1.Bothma's Kop
Hiking Bothma's Kop MountainAccessible to the public via the park at the east of Uniepark in Stellenbosch, this is one of the less strenous hikes in the area, but be sure to pack sun screen and good shoes. Depending on how far along the ridge you want to travel it can be a longer hike. There is quite a steep set of rocks near the top, that can be daunting for less experienced climbers who might want to turn back at that point. Stunning view over Stellenbosh town and Simonsberg mountain. We suggest a day in Autumn or Spring to avoid extreme weather conditions.
Visit ESTATE OFFICIAL WEBSITE the hotel, dining, shopping and wine tasting at Boschendal as well as the Norval Art Gallery
2.Hike up Helderberg Mountains
View from above This has the advantage of being an official hiking trail, starting at the Helderberg Nature Reserve. The areas around the top can present some extreme steep areas, that should certainly not be attempted by less experienced hikers or those with fear of heights. Once at the top you will be rewarded with with panoramic views over Somerset West and False Bay, with Table mountain and the Peninsula in the background. Come prepared for a full-day hike. Visit GLITZYMAGAZINE to view other top natural and arhictectural sightseeing attractions in and around Cape Town.3.Jonkershoek Nature Reserve
The damAccessible from within the Jonkershoek Nature Reserve, this hike takes you deep within the reserve where nature can be viewed in its pristine form. Rainy season should be avoided as the trails turns into little streams. At one point you will be surprised to see the valley of Franschhoek through the gorge. Pack extra socks.
Go to the OFFICIAL WEBSITE of Groot Constantia to learn more about this exceptional heritage building and wine farm.
4.Simonsberg Mountain
Simonsberg as seen from Tokara wine farmA tricky hike to organise as you will need some co-operation and permission from Tokara wine farm or other nearby neighbours.
Visit the OFFICIAL WEBSITE for maps of the organic gardens as well as the restuarant, bakery, succulent gardens, atrium and bonsai display.
5.Simonsberg Mountain Top
The sentinelSimonsberg is the gem of all the Cape mountains and to find yourself on top of it is something of a spiritual experience.
6.Table Mountain
View of Lion's Head from the top of Table MountainThis is the hike most tourists try first, and is well marked and you will be unlikely to be alone. There are several routes to the top, ask at the cable station at the bottom if you are unsure. Bring cash in case you want to take the cable car down... people are often less fit then they realise and its good to keep your options open. The top is a stunning strange landscape with many indigenous fauna and flora to see. The most commercialised of all the hikes you can benefit from some refreshments and public toilets.
Fauna and Flora you are Likely to See
A Fynbos ProteaThe Cape is home to a unique flora Kingdom called fynbos, which means "fine leafed plants". The protea is perhaps the best known genus in this Kingdom, and the King Protea is the national flower. The best time to see the flowers is in September or October, which also provides great weather for hiking.
Cape Floral Kingdom
An example of the wide array of flowers you will see while hiking in the area.
Lizard seen on Table Mountain
This is one of the creatures you are likely to see when walking around the top of Table Mountain. Contact us if you know what species it is!
Lizard at Cape Point
This lizard with blue helmet was spotted at Cape Point Nature Reserve. Contact us if you know the species.
Sunbird
The Western Cape is home to many kinds of sunbirds.
Erica Flowers
The Cape Floral Kingdom grows only in the Cape Town area. View rare flowers, such as these bright pink Ericas, on any of these hikes in the Western Cape.
NATURAL ATTRACTIONS FOR KIDS
There are plenty of beautiful natural attractions for the whole family to see in and around Cape Town. Shown here is the Helderberg Nature Reserve which has excellent easier trails that children and weaker hikers can easily manage. The kids will also love the duck pond and bird watching area at the bottom of the trail.
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FLOWER GARDENS IN CAPE TOWN
It has become a welcome trend in recent times to dot sculptures among the gardens at various wine farms in the Cape. The landscaping at Lourensford Estate is surely one of the finest examples with its large water features and high end sculptures by leading South African artists.
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HISTORICAL BUILT ATTRACTIONS
This is arguably the most beautiful combination of architecture and nature as well as the most outstanding photo ever taken of this peaceful and breathtaking heritage site. The home and gardens date back almost 400 years and are the product of four generations of custodians and cultivators.
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