Cape Point — Attraction in Western Cape

Lovely place.

Table mountain national park. (Cable car) A South African Icon. Beautiful mountain and lovely experience to hike to the top or to cable car, much easier for sure. (You won’t be able to use the cable car from Monday 8 July 2019 to Sunday 19 August 2019.)

Table Mountain National Park stretches from north of Cape Town down the Cape Peninsula to Africa’s southwestern extremity, the Cape of Good Hope. Iconic, flat-topped Table Mountain is its centerpiece. The mountain’s 1,086m summit affords sweeping views of Cape Town and Table Bay, and is reachable by cableway, bicycle, automobile or on foot. The park is also among the world’s richest floral regions.There are more species of plant in Table Mountain National Park (over two thousand) than exist in the whole of the United Kingdom. I was 73yrs of age when I tackled plattekloof gorge and made it to the top .... 👍😁🤗

See my YOU TUBE video of Table mountain on RSAWALKABOUT. 😊South Africa's prime Icon. Hiked up Plattekloof when I was 73 and enjoyed the privilege. Awesome view over sea and land. The main feature of Table Mountain is the level plateau approximately 3 kilometres (2 mi) from side to side, edged by impressive cliffs. The plateau, flanked by Devil's Peak to the east and by Lion's Head to the west, forms a dramatic backdrop to Cape Town. This broad sweep of mountainous heights, together with Signal Hill, forms the natural amphitheatre of the City Bowl and Table Bayharbour. The highest point on Table Mountain is towards the eastern end of the plateau and is marked by Maclear's Beacon, a stone cairn built in 1865 by Sir Thomas Maclear for trigonometrical survey. It is 1,086 metres (3,563 ft) above sea level, and about 19 metres (62 ft) higher than the cable station at the western end of the plateau.

The cliffs of the main plateau are split by Platteklip Gorge ("Flat Stone Gorge"), which provides an easy and direct ascent to the summit and was the route taken by António de Saldanha on the first recorded ascent of the mountain in 1503.[4]

The flat top of the mountain is often covered by orographic clouds, formed when a south-easterly wind is directed up the mountain's slopes into colder air, where the moisture condenses to form the so-called "table cloth" of cloud. NEVER underestimate the speed and suddeness of cloud cover as well as the dramatic change of character of the top. The friendly cloth can become a covering blanket. Legend attributes this phenomenon to a smoking contest between the Devil and a local pirate called Van Hunks.[5] When the table cloth is seen, it symbolizes the contest.

Table Mountain is at the northern end of a sandstone mountain range that forms the spine of the Cape Peninsula that terminates approximately 50 km to the south at the Cape of Good Hope and Cape Point. Immediately to the south of Table Mountain is a rugged "plateau" at a somewhat lower elevation than the Table Mountain Plateau (at about 1000 m), called the "Back Table". The "Back Table" extends southwards for approximately 6 km to the Constantia Nek-Hout Bay valley. The Atlantic side of the Back Table, is known as the Twelve Apostles, which extends from Kloof Nek (the saddle between Table Mountain and Lion's Head) to Hout Bay. The eastern side of this portion of the Peninsula's mountain chain, extending from Devil's Peak, the eastern side of Table Mountain (Erica and Fernwood Buttresses), and the Back Table to Constantia Nek, does not have single name, as on the western side. It is better known by the names of the conservation areas on its lower slopes: i.e. Groote Schuur Estate, Newlands Forest, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, Cecilia Park,...

Stunning view indeed!

Cape Point is a scenic and historically significant landmark located at the southeastern tip of the Cape Peninsula in Cape Town, South Africa. Here are some highlights:

-Cape of Good Hope: Often confused with Cape Point, the Cape of Good Hope is nearby and is often mistakenly thought to be the southernmost point of Africa. However, it's known for its rugged beauty and stunning views. The old lighthouse, built in 1859, offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding area. There's also a newer lighthouse, constructed in 1919, which is operational. Known as the "Flying Dutchman Funicular," it takes visitors from the lower station to the lighthouse, providing a convenient and scenic ride. There are several walking trails, including the famous Cape Point Trail, offering breathtaking views and the chance to see local flora and fauna. The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including baboons, ostriches, and a wide range of bird species.

Attractions Dias Beach-A secluded beach accessible via a steep path, perfect for those seeking a quieter spot to enjoy the scenery. Two Oceans Restaurant: A restaurant offering stunning views and a variety of seafood and local dishes. Shipwrecks: The coastline around Cape Point is known for its shipwrecks, some of which can be explored. Cape Point Nature Reserve: Part of the Table Mountain National Park, the reserve features diverse vegetation and wildlife, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts.

Activities Hiking: Various trails, ranging from easy to challenging, offer spectacular views and opportunities to explore the natural beauty. Photography: The dramatic landscapes and abundant wildlife make Cape Point a photographer's paradise. Bird Watching: The area is a haven for bird watchers, with numerous species to spot.

Access Location: Cape Point is located about 60 kilometers (37 miles) from Cape Town city center. It's accessible by car, and many tours are available from the city. Fees: There is an entrance fee for the Cape Point Nature Reserve.

Tips for Visitors Weather: The weather can be unpredictable, so it's advisable to dress in layers and bring a jacket. Safety: Be cautious of the baboons, as they can be aggressive if they see food. Timing: It's best to visit early in the day to avoid the crowds and to enjoy the tranquility of the area. Have a safe journey and...

Went as a family to visit this wonderful gem! It was absolute ethereal beauty with pristine views and exquisite dynamics that captivates you in every possible way. We went on a day with perfect weather and entered the gates of the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve in high spirits and pure excitement. Use the bathroom by the base before commencing the walk up. Take hats, water, sunscreen and phone or camera. We found the walk up fairly easy and quick, but if you want to take the Flying Dutchman, it will be even faster. Little trails that branch out from the main pavement develop into even better opportunities to enjoy the scenery and take pictures as memories, and once you reach the lighthouse at the top, there is the famous non- official line where the two oceans meet. Even though Cape Agulhas officially holds the title for the most southern tip of the African continent and also where the geographical division of the cold Atlantic Ocean and the warm Indian Ocean is situated, you can still see the different coloured oceans on either side from the Cape Point lighthouse. Enjoy the many ancient infrastures and indigenous plants before you enjoy a hearty meal at the base restuarant, and while you at it...why not get souvenirs and gifts from the retail store as well?

While you drive down the main route, turn into the few little lanes, since there may be animals waiting for you, such as ostriches, zebras, antelopes or even baboons. Some of these roads also lead to tidal pools and stunning picnic destinations ideal for the whole family.

Situated within the same nature reserve as Table Mountain, you can first give Muizenberg Beach, Fish Hoek, Simon's Town and Boulders Beach, or aka the False Bay Tour a visit before heading towards Cape Point. You can then return in land and go towards Scarborough, Kommetjie, Imhoff and then Hout Bay.

With the cliffs rising over 235m, the landscapes in all directions just scream out one of the most breathtaking backdrops ever, so take plenty of pictures:)

If you local or international, please give this attraction a visit, guaranteed you will not have even the slightest disappointment once you witness this flawless spectacle. Till next...