Flanked by the Indian and Atlantic Oceans, the Western Cape boasts almost 1 000 km of unspoilt beaches, incredible scenic beauty and year round moderate weather. The tapestry of cultural diversity is evident in the variety of cuisine, architecture, arts and crafts, museums and historical landmarks.
This province is blessed with an unparalleled diverse splendour from the pretty fishing villages of the West Coast and the arid areas that are covered in beautiful carpets of flowers between August and October to the impressive winelands and the gorgeous coastline along the famous Garden Route.
Inland the Klein Karoo is characterised by wide-open spaces, undulating hills and huge ostrich farms. Scores of Southern Right, Humpback and Brydes Whales frequent the coastal waters between June and November offering a further dimension to this spectacular province.
There is nowhere quite like Cape Town. It is in Africa, and of Africa, but yet so different. Perched between the ocean and the mountain and with a South African National Park as its heart, this cosmopolitan centre is steeped in history, cultural diversity and is fast becoming one of the world’s most sought after destinations.
As the oldest city in South Africa, it has a cultural heritage spanning more than 300 years and offers beautiful beaches, seaside resorts, panoramic drives, inland wine farms and spectacular scenery.
The West Coast, comprising the Swartland, Sandveld and further north, the Olifants River Valley, is wild and untouched, for those wanting to escape the city. Langebaan’s wetland wilderness is the focal point of the West Coast National Park and a mecca for bird watchers, sun-seekers and water enthusiasts. Other attractions include breathtaking rock formations, magnificent scenery and Bushmen rock art and visits.
Wine and fruit farms thrive in the Cape and most of the major estates are within easy reach of Cape Town. Not only do the winelands offer a true wine experience but the region also holds many hiking trails and rock paintings dating back 7 000 years. This area is blessed with some of the finest bistros and restaurants often housed in historical buildings of Cape Dutch, Georgian and Victorian architecture.
Stretching from Slangriver at Heidelberg to the white sandy beaches of Plettenberg Bay, lies the picturesque Garden Route. The area is richly endowed by nature and graced with dramatic rocky peninsulas, intriguing lagoons and estuaries, indigenous forests, magnificent caves and golden beaches.
The quaint seaside villages are home to a variety of accommodation, excellent restaurants and numerous attractions. From hiking, mountain biking, horse and ostrich riding, whale, dolphin or bird watching to lazing in the sun, enjoying an ocean cruise or steam train excursion, there is a land of magic waiting for you.
Attractions:
Robben Island, a World Heritage Site and prison outpost, holding a significant place in the history of the liberation struggle.
Table Mountain offers stunning views of the city. Explore the mountain by cable car or on foot. Cycling trails and abseiling are also available on Table Mountain.
Victoria & Alfred Waterfront is a working harbour, shopping and entertainment complex.
Two Oceans Aquarium with more than 300 species including sharks, penguins and seals The aquarium offers diving in the shark tank.
Castle of Good Hope, a five-pointed fortress that houses a museum, gallery and restaurant.
Cape Peninsula National Park where two oceans meet. A trip up to the old Lighthouse by funicular or on foot is a must.
Signal Hill offers beautiful views of the city, particularly at night.
Houses of Parliament, an architectural masterpiece.
National Botanical Gardens at Kirstenbosch is one of the world’s finest with over 5 000 plant species.
South African Museum, famous for displays of ethnic groups, including life-sized casts of Bushmen (San), Khoikhoi and other tribes of Southern Africa.
South African National Gallery, houses an outstanding collection of local art, offering insight into the development of this many-faceted nation. Photographs of black township life include many which appeared in Drum magazine during the 1950’s.
District Six Museum, unveiling the era of Apartheid.
Rhodes Memorial on the slopes of Table Mountain, a tribute to Cecil John Rhodes - Prime Minister of the Cape from 1890.
Chapmans Peak Drive is carved into solid rock and is one of the most spectacular mountain drives in the world.
Major shopping centre’s in this area include V&A Waterfront, Canal Walk, Cavendish Square and Tygervalley. Blue Bayou offers an outstanding personalised shopping service.
Noteworthy flea markets in Cape Town include Greenmarket Square, Hout Bay Harbour, Kalk Bay, and Simon’s Town Waterfront.
The working harbour of Hout Bay and ferries to Duiker Island to view the seals.
A wide variety of excellent golf courses are located throughout this area.
Gerald Crawford was born in South Africa, studied electronics, telecommunication, eco-travel and african travel concepts. He taught responsible tourism in South Africa. If you have any questions or comments please e-mail me on. E-mail Address: southafricantravelarticles@12234455.co.za Website Address: http://www.12234455.co.za