“The air you smell, the sights you see, the food you taste, the language you hear, and the feeling you get… where nothing is familiar. That is true freedom.”-Anonymous
Whenever I travel, I like to pretend that I have journeyed into the next chapter of my story, into a world that is mine to explore. Stress melts away, time stands still, and the immediate future is mine to write.
If you find the next chapter of your story leads you to the stunning Cape Town coast, we’ve compiled a list of activities you might not find in the hotel lobby brochures. Whether your passion is art, music, food or adventure, this incredible city has many options for the avid traveler. Check out some of our favorites below.
- See the Winelands from a Hot Air Balloon
I think we can all agree there is nothing quite as spectacular as the views you experience when allowed to soar over the land like a weightless bird. Imagine the silence of the crisp air around you as you sip one of Cape Town wineries finest wines while the sun rises over the ocean in the distance. Your trip includes a 3-4 hour experience with tea, coffee, sparkling wine and breakfast at a nearby bistro.
Where To Go: Klein Joosteberg Farm, Stellenbosch
- Take A Sidecar Ride Along The Coast
Personally, I’ve never been lucky enough to ride in a sidecar. My cool neighbor Bruce had a pretty red one when I was a kid, and I would have traded anything for a ride to school in that shiny red sidecar. Now you can fulfill your own childhood fantasy as you whip down the coast in an authentic WWII sidecar (awesome motorcycle jacket included on loan) either with chauffeur or, for the more adventurous, self-drive is also available.
Where to Go: Cape Sidecar Adventures (Ask Your Travel Specialist for Rates/Booking Info)
- Kayak on the Open Sea
There is honestly nothing more peaceful then paddling smoothly along the open ocean to bring out your inner Buddha. With so many options available, you will not be at a loss of locations to choose from, each with its breathtaking appeal. If you’re a morning person, the a.m. kayak on False Bay provides it’s guests the opportunity to visit the local penguin colony. For afternoon guests, the Atlantic coastline offers incredible views of Lions Head from far out in the sea.
Where To Go: Kaskazi Kayaks and Adventures
- Visit The Old Biscuit Mill
A trendy meet-up spot for the locals, Old Biscuit Mill is an open-air space that conveniently houses coffee shops, restaurants, boutique shopping, and hand made ceramics, as well as the occasional live music performance if you’re lucky! Spend a lazy afternoon browsing local goods, soaking up the Cape Town daily city culture, and more.
Where To Go: Old Biscuit Mill, 374 Albert Road, Woodstock
- High Tea at Mount Nelson
This luxurious tea party will exceed even the expectations of even the wildest of little dreamers, with endless tables covered in delicate pastries, desserts, and loaves of bread. Enjoy bottomless coffee and hot chocolate, as well as a large variety of teas that are served in stunning see-through teapots. Morning, afternoon, and evening tea time options available.
Where to Go: Belmond Mount Nelson (Ask Your Travel Specialist for Booking Options)
- Visit Kirstenbosch Gardens
The stunning meadows and gardens at Kirstenbosch are perfect for visitors traveling any time of year. A highlighted favorite activity within the gardens is the Treetop Canopy Walkway, a 130m long steel pathway that weaves its way along the branches of the garden’s Arboretum. A great location for both bird and floral fanatics alike, the park is open year-round.
Where to Go: Kirstenbosch Gardens, Rhodes Drive, Cape Town
Elevated walkway in the Kirstenbosch botanical gardens, Cape Town, South Africa
- Yoga on Clifton Beach
Vacations were invented as a means of relaxation, so why not push it to the max? From November through March visitors and locals can join on the coastal shores of Clifton Beach for a 60-minute sunset yoga class. Instead of playing that ocean recording on YouTube, you can listen to the sounds of the actual ocean as you inhale and exhale your way to inner peace.
Where To Go: Sundays at 6:15 pm, Clifton 3rd Beach
- Take a Local Cooking Class
Cape Town is widely known for its culinary adventures which reflect not only the current climate but a rich diversity of cultural flavors that have traveled through kitchen history. Ignite your palate and passion for flavor with a variety of local cooking class options offered by local chef Denise Levy of Ginger & Lime, hosted in her private home kitchen and often featuring surprise visits from other local and visiting chefs.
Where To Go: Ginger & lime, 2b Ave Disandt, Weekdays from 6:30-9:30
- Visit the Zeitz Mocaa
Considered the “Tate Modern of Cape Town”, Zeitz MOCAA houses one of the largest collections of African contemporary art in the world. Named one of Time Magazine’s top 100 Destinations of 2018. Developed in a former grain factory, this incredible 9 stories architectural wonder combines modern luxury with mid-century grit. Over 100 galleries are composed inside the building. A bonus? Single-day entry to this museum is free.
Where To Go: Silo District, V & A Waterfront, Cape Town
- Enjoy a Cabaret Dinner
The first cabaret dinner experience in all of South Africa, Gate69 on Bree Street is an experience not to be missed by those with a love for all things theatre. Gilded in gold and teeming with glitter, this dinner/performance space provides guests with an intimate evening of luxury dining and jaw-dropping stage appeal. If you’re one of the lucky few, you might be served by the venues Trolley Dollies: wait staff who stand 9 feet tall in heels!
Where To Go: Gate69 Theatre, Cape Town City Centre
