Exploring the Cape Peninsula

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.