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The Cape of Good Hope

Cape Town Cape Point
Cape Point Nature Reserve
Cape Town Penguins
Penguin Colony at Boulders Beach

Woodpecker Lodge is your base to visit some of Cape Town's top attractions

The southern Cape Peninsula hosts many of Cape Town's top attractions and stretches from Hout Bay to Muizenberg and down to The Cape of Good Hope, the most south-western point of the African continent. The Cape Peninsula is surrounded by two oceans, the Atlantic ocean to the west and the Indian ocean to the east, so one is never far from a pristine beach and can enjoy breathtaking sea views from almost any vantage point.

Approximately 80% of the Cape Peninsula consists of national parks and nature reserves, forming part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the Cape Floral Region Protected Areas. It is one of the 'hottest hotspots' for diversity of endemic and threatened plant species. Representing only around 0.5% of the area of Africa but home to roughly 20% of the continents flora, with 69% of the estimated 9'000 plant species endemic to the region. 1'736 plant species are threatened, while 3'087 species are of conservation concern, therefore protection of this biosphere is of utmost importance for scientific research and future generations. But the Cape Peninsula is not just about nature and conservation, it also offers many exciting attractions to make your visit a memorable one.

Cape Point and The Cape of Good Hope (~34 minutes drive) - There are many walking trails, beaches, swimming and picnic spots, shipwrecks, viewpoints, monuments, cultural and historical places, and plenty of unique fauna and flora to see in the Cape Point nature reserve. Spot whales (June to October), Cape mountain zebra, and up to 250 different bird species. Walk or take the funicular to the old lighthouse which overlooks the point where two oceans meet.

Penguin Colony at Boulders Beach (~23 minutes drive) - The unique and endangered African penguin colony located at Boulders beach is one of only a few in the world. Walk along the boardwalks to get very close to the penguins without disturbing their habitat. Spend a day on the white sandy beach where you can take a swim safely with children, have a picnic or dine at one of the local restaurants.

Chapman's Peak Drive (~5 minutes drive) - Take a pleasure drive along one of the world's most scenic routes between Noordhoek and Hout Bay. Pull over into several lookout points along the route and enjoy the serene tranquility of the azure ocean, thrilling sea cliffs and vast expanse of wild nature. There are several picnic tables conveniently located at scenic spots and sunset is a spectacular time to visit.

    Discover exquisite wine tasting and culinary locations

    Cape Town Restaurant
    Cape Point Vineyards restaurant (courtesy of Cape Point Vineyards)
    Cape Town Vineyards
    Constantia valley wine estates (courtesy of Klein Constantia)

    Thorfynns Restaurant is located inside the beautiful Monkey Valley ecotourism resort, serving delicious meals all day and sunset cocktails in the evening. Enjoy breathtaking sea views from the deck or relax in front of a roaring fireplace inside. Either way you are sure to enjoy this secret hideaway in amongst an ancient, indigenous and endangered Milkwood forest.

    The Red Herring Trading Post (~4 minutes drive) - Fresh coffees and croissants, hand-crafted chocolates, an independent brewery, and restaurants serving delicious breakfast, lunch and dinner. In addition, there is wellness center and a beauty salon.

    Noordhoek Farm Village (~7 minutes drive) - An eclectic mix of pubs, cafes, restaurants, arts and crafts shops, wellness and beauty centers, and the occasional concert or event. From sushi and oysters, to tapas or the grill, there is a variety of exquisite menu items on offer. There is an ice cream parlor for the kids, a fresh juice bar, and you can pick up local organic and ethical groceries. It's well worth a visit with many additional experiences, like yoga, on offer.

    Cape Point Vineyards (~10 minutes drive) - One can book a wine tasting tour, enjoy their famous vineyard picnics or dine on the outdoor terrace, all with magnificent sea views from the estate.

    Tour the Constantia Wine Route to experience the rich history of the various Constantia valley wine estates, host to the oldest wine estate in South Africa, Groot Constantia, established in 1685. More than just wine tasting is on offer, with several historical and cultural highlights, a spa and several world class fine dining restaurants:

    Explore the myriad of southern Cape Peninsula beaches

    Cape Town Horse Riding
    Horse riding on Noordhoek beach (courtesy of Imhoff Farm)
    Cape Town Beach
    St. James beach and tidal pool

    The southern Cape Peninsula is host to some of the world's most beautiful and remote beaches. There is a wide variety to choose from (20 altogether). All are in protected nature reserve areas, some are surrounded by high sea cliffs, or massive granite boulders, while others are situated perfectly next to quaint seaside villages. Depending on the wind direction, you can always find a beach in a sheltered location and although the Atlantic ocean is icy cold, the Indian ocean offers warmer water for swimming on hot, sunny days. With little or no lifeguards it is always recommended to stay in the shallow waters and be very careful of the strong currents, waves and tides. Beaches on the Indian Ocean are generally safer for children.

    Atlantic Ocean Beaches

    Starting in the north, is Hout Bay beach (~20 minutes drive) alongside the harbour with its Mariner's Wharf, a place to refuel and sample some fresh, local fish dishes or browse the curios shops. Circe Launches offers boat trips departing directly from the harbour to Seal Island. Besides all the lovely restaurants and shopping, the World of Birds Wildlife Sanctuary is a noteworthy attraction of Hout Bay.

    Next, Noordhoek beach, where you can visit the wreck of The Kakapo, is on your doorstep and stretches for 8km all the way across to Long beach at Kommetjie (~21 minutes drive). Kommetjie is a quaint little seaside town with a working lighthouse one can visit. Further south along the coast, is the Sweet Water nature reserve with its tidal pool, then Witsand Bay near Misty Cliffs, which is a very remote beach. Parking is along the main road and a short walk down some steps to access to beach. One can also drive up to the Crayfish Factory and park at the end of the road. Finally, before one enters the Cape Point nature reserve, there is Scarborough, another seaside town with its beautiful beach. All of these beaches offer excellent surfing spots for intermediate and advanced surfers. To get an idea of the conditions, here is a video of The Hoek at Noordhoek beach and the surrounding beaches are featured in Billabong - The Cape.

    Horse Riding on Noordhoek Beach

    Romantic horse riding tours through the wild life sanctuary and out on to Noordhoek beach are available for novice and experienced riders age 12 and up. There are a few local tour operators such as Imhoff Equestrian Centre offering beach rides to fulfill a horse lover's dream. And while there visit Imhoff Farm, with its collection of local artisan shops and restaurants with a picturesque view of the marshes.

    Indian Ocean Beaches

    Muizenberg Beach (~25 minutes drive) in the north is easily accessible by car and a popular surfing spot with a long history. It's a great place for beginners to try out surfing with several surf schools, surf shops and restaurants available to satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst. There is a lovely boardwalk (1.5 km) that meanders along the coast to St. James Beach, a safe beach for children with its tidal pool. Between St. James and Kalk Bay, along the Main Road, there are many eclectic arts, crafts and curios shops, restaurants, bars, cafes and delis. This quaint seaside town with its own working fishing harbor is a "must see" location and especially exquisite in the morning as the sun rises over the Indian Ocean.

    Next, Fish Hoek has a charming protected beach with life savers on duty during the peak summer months. Glencairn is a small beach between Fish Hoek and Simon's Town and although it is quite close to the Main Road, one can have an enjoyable time here with walking trails along the adjacent rocks. Nearby, Simon's Town is a navy base where one can visit the South African Naval Museum and the Simon's Town Museum. Just outside Simon's Town is Seaforth Beach and then Boulders Beach, where the penguin colony is located. If you want more privacy and seclusion, further south along the coast, there are numerous beaches worth a visit, including Windmill Beach, Froggy Pond, Miller Point and the Rumbly Bay tidal pool.

    Cape Point Nature Reserve Beaches

    Inside the nature reserve one also finds some spectacular beaches, such as Maclear Beach, Diaz Beach, Olifantsbos Beach, Platboom Beach and Buffels Beach. Each one is unique and all of them are quite remote therefore you need to consider to bring your own food, water and supplies. One needs to consider to be out of the reserve before the main gates close so some planning is required however, it can be a wonderful experience altogether. You may even spot some of the wildlife that call these areas home. Some of the beaches are easily accessible by car with picnic spots, such as Buffels Beach and Olifantsbos Beach, whereas others, like Diaz Beach, require a 20 minute hike down the steps of sea cliffs to gain access . The best is to inform yourself directly on the nature reserve's website.

    Various sports and activities are available for active holiday makers

    Cape Town Hiking
    Hiking in Table Mountain National Park on the Hoerikwaggo Trail (courtesy of Untold Africa)
    Cape Town Golf
    Steenberg Golf Club (courtesy of Steenberg Estate)

    Walking Trails and Hiking

    Table Mountain National Park contains many hiking trails where one can admire the unspoiled natural beauty of the unique Fynbos of the Cape Floral Kingdom. Woodpecker Lodge is actually situated on a hiking trail between Chapman's Peak and Noordboek beach. Silvermine or Kalk Bay trails are only a short drive away. The recommendation is to obtain a local Cape Town map from MapStudio which can be purchased at any stationary store and covers all the hiking trails and other activities. Always be prepared and check the local weather conditions before setting out on your adventure. Ensure you take plenty of water, food, sunscreen, hat and an extra jacket in case the weather changes. Let someone know where you have gone and when you will be back. Always hike in small groups of at least four people for maximum safety and to ensure you have the most enjoyable experience.

    Other Activities

    Diving, paragliding, sea kayaking, surfski, road cycling, mountain biking, windsurfing and kite surfing, sailing and sport climbing are all on offer in the region. The Cape Town map mentioned above contains contact details for equipment rentals and guided tours.

        Golf

        There are several world class golf courses situated in the Cape Peninsula. It is advisable to make bookings well in advance to your arrival and take note of the dress codes.

        Additional noteworthy golf courses near Cape Town. Combine your golfing experience with a day trip to the surrounding areas.

        Other things to do during your stay at Woodpecker Lodge

        Cape Town Kirstenbosch
        Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens
        Cape Town Table Mountain
        Table Mountain Aerial Cableway

        Kirstenbosch Gardens

        Kirstenbosch Gardens - Explore the beauty of one of the great botanical gardens of the world.

        Kirstenbosch Concerts - In summer, relax with a picnic while watching live music in the gardens.

          Further attractions

          Masiphumelele Township Tours - Ask for more information at Monkey Valley Resort reception.

          Cape Point Ostrich Farm - Take a guided tour and learn about the life cyle of the ostrich bird on a productive breeding farm, including a reptile rehabilitation sanctuary.

          Sotheby's Norval Foundation - African modern & contemporary art museum located in the Steenberg area of Cape Town. The Norval Foundation is a new centre for the research and exhibition of 20th and 21st century visual art from South Africa and beyond, combining the experience of art with an appreciation for nature.

            Cape Town City

            Day trips to the Cape Town city are possible and one can combine a few top attractions (~45 minutes drive):

            Table Mountain Cable Car - Take a cable car to the top of Table Mountain to ensure a fantastic view. Always check their website to see if they are operational before setting off.

            Robben Island Museum - Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site where political prisoners such as Nelson Mandela were held during the years of apartheid in South Africa.

            V&A Waterfront - Cape Town's harbour is a tourist hub with several attractions, restaurants and shops. Boats destined for Robben Island leave from here.