Cape Point
Cape Point is one of Southern Africa’s must-see destinations. It is situated within the southern section of Table Mountain National Park. The narrow stretch of land, with its beautiful valleys, bays and beaches, is surrounded by the cold Atlantic Ocean to the west and the warmer waters of False Bay and the warm Algulhas current to the east. Table Mountain National Park forms part of the Cape Floral Region, a World Heritage Site comprising eight protected areas and covering 553 000ha. The Cape Floral Region is one of the richest in the world.
Cape Point is home to over 250 bird species and a variety of animals including the chacma baboons, eland, bontebok and Cape mountain zebra. Facilities at Cape Point include the Flying Dutchman Funicular, Two Oceans Restaurant, a food shop and 3 retail outlets that carry quality memorabilia.
CYCLING AND ACTIVITIES
Cape of Good Hope is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and offers hiking, surfing, angling, picnicking, beaching and cycling opportunities against the spectacular backdrop of the mountains and coastline of the Cape Peninsula.
A cyclist’s paradise, the reserve is trans-versed by a meandering network of smooth tarred roads and rambling dirt roads that connect natural and cultural heritage sites. The great thing about cycling in Cape of Good Hope is that you can make your ride as long or as short as you want to. A map is available at the entrance and you can plan your route using it – in fact the reserve is best experienced by bike! Along the way there are plenty of places to pull over enjoy the spectacular views, have a picnic or meet the local wildlife! For more information on cycling in the reserve, read our Adventure Report on cycling the Cape of Good Hope.
Two Oceans Restaurant occupies an enviable position above False Bay and is famous for its fresh, quality seafood cuisine. Its superb wooden deck looks out onto one of the most stunning ocean views in the world. The restaurant also manages the Food Shop, which serves take-away meals like baguettes, pizzas and salads.
The Flying Dutchman Funicular transports visitors up a steep slope to the top lighthouse where they can take in the magnificent views. The Flying Dutchman Funicular was launched in June 2010 and and can transport up to 450 passengers per day in a 3-minute ride with 360-degree views. The Funicular is named after the famous ghost ship, the Flying Dutchman.
ACCOMMODATION
There are three beautiful self-catering cottages available for hire within the Cape of Good Hope – Olifantsbos Guest House and Eland and Duiker Cottages. This accommodation can be booked through SANParks.
