With so many outdoor areas in Cape Town’s City Bowl at your disposal, there’s simply no excuse not to enjoy the long sunny days that abound. Here are some of our favourite haunts:
De Waal Park:
A firm favourite with families – especially those with four-footed friends – and enjoying pride of place in-between Gardens, Oranjezicht and Tamboerskloof, De Waal Park is also where picnic-goers are treated to free concerns during the summer months. There are also swings, jungle gyms and roundabouts for the little ones and the lush abundance of trees and greenery provide plenty of peace and quiet. Entry is free, although donations to ‘Friends of De Waal Park’ are most welcome.
Oranjezicht City Park:
This small little green haven adjacent to the famous Oranjezicht City Farm (OZCF) has been providing children in this neighbourhood with some good old-fashioned playtime for decades. With the swings and jungle gyms on offer – as well as rustic benches and ample picnic space under the age-old trees – it’s no wonder that it’s so popular among families in the area. And if time permits, a visit to the OZCF just adds to the appeal: you can amble along on your own or opt for a guided tour, done on a donation-basis (R30-R50 per person is the norm).
Deer Park:
This expansive park on the slopes of Table Mountain is part of the greater Table Mountain National Park and features a whole host of trails to tackle either on foot or by bike. The scenery is simply breathtaking, with indigenous plants and fynbos as far as the eye can see. Concrete tables and chairs on the lawns make picnics here even more appealing.
Lion’s Head:
With its mesmerising 360°-views that overlook the city, Table Bay and the beautiful Atlantic Ocean, the summit of “the Lion” is one of the Mother City’s most prized locations – and it’s so easy to reach it. Following the clear path that snakes all the way up, and includes a series of chains and ladders, the last stretch of rocky outcrops might prove to be slightly strenuous, but it’s well worth the effort and at a brisk pace, you should be able to reach the top in an hour. It’s especially popular for full-moon hikes, as a launch pad for paragliding and a trail-running haven.
Devil’s Peak:
There are various routes to hike up Devil’s Peak and depending on your levels of fitness, you can choose between the following:
Tafelberg Road (Moderate):
Start on Tafelberg Road, about 3km after the Cable Car. Duration: about 4 hours.
Mowbray Ridge (Difficult):
Park at Rhodes Memorial, follow the signs to the Kings Block House, climb up Mowbray Ridge and continue along Knife’s Edge to the summit. Duration: anything from 2-4 hours.
Newlands Ravine (Moderate):
This route also starts at Rhodes Memorial, but at the steps in the far-left corner, winding along on the Contour Path. Duration: about 4 hours.
