However, the quaint towns and settlements in and around this area offer some amazing spots to stop and explore, and of course eat and drink - something South Africa does well.
Whilst it’s almost impossible to choose, here are 5 to whet your appetite and hopefully convince you to venture a little further and hang around down South.
1. Cape Point Vineyards
- Cape Point Vineyards; SILVERMINE RD, Noordhoek. 7979
Nestled on Cape Town’s southern peninsula, the Cape Point Vineyards are not only a fully functional estate producing award winning wine, but a stunning setting for functions, picnics and the not to be missed and free to enter Community Markets.
If you find yourself in the area on a Thursday afternoon, head over from 4:30p.m to check out some of the finest local fayre by way of a wide selection of foods, sweet treats and crafts - alongside the wine of course.
All of this whilst overlooking the beauty of the vineyards and watching the sun go down over the breathtaking Noordhoek beach.
Not to be missed and a prime location at the foot of the equally stunning Chapman’s Peak Drive - just go!
2. The Meeting Place
- The Meeting Place Emporium (Simon's Town), 98 St Georges Street, Simon’s Town
Whilst downstairs you will first stumble across the Emporium and may find it difficult to tear yourself away from the cute gifts without treating yourself, it is well worth venturing upstairs through the nondescript left side door into the restaurant and the calming, laid back environment of the whitewash furniture and glorious balcony.
A prime breakfast spot with a menu covering the full works, you could do far worse than sit outside in the sunshine and watch the world pass by overlooking Simons Town main street with the sea lapping in the background.
Beautiful.
3. The Viper Lounge (South)
- 12-14 Glen Road, Glencairn, Near Simon's Town, Simon's Town, Cape Town
A biker bar at heart, the Viper Lounge has fast become a jewel in the crown in this part of town as a friendly, local bar full of character and endless entertainment in true SA style.
Situated a stones throw from Glencairn Beach on False Bay, the Viper offers a relaxing spot to drink, meet and make friend friends and enjoy life.
With a variety of entertainment across the week, from live music to DJs, plus braai nights and access to wonderful pizza next door, the Viper is equally a great night out and a fantastic place to stop en route Simon’s Town, the Cape of Good Hope or Chapman’s Peak - and a must for photo ops of its quirky decor!
4. Red Rock Tribal and the Cape Farmhouse
- Junction Redhill Rd & Plateau Rd (M66 & M65), Redhill, Cape Town
Slightly off the beaten track, Cape Farmhouse greets you from the roadside with it’s amazing Zimbabwean sculpture garden - don’t drive past!
A visit to Cape Farmhouse and Red Rocks tribal is a must and you won’t regret it. The Farmhouse offers great food and drink from breakfast through to tea, and come summer, an amazing outdoor live music venue to fill your Saturday afternoons with fun.
The on site Red Rocks tribal shop is a world of authentic, hand made curios that you’ll want to browse for hours and buy some much needed souvenirs.
5. Cape to Cuba
- 165 Main Road, Kalk Bay, Cape Town, 7990 +27 21 788 1566
Amongst Kalk Bay’s collection of artistic gems you can sometimes be spoilt for choice for places to stop and refuel, but Cape to Cuba has to be high on that list.
The Cuban theme and homage to Hemingway runs strong throughout, from the cocktails to the decor, but it’s the little touches that add to the atmosphere.
The menu comes to you alongside the story of the restaurant and it’s love of Cuba in a thoughtful newspaper format and the food doesn’t disappoint.
But even if food isn't on your agenda, the bar is more than adequately stocked, with an extensive cocktail list that leads itself nicely to sitting in one of their deck chairs in the ‘beach’ setting of outdoors - feel the sand between your toes whilst chilling out to their resident DJs.
Don’t miss out!
By Keely Butler
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