navy parade in Simon's Town
2. A busy Naval dockyard in Simon's Town
3. SAAF Super Lynx arriving in Simon's Tow
4. Canon firing at the gun run in Simon's Town
5. Submarines: S103 in front of S102

Cape Point Route - about us

You are probably reading this because you have received Cape Point Route’s first newsletter. That means you have enquired or booked services on the Cape Point Route. You could be a friend, colleague or supplier to the Cape Point Route and requested news and information. If you have found this by chance then welcome and we hope you will subscribe to our newsletter to receive regular news from us.

Who Are We?
Cape Point Route was started by Barbara Elshove-Schmidt and Sally Grierson – Capetonians who have always cherished Cape Town but especially the Cape Peninsula as it has been our backyard and our playground. We are passionate about where we live, work and play and we invite you to explore our daily reality and discover the Cape Point Route – “Cape Town’s Playground.

What is the Cape Point Route?
The Cape Point Route is an area of natural beauty, diverse cultures and unique attractions and activities. The choices are endless and can be overwhelming with so many options available. We have the inside edge, and have pretty much been there and done that in the area. Ask us to help you plan your holiday, book your accommodation or simply ask our advice on what to do...anything from kids to animals, history to culture, adrenalin activities to leisurely lunches.

Where is the Cape Point Route?
The Cape Point Route is the stretch of land at the south-western tip of Africa that extends beyond Cape Town city Centre. We incorporate the Cape Town suburbs of Hout Bay, Noordhoek, Kommetjie, Scarborough, the Cape of Good Hope, Simon’s Town, Fish Hoek, Kalk Bay, St James and Muizenberg.

Why visit the Cape Point Route?
This is a place where you can surf before breakfast, pop into a fine art cafe for lunch, have cocktails with penguins and hot chocolate while watching whales. Try sunrise kayaking, midday mountain biking or moonlight hiking. Stay in luxury at a deluxe accommodation establishment, find a cosy B&B or guesthouse or bring family or friends for a self-catering holiday away from home. We’ve got it, you just need to choose it or let us know what you want....and that’s why you need to visit the Cape Point Route.

What’s up?
Don’t delay – book today. Cape Town is HOT and happening at this time of year so book now to avoid missing out on the action. Check our events page on Facebook to find out what’s on.

Some mini previews:
• 13 March 2011: Pick ‘n Pay Cape Argus Cycle Tour
• 25 – 26 March 2011: Cape Town International Jazz Festival
• 1 – 3 April 2011: South African Navy Festival
• 27 March – 11 April 2011: Western Cape School Holidays
• 22 April – 25 April 2011: Easter Weekend
• 23 April 2011: Two Oceans Marathon

IMAGES:
Cape Point Route team as cover girls in our annual brochure from 2007 - 2011

Getaway with a Group of Friends this Easter

We all get by with a little help from our friends and travelling is no exception - holidays are more fun with your buddies. Cape Point Route can help find a relaxing spot for a girls’ weekend, a boys’ weekend, golf breaks, beach breaks, a wine-tasting soiree or a wild energetic weekend. Learn a new skill, celebrate a birthday, book spa treatments or chill out with a good book! So let loose and have a good time.

If you are planning to go away with a group of friends, why not contact Cape Point Route to find your accommodation. Let us know how many people and what you plan on doing. We can source a big house or a villa or a self catering cottage depending on the group size and where you’d like to be situated on the Cape Point Route – choose a town, choose mountain or sea and let us know your budget range then let us find your group getaway so you can plan the fun stuff!

We can help with suggestions of things to do as a group or check out some of the activities available on the Cape Point Route to get some ideas.
We look forward to helping you find a group getaway to share with your friends.

Click here for more information or to send a request. We've got it, you choose it and let us sort out the details for you this Easter.

Check out all the Easter Events on our Facebook Page.

Cape Point Route offers a wide range of Accommodation, Activities, Attractions, Restaurants, Venues, Shops, Tours and Packages on the Cape Peninsula, Cape Town, South Africa.

We have Hout Bay Accommodation, Noordhoek Accommodation, Kommetjie Accommodation, Scarborough Accommodation, Cape of Good Hope Accommodation, Simon’s Town Accommodation, Fish Hoek Accommodation, Kalk Bay Accommodation, St James Accommodation and Muizenberg Accommodation.

Click here for more romantic escapes and family breakson the Cape Point Route this Easter.

Images:
Hiking in Cape Point Nature Reserve, girls weekend away - Janis Kennedy
Cycling on the Cape Point Route - Daytrippers
Shooting pool at Villa St James - boys weekend away - Grant Johnson

Just the Two of You this Easter

Dreaming of a bed with a view, breakfast made for two and time to hang out with your loved one? Spend Easter with just the Two of You in a special getaway on the Cape Point Route – a choice of decadent B&B’s or cozy lodges or coastal hotels.

Easter on the Cape Point Route provides the perfect opportunity for couples to spend time together and get away from the daily grind. For most wanting a retreat, it’s all about the setting.

Find accommodation on the False Bay Coastline and the coastal villages of Muizenberg, St James, Kalk Bay, Clovelly, Fish Hoek or Simon’s Town – each town offers it’s own piece of character and blessed with ocean views and with mountains as their backdrop.

On the Atlantic Seaboard, search the towns of Scarborough, Kommetjie, Noordhoek and Hout Bay for a couples getaway which could be next to the coast or tucked into a mountain setting.

On either side you will be close to activities, attractions and restaurants. The accommodation choices range from bed and breakfast spots to owner run guesthouses and stylish hotels.

The choice is vast, the options are endless so why not contact Cape Point Route and let us know what you want for your couple’s retreat and we will help match your needs to the right establishment. Romantic packages also available Tel: 021 782 9356

Click Here for Cape Point Route Events

Images:
1. Olifantsbos beach in Cape Point Nature Reserve (courtesy of friends)
2. Meal with a view - image courtesy of Cape Point
3. Sunset horse-riding 0 image courtesy of Cape Town Tourism
4. Bed with a view - courtesy of guesthouse in Kommetjie

Easter Family Fun on the Cape Point Route

Bring the family to the Cape Point Route this Easter. The Cape Peninsula is Cape Town’s “Playground of the Cape” offering activities for the whole family to enjoy. In the kingdom of the Cape Point Route – there is something for every kid – young and old!

Noordhoek Farm Village & Imhoff Farm have great kids’ areas and many restaurants are child friendly. Beaches abound, with an option to swim with the penguins at Boulders Beach. Relax at Fish Hoek Galley while the kids play in the safe beach of Fish Hoek.

In Simon’s Town is the Scratch Patch- where kids can search for gemstones, or visit the World of Birds in Hout Bay and Cape Point Ostrich Farm near Cape Point. Climb South Africa’s tallest cast iron lighthouse, learn to surf at Muizenberg, go fishing or kayaking or simply hang out at the beach.

Contact Cape Point Route for Self Catering accommodation establishments suitable for families or check out our family packages for longer stays. If it doesn’t suit your needs, let us help you tailor make a package. Tel: 021 782 9356 Email: info@capepointroute.co.za

Don’t forget a few awesome Easter events:

1. Grand Easter Egg Hunt at Noordhoek Farm Village: Sat 23 April 2011
Time: 10h30 – 12h30.
Venue: Noordhoek Farm village – meet at the bandstand
Cost: Free
Join the Easter Entertainment at Noordhoek Farm Village. Make Easter egg baskets and practice your egg hunting skills. We’ve sent a message to the Easter bunny and he has promised to leave some Easter eggs for us to find. Loads of egg-citement. Mums and Dads should look out for Easter specials at Noordhoek Farm Village and it’s a great spot to watch runners in the Two Ocean’s Ultra Marathon. More info...

2. Easter Sunday Brunch Buffet: Sun 24 April 2011
Time: 10am – 12pm
Venue: Casa Labia, Muizenberg
Cost: Adults R 195 per person Children under 10 R80pp
Indulge in decadence - Easter Egg Hunt for the kids, homemade pastries, flourless chocolate cake, local cheeses, cold meats, fritattas and more.. Bucks Fizz on arrival and Lindt chocolates (it is Easter after all!) More..

3. Fynbos and Food: Mon 25 April 2011
Time: 10am – 4pm
Venue: Good Hope Nursery, Cape Point
Cost: Free
Great family day out with a 20% sale on all indigenous plants at the nursery, free fynbos walks, kids activities and lots of local produce at stalls with handmade goods and organic produce. Music, pony rides, recycled crafts, wheat free bakes and more...

Cape Argus Pick 'n Pay Cycle Tour 2011 - Road Closures

It’s COUNTDOWN to the Cape Argus Pick n Pay Cycle Tour Race Day on Sunday 13 March 2011!
Cape Point Route wishes all the cyclists a safe ride. We hope it’s not too hot or too windy and wish for perfect conditions on Race Day! Cape Point Route encourages the citizens of Cape Town to get out on the road to cheer and support all 30 000 cyclists. Not only will your support help the cyclists but it creates the warm welcome that Cape Town is becoming known for sharing. Supporting the cyclists is a fun day out.

The Cycle Tour is about so much more than just riding on race day. Cape Town welcomes all visitors and encourages them to get out and enjoy the offerings, activities and attractions that Cape Town has to offer. The Cape Point Route runs from Muizenberg on the False Bay Coastline, down to Cape Point and up the Atlantic coastline, over Chapman's Peak Drive to Hout Bay – thus forming a major portion of the Cape Argus Pick n Pay Cycle Tour route. We encourage cyclists and supporters to explore the area before or after the race and take advantage of the coastal towns Muizenberg, Kalk Bay, Fish Hoek, Simon’s Town, Scarborough, Kommetjie, Noordhoek and Hout Bay and all the activities on offer, in addition to the sightseeing!

As with any major event there will be some interruptions to normal traffic conditions and we provide you with a list of the road closures on the Cape Point Route so you can plan ahead. The Cape Point Route is almost entirely closed to vehicular traffic on Cape Argus Pick n Pay Cycle Tour Race Day, however there are some alternative routes and methods of transport.

Try the scenic train journey along the False Bay Coastline. One of the most beautiful train journeys will also get you to the towns of Muizenberg, St James, Kalk Bay, Fish Hoek, Glencairn and Simon’s Town. For a different experience you could catch the train to Kalk Bay, then get the water taxi to Simon’s Town (which leaves every half past the hour from Kalk Bay and costs R100 for a single one way or R150 for a single return trip – return trips every hour on the hour from Simon’s Town) and you could get the train to head north when the day is over.


Please be aware that there are road works on the Main Rd (M4) between Muizenberg and Kalk Bay hence the Cycle Tour route will be travelling over Boyes Drive and there is NO THROUGH ROUTE northbound from Kalk Bay to St James. Boyes Drive will only re-open at approximately 1pm.

On the other coastline, access to Noordhoek at Noordhoek Farm Village is possible if one travels along the M42 from Constantia, past Tokai forest. Turn right onto Ou Kaapse Weg (M64) and first right onto Silvermine Road once you are “over the mountain”. Turn right into Village lane and wind your way down the leafy lane to the entrance gates for Noordhoek Farm Village on your left hand side for one of the best viewing spots on the route.

Please click here for full list and times of Road Closures for the 2011 Cape Argus Pick 'n Pay Cycle Tour.

We will be publishing a best spots to view the cycle tour on the Cape Point Route shortly!
Images:
Cape Argus Pick 'n Pay Cycle Tour - courtesy of Jacques Marais

Empowerment Through Education - thank you dinner

At the Cape Point Route year end function 2010 - tourism businesses in the area raised over R20 000 in a silent auction to fund a child's education for a year.

As Barbara said, “The Cape Point Route ambassadors and tourism business owners have showed their community spirit by coming together to support an initiative that will build the future of our region by educating children to become leaders”. Sally was delighted with the financial success of the auction and the alliances and relationships that continue to grow and develop amongst tourism members and suppliers in the south peninsula!

Barbara and Sally recently attended a thank you evening at Fish Hoek Galley to meet the children of the Empowerment through Education Trust. Donors, supporters and educators were welcomed by the E-T-E trust to enjoy an evening of celebration with the children and their parents. The trust monitors the progress of each child and manages the fundraising and finances for the children’s education.

The E-T-E trust has evolved from the establishment of a crèche in Masiphumele called Masakhane and due to the success of the project a second crèche called Green Curtains was established in Ocean View. The children from these 2 schools were so top achievers in their new primary school classes. The E-T-E fund is now funding the top students from each of these educare centres to receive funding for their full primary school and tertiary school education. As the trust states – there is no substitute for education and these children will be our future leaders.

Should you wish to learn more about the programme click on the advert below or if you wish to donate to the trust to assist the education fund please click here

Image: Barbara and Sally with the Children of the E-T-E trust and Mr Eichel of Fish Hoek Galley

Best spots for sundowners on the Cape Point Route

If you are not sure what to do for Valentine’s Day and haven’t arranged a restaurant booking, why not head for one of the fabulous sundowner spots to watch the sun set with friends or a loved one.

On the Cape Point Route, the sun sets on the Atlantic Seaboard and with a combination of mountain and sea as the backdrop, you can’t get more romantic. Alternatively pick a sundowner spot on the False Bay coastline and watch the glow in the sky and the moon rise! Just as spectacular as watching the sun set.

So find yourself a secluded spot with a view and have a fabulous evening! The sun is due to set at 19:40 today and the weather is perfect!

Our pick of the top sundowner spots this Valentines’ Day.

From the mountainside
• Chapman’s Peak Drive – find a view point along the scenic coastal drive or if you are slightly more energetic, walk up to the peak for sensational views! Hot tip – take a torch or flashlight for the walk down! Toll road charge for light motor vehicles is R30.
• Silvermine Nature Reserve: A relatively short walk will lead you to the panoramic view of the Atlantic Seaboard with spectacular views of Hout Bay in particular. Entry point is on Ou Kaapse Weg (M64) and a small fee is charged (R20 for adults and R10 for children). The reserve is open from 7am to 6pm in summer.

From the Beach:
• Hout Bay Beach – mesmerizing views from the beach. The bay is surrounded by mountains with the distinctive Sentinel Peak so Hout Bay Beach is spectacular for sunsets and sundowners...and no walking required!
• Noordhoek Beach – with long stretches of white sand it’s easy to find a spot with no-one nearby and the expanse of ocean is perfect to watch the sun set. Tuck yourself on the rocks at the base of Chapman’s Peak Drive if there is any wind.
• Scarborough Beach – turn right at the stop street in Scarborough to head to the beach. Large, uncrowded and you’ll likely be entertained by evening surfers or kitesurfers.
• Misty Cliffs Beach – there won’t be loads of tourists on this wild beauty of a beach on the way to Scarborough. Part of a conservation village so well worth the stop.

Something Different:
• Slangkoppunt Lighthouse in Kommetjie – whilst you won’t actually be at the top for sunset, it’s worth going a little earlier to take in the view and then having watching the sunset from the rocks in front of the lighthouse.
• Hang out with the penguins at Boulders Beach. Penguins mate for life so great little critters for inspiration this Valentine’s Day!
• Get active – go for a sunset sea kayak or a bike ride or a sunset horse ride on Noordhoek Beach!

Sunset venues:
• The Brass Bell in Kalk Bay – one of Cape Town’s historical drinking establishments set on the waters edge.
• Polana in Kalk Bay – you just don’t get better than a cocktail from a restaurant on the rocks whilst watching locals fish off the harbour wall.
• Monkey Valley Resort in Noordhoek - the view of Noordhoek Beach from the wooden deck of the resort is hard to beat. Excellent for watching the sun set.
• Skebanga’s Pub at the Red Herring in Noordhoek – another great view over Noordhoek Beach with a chilled atmosphere.
• The Lookout Deck in Hout Bay – wooden deck overlooking Hout Bay harbour and fab cocktails.
• Fish Hoek Galley – on the beach in Fish Hoek – experience the glow of the sunset from the beach and value-for-money meals!

Whatever you do or wherever you go – enjoy!

Cape Point Route can assist with accommodation, activities, attractions, restaurants, venues, shops, tours or packages on the Cape Peninsula, Cape Town, South Africa.
Check out the romantic packages offered by Cape Point Route for some ideas.

Images:
1. Flock of Birds at Sunset on the Cape Point Route - photographer Brett Cole
2. Cape Point route sunset - photographer Brett Cole
3. Sunset on Chapman's Peak Drive, overlooking Hout Bay - photographer Jeremy Jowell.
4. African Penguins at Boulders Beach - photographer Jacques Marais.
5. Sunset Sea Kayak on the Cape Point Route - photographer Jacques Marais

School Holidays - what to do with the kids on the Cape Point Route this summer!

It’s summer holidays and even with the season festivities, it does mean extra time with the kids and keeping them entertained for a long period of time. Here are some suggestions from the Cape Point Route team if you are in Cape Town, because it’s a first class place to travel and live with kids and a perfect spot for a family holiday. Click Here for our TOP TEN list of things to do with kids!

Why? The weather is excellent, and the Cape Point Route is jam packed with fun things to do - be it in the water, on the water, next to the water, at the beach, on land or in the mountains. It’s delightful whether you are walking, driving, biking, diving, swimming, birding, exploring, shopping, eating or simply wandering around any of the charming villages on the route.

Just 35 minutes from Cape Town city centre, the Cape Point Route spans 2 coastlines, and is wrapped around a national park. It runs from Hout Bay on the Atlantic Seaboard, down to Cape Point itself, then up the False Bay coastline through Simon’s Town, to Muizenberg. The Cape Peninsula is Cape Town’s “Playground of the Cape” offering something for every kid – young and old! And fortunately most of the activities and attractions on the Cape Point Route will appeal to child-free visitors too.
Get there by train! Cape Town to Simon’s Town line is fantastic for kids especially from Muizenberg southbound. Please note that the trains are currently stopping at Fish Hoek Station and a replacement bus service is in operation whilst there is work being done on the train tracks. Children under 5 travel free if accompanied by an adult. 6 – 11 year olds pay 50% of the adult fare and children over 12 pay full fare. Adult single from Cape Town Station to Fish Hoek Station is R13.
Or try the Southern Line Tourism Route: Hop on Hop off train ticket with unlimited train trips is R30 and available between 08h30 and 16h00.

Activities for Older Kids:
• Surfing – learn 2 surf in Muizenberg- group or private lessons.
• Landsailing – 3 wheeled buggy with a wind surfer like sail in Muizenberg. Min 8 years and height 1.3 metres but there is a tandem cart for children aged 5 – 9 years.
• Sea Kayaking in Simon’s Town to see the penguins. Kids > 10
• Scuba diving – let the kids do a scuba diving course and discover a world underwater. Sea dives are suitable for over 12’s but learning in the swimming pool from 8 years.
• Fishing from Hout Bay. Take the kids on an inshore fishing trip to catch a big one. Suitable for kids aged 4 – 12 is great fun and is a half day excursion.
• Outdoor Adventure Centre in Scarborough. Climbing Walls, Giant Cargo Net, suspension bridges, tight-rope walking and paintball are amongst the activities available. Supervised adventure play or book a party for a group of kids for 2 – 3 hours.
• Camel rides in Kommetjie – it is not like riding a horse!
• Boat Trips – see the seals on Duiker Island off Hout Bay (45 mins – children of all ages welcome)
• More Boat Trips from Simon’s Town – from Harbour Cruises to False Bay’s Seal Island or high speed trip to Cape Point for older kids.
• Walk with baboons – fascinating learning experience for kids to see baboons in their natural habitat. Ages 6 and up.

Cape Point Route Attractions:
• World of Birds in Hout Bay
• Boulders Penguin colony in Simon’s Town
• Cape Point Ostrich Farm near Cape Point
• Good Hope Nursery near Cape Point
• Imhoff Farm in Kommetjie
• Noordhoek Farm Village in Noordhoek
• Scratch Patch – an all time favourite in Simon’s Town
• Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope – visit the nature reserve on a full day excursion.
• Slangkoppunt Lighthouse in Kommetjie – climb to the top!
• Best Child Friendly Beaches – Boulders Beach, Fish Hoek Beach, St James beach, Muizenberg Beach, Kalk Bay Beach, Hout Bay Beach, Kommetjie Beach.

More details to follow with beach details, family friendly restaurants and more....

CPR members raise R20 000 for education!

Tourism businesses on the Cape Point Route collectively raised more than R20 000 to fund a child’s education at a function held on 1 Dec 2010. The Barocca Lounge at Rioja Restaurant felt like a Dutch World Cup soccer party on Weds 1st Dec. Tourism businesses and suppliers dressed in bright orange gathered for the annual launch of the Cape Point Route guide to the south peninsula and a fundraiser for the Empowerment Through Education Trust.

The 2011 Guide to the Cape Point Route hits the shelves and brochure stands around Cape Town this week for the start of the summer tourism season. The brochure is a tangible finale of the tourism offerings run by the region’s destination marketing organisation Cape Point Route. The energy and colour reflected the passion of tourism business owners in the south peninsula.

Guests were greeted by fantastic performances by talented local artists who are integral participants in the eMzantsi Carnival on Sat 4th Dec 2010. Ricardo Herdien led the team at the CPR launch with gospel singing, followed by harmony singers Van Die Blokke from Ocean View and whose looks do not match their angelic voices! Then we were blown away by 15 year Shannon Docherty from Fish Hoek whose voice is not reflective of her age! The 783 Movement is a collaboration as part of the eMzantsi Intercultural music project with a fusion of musical genres. The eMzantsi performance ended with a bang as the Marhoshi Gumboot dancers stomped their attention on the tourism guests.

During the performances Boulders Beach Lodge and Southern Right hotel arrived in orange printed t-shirts and 100 orange balloons which were filled with booby prizes or breakfast vouchers. They charged R5 a pop and it was luck of the draw as the team raised an additional R500 for the education fund!

Barbara Elshove-Schmidt welcomed guests and thanked Lemonade Design for their creative work to design the information guide, printers Trident Press and photographer Jacques Marais to took the cover photo as well as Brochure Management and False Bay Couriers who distribute the guide. Thanks also went to the web team Siteworx and Tourism Marketing for their work on the Cape Point Route website which supports the printed brochure in promoting the south peninsula as a tourism destination. Sally Grierson of Cape Point Route explained the initiative of the evening which took the form of a silent auction, where guests bid for sponsored items to raise money for the Empowerment for Education Trust. Herbie Eichel represented the trust and explained more about the programme which provides quality education for children from Masiphumelele and Ocean View as the children from Masakhane and Green Curtains crèche attend “big” school!

The bidding started in earnest with guests trying to outbid their unknown competitors for prizes from wine and meal vouchers to experiences, massages and weekend getaways to raise money for a child’s education. Wine sponsored by Cape Point Vineyards and Spier wine estate and canapés from Rioja were enjoyed as the bidding continued and the final tally of funds is currently R20 500!!!! The cost of educating one child for a year is R15 000 and the target was reached comfortably.

As Barbara said, “The Cape Point Route ambassadors and tourism business owners have showed their community spirit by coming together to support an initiative that will build the future of our region by educating children to become leaders”. Sally was delighted with the financial success of the auction and the alliances and relationships that continue to grow and develop amongst tourism members and suppliers in the south peninsula!

IMAGES:
1. The Cape Point Route Team - Shayne, Barbara, Sally, Natasha
2. Team Southern Right and Boulders Beach Lodge
3. Barbara and Lambert van Rijswijk from Lemonade Design who designed the brochure
4. Lizanne and Tracy from Cape Point Vineyards - wine sponsors for the evening.
5. Barbara from Cape Point Route watching the Marhosi Gumboot dancers

Hout Bay Restaurants – The Lookout Deck

Cape Point Route has been sharing information on the coastal seaside village of Hout Bay, so here’s a suggestion for eating out in Hout Bay – The Lookout Deck.

The Lookout Deck in Hout Bay Harbour has one of the most spectacular views of any Cape Town restaurant. The casual wooden deck is suspended over the water and patrons eating at the Lookout Deck can watch all the action of Hout Bay’s busy working harbour. One can gaze across the harbour to Chapman’s Peak Drive and despite the bustle of the harbour, being on the water offers a tranquil, relaxed feeling,

Restaurants in Hout Bay are plentiful and many of these Hout Bay Restaurants offer sublime sea food dishes but being located right in the harbour, the Lookout Deck gets their fish straight from the fisherman as the catch of the day comes off the boats - so you can be sure of fresh fish.

Freshly caught line fish is always a plus but other seafood dishes rank highly at this Hout Bay Restaurant – the fresh black mussels, the succulent LM prawns and of course Cape Rock Lobster (crayfish) are delicious. Calamari Steaks (grilled and served in one of 3 styles – Jamaican, Portuguese or Blackened with Cajun spices – YUM!) , yellow fin tuna steaks and live oysters are to die for. And try one of the Deck’s favourites in a funky pint glass – the Pint O Prawns. Find out when they have their seafood braai days (BBQ for non South Africans) – you choose a whole plate of seafood and watch the chef prepare your meal over the open grill!

Carnivores and Vegetarians need not be concerned though – choice A grade meats made in burgers, curries, or pork spare ribs. There are light snack baskets for the not so hungry, appetizing salads and wood fired pizzas with fun summer holiday names (tan line, deck hand and barefoot!)

The setting of course is wonderful and even if you are not hungry – pop in for refreshment after a boat trip to Duiker Seal Island (see blog here!). The Lookout Deck is a great location for sundowners or a cosmopolitan cocktail. There’s a great bar area with high tables and stools, a large flat screen to view the latest live sporting action and of course a full bar with local and international beers, beer on tap and as one would expect from any Cape Town Restaurant and Bar – an extensive and excellent wine list.

The Lookout Deck Restaurant in Hout Bay can seat around 260 people on the wooden deck and the comfortable inside area seats about 60 people. The Lookout Deck is wheelchair friendly, child friendly and on selected evenings they offer live music as entertainment – call them on 021 790 0900 to check who is playing and when… and then boogy the night away with the Hout Bay locals!

The Lookout Deck – Bar and Restaurant in Hout Bay
Trading Hours – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Mondays: 10h00 – 17h00
Tuesday – Friday: 10h00 – 23h00
Saturday – Sunday (and Public Holidays): 09h00 – 23h30

Cape Point Route can book your holiday accommodation in Hout Bay - offering Hout Bay B&B’s, Hout Bay guesthouses, Hout Bay hotels. Cape Point Route can also offer advice on Hout Bay activities, attractions in Hout Bay and other Hout Bay restaurants as well as services in all the villages on the Cape Point Route which hold some of Cape Town’s best attractions. Call us on 021 782 9356 or email: info@capepointroute.co.za or just scan our website for information - www.capepointroute.co.za

IMAGES: courtesy of the Lookout Deck Bar and Restaurant in Hout Bay

Visit Fur Seals in Hout Bay - boat trip to Duiker Island

One of the most popular activities in Hout Bay is taking a boat trip to see the Cape Fur Seals at Duiker Island. These cruises leave Hout Bay Harbour at regular intervals and each trip takes about 40 minutes.

On arrival at Hout Bay Harbour, you’ll see various kiosks with operators offering Seal Island boat trips. We love using Drumbeat Charters for the friendly, efficient service and excellent quality boats. (they have 2 boats – Drumbeat 1 takes 60 passengers and Drumbeat II takes 120 passengers) so even in peak season they can usually get you to the island! They have toilet facilities, cash bar, life jackets and commentary available in 25 languages!

I digress, as you arrive at the harbour, ‘cruise’ up to the booth/ticket office and book a ticket. The cost is R65 for adults and R25 for children under 14 years. Children under 2 years of age are free! Remember that there are no credit card facilities at the ticket office in Hout Bay Harbour so take enough cash with you.

The Seal Island boat trips to Duiker Island leave at 09h15; 10h00 and 10h45. If you do have to wait Hout Bay Harbour bustles with activity as it is a working harbour so you will often see seals and seabirds while you wait and fishing boats are invariably coming in and out of the harbour, there are crafts on sale and plenty of people watching to keep you entertained. Or you can pop into the Lookout Deck right next to the action for refreshments.

As you go on board, your ticket will be taken and there is a safety briefing as the crew get the boat ready for departure. The boat journey itself is almost as much fun as seeing the seals as you head out through Hout Bay Harbour, with the Sentinel looming to the right and Chapman’s Peak Drive to the left, making it one of those “Kodak” moments! It’s not uncommon to see happy families with this ‘mug shot’ on their coffee cups and mouse pads!

As you get close to Duiker Island, you will see the Cape fur Seals – and depending on the wind you may smell them too! It is fascinating to watch these huge creatures lumbering on the rocky land surface– although they do move surprisingly quickly and I wouldn’t want to have a sprint race! My favourite part is watching them plop into the water where they transform into graceful beings – elegant yet playful! The Cape Fur Seals spend a lot of time in the water searching for food but they do “haul out” to rest or moult. Moulting usually takes place during January-March and this is when the island is at its’ most crowded. The Cape Fur Seals don’t go off to search for food but rely on fats they have stored in their blubber.

Thousands of Cape Fur Seals inhabit the islands off the coast of Cape Town and are named for their thick pelts – which keeps them warm and dry! The majority of the seals on Duiker Island are males waiting until they reach breeding age. Duiker Island is not a breeding colony for the Cape Fur Seals as the sea can get very rough and the pups can get swept off the rocks.

Some fun facts on the Cape Fur Seals:
The Cape Fur Seals generally eat fish, shrimps, shellfish and squid.
They can hear well in the air but their hearing is better underwater.
They have the ability to tell which direction a sound is coming from
They cannot breathe underwater (their ears and nostrils close tightly when they dive) and adults come up for air at least every 30 minutes.
Their eyes are adapted to see on land and in the water.
They maintain a constant body temperature of 38.5C
Bulls can weigh up to 350 kilograms and be almost 2 metres long.
They can dive up to depths of 36 metres.

Drumbeat Charters also offers some special cruises and packages as well as private charters:

1. Seal Island and Chapmans Peak
2. Seal Island and Shipwreck of the Boss 400 in Maori Bay.
3. Year End Private Cruises from Hout Bay to the V&A
4. Their boats are available for Private functions

Consider staying in Hout Bay for more fun experiences, why not try Chapmans Peak Hotel (see our previous blog on Chapmans Peak Hotel) or contact Cape Point Route for more accommodation options in Hout Bay.

IMAGES:
1. Boat Trip to Duiker Island - courtesy of Drumbeat Charters

2. Cape Fur Seal at Hout Bay's Duiker Island - courtesy of Drumbeat Charters

3. Cape Point Route Team going on a boat cruise to Seal Island - courtesy of Cape Point Route

4. Viewing the Cape Fur Seals - Dougie from Noordhoek Farm Village - courtesy of Cape Point Route

5. Cape Fur Seals on Duiker Island, Hout Bay - courtesy of Cape Point Route