Hike up the Lion’s Head
Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa[1.7 miles]
A stunning 5.5km (3.4m) hike up the iconic Lion’s Head, for spectacular views of the Cape’s dramatic Atlantic coastline.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free | 2-4 hours
Best places to stay:
The ‘Nellie’ is the grande dame of Cape Town’s hotels and a much-loved local landmark, offering a wide range of rooms and suites.
Located at the top of the Company Gardens, it rests in its own nine-acre estate, yet the charming colonial heritage belies its up-to-date amenities, including the chic Planet Bar, and top-notch adjoining restaurant.
The grand Afternoon Tea served in the lounge or on the terrace is a much-loved local tradition.
The botanically themed Librisa Spa harnesses the healing, hydrating and anti-ageing powers of South Africa’s indigenous plants.
In the centre of ‘Gardens’, a buzzing urban neighbourhood above the CBD, characterised by quaint restored houses, narrow streets (some still cobbled), sought-after shops and boutiques, restaurants and delis.
Historic and heritage buildings abound, including museums, art galleries, an observatory, and a satellite campus of the University of Cape Town (drama and art). The hotel is located at the top end of the historic Company Gardens.
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Bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first
Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa[1.7 miles]
A stunning 5.5km (3.4m) hike up the iconic Lion’s Head, for spectacular views of the Cape’s dramatic Atlantic coastline.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free | 2-4 hours
Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa[1.9 miles]
The most exciting foodie destination in Africa, with a diverse range of cultures and cuisines on the menu, plus two world-class wine regions.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa[2.7 miles]
Lace up your boots and tackle one of the myriad hiking trails going up to the summit of the iconic Table Mountain, a challenging but rewarding 2- to 3-hour scenic hike.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free | 2-3 hours
Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa[2.8 miles]
Take a deep dive into the creative spirit of Africa at the Zeitz MOCCA, a remarkable home for Africa’s leading collection of artworks from Africa and its diaspora.
Best for ages: 13+ | £10
Other worthwhile experiences in this destination if you have the time or the interest, closest first
Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa[0.5 miles]
Stop by the South African Museum to see the famous Linton Panel, one of the world’s foremost examples of rock art, extracted from a shelter in the Drakensberg Mountains. Open daily.
Best for ages: 13+ | £2
Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa[1.2 miles]
Delve into the lived experience of forced removals at this moving small Museum, which chronicles the diversity of District Six and its later destruction by the Apartheid government.
Best for ages: 18+ | £2
Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa[2.7 miles]
In the V&A Waterfront, this world-class aquarium offers three large tanks for pelagic fish alongside dozens of smaller exhibits. The hands-on ‘Touch Pool’ is always a hit with kids.
Best for ages: 4+ | £10
Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa[3.1 miles]
Join locals on ‘The Prom’ for a leisurely 5km seaside ramble, cycle or skate as you enjoy the city’s best sunset views. There are pavement cafes if you need a break, and play parks for kids.
Best for ages: 6+ | Free | 1-2 hours
Destination guides including or relevant to this place to stay
Western Cape, South Africa
Vibrant, multicultural city with dramatic scenery, adrenaline adventure galore, Africa’s best art’s scene and golden beaches and outstanding gastronomy.