Simon's Town Guest House Blog - Simon's Town Guest House

When is the best time of the year to visit Simon's Town?

2021-02-09T00:00:00+02:00

The Whales in False Bay

Between June and September, many whales come close to shore to give birth and raise their young calves before heading back out to deeper waters. The whales are often seen in the bay close to the shore, allowing you to take pictures and have lasting memories.

Whales are very active on the water surface and are known to be very curious, and Simon’s Town is a great place to view the magnificent mammals.

The most common whales to see are the Southern Right and the Bryde’s Whale.

Southern Right Whales are slow-moving Whales that have come close to extinction due to excessive whaling in the 19th and 20th Centuries. However, whale numbers are on the rise, and we are lucky enough to often see whales in Simon’s Town.

The African Penguin

The African Penguin is a flightless bird species that stay on the coast around Simon’s Town.

Boulders Beach is well known as the best place to see and learn about the African Penguin.

When is the best time to see the African Penguin?

Breeding season is the best time to go as it is the time the beach is busiest. You may also be lucky enough to see a baby penguin! Make sure to keep your distance, as you would not want to get between a mother penguin and her babies. Close interaction with the penguins is discouraged, since it may be harmful to these adorable endangered species.

Around 4 pm, late afternoon is an excellent time to visit as this is when the penguins return to their nests - this is a great site to watch the penguins waddling up the beach to their nests.

The Beach

The best time to be on the beach is when the sun is out, and the wind is not blowing.

Unfortunately, that is a rare occurrence in Simon’s Town. But there are a few tips to have the best chance of the perfect day:

Go in January or February - this is often a less windy time of year than November & December. It is also in the heat of summer.
Go early! - Often, the afternoon is when the wind picks up. It is best to get to the beach in the morning to make the most of the day.
Pack Sunscreen - This is a bonus and unrelated tip, but our sun is harsh, and sunscreen is always a great idea!

Now that you have some more information you can book your stay at Simon’s Town guest house at the perfect time of year to experience the most of its beauty and, you can hire a car in South Africa, making Simon’s Town the first stop on your road trip!

Get booking and plan your next vacation.

A scenic drive around the Cape Peninsula

2021-01-14T00:00:00+02:00

A scenic drive around the Cape Peninsula

So picture it, you have booked your superb accommodation at Simon’s Town Guest House, and you love the views! But now what? What to do?

So I usually would say head to the beach, unfortunately now you can’t. And for a good reason. But now you are probably regretting your trip? Luckily for you, there is so much more to do in the Cape Peninsula than just the beach!

So what can you do?
Go and see the penguins! The Boulders beach walk is still open, with strict protective measures. This is a great way to learn and see the local fauna that inhibits our coast. The knowledgable guides will explain the whole lifestyle of the endangered African Penguins.

It is also the closest to the beach you will be able to get! And a trip to boulders walkway is never a disappointing one!

Eat out!
When we go away, it is a great time to get out and try restaurant food that we don’t have when we are home. And Simon’s Town has many great restaurants and cafes!

From Saveur for something a bit nicer to Seaforth where you can sit right by the beach! There are so many options. Read our article about the best restaurants to eat at in Simon’s Town.

Experience the culture, cuisine and scenery with Simon’s Town’s stunning restaurants.

Take a Scenic Drive
The Cape Peninsula is known as one of the most beautiful drives in the world. And has many different views as you go around Cape Point. With Cape Town car rental being so easy, it makes it a great idea!

But where should you stop?

Here are 5 stops:
Millers Point
Millers Point will be on your left just as you are leaving Simon’s Town. This point is prevalent amongst fishermen having the ski-boat club there. This view allows you to see a comprehensive view of the ocean on the east side of the point.

Smitswinkel
Simtswinkel is one of the highest points on the east side, giving you a stunning view of the rocks and ocean below!

Cape Point Nature Reserve
The nature reserve gives you access to views of both sides and a view at the Point - making it popular amongst tourists in the Cape Town Area. It is a great stop to see the well known Cape Point!

Misty Cliffs
Misty Cliffs is on the west side of the point with views over the endless Atlantic ocean. It is located near the small village of Scarbrough. It gets its name from the mist that often rolls through and covers the cliff. But on sunny days it has excellent views.

Kommetjie
This small village is a popular place for surfers due to the great waves! This village also has some great views with the ocean’s backdrop on one side and Chapmans Peak on the other.

There is so much to see and do in the Cape Peninsula apart from the beach! So come and enjoy the excellent weather and great views. The relaxation will do you well.

The best restaurants to eat at in Simon’s Town

2020-12-10T00:00:00+02:00

Simon’s Town is a quaint maritime town and home to South Africa’s Naval Base. Located on the coast of False Bay, this town is situated a mere 55 km from Cape Town International Airport and is easily accessible along the M3 from the city centre. The town has a variety of landmarks and activities to keep you entertained and informed - from SA naval history to visiting the African penguin colony at Boulders beach.

Whether travelling to Simon’s Town for a quick day visit or incorporating the town into your Cape Town vacation - you can expect outstanding cuisine and fresh seafood all around this beautiful coastal maritime town.

Why not use a car rental agency for your hired vehicle and explore Simon’s Town at your own pace.

With a variety of activities - such as visiting the famous colony of African penguins, visiting the Naval Museum or taking the kids to the Scratch Patch, you will indeed work up quite an appetite, and of course, Simon’s Town has quite a few top restaurants that are a must to visit.

Below are our top 5 restaurants which should be visited to satisfy your appetite:

SAVEUR Restaurant

The name says it all - Preparing unique dishes to savour the variety of uniquely combined flavours. Saveur overlooks the Simon’s Town harbour. Here you will enjoy the first-class service with stunningly presented food to compliment the surrounding views over False Bay.

Open from sunrise to sunset, breakfast, lunch and dinner are prepared in European-styled dishes with the freshest ingredients. Ultimately their Moroccan spiced lamb screwers served with Mediterranean vegetables is a top choice.

The Lighthouse Cafe

A French yet charming cafe and restaurant is home away from home. Local and international travellers enjoy eating at the warm character filled eatery. With a comfortable ambience, friendly, inviting service and coastal views, space contributes to an enjoyable eating experience.

Enjoy spending your time here by booking breakfast with friends or enjoy lunch or dinner with their well-trained staff who has a deep passion for food. The cafe-style menu is friendly, yet at the same time offering a variety of dishes for everyone. Daily specials are on offer.

Seaforth Restaurant

Seaforth Restaurant is perfectly located on the edge of the water and sandy white beach of Simon’s Town. Here you will indulge in the freshest of seafood dishes with spectacular views of mountains, ocean and penguins.

A relaxing setting and decor invite the foodie with a discerning palate for great dishes as well as platters. Offering a taste of traditional comfort food with a very distinctive South African touch and also catering for vegetarians - internationally renowned for quality food and service Seaforth caters to large tour groups as well.

Bertha’s Restaurant

Set on the quayside, Bertha’s is centrally located on Simon’s Town seafront. Bragging with the best view over Simonstown harbour, top quality friendly service and tasty seafood dishes.

Bertha’s is the perfect place for hungry families with children, large tour groups and also the lovebirds, Betha’s offer dishes suited to a formidable budget.

The food is, however, the main charm of Bertha’s, combining classic African dishes with a warm, comfortable feeling. Unique seafood dishes - the likes of their West Coast Mussels and other seafood dishes - to relish are on the menu. And for those meat lovers, you will find chargrilled sirloin and crispy onion rings.

Monocle and Mermaid

Last but not least, the Monocle and Mermaid eatery is a beautiful alternative for the vegetarians, vegans and diet-conscious foodie - offering breakfast, lunch, dinner and brunch - your appetite will be well looked after.

The interior of this nautical-themed bar and restaurant provides excellent service and distinguished seafood dishes, especially their calamari. To top this off, they specialise in coffee, making them a worthy coffee stop.

A great day trip is taking the train to Simon’s Town, and all of the restaurants mentioned above are easily accessible by foot from the station and nearest guesthouses and hotels.

Apart from the significant landmarks, rich maritime history, various activities or visiting the sandy white beaches along the water’s edge - Simon’s Town makes for a small seafood mecca of freshness. The town has produced some of the best quality restaurants in Cape Town. Be sure to visit one or all of them.

5 Fun Activities in Simon's Town

2020-12-02T00:00:00+02:00

BOULDERS BEACH

Boulders Beach is located near Simon's Town and is popular for many reasons. The area is calm and covered with round boulders, the turquoise ocean in view, and home to many African penguins. It is one of the most popular beaches in Cape Town, locals and tourists from all over the world come here to see these cute and unique birds.

Old granite boulders have been shaped for millions of years by wind and water erosion causing them to become rounded in shape. These boulders give amazing protection from massive waves and strong winds making it the perfect place for a warm sunny day at the beach. With water from the Indian Ocean and the Atlantic nearby, the water is slightly warmer here making it perfect for those who prefer warmer, tranquil waters.

The African Penguin is definitely the main feature of Boulders beach, With a massive colony of around 3000 birds. There are three boardwalks with a penguin viewing area from where you can watch the majestic birds swim, play, eat and care for their hatchlings. These penguins can be found in Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape all the way to Namibia, but they are mostly abundantly found at Boulders Beach and the nearby Foxy Beach.

Simon's Town is well known as a naval base which has a interesting diversity of boats and ships in its harbour. It is a charming little town with many restaurants making it an ideal place for dining. Simons Town is less than and hour away from Cape Town.

WHALE WATCHING ON THE FALSE BAY COAST

Simon's Town Boat Company is the only permit holder for boat based whale watching for western half of False Bay, This stretches all the way from Strandfontein to Cape Point.

The location is guarded from the open ocean, with breathtaking views all around and provides the perfect winter habitat for the Southern Right Whales. Every year between June and November, the whales arrive to mate, give birth and escape from the freezing waters during the Antarctic winter.

The experience of a lifetime awaits those that come to see these awe-inspiring mammals alongside their boat as they swim around, breach the surface and wave their tails. During the boats ride it is also a common sight to see Humpback whales, Brydes whales, Orcas and Dolphins.

SCENIC CHARTER CRUISE TO SEAL ISLAND

On this trip, the boat takes us along the shoreline to Seal Island, passing Glencairn close to Simon's Town, the Clan Stuart shipwreck, Fish Hoek, onto the bohemian village of Kalk Bay and then to Muizenberg. The cruise takes roughly 2½ hours.

Seal Island is home to approximately 75 000 Cape Fur seals, many species of birds and the powerful Great White shark. These shark are very active and especially ferocious during the winter, one can view the predators hunting from the surface which is a unique experience you can't find anywhere else.

From Seal Island, we head to Boulders Beach, home to the famous large colony of endangered African Penguins.

From Seal Island we make our way to Boulder Beach, home to the popular large colony of endangered African Penguins.

CAPE TOWN WATER BIKES

False Bay has many amazing scenes and beautiful views, with the chilly blue Atlantic Ocean and the charming little towns of Fishhoek, Kalk Bay and Simon's Town and stunning mountains in the background. Cape Town Water Bikes offers tourists and locals the chance to experience this beauty along with the excitement of exploring the water from the safety and comfort of these advanced water bikes.

While you peddle across the blue waters, look out for seals, dolphins and penguins. Between June and December you might even see some whales coming up to the water surface. You will go on one of to routes. Either you'll head to Boulders Beach, or you will head along the shoreline past the Clan Stuart Shipwreck, and then eventually turn around to head back to the naval base.

You can choose from guided tours to walk-in rentals. Cape Town Water Bikes is situated in Simon's Town from where they run all their operations. This is only 45 minutes from the CBD of Cape Town and about an hour from the airport.

ABOUT CAPE RADD

South Africa has some of the most beautiful and diverse marine life with a massive variety of species to be seen. Cape RADD offers visitors the chance to experience this and learn more about it with their bespoke courses. Situated in Simon's Town, Cape RADD offers SCUBA and free-dive training courses to showcase the marine environment and biodiversity. They also offer the exploration of shallow waters with snorkelling.

The trips start with a brief presentation where the local biodiversity and ecosystems are discussed. Participants will also be given some skills to identify some of the more common fish species that are likely to be spotted during their dive. Each dive or snorkelling excursion lasts for about an hour, giving you the chance to see the largest variety of marine fauna and flora, and to take some awesome underwater shots.

The Trips begin with a short discussion on the local biodiversity and ecosystems. Each dive or snorkel trip lasts roughly an hour, giving you the opportunity to experience a large variety of marine fauna and flora, and to take some underwaters pictures.

Snorkelling does not require any training or qualifications, but participants need to be proficient swimmers and comfortable in the water. SCUBA divers are required to have at least an Open Water Diving qualification. Those that don't have it can organise it through Cape RADD.

Simon's Town is famous for its naval base and vast history. It is a interesting spot to explore with many activities and beautiful scenery.

Small towns outside of Cape Town

2020-11-17T00:00:00+02:00

Simon’s Town
Simon’s Town is a quaint little town with a lot of history, friendly people and home to the countries largest Naval Base in South Africa.

Activities such as Boulders Beach and visiting the African Penguin is top of the list of things to do. With a minimal entry fee, you can enjoy the spectacular views of False Bay while enjoying a swim on the private beach while watching penguins enjoying the rock pools all the same. With other activities like Simon’s Town scratchpad or a visit to the Naval and town museum also makes for extraordinary experiences.

The town is excellent if you feel for a weekend getaway with lots of rest and relaxation.

Located 40 km from Cape Town CBD. This short distance drive makes for a beautiful day trip and offers activities for a family of any size. Day trips can quickly be booked with a professional guide and driver who will collect you from your accommodation and return you safely after your visit.

Franschhoek
For the love of wine, food and hiking! If you enjoy any of the three mentioned, then you have to make a turn in Franschhoek. Taking centre stage to the Winelands backdrop, following a scenic drive through the mountains to Franschhoek.

Only an hour drive from Cape Town and famous for its collection of wine estates and Cape Dutch farms making distinguished South African Wines.

Highlights and local favourites include tasting wines and food on the wine trams, guided hikes or making a road trip. You can be sure that foodies, adventurers and wine connoisseurs alike will enjoy all Franschhoek and the Winelands has to offer.

Langebaan

A great weekend and micro trip destination or if you are road tripping up the Atlantic Seaboard, this is a definite stop-over en-route.

Langebaan is another small town located in the Western Cape and about 1 hour and 30-minutes drive along the R27 from Cape Town CBD - making for the perfect road trip along the West coast.

Known for spectacular seafood as the town is located along the Atlantic coast and home to fishermen. Bragging with a lagoon that offers excellent water activities for children and adults.

Many accommodation types are also available to suit every size of family - whether you are getting together as a family or just wanting a weekend getaway with your loved one. Langebaan is famous to locals and with the nearby casino, golf course and put-put course to entertain you.

Hermanus
Hermanus is world-renowned as one of the best whale-watching destinations.

This seaside town is located 125 km southeast of Cape Town. It's known as a whale-watching destination with great beaches such as Grotto Beach, overlooking Walker Bay and Voelklip.

With excellent self-catering accommodations, boutique guesthouses and hotels offering friendly service and again suiting the romantic couple or the family with children. Thousands of local and international travellers visit the town annually during the Whale festival taking place in September. Worth the wait and worth the visit.

There are so many quaint towns outside of Cape Town such as Tulbagh, Darling, Stellenbosch, Grabouw and so much more. Arranging your day trip together with your local tour operator or just doing a self-drive tour around the outskirts of the Mother City - each town offers a unique holiday experience.

Cape Town makes for the perfect getaway if you need some quality time with loved ones while refreshing your soul with breathtaking views, soaking up the sun while tasting good foods and wines.

With alternative activities, such as boat cruises, shark cage diving or visiting the museum, you can be sure to feel refreshed and revived after a visit to each of the unique towns.

Exploring the Cape Peninsula

2020-10-21T00:00:00+02:00

The Cape Peninsula is an essential part for anyone visiting Cape Town or the Winelands. As much a part of the city as Table Mountain is, Cape Town’s coastal regions boast some of the city’s most sought-after addresses and some of the best sunsets.

So what is The Cape Peninsula? It is a spectacular region that stretches from Cape Town to the Cape of Good Hope, hemmed in by the Atlantic Ocean and False Bay, where you will experience magnificent scenery, quaint towns and beautiful beaches.

Before I get into the top places to visit, if you are wondering about the best way to get around - the answer is by car. Car rental in Cape Town is cheap and hassle-free and is the best way to explore all that the Cape Peninsula has to offer, at your own pace while taking in one of the most breathtaking drives you will ever experience.

The Cape Peninsula route

Leaving Cape Town, you will drive around Table Mountain towards Constantia. There are some wineries in this neighbourhood which are worth a visit. Groot Constantia Wine Estate is the oldest and one of the most beautiful wineries. which produce award-winning wine to please every palate.

From Constantia, you will head towards Muizenberg and continue along False Bay admiring its gorgeous sandy beaches and small coastal villages past Fishhoek, to Simon’s Town.

Simon’s Town is one of the most delightful little villages in Cape Town. This quaint town is the residence of the South African navy and steeped in nautical history, with its cobbled streets alive with restored cottages and homes, whilst the main road is an assortment of shops, coffee shops and restaurants.

Leaving Simon’s Town you will drive southwards towards Miller’s Point - the coastal scenery here is staggering.

Stop along the way at Boulders Beach, which is home to approximately 3 000 “Jackass” African Penguin. Boulders Beach is a stunning spot for a leisurely walk to visit the penguins or even spend some time on the beach - swimming with the penguins.

From here, head towards the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve which is a World Heritage site. Enjoy the reserves vast natural beauty. You will reach Cape Point. It is easier to take the funicular railway to the top - though you will have to climb the stairs on the last stretch to the lighthouse where you will experience some astounding views of the Cape.

Leaving the nature reserve, you will drive to Scarborough. The rustic charm of the village is enhanced by the fact that it offers some of the best fishing and surfing opportunities.

Continue along the coast in the direction of Kommetjie taking in the magnificent shoreline. You might even spot some Great White Shark as they float on the waves just off the beach.

From Kommetjie, drive in the direction of Sunnydale, then Chapman’s Peak towards Hout Bay. The combination of steep, almost thrilling rocky inclines, shimmering blue waters and expansive skies will take your breath away. Stop along the way and enjoy the magnificent view of the sandy bays below. Undoubtedly, this will be the highlight of your adventure.

Visit Mariner’s Wharf in Hout Bay to enjoy the views and the mouth-watering garlic butter prawns and calamari.

Leaving Hout Bay, you will drive towards Llandudno and along Victoria Drive, past the Twelve Apostles back to Cape Town, completing your Cape Peninsula trip.

Accommodation in Cape Town’s coastal suburbs is superb, graceful, exclusive and luxurious providing the perfect means to enjoy the sunset after a day exploring the Cape Peninsula.

Simon’s Town Guest House is ideally located near Simon’s Town and is within driving distance of all the major attractions and activities which the Cape is known for. The guest house comprises of five luxuriously appointed en-suite bedrooms each with their own private sitting areas. Each bedroom is tastefully furnished in African-themed decor. Breakfast is included in the rates, making for the perfect base to explore the Cape Peninsula.

If you are planning to visit Cape Town make sure to include the Cape Peninsula into your itinerary where you will experience the beauty along Chapman’s Peak, making stops at the Cape of Good Hope, Cape Point, Simon’s Town and more. Getting up close to penguins at Boulders Beach and enjoying the most magnificent sunsets - sipping your favourite cocktail.

A Relaxing Coastal getaway in Simon's Town

2020-10-08T00:00:00+02:00

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About Simons Town

Home to South Africa’s largest Naval Base and African Penguins, while perfectly situated on the shores of False Bay, the town was named after a governor of Cape Colonies, Simon van der Stel.

This modest, charming town has a population of fewer than 7000 inhabitants, yet they draw thousands of people to explore their town and learn about the favourable maritime history. In the centre of the town a statue dedicated to the dog, Just Nuisance, can be seen.

What’s on in Simons Town

A small town sometimes offers many great treasures to explore. Uniquely this is one of those charming towns, offering a variety of features for every kind of traveller. Offering historical interests, boat cruises, shark cage diving and more to choose from.

Here is our list of attractions :

Boulders Beach and the Penguin Colony

Located a few minutes drive from the town centre and amenities. Boulders Beach is famous as it is home to the African penguin colony that settled here in 1977 and formed part of Table Mountain National Parks.

Entry fees are incredibly affordable and differ for locals and internationals. Great for penguins and families alike as it is a swimming beach and well conserved. Children can enjoy climbing over boulders, exploring rock pools in the clear False Bay waters. The beach is perfect for couples wanting to relax and enjoy a picnic.

The SA Naval Base Museum

The museum contains historical collections and artefacts relating to South African maritime history. It is located a short distance away from the train terminal, making it a relaxing outing if you don't feel like driving yourself. This activity makes for a great introduction to the town’s history.

Simons Town Museum

The museum in itself is a historical building established in 1977 by the local naval community. Records and various other artefacts relating to all aspects of the locals are kept here. Interestingly, dedicated stories of the dog “Just Nuisance” can also be seen. He is the only dog known who was officially enlisted in the Royal Navy.

Simons Town Scratch Patch

Scratch Patch started in 197, and this world-famous scratch patch makes for a wonderful activity. This is one of the most popular and convenient places to see or buy a huge variety of gemstones and mineral products.

At an affordable price, you can have great fun while “scratching” for your favourite gleaming gemstones on a floor covered with thousands of gems. A wide variety of stones can be found, such as the famous Tiger’s Eye, Rose Quartz, Jaspers and other crystals.

Best time to visit

The most favourable time of the year to visit and experience the interests of the town would be from October through to April.

With warm, dryer temperatures and sandy beaches, travellers enjoy the peak holiday season in December mostly. December marks for busy beaches and provides a rich nightlife in this little town.

Accommodation

Highly recommended is the ideally located guesthouse, Simons Town Guesthouse, which is within walking distance from all the major attractions and activities, the delightful town has on offer.

The guesthouse is family and owner-run and has five luxury en-suite bedrooms providing an unforgettable experience promising guests to return in future. Each suite offers spectacular views of False Bay, and a satisfying continental cooked breakfast is included in the rate.

Simons Town makes for the perfect getaway if you need some quality rest while refreshing your soul with breathtaking views, soaking up the sun while experiencing the False Bay in all it’s naval glory. With alternative activities, such as boat cruises, shark cage diving or visiting the museum, you can be sure to feel refreshed and revived after you visit Simons Town.

Southern Right Whale Breaching outside Simon’s Town Guest House

2013-09-24T00:00:00+02:00

It was such a perfect Winter’s Day yesterday that my husband and I decided to have breakfast at the Two Oceans Restaurant at Cape Point, part of the Table Mountain National Park. This has to be one of the most spectacular locations in the Cape, if not the World, as it sits high on the cliff with uninterrupted views of False Bay.

Sitting here at breakfast reminded me of how lucky we are to live in such an incredible part of the world that is only 15 minutes from our doorstep. We watched a couple of men fishing from their Kayak’s below and saw many other boats out enjoying the calm waters and sunshine. It was also a day for Scuba Diving in Simon’s Town as we must have past at least 50-60 divers along the road to Cape Point putting on their diving gear getting ready for the perfect diving day.

We were then lucky enough to see 2 Southern Right Whales swimming past us at the Restaurant and then just before we left another 4 whales (2 more sets of 2) came by. All of these were between 100-500 metres from the shore line.

At the beginning of the Whale Season you only see a few Whales here and there but it is not until you see a few more in the same day that you can say the ‘Whales have arrived’ !! We are especially fortunate at Simon’s Town Guest House as our Guest Rooms have panoramic views over False Bay and when the Whales come to visit us in Glencairn Beach or are swimming from Simon’s Town across to Fish Hoek, the Guests have the pleasure of watching them from their rooms.

This video link is a video I took whilst my Mum was visiting from Australia. We were walking along the rocks in front of our Guest House, nearby the train line when we had the pleasure of witnessing this majestic Whale breach 6 times in a row. It was definitely a moment my Mum and I will never forget, as you can hear by our excitement in the video footage.

Now I know how to upload video’s I will keep you posted with more action in and around Simon’s Town for your enjoyment. Don’t forget to click on the link to watch the Whale breaching :)

Xmas Cheer at Simon’s Town Guest House

2011-01-02T00:00:00+02:00

We decided to treat our guests to a few added extra’s on Chrismas morning along with the usual satisfying breakfast. I got up early to wrap some tinsel decorations around the house and put a unique Christmas tree in the Dining Room (unique as in it is a dead tree branch that blew into our backyard one day that I thought would look awesome as a table decoration).

Our Guests were treated to some very tasty chocolate brownies, shortbread and smoked salmon, mushroom, cheese and chive omelettes (or any other fillings they fancied). For a bit of extra fun we placed colourful Christmas Crackers (Bon-Bons) at their tables and they were given a locally made beaded Christmas Tree decoration as a small gift from us… either an Angel or a Reindeer. Oh… and we can’t forget the Christmas Carols and my Santa hat as an added bonus :)

We had guests from the U.S.A, France and our first ever guests from Finland who all really enjoyed the special attention they received and of course… wearing their Bon Bon party hats! I might have had to encourage them a little :)

Now Christmas 2011 is still 51 weeks away but I am already starting to plan for a special one.

Noordhoek Country Fair is on again

2010-10-29T00:00:00+02:00

A friend of mine is a member of the ‘Toad Nuts’ (Noordhoek’s unpaid Toad Savers) and mentioned they will be having a stand there to make more people aware of the endangered ‘Western Leopard Toad’ and how we can help protect it.

We will definitely be going again this year to support the good work the local people of Noordhoek are doing to raise awareness for local environment and conservation issues.

I will update you with some pics after the event.

Cost: R20 Adults, R5 Child

Opening Times: 9.00am to 5.00pm

Venue: Noordhoek Common

For more information you can contact 021 789 2072

Baboons like Butternut!

2010-09-27T00:00:00+02:00

This naughty Baboon, stole the butternut from a neighbours kitchen and then sat on our back fence attempting to eat it. To his disgust, our dogs wouldn’t leave him alone so he ventured onto the roof of the neighbours house where he could enjoy his butternut in peace.

It's a dog's world

2010-09-25T00:00:00+02:00

Not only are there the Southern Right Whales to watch but there also dophins, big schools of fish, flocks of birds, kite surfing on a windy day at Glencairn Beach, or just regular surfing or swimming. They also love to watch other dogs being walked on the beach or children playing in the sand. Lucky in particular is mesmorised by any activity at the beach or on False bay.

We went for our usual walk last night along the coastal train track beside the Glencairn Railway Station, heading towards Simonstown. The sun had disappered behind the mountains so we were left with a beautiful pink sky over False Bay. Not a sole was around and I felt like I was in my own piece of heaven as we heading towards the glowing lights of Simonstown and a full moon rising.

We walked peacefully along the shores in silence, breathing in the fresh air until I was suddenly jolted back into reality by a Southern Right Whale breaching right beside us only one hundred metres or less from the shore. It scared the life out of me as I hadn’t seen the whales swimming. Our silence turned into excitement and me repeatedly saying ‘WOW’. It breached one last time but I was not fast fast enough to capture it on my cell phone.

Instead, I decided to take a couple of pictures of my doggies enjoying their evening walk in one of the most beautiful places of the world – Cairnside, Simonstown.

Baboons on the loose…

2010-08-18T00:00:00+02:00

Rusty and Lucky (our rescue dogs) were excitedly barking at something on Bennett Close, the road we live in. As I peered over our balcony I saw a whole troop of Baboons raiding the rubbish bins. There were baboons of all ages eating mostly fruit scraps from the bin and leaving a path of destruction behind them.

I quickly closed all of our windows and doors so they couldn’t get into our house as I have been told they come and help themselves to your fridge and cupboards - clever animals!

Our neighbours had part of the troop sitting on their balcony eating apples whilst they watched from inside and tried to make noises to scare them off. More of the family walked casually up our side wall and sat on our back wall for a while looking for something else to eat. They plucked some yellow flowers from a nearby bush and carried these away with them, looking very sweet and innocent. As destructive as Baboons can be in neighbourhoods how could you not think that a Baboon carrying flowers wasn’t adorable :)

I will share the video footage with you that I took but I just need to resize it first.

Meanwhile I will go back to watching the 5 whales at Glencairn Beach and many more breaching in the middle of False Bay in the distance.

They're back

2010-07-17T00:00:00+02:00

I am super excited to let you know that ‘they’re back!

I woke up this morning, opened my curtains and there were 2 Southern Right Whales frolicking in Glencairn Beach… In fact it is almost 3 hours later and they are still within 100 metres of the same location I saw them this morning. Our Simonstown Guesthouse visitors will have the luxury of watching them from the comfort of their room… no doubt they will never want to leave :)

The Southern Right Whale usually migrates to South Africa’s waters between August and November but they seem to be coming earlier and staying later every year. Last year I sighted a pair in front of our house on the 26th of December, 2009.

I secretly like to believe it’s because the whales love Cape Town just as much as we do and they don’t want to leave.. Who would want to leave when Summer is just around the corner??

Anyway friends I am about to go hiking in the neighbouring mountains with my doggies.

The Southern Right Whales have arrived in False Bay

2009-08-24T00:00:00+02:00

I saw the whales from our guesthouse this morning and quickly packed my camera, my very big lense and tripod and ventured down to the rocks alongside Glencairn Railway Station. I must have looked a little crazy with all my camera equipment, climbing over the railway and climbing up rocks to get the best vantage point!

The whales just didn’t want to play today. A mother and her calf just cruised along at a steady pace only 30 metres or so from the waters edge! I begged the whales to breach (jump) or wave with its tail but no such luck.

I wanted to display my proud ‘winning shot’ on the website for you all to see and admire BUT unfortunately we will have to leave that for another day. I promise to get that world class shot for you in the not too distant future! The challenge is on!

Here is the not so winning photo i took today: