Exploring the Cape Peninsula

The Cape Peninsula is a vibrant place, filled with hidden treasures which should be examined and experienced by all types of travellers.

The Cape Peninsula is a crucial part for anyone visiting the Winelands or Cape Town. As much a part of the city as Table Mountain is, Cape Town’s coastal regions possess some of the city’s most sought-after addresses and some of the greatest sunsets.

Cape Peninsula

So what is The Cape Peninsula? It is a magnificent region that stretches from Cape Town to the Cape of Good Hope, hemmed in by the False Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, where you will endure majestic landscape, picturesque towns and stunning beaches.

Before I get into the best places to visit, if you are wondering about the best way to get around – the answer is by car.  Car rental in Cape Town is affordable and hassle-free and is the most reliable way to explore all that the Cape Peninsula has to give, at your own speed while taking in one of the most breathtaking drives you will ever experience.

The Cape Peninsula route 

Leaving Cape Town, you will drive around Table Mountain towards Constantia.  There are some wineries in this neighbourhood which are worth a visit.  Groot Constantia Wine Estate is the oldest and one of the most beautiful wineries -which produce award-winning wine to please every palate.  

The Cape Winelands

From Constantia, you will head towards Muizenberg and continue down False Bay admiring its beautiful sandy beaches and quaint coastal villages past Fishhoek, to Simon’s Town.

Simon’s Town is a delightful little village in Cape Town. Leaving Simon’s Town you will drive southwards towards Miller’s Point – the coastal scenery here is staggering.

Stop along the way at Boulders Beach, which is home to approximately 3 000 “Jackass” African Penguin. Boulders Beach is a picturesque spot for a leisurely walk to see the penguins or maybe even spend some time on the beach – swimming with the penguins.

Two Penguins at Boulder Beach

From here, head towards the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve which is a World Heritage site.

Leaving the nature reserve, you will drive to Scarborough. The rustic charm of the village is enhanced by the fact that it offers some of the best fishing and surfing opportunities.

Carry on along the coast in the direction of Kommetjie taking in the magnificent shoreline. You could even spot some Great White Shark as they float on the waves just off the beach.

From Kommetjie, drive in the direction of Sunnydale, then Chapman’s Peak towards Hout Bay.

The combination of steep, almost thrilling rocky inclines, piercing blue waters and expansive skies will take your breath away. Stop along the way and enjoy the magnificent view of the sandy bays below. This will, without a doubt be the highlight of your adventure.

Chapmans Peak, Cape Town

Leaving Hout Bay, you will drive towards Llandudno and along Victoria Drive, past the Twelve Apostles back to Cape Town, completing your Cape Peninsula trip.

Accommodation in Cape Town’s coastal suburbs is superb, exclusive and luxurious providing the perfect way to take in the sunset after a day exploring the Cape Peninsula.

Scenic view of Simons Town

Simon’s Town Guest House is ideally located near Simon’s Town and is within driving distance of all the major attractions and activities which the Cape is known for.

The guest house comprises of five luxuriously appointed en-suite bedrooms each with their own private sitting areas.  Each bedroom is aestethically furnished in African-themed decor. Breakfast is included in the rates, making for the perfect base to explore the Cape Peninsula.

If you are planning to visit Cape Town make sure to include the Cape Peninsula into your itinerary where you will experience the beauty along Chapman’s Peak, making stops at the Cape of Good Hope, Cape Point, Simon’s Town and more. 

Getting up close to penguins at Boulders Beach and enjoying the most magnificent sunsets – sipping your favourite cocktail.