South Peninsula – Colour Dots

A few running trails around Cape Town

carynkaleido — Wed, 14 Oct 2026 12:11:01 +0000

Table Mountain (Tafelberg Road) Where: Tafelberg Road, Table Mountain, Cape Town Distance: 9.5 km Difficulty: Easy to moderate The out-and-back route follows Tafelberg Road from near the lower cableway station towards Devil’s Peak. The road extends for approximately 4 km, with gentle climbs and descents. Allow about 2 hours 30 minutes for the 9.5 km route. Dogs are permitted on this route but must be kept on a leash. Parking near the endpoint may allow runners to avoid sections affected by traffic. Kasteelspoort Where: Kasteelspoort trailhead, Theresa Avenue, Bakoven, Cape Town Distance: 4.7 km Difficulty: Moderate Kasteelspoort climbs the western slopes of the Twelve Apostles above Camps Bay. The route offers views of the Atlantic coastline and Lion’s Head. A well-known landmark near the top is the rock formation called the Diving Board. Table Mountain weather can change quickly, with strong winds and sudden cloud cover. Carry warm clothing and check conditions before setting out. The cableway may close in strong winds, although it does not serve as transport from the Kasteelspoort trail itself. Newlands Forest (Short Circuit) Where: Newlands, Cape Town Distance: 8.9 km Difficulty: Easy to moderate Newlands Forest is a remnant of the indigenous forest that once covered much of Table Mountain’s eastern slopes. The Short Circuit follows relatively wide paths used by runners and dog walkers. It can be busy at weekends. For a more strenuous route, try Newlands Ravine via Dark Gorge, which has steeper sections and requires more care. The trees provide shade, and there are occasional views of the city through the forest. Alphen River Trail Where: 31 Alphen Drive, Alphen, Cape Town Distance: 7.7 km Difficulty: Easy This mostly flat route runs from Alphen towards Constantia Heights, with gentle inclines along the way. The trail follows a stream and passes through green areas. It is popular with dog walkers, and dogs can accompany runners. Birds include waxbills and bronze mannikins, and squirrels may also be seen. Painted stones are sometimes left along the route to be found and rehidden. Blokhuiskop Loop Where: Clovelly Road, Clovelly, Cape Town Distance: 10 km Difficulty: Moderate to hard Starting from Clovelly Road, the route climbs Blokhuiskop through fynbos and wooded sections. There are views across False Bay and towards Kalk Bay harbour. The route also passes the Boomslang Cave, where bats roost, and the White Dome Grotto. The sustained climb makes this a more demanding run. Upper Woodstock to Rhodes Memorial Where: Philip Kgosana Drive, Upper Woodstock, Cape Town Distance: 8.5 km Difficulty: Moderate This route follows the slopes of Devil’s Peak from Upper Woodstock towards Rhodes Memorial, with steep ascents and descents. Views include central Cape Town, the harbour, the Atlantic coastline towards Big Bay and the Southern Suburbs. The route ends at Rhodes Memorial, overlooking the University of Cape Town. The Woodstock side has little shade. Runners may encounter cyclists and hikers along the way. Karbonkelberg Where: Bayview Road, Hout Bay, Cape Town Distance: 9 km Difficulty: Moderate The Karbonkelberg route above Hout Bay offers views of the harbour, Chapman’s Peak and Sandy Bay. It forms part of the Table Mountain National Park landscape. Strong winds have shaped sandy, dune-like sections on the mountain’s slopes. Lion’s Head Where: Signal Hill area, Cape Town Distance: 5.3 km Difficulty: Moderate This popular loop is used by hikers and runners and can be busy, particularly around sunrise and sunset. The route climbs steeply in places and offers views of Signal Hill, Camps Bay, the city centre, the Twelve Apostles and Table Mountain. Some sections are narrow and require care. A headlamp is advisable for running in low light. The Signal Hill Spine can be added to extend the route. Dogs may be encountered off-leash in some areas. East Fort Contour Where: Chapman’s Peak Drive, Hout Bay Distance: 6.3 km Difficulty: Moderate The route starts near the historic East Fort and continues up steps before joining a wide gravel path. It passes through a riverine forest in a ravine, with perennial water near a weir. Arrange transport at the endpoint if you do not intend to return the same way. Alternatively, return along Chapman’s Peak Drive, taking care on the road. Silvermine Dam Where: Silvermine Dam, Silvermine, Cape Town Distance: 7.1 km Difficulty: Moderate The circular route near Silvermine Dam includes views towards Constantia and Noordhoek and can be walked or run in either direction. The dam is a popular place to cool off after a run, but check current access rules and swimming conditions before entering the water.

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Aegir Project Independent Brewery

carynkaleido — Mon, 14 Mar 2022 12:45:07 +0000

Aegir Project Independent Brewery is based on the sunny shores of Noordhoek. It is a Boutique Brewery founded by Rory Lancellas in 2015. Rory has brewed his way through New Zealand and Scotland, now returning to South Africa. Aegir Project is an authentic, welcoming, and high-quality brewery. The name is inspired by the legendary Aegir, who is both the Norse God of Brewing and God of the Ocean, combining his love of both the sea and Proper Beer. Red Herring Trading Post, Noordhoek

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Afrodizzy/Attire Costume Hire

carynkaleido — Sat, 23 Jan 2021 14:25:27 +0000

Afrodizzy/Attire Costume Hire is at Unit 2, Bay View Lodge, Corner Hillcrest & Main Road Muizenberg FB

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Artvark Gallery

carynkaleido — Wed, 09 Feb 2022 09:16:28 +0000

Artvark gallery is also a manufacturing studio in Kalk Bay, which was established in 1998. The focus is on contemporary work with a keen eye for folk art. Also on display are paintings, drawings, prints, ceramics, textiles, jewellery, craft and unique custom-made steelworks. The works exhibited in the gallery are a representation of the art and culture of a diversified South Africa 48 Main Road, Kalk Bay

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Bailey’s Cottage Beach

carynkaleido — Sun, 05 Feb 2023 10:56:51 +0000

Bailey’s Cottage Beach is not much more than a patch of sand between two rocky points. Swimming here is not advisable, but the rock pools are worth exploring. The remote little beach is popular with fishermen who catch Steenbras and/or Galjoen among other species, depending on the season. It is, however, of historical interest. Just above the beach is Bailey’s Cottage. Known as Falangisina @ Bailey’s Cottage. This building was designed as a beach holiday hideaway for Sir Abe Bailey, the Diamond Tycoon and a good friend of Cecil John Rhodes. In 1909. It was also used as a lookout post and policing station, keeping an eye out for enemy ships and illegal trading over the years. . The stone bungalow is now a Guest House. There is parking available, and dogs are allowed if they are kept on a leash. Just above Bailey’s cottage is an open stretch of lawn called Battle of Muizenberg Fort, where the Dutch (who had ruled the Cape since 1652) made a stand against the invading British forces in 1795. The battle lasted a mere 30 minutes, but the Dutch lost their important replenishing station on the sea route to the East. Shells can often be found on this beach, especially after winter storms and low tide. If you plan to collect shells, please follow local regulations and take only empty shells. Shell identification guide Parking: On the main road Lifeguards: ,No Surfing: Surf report Swimming: Not advised Fishing: Yes see the illustrated guide to sea fishing Dog walking; No dogs allowed Ablutions: No Beach type: Rocky and small Picnic and braai: No braai facilities Check the tides here Muizenberg 7945 Fishing in the Western Cape article Best beaches in the Western Cape article Find our comprehensive Western Cape travel guide for things to see and do.

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Biophile Labyrinth

carynkaleido — Tue, 05 Jan 2021 14:31:06 +0000

Biophile labyrinth is a 16 m in diameter contemporary-classical design, with a medicine wheel at the centre. It is made of rock and indigenous medicinal plants reflecting the seven chakras/sepira/sacraments etc. It was designed to coincide with the rise of feminine consciousness and the rare 2004-2012 Venus/Sun transit, the walk to the goal and back shows your role in this transition. From Cape Town, come over Ou Kaapse Weg to Noordhoek. Take a right towards Chapman’s Peak Toll Gate. Turn right at Noordhoek Farm Village, and left into De Goede Hoop Estate. Phone first or the security guard will not let you in. GPS:-34.097789° Lat.; 18.382092° Noordhoek WEB

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Bluebird Garage Market

carynkaleido — Wed, 23 Sep 2020 15:15:59 +0000

Bluebird Garage Market is held in an old hangar at the edge of Muizenberg. Find great food, homemade goods, local wine, and craft beer, There are also some craft and clothing stalls. Blue Bird Garage, 39 Albertyn Road Muizenberg

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Boulders Beach

carynkaleido — Wed, 03 Nov 2021 17:35:28 +0000

Boulders Beach Boulders Beach is part of the Table Mountain National Park. At Boulders Beach, you can visit and get to know the families of African penguins. These (jackass penguins) are considered to be endangered. They are protected, and Boulders Beach has been chosen as their own ‘waddling ground’ where you can walk along the boardwalks. African Penguins were reclassified from vulnerable to endangered. The Boulders colony was established in 1982. A breeding pair is said to have arrived from nearby Dyer Island. Happily, the number of penguins is steadily increasing. With a decline in commercial fishing in False Bay, their chances of survival improved. At its peak, the colony reached about 3000. . Penguins feed mostly on fish; they are about 60cm tall and weigh about 3 kilos. Penguins can dive to 130 metres deep and move at speeds up to 20 km per hour. They can hold their breath for over 2 minutes. Penguins have a lifespan of about 10 years. The water at Boulders Beach is considerably warmer than elsewhere on the coast because of the boulders, which shelter the space and catch the sun. The rocks are estimated to be around 540 million years old. Because of these boulders, the beach is safe for swimming and paddling. It’s a small beach, and when the tide is high, it gets even smaller. There is a charge to enter the protected area. Pensioners’ rates apply. Numbers are restricted to prevent overcrowding. Beware of scammers; only buy your tickets online or at the designated ticket office. asking for payment before you reach our entrance gate, they are not authorised personnel. Froggy Pond Dolerite Dyke. Between Seaforth and Boulders Beach is a 130-million-year-old dolerite dyke, a type of volcanic rock that has intruded into the much older (approximately 540 million years) granite. Close by, you will notice what appears to be a low wall running across the rocks; this is another intrusion, consisting of slightly younger granite that pushed up through cracks. These low walls or ridges are known as aplites City Slickers movie trailer Kleintuin Road Check the sea temperature here Check the tides here Swartkop Hike Above Boulders Beach and Seaforth area is a great hike up to the blockhouse. Further on is Black Hill/Swartkop, the big mountain above Boulders. The hike winds through fynbos and offers reat views. The out and back trip takes around 2 to 3 hours Best beaches in the Western Cape article Updated December 2025 FAQs about Boulders Beach 1. Where is Boulders Beach?Boulders Beach is in Simon’s Town, about 40 km south of Cape Town. It’s part of the Table Mountain National Park Marine Protected Area. 2. How do I get there?From Cape Town, take the M4 (Main Road) or M3 via Ou Kaapse Weg to Simon’s Town, then follow the signs to Boulders Beach or Seaforth. It’s well signposted and close to the town centre. 3. Is there parking at Boulders Beach?Yes. There’s paid parking at the main entrance on Kleintuin Road and at Seaforth Beach nearby. It can fill up quickly in summer — arrive early or park in town and walk. 4. Do I have to pay an entrance fee at Boulders Beach?Yes. Boulders Beach is managed by SANParks. There are separate rates for South African residents and international visitors. Bring your ID for local rates. 5. What are the opening hours?Generally open from 8:00 to 17:00 (winter) and 7:00 to 19:30 (summer), but times can change seasonally. Last entry is usually one hour before closing. 6. Can I swim at Boulders Beach?Yes. The small coves between the granite rocks are sheltered, calm, and ideal for swimming and paddling. Water temperatures are usually between 12°C and 18°C. 7. Can I see penguins at Boulders Beach all year round?Yes. The African penguin colony is resident year-round, though the breeding season (February–August) is especially active with chicks visible in the nests. 8. Can I touch or feed the penguins?No. Penguins are wild and protected by law. Keep at least one metre away and never feed or chase them. 9. Are there restaurants or shops nearby?Yes. There are cafés, restaurants, and souvenir shops within walking distance in Simon’s Town, as well as Seaforth Restaurant next to the beach. 10. Is Boulders Beach wheelchair accessible?Yes. The boardwalks leading to the viewing areas are accessible, though access to the sand and swimming areas may be difficult for wheelchairs. 11. Can I bring my dog to Boulders Beach?Dogs are not allowed inside the fenced Boulders Beach area, but nearby Seaforth Beach and Froggy Pond have dog-friendly sections. 12. What should I bring to Boulders Beach?Bring sunscreen, a hat, water, and swimwear. Snorkel gear is optional but fun for spotting small fish around the rocks. All visitors are required to fill out an indemnity form at the gate Updated October 2025 .

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Boyes Drive

carynkaleido — Tue, 22 Feb 2022 11:54:20 +0000

This road is a 7 km stretch of road along the mountain above the False Bay coast. It provides stunning sunrise and ocean views as well as an abundance of wildlife spotting opportunities. The building of the road was first started in August 1896 and was completed in 1929. It is now a wonderful scenic drive that stretches from Lakeside, over Muizenberg and St James, and through to Kalk Bay. During autumn and winter, you can watch for whales from the lookout points along the drive. There are many hiking trails in the southern peninsula and several start from Boyes Drive. This route is known as the M75. Staircase up to Boyes Drive History of Boyes Drive click here Hikes from Boyes Drive Muizenberg peak (above Muizenberg and via Pecks Valley trail) Pecks Valley (above Muizenberg) Ou Kraal Hiking trail (above Muizenberg) Bailey’s Kloof hike (above St James) Echo Valley hike (above Kalk Bay) Silvermine hiking trail (above Muizenberg & Lakeside) Silvermine Amphitheatre (above St James) See some other scenic drives and road trips and browse the complete Western Cape guide

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Buffels Bay tidal pool

carynkaleido — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 13:55:59 +0000

Buffels Bay tidal pool is in the Cape Point Nature Reserve. It is at a relatively sheltered and deserted beach. The tidal pool is great for a dip after a hike. The beach is great for a picnic as there are individual braai spots, running water, and shaded areas. Fires are only allowed in built braai facilities. The area has many animals such as eland, bontebok, Cape mountain zebra, and lots of flora and birds. However, watch out for baboons. There is plenty of parking, and ablutions are available. Close by is Bordjiesdrif, where you also have access to circular braai facilities, which are better for larger groups. Here, there are grassier areas, whereas the Buffels Bay braai areas are on the sand. surf report Check the tides here Be sure to bring your own braai grids and wood Antoniesgat trail Best beaches in the Western Cape article

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