South Africa - Addo Elephant Park

Addo Elephant Park South Africa

The National Parks of South Africa are such a delight. Be patient, don't expect to see all animals in one  day. These are places to chill out and truly enjoy nature at it's best.

Addo Elephant Park in the Eastern Cape is a must visit for those who love elephants.

Whilst the main focus is on the many elephant herds, there are other animals to be seen.

"Natural & Cultural History

In the early centuries, when great herds of wild animals roamed the Addo region, the Khoesan of the Iqua, Damasqua and Gonaqua clans lived in the area.

They hunted and kept cattle but tragically were largely wiped out in the 1700s by the smallpox epidemic. Nomadic Xhosa tribes had kraals in the area, including Chief Cungwa of the Gqunukhwebe (near the Sundays River mouth and inland) and Chief Habana of the Dange (near the Wit River).

The Addo Elephant National Park (AENP) was proclaimed in 1931 to protect the remaining 11 Addo elephant. The great herds of elephant and other animal species had been all but decimated by hunters over the 1700s and 1800s. In the late 1800s, farmers began to colonise the area around the park, also taking their toll on the elephant population due to competition for water and crops.

This conflict reached a head in 1919 when farmers called on the government to exterminate the elephants. The government even appointed a Major Pretorius to shoot the remaining elephants - who killed 114 elephant between 1919 and 1920.

Public opinion then changed, leading to the proclamation of the park in 1931. The original size of the park was just over 2 000 hectares. Conflicts between elephants and farmers continued after proclamation as no adequate fence enclosed the park. Finally in 1954, Graham Armstrong (the park manager at the time) developed an elephant-proof fence constructed using tram rails and lift cables and an area of 2 270 hectares was fenced in. There were 22 elephant in the park at the time. This Armstrong fence, named after its developer, is still used around the park today. Although the park was originally proclaimed to protect a single species, priorities have now changed to conserve the rich biological diversity found in the area.

The Alexandria dunefield is home to many archeological sites - the middens of the nomadic 'Strandloper' or 'beach walker' people. These middens contain shells and bones of animals eaten by the people as well as fragments of pottery and stone implements. Interestingly, the white mussel shells found in these middens are also found in the caves of the Zuurberg Mountains, proving that these people journeyed and stored their food over vast distances.

The caves in the Zuurberg Mountains also contain rock art and stone implements.

The natural and cultural heritage of the park has been studied by the Albany Museum, recording hundreds of sites of significance."

The Speed Limit in the park is 40km per hour - this allows one to spot many smaller creatures such as the tortoise!

One may only exit your vehicle at designated spots - these are clearly marked and some have toilet facilities.

There are numerous "Look-Out" Points for game viewing

|"Domkrag

The Domkrag Dam in the game viewing area of the park is named after a giant mountain tortoise which once roamed the park. 'Domkrag' is the Afrikaans word for a 'jack', and this tortoise had a peculiar habit of walking underneath cars and lifting them up with enormous strength. Domkrag came to a sad end when he fell into an aardvark hole and couldn't get himself out. His shell is still on display in the Interpretive Centre".

"Hapoor

The magnificent elephant head which is mounted in the Interpretive Centre is that of Hapoor, the legendary dominant bull in the park for 24 years. The waterhole in the south western section of the game viewing area is named after him. 'Hap' means 'nick' in Afrikaans, while 'oor' means 'ear' and it is believed the distinctive nick in his ear was caused by a hunter's bullet. Hapoor retained a deep hatred of humans throughout his life. On more than one occasion park staff were forced to flee to safety when Hapoor made his appearance. His dominance stretched from 1944 to 1968. During the latter part of the 1960's a few younger bulls reached maturity and challenged Hapoor. These upstarts were unsuccessful until one bull named Lanky finally deposed Hapoor in 1968. Hapoor was driven from the heard and became a loner. Later that year he succeeded in climbing the park's 'Armstrong Fence', which for nearly 20 years had been elephant-proof. His freedom was to be short lived as due to his aggressive nature, it was determined he would have to be shot."

During the summer months, Hapoor Dam is one of the best viewing areas. We were totally blown away by the discipline shown by the various elephant herds. Standing in the blazing South African sun, they all waited patiently for their turn at the waterhole/dam. If one herd perhaps took just a tad too long, somebody would issue a warning rumble and they would all meekly start exiting the area and the next in line would move down. If only we, as humans, could exercise the same tolerance and patience, life would be much simpler and peaceful!

 

There were many babies when we visited in January - so, so special to see. It's incredible that they don't get squashed as they walk underneath the adults with their enormous bodies and legs. The playfulness and the family dynamics can keep one spellbound for hours.

We love the warthogs - those little tails and the way they kneel down to get the best food remains my favourite to watch. The babies were also special - feeding time for twins forced the mom to stand still for a short while as they are normally always on the move!

"Warthogs are day animals and spend most of their time looking for food. They are normally found in family groups. Warthogs have the peculiar habit of kneeling on the front knees while feeding and foraging in a localised area. They shelter in burrows at night, which they enter tail first. Socially, three main groups are encountered, namely solitary boars, bachelor groups and matriarchal groups."

Driving slowly one morning, we were forced to stop for a very large herd of buffalo. They were very cautious and stopped on the road to gaze at us curiously before crossing over to their next grazing spot. 

As their eyesight is not great, they use their incredible sense of smell to determine if the situation poses a treat or not.

Buffalo are good swimmers and we saw one, lone buffalo hogging a small waterhole every day that we drove past. He was mainly lying in the water and all on his own. 

Gestation periods in buffalo are roughly 11 months and a 2 year interval between breeding is common. A mother and calf bond is very strong as is the family bonds in the herd. They are large in size, thick bossed horns and tasseled looking ears. Their coats are thick and they range from reddish brown to black in colour, their faces, undersides and legs are often a paler shade. They have very serious looking faces and have been said to have a face “that you owe” money to. The reason for any animal being part of the African Big 5 is due to its difficulty and aggressiveness while being hunted. These are thus the most dangerous animals to hunt. 

Buffalo live up to 20 years and weigh between 550 - 800 kg with the females being on the slightly smaller side.

If you get tired of sitting in the car watching all those amazing animals, you can take some time out to go hiking in the Zuurberg Mountains. This is part of Addo national Park so the Wild Card can be used for entry. The road up the mountain is fun (!!) and the section to the gate is rather bumpy but we made it in our Mazda CX5. 

The trails are either a 1 hour (approx. 2.4 km)  or a 3 hour longer hike that should not be attempted during the heat of the day.  We chose the shorter hike due to time constraints and a later start. The trail is very scenic and heads down into the gorge, levels out for a short while and then climbs back up again. Do take care, in places the drop down is pretty steep!

It was rather dry being January and summer = even a lonely frog could not find water and he looked very forlorn and lost!

This is a fairly easy hike and well worth it for the tranquility, great views and being close to nature.

I am not sure whether this male ostrich was calling to another ostrich or whether I just happened to catch him with his mouth open between his grazing!

We enjoyed watching some black backed jackals near a water hole - they were very relaxed and obviously did not feel threatened by anything at all. Eventually, one trotted off up the hill while they others remained taking it easy.

Fossil deposits have revealed that the black-backed jackal is one of the oldest known dog species. It has remained pretty much unchanged since the Pleistocene epoch, up to 2.5 million years ago. Like all jackals, this species forms monogamous, life-long pair bonds. What’s more, youngsters from one year’s litter often act as ‘helpers’, suppressing their own breeding ambitions and remaining with their parents for a year or more in order to help them raise the next litter. This habit is known to have a greater bearing on pup survival rates in black-backed jackals, than in any other jackal species. 

With so much to see, Addo Elelphant Park is truly a magical place.

We also enjoyed the SpekBoom Hide - one can sit there for hours and just absorb the interaction between the various herds as they wander towards the water hole, enjoy a dust bath and chase away the warthogs when they come too close!

 

Please do plan your trip - the summer months are probably the best for lots of action, many young babies and animals on the move. We did once visit in winter (rainy season) when the elephants were lost in the dense bush and very rarely seen!! But perhaps that was just our bad luck.

Until next time....

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Cape Town - Cape Point

 

50 shades of turquoise.

Mistakenly cited as the point where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet, Cape Point is, nonetheless, a place like no other. (Incidentally, the two oceans’ meeting point is Cape Agulhas). In a thunderous clash of water against rock, where mountain and ocean meet, Cape Point juts out like an outstretched arm, attracting an incredible diversity of life (furry, feathered and two-legged) to its pristine beaches and rugged cliffs.

While its 50-shades-of-turquoise-style beaches are the main attraction, Cape Point is a wonderful day-trip destination for hikers, history buffs and birders alike. Here are our favourite things to do and discover at this chronically beautiful national park.

Which are your favourites? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.

Important note Although the Cape is rich in natural beauty, tourists and locals are urged to take necessary precautions when exploring secluded areas, as crimes and accidents do happen. Those venturing into Cape Point National Park should have the following emergency number on hand: 021 780 9010, and also Table Mountain National Park  086 110 6417/ 107 or 021 480 7700. Criminal incidents should be reported to the nearest police station as soon as able.

We also recommend @safetymountain as a useful resource for hikers. This free safety tracking service allows you to notify local trackers of your contact details, intended route and travel time via WhatsApp. You are then able to provide hourly updates on your progress, and to notify trackers when you are safely off the mountain.

Covid-19 safety protocols

·        Wear your masks at all times. No mask, no entry! ⁣

·        Maintain social-distancing.

·        Sanitise your hands regularly.

Buffels Bay

Do you speak blue? No? After spending a day on this crescent-shaped slice of paradise – undoubtedly the number one reason to visit Cape Point – you’ll be fluent in the entire spectrum! We’re talking a constantly changing rhapsody of turquoise, ultramarine, cobalt, electric, azure and navy – starting off as translucent aquamarine near the shore, and becoming deeper and darker the further you go.

With the odd megayacht punctuating the horizon, you almost expect a buff Daniel Craig to emerge from the water, in those iconic swim trunks, goggles pulled up on his head.
On the day we visited, there was a faint, steady breeze, which fortunately didn’t dampen our picnic, but sent wafts of smoke from nearby braaiers in our direction! (If you’re planning to braai here or at nearby Bordjiesdrif Beach, you’ll need to bring your own grid and wood. And don’t feed the baboons!)
With powder-soft sand, a clean, gently lapping ocean as far as the eye can see, braai and picnic spots aplenty, this rhapsody in blue is well worth the drive.

Walk the shipwreck trail

Also known as the Olifantsbos trail, this is a short and easily accessible three-kilometre walk (around one hour and 30 minutes). It leads through fynbos to the beach where the prominent SS Thomas T. Tucker, wrecked in 1942. This former WWII troops-and-weapons transport vessel is Cape Point’s most photographed shipwreck and its hull is home to local birdlife. Before heading back or continuing to Sirkelsvlei, rest near the Nolloth, a liquor carrier wrecked in 1965. After that, follow guided tours for more coastline wreckage.

Good to know Though these are year-round trails, the weather can be rough during winter, and windy in January and February, so check the conditions before setting out.

Game-spotting at Cape Point

Cape Point promises hikes, swims and historical discoveries, but there’s also a plethora of fauna roaming the park. From baboons carrying their pups on their backs and herds of ostriches strolling about, animal lovers should keep watch, as the reserve is also home to a variety of antelope as well as Cape foxes, genets, polecats, mole rats, porcupines, mongooses, tortoises and snakes. It’s also an excellent birdwatching site, with over 270 species calling it home. And keep an eye on the horizon, as you might spot a whale or two during whale season (between August and October).

Cape of Good Hope

One of the Cape’s most popular tourist destinations – not just because it’s the most southwestern point on the African continent – The Cape of Good Hope also happens to be a spectacularly scenic picnic spot, with a slew of hiking and cycling trails around it. A steep wooden staircase leads to the lookout point, whose 360-degree views are well worth the climb.

Good to know The Cape of Good Hope is often mistaken as the southernmost point of Africa; that title goes to Cape Agulhas. It’s the most southwestern point.

Coastal foraging

Foraging expert Roushanna Gray hosts a series of courses across the peninsula aimed at learning, exploring and sustainably foraging the unique ingredients that abound in our oceans. The Veld and Sea course starts on the beach, where you get to delve into the freshwater tidal pools, hunting for edible seaweed, mussels and other gems. Once your bounty has been collected, you’ll head to the Veld and Sea classroom at Cape Point, where you’ll help prepare a beautiful outdoor lunch. (Plus, you’ll get to enjoy the rejuvenating benefits of a seaweed face mask in between your meal prep!)

Cost From R800 per person
Contact 072 234 4804, veldandsea@gmail.com
Where to find it Good Hope Gardens Nursery, Plateau Road, Cape Point
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Platboom Beach

Platboom (Afrikaans for flat tree) is perhaps the wildest, most unspoilt beach in this national park. With coastal views, and abundant flora and fauna (including the occasional ostrich and baboon), the white expanses of sand are largely deserted, making this one of Cape Town’s most unique and unchartered beaches.

If you’re feeling plucky, explore the chalk-white sand dunes and rocky outcrops; or simply take a long, undisturbed stroll along the spellbinding coastline. Due to its secluded setting, swimming is not recommended, but you can certainly dip your feet into the pristine waters! It’s a great spot for birdwatching, picnicking and maybe a spot of kite-surfing.
Good to know It’s hidden some 4.9km from the heart of Cape Point National Park (access runs past Dias Cross, though previous visitors recommend the north-south hike from Gifkommetjie).

Ride an e-bike around the tip of Africa

This relaxed e-bike starts with a southward ride towards the Cape of Good Hope (the most southwestern tip of Africa), where you can hop off your bike and observe the legendary landmarks and resident species found here – baboons, ostriches, buck and the Cape mountain zebra. Then it’s on to Cape Point, where you can glimpse the lighthouse up close and enjoy the surroundings at your own pace. Once done at Cape Point, you have the option of going to see the penguins at Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town.

Included in the eight-hour guided tour: entrance fee to Cape Point National Park, the services of a professional guide, pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation, water and the rental of a helmet and the electric bike.
Duration 8 hours 30 minutes
When Daily
Cost R1 790 per person (full-day tour)
Please note Minimum age is 12 years.
Where to find it Cape Point National Park (pick up from Cape Town’s central areas, from hotel or other, provided you give a contact number when making your booking.
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Two Oceans Restaurant at Cape Point

Windswept, rosy-cheeked and hungry visitors will find a light and airy space at Cape Point’s long-standing restaurant (it opened its doors in 1995), where large sea-facing windows paint the picture of Mediterranean summers on the beach. Sit on the deck and drink in the sea views.

View the menu
Good to know Booking is recommended even outside of peak season.
Opening times Friday – Sunday, 12pm – 4.30pm

The Old Lighthouse

Instead of guiding ships to safety, Cape Point’s first lighthouse, built in 1859, was often the cause of mishaps, because of its high perch above the ocean that concealed it among the clouds.

In 1911 the new lighthouse was built, and remains one of the most powerful sentinels on the South African coast, with a range of 60 kilometres and a luminous intensity of 10 million candelas.
From the old lighthouse, breathtaking views of the two oceans and surrounding coastline can be enjoyed. And, from August to October, you might even catch sightings of whales although you’ll need to use the onsite binoculars (or bring your own) to squizz them properly!

The Scone Shack

Made almost entirely out of recycled windows and scraps of wood, this crooked little shack is a fairytale-esque dessert spot on a farm on the road to Cape Point. Owned by Karl Odendaal, who bought the property 30 years ago when he was 21, the farm is also home to a succulent nursery, a rustic river setup, complete with rowboats and a rope swing, and a menagerie of farm animals – ducks, Egyptian geese, chickens, pigs and dogs, to name a few. We visited after a dreamy day on Buffels Bay Beach, and were greeted by four litters of teeny weeny piglets, whose protective moms wouldn’t allow us too close.

As for the scones, hands down the best in the Cape, they’re made by Karl’s partner Cara in a wood-burning oven and served with utterly delicious homemade jam, butter and cream. The cinnamony ice tea is also delicious!
Please note The Scone Shack only accepts cash.
Opening times Wednesday – Sunday, 9.30am – 5pm
Contact 079 045 1318, lalaphanzik@gmail.com
Where to find it Lalaphanzi Farm, Plateau Road, Cape Point

Diaz Beach

Cape Point’s secret beaches are a major drawcard for privacy-loving waterbabies who prize seclusion. Diaz Beach is without a doubt one of Cape Town’s most beautiful, and remains largely undisturbed due to the 20-minute walk from the parking lot down a steep set of wooden stairs to the white sands. But for the stunning views alone, it’s undoubtedly worth it, as Diaz will render you breathless in the best possible way.

Unfortunately, swimming is off-limits here, due to strong currents.
Good to know Edged by wild fynbos, Olifantsbos Beach bears testament to the ferocity of the infamous Cape of Storms, with at least three shipwrecks dotted along its coast. And then there’s Maclear Beach, probably the most secluded of the lot, reached by following one of two fynbos-lined footpaths.

Go deep-sea fishing

Feel like an exhilarating open-ocean adventure? Why not visit Cape Point by boat? There are various trips available, suited to a variety of tastes and occasions. The two-hour marine eco-tour along the coastline to Cape Point will appeal to leisure travellers, while serious fishermen will relish being in the nutrient-rich waters, around 32 to 48 kilometers off Cape Point, where yellowfin, longfin, skipjack and big-eye tuna abound. Bait and tackle are provided (for the fishing options) and an experienced guide and a photographer are optional. Snacks and refreshments are served.

Please note All trips are subject to weather conditions, and number of passengers.
Good to know The boat tours and fishing charters, all sustainability-focused, allow up to nine passengers at a time (subject to social-distancing regulations).
When Daily (weather-permitting)
Cost R1 500 per person (two-hour boat trip)
R6 000 per person (private hire, two-hour boat trip)
R4 000 per person (offshore fishing)
R14 500 (private hire, offshore fishing)
Contact 083 544 6748, alan@capeboatcharters.com
Where to find it Simon’s Town Jetty, Wharf Street, Simon’s Town, Cape Town
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Experience Cape Point from a helicopter

If you’re looking for a visually immersive tour of this iconic peninsula, hop in a helicopter! The ride takes off from the V&A Waterfront and flies across the Atlantic over Clifton and Camps Bay, where you’ll witness exquisite views of Table Mountain and the Twelve Apostles mountain range on your left. Then, it’s past Hout Bay, Noordhoek and Kommetjie to Cape Point. The return trip flies along the False Bay coast: Simon’s Town, Fish Hoek and Muizenberg, passing the wine estates of Constantia and the cityscape of Cape Town CBD, before landing back at the V&A Waterfront.

Good to know Tickets are in the form of a voucher that is valid for three years.
When Monday – Sunday, 8am – 6pm (depending on the flight)
Sharing flights: 10am; 4pm
Please note Arrive 30 minutes before your departure time to complete ticket information and receive your safety briefing.
Cost R17 700 (1 – 3 passengers)
R23 600 (4 passengers)
R35 400 (5 – 6 passengers)
Where to find it E Pier Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
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Get a history lesson

Driving or hiking around Cape Point, you might stumble upon two tall white pillars with a cross on top. These monuments were erected in honour of Bartolomeu Dias and Vasco da Gama, two explorers who passed by and, not surprisingly, fell in love with Cape Point.

While Bartolomeu Dias wasn’t successful in his mission to sail from Europe around Africa to India, he is one of the most famous explorers to have passed the Cape. In 1488 after reaching what is believed to be Port Alfred in the Eastern Cape, he turned his ship around and stumbled upon Cape Point, which he named Cape of Storms.
After Dias’ unsuccessful quest to reach India, Portuguese King, João II, ordered Vasco da Gama to complete the trip in 1497. Like Dias, Da Gama struggled to round Cape Point and only managed on his third attempt in five days.

Put the funicular into Cape Point

The Flying Dutchman Funicular is a schlep-free way to see all the sights on offer at Cape Point. The two 40-seater carriages – which carry a maximum of 10 people during Covid-19 – travel from the parking lot along an almost-600-metre track through dense fynbos to the old lighthouse every three minutes! Once at the top (roughly 90 metres above the parking lot), you’re met with spectacular views of the point and surrounding beaches. Keep a keen eye out for the ghost of the Flying Dutchman – a ship that was torn to shreds along Cape Point three-and-a-half centuries ago – still said to sail the nearby seas, desperately seeking aid.

My Green Card

SANParks’ My Green Card allows you 12 entries into the pay points of the Table Mountain National Park (TMNP) within a one-year period. If you are a frequent visitor to Cape Point, Boulders, Oudekraal, Silvermine, and the braai and picnic areas at Tokai, Newlands and Perdekloof, the card is worth purchasing.

Note The My Green Card may only be bought by South Africans with an ID number who have proof of a Cape Town address not older than three months.

Opening times
Monday – Sunday, 7am – 5pm

Contact
021 780 9010, info@capepoint.co.za
021 712 7471, tablem@sanparks.org

Article Courtesy of the Inside Guide

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South Africa - Storms River Mouth Hike

South Africa boasts so many hiking trails and such stunning scenery - good for both soul and body! We recently did a short road trip and repeated the hike to Storms River Mouth once again. This time we did it later in the day and it was cooler than doing it mid morning.

The trail is suitable for all ages and there is a beach for swimming either before or after.

The info below is courtesy of  South African Parks 

Trails from Storms River Mouth Rest Camp (Tsitsikamma Section)

The Mouth trail (2km - 1 hour)

Starts at Sandy Bay (next to the restaurant) and takes one along a winding board walk through indigenous forest to the mouth of the Storm River, the famous suspension bridge, the Stormsriver Mouth Cave (Khoisan Heritage Site) and to the Spirit of Tsitsikamma boat jetty. For the more energetic, the trail continues after the bridge and leads to the lookout point on the plateau. The journey to the bridge and back will take you approximately 40 minutes.

The Lourie Trail (1km - 1 hour)

This is a 1km walk through the forest and is relatively easy, taking 1 hour to complete. It is a must for those people who have never experienced the splendour of the indigenous forest. The Lourie trail emerges onto plateau at the Agulhas lookout point, after a brief uphill climb. The trail then passes through a short section of fynbos, before continuing through the spectacular coastal forest.

Blue Duiker Trail (3,7km - 2 hours)

This trail is a slightly longer version of the Lourie Trail and will take you into the heart of the forest. There you will discover the true forest giants, of which the Outeniqua Yellowood is surely the most imposing. The trail ends at the beginning of the famous Otter Trail.

Waterfall Trail (6km - 3 hours)

The Waterfall Trail comprises the first 3km of the world-renowned Otter Trail. At the end of the 3km stretch along the rugged coastline, the spectacular waterfall, plunging into a deep pool, before flowing into the sea, will enchant you. We suggest that you make a day of it and take along your bathing costume and a picnic meal. This trail will take you approximately 1½ hours to walk to the waterfall and 1½ hours back. This trail is fairly strenuous and caution must be taken at high tides.

For those with more time, try one of the many activities in the area - one such is Kayak and Lilo - this will take you under the Suspension bridge and into the Storms River Gorge.

Walking Over the Suspension Bridge is not for the feint-hearted as it hangs 77 M above the dark river below! But a must do!

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South Africa - Mossel Bay - A Must Do Vacation spot!

Mossel Bay has such an incredible history, plus amazing beaches and activities galore.

It is one of my favourite towns in South Africa!

Fishing and sailing are a major pastime among both residents and visitors.

"Mossel Bay Municipality partnered with Mossel Bay Tourism to rejuvenate the building that once served as the second municipal office (circa 1879). This initiative intends to unlock new potential in the tourism industry when the renovated centre will serve as the starting point for the exciting Tourism Route that will soon entice visitors and locals alike to meander through the historic core of Mossel Bay's 'Old Town'" 

"The Tourism Route is the result of a thorough consultative and collaborative process and the work is progressing well to develop the tourism potential through a focus on our history, while potentially creating jobs. The work done to re-energise the Tourism Centre will celebrate Mossel Bay’s heritage and what better way than to establish an arts and crafts centre in the town? In close collaboration with the chairperson of Mossel Bay Heritage, Carina Wiggle, and under the expert guidance of Lodewyk Coetzee of Coetzee Alberts Architects and LEAP Quantity Surveyors - who have offered their time and passionate professional involvement free of charge – both projects are progressing well. Mossel Bay Municipality values partnerships like these that are extremely valuable and benefit the town" 

"Eventually, the old municipal building will house, among others, a coffee shop and a beautiful garden and form the link between the Tourism Centre and the rejuvenated arts centre. The planned renovations will add to the renewed focus on the heritage of Mossel Bay" 

"The Tourism Route will unfold the story of Mossel Bay, taking in the history since 1488, but also telling the unique history of the Koi-San, the Strandlopers, the cave with its world-renowned history, and will integrate the World Heritage Status application that is in process. The story thus extends from the prehistoric, pre-colonial era to the later and modern history. Mossel Bay has a rich history and, according to archaeologists, this is where modern human behaviour developed more than 166,000 years ago. Therefore, the Tourist Route will offer new vistas to young and, and from far and wide, and new opportunities to many. This initiative, therefore, fits perfectly into the growing international tourism trend towards authentic experiences of local cultures and builds on an already well-established local arts and crafts community. In the July 2020 newsletter, Mossel Bay Municipality outlined our intent to optimise the tourism potential of our town and, in doing so, create employment. Empowering artists and crafters, in cooperation with the Tourism Office, is a high priority on the agenda". 

Santos Beach (Above) is a Blue Flag Beach and offers very safe swimming for all ages.

The Santos Pavillion is one of two beach pavillions still in use today from Colonial times. the other one is in Brighton, UK. Enjoy some craft beer, wine and food at Jackal on the Beach! 

"These renovations captured the opportunity to restore and repurpose two existing municipal buildings to house the refurbished arts and crafts centre. The first municipal building was built in 1858 and is a small white building with distinctive Karoo-style architecture. The plastered quoins around the front door and windows and at the corners are typical of this period. This was the town’s first municipal and community centre and was later used as a library, telegraph office, and dance hall. The mail coach also stopped here" 

For fun in the sun, try the zip line over the sea at the tidal pools - Point Mossel Bay.

Something not to be missed! It is an exhilarating experience!

Text of Article - Courtesy Mossel Bay Tourism Office

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Cape Town - Walking Slangkop to Long Beach, Kommetjie

Walk from Slangkop Lighthouse to Long Beach 

With brilliant sunshine on a spring day in Cape Town we decided that one of our favourite walks was calling! Park at Slangkop Lighthouse and set off on the board walk. Dogs are welcome but you need to have a valid Dog Walking Wild Card and please do remember to pick up any poo!

"The Slangkop Point Lighthouse in Kommetjie has a long history dating back to 1914 when it was scheduled to be completed. When World War 1 broke out, the completion of the lighthouse was pushed back and it was only completed in 1919".

There are numerous Memorial Benches along the path, set at scenic spots, so these are ideal if one just needs to rest awhile, smell the sea air or juts take a moment to "be" It's that sort of area - great to restore the soul and enjoy the calming atmosphere on most parts of this walk. It does get busier towards the beach area during the summer months..

• It is the tallest cast iron lighthouse in South Africa
• It is part of the Marine Protected Area of Table Mountain National Park
• Although fully automated it is one of the few lighthouses in the world that is still manned by a lighthouse keeper or officer.

" In May 1900 the Kakapo was on its maiden voyage from Wales to Australia, when in poor visibility the captain mistook Chapmans Peak for Cape Point. The shipwreck was part of the movie backdrop for the 1960 's movie Ryan's Daughter"

Whilst the movie was shot in Ireland on the Dingle Peninsula, bad weather resulted in many scenes being shot in Cape Town!

Whilst the area near the slipway and small beach are busy, most of the walk towards Long Beach is an ideal spot for watching the various water birds. Feeding on the insects in the kelp is a huge attraction for the birds and there were plenty of bugs crawling around the seaweed! The birds are very welcome to catch all those little critters!

The Mountain views are so beautiful as one heads towards Long Beach - the sea here is enjoyed by stand up paddlers, surfers, canoeists and swimmers. Although, bear in mind, that the water is pretty chilly. Not everybody can be like Lewis Pugh who manages to swim in so many seas around the world with much colder temperatures than the waters of Cape Town. 

 

Now juts imagine that these short steps would take you into you beautiful seaside home - so close to the sea that stormy weather could perhaps be a problem! The homes along this stretch enjoy magnificent views across the bay.

Long Beach stretches for 8 km at the end of this wander - soft white sands as far as the eye can see. We stopped at the start of the beach and returned to our car parked near Slangkop Lighthouse.

For those who enjoy camping you can try the Slangkop Tented Camp set under Milkwood trees. It's just a hop and a skip to either the path to the beach or to the shops in the village.

Then the sunset can be enjoyed with a glass of wine without having to drive back home again!

And just like that, the path ends at Long Beach - enjoy!

For Accommodation in Cape Town:

www.bradclin.com