One
of the most beautiful destinations in the world, Cape
Town offers the visitor a blend of stunning visual
splendour, vibrancy and activity.
Unparalleled
views of the city and peninsula, including Cape Town's
bustling harbour and pristine beaches, can be enjoyed
from the summit of the majestic Table Mountain. Home to
more than 8500 species of flora, Table mountain was
declared a National Park in May 1998. Two cable cars
carry passengers to the summit, their revolving floors
providing full 360 degree views of Lion's Head, the city
and Camp's Bay.
A
wealth of sightseeing, entertainment and shopping venues
are just waiting to be explored. From old-style markets
to sophisticated malls, Cape Town throbs with activity.
This is a truly cosmopolitan city from its markets, cafes
and active nightlife to its galleries, book stores and
museums.
Cape
Town displays a rich cultural diversity of English, Dutch
and Malay influence which is evident in its architecture,
fashion and customs. The city's 18-century history meets
the present in a montage of the modern and the
traditional. Visit the first mosque in South Africa
located on the cobbled streets of Bo-Kaap or explore the
Castle of Good Hope, the oldest surviving building in
South Africa.
The
Victoria and Alfred Waterfront is one the most successful
developments of its kind in the world. An entertainment
Mecca and working harbour, it offers everything from fine
restaurants and stylish shops to hotels, cinemas and live
music venues. The Two Oceans Aquarium, an international
marine zoo, is a must-see attraction for any visitor to
the city.
Robben
Island, originally a victualling station and later an
asylum and leper colony, became famous as a prison for
those considered dangerous to the old South African
regime. The island's most famous prisoner, President
Nelson Mandela, was imprisoned for more than twenty years
on the island. Robben Island, now a National Monument, is
reached via a 45 minute boat ride from the V&A
Waterfront.
The
Cape Peninsula provides an endless coastline of superb
beaches and sheltered bays. Sun-bathers relax on the
white-sand beaches of Camp's Bay while surfers are
offered the wild beauty of Noordhoek Beach. North of the
city, one finds Bloubergstrand, with its world-famous
view across Table Bay to Table Mountain.
The
Cape's natural beauty is world famous. This is one of the
richest floral kingdoms in the world, home to thousands
of plant species, some of which are found nowhere else on
earth. The best way to discover this beauty is on one of
the numerous walks and climbs. Of the most scenic, a
climb to the summit of Table Mountain, is best taken with
a guide or someone familiar with the various routes.
Inland
are the many towns of the Winelands including Paarl,
Somerset West and Stellenbosch. The grape vines and
orchards nestled in the Boland mountains are within 45
minutes drive of Cape Town. Admire the sunsets and enjoy
the wine, food, art and culture of the various
cosmopolitan towns in the region. The wine route is an
unforgettable experience and is not to be missed.
For
in-depth details on where to stay, where to eat and
things to do while in Cape Town, please visit the various
links at the top of this page. As this accommodation and
leisure guide grows, we will be adding details on
car-rental, shopping, Cape Town's nightlife, special
events and more...
Your suggestions are appreciated.
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