Cape-point

The cosmopolitan city of Cape Town in South Africa draws thousands of tourists each year, and it’s not hard to see why. Whether you want to immerse yourself in stunning natural scenery or simply enjoy a spot of retail therapy, Cape Town has something for everyone. Here are the top five sights this fantastic city has to offer.

1. Table Mountain

Towering an impressive 1086 metres above sea level, this magnificent mountain is the city’s most prominent feature. Take the revolving cable car to the top to enjoy panoramic views of the scenery that surrounds you. Watch as the city falls away beneath you and the rugged mountaintop slowly rises into view. Once you’ve reached the summit, have a wander around and gaze in wonder at the unique plant species that thrive on Table Mountain’s well-preserved terrain. See if you can catch a glimpse of the elusive Rock Hyraxes (known to the locals as ‘Dassies’) which tend to hang around near the rocks.

2. Robben Island

Robben Island is the place where Nelson Mandela was held captive for over 20 years along with hundreds of other social and political outcasts. The island was used as a prison right up until 1994, when it was made into a World Heritage Site by the new democratic South African government. Discover the island’s chequered past on a tour of the Robben Island Museum. Talk to an ex-political prisoner to get an insider’s account of life in the prison before visiting the chilling maximum security area where the most dangerous inmates were held.

3. The V&A Waterfront

The Victoria and Alfred Waterfront was constructed in the late 1800s by Queen Victoria’s son Prince Alfred. While the waterfront has undergone a number of redevelopments, many of the newer buildings have been designed to reflect the classic Victorian style of their predecessors. On a crisp winter morning, you can wander along the waterfront to watch the tethered yachts and fishing boats bob up and down by the harbour. For the fashion-forward traveller, the V&A Waterfront has two shopping centres with a grand total of over 450 retail outlets.

4. Cape Point Nature Reserve

With a vast 7,750 hectares of blooming flora and fauna to explore, this reserve is every nature lover’s dream. Situated in the southern section of Table Mountain National Park, Cape Point Nature Reserve is home to over 250 bird species as well as a whole host of other wildlife including baboons and Cape Mountain Zebra. Take some time out to enjoy a leisurely stroll around the reserve before heading to the Flying Dutchman funicular for a fascinating lesson in history. In the latter half of the 1800s, a lighthouse was built on Cape Point to guide ships safely to shore. Today, the building plays an important role in monitoring the other lighthouses in South Africa.

5. Boulders Beach

Boulders Beach is a beautiful example of stunning South African scenery at its best. It also happens to be the sandy home of a family of African Penguins! Situated close to Simon’s Town, this beach is the perfect place to enjoy a sunny afternoon. Kids can get hours of fun just from watching the penguins frolic and play, while adults can get clued up about the cute creatures at the information centre.

Becky is an aspiring writer who loves exploring different countries and finding hidden gems wherever she goes. She is part of the travelling team at Enjoybedandbreakfast, who specialise in wonderful and unique bed and breakfasts from South Africa and across the world.