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
Monday, October 26, 2009
Thursday, October 22, 2009
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
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
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
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 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
Monday, October 19, 2009
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
Friday, October 16, 2009
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
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
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
Monday, October 12, 2009
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
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