There are a few things that one cannot afford to miss in life. And Cape Town is right at the top of that list. It presents limitless options for literally every type of traveller. But if you don’t want to be ‘just another brick in the wall’, check out these eight things that one can do in Cape Town, and more specifically, in the charming town of Hermanus, which the uninitiated will most certainly miss. Handpicked, and tried and tested, these places are for the vacationer who wants to head off the beaten path to explore the unknown.
Dutchies at Grotto BeachGrotto Beach is famous for perfect beaches and land-based whale-watching. But if your stomach is yearning for some glorious sea food, get yourself to Dutchies. On request, they will even drape you in a nautical white-and-blue blanket, while serving heavenly portions of local kingklip and calamari.
WatershedLocated at the waterfront, Watershed is the place to do some urbane shopping. Featuring works by local artisans, crafters and designers, it not only serves as a unique shopping destination, but also provides treatment for the mind, body and soul. Get bowed down with shopping bags or unwind with a relaxing spa – it’s your choice.
Mandela GlassesOne of the offbeat tributes to the great man, artist Michael Elion has created a pair of giant glasses made of stainless steel, peering over the sea to Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated for nearly three decades. Called ‘Perceiving Freedom’ , the work is meant to make people reflect on Mandela’s time on the island. And yes, don’t forget to take a selfie with the giant wayfarers.
Nobel SquareTrue to its name, Nobel Square plays host to South Africa’s four Nobel Peace laureates, the late Chief Albert Luthuli, Archbishop Desmond Tutu and former presidents Nelson Mandela and F W de Klerk. The bronze statues are quite impressive and each one has a quote by the laureate.
Harbour House HotelOne of the best places to stay in Hermanus, Harbour House offers a stunning view of the sea. Luxurious to a fault and decorated very tastefully, the hotel is the perfect place to rest for the intrepid traveller. Remember to have a photo session at the Lookout Terrace, which overlooks the ocean.
Hiking along Cliff PathThe best (or worst) thing regarding this nature hike is that it will make you not want to go home. One will tend to get captivated by the overwhelming beauty in front of them. Stunningly beautiful at every step, nature makes an impact on you that you will never forget. Take a walk and let the nature enthusiast in you go wild.
The Old Biscuit Mill in WoodstockIt is an area revived by artists. The Old Biscuit Mill is a converted mill with artists’ studios; it has Espresso Lab for great coffee and The Test Kitchen, one of Cape Town’s coolest restaurants.
Ziplining at Silvermist VineyardAnother must-do when in South Africa is Africa’s longest zipline at Silvermist Vineyard in Constantia. South Africa Forest Adventures is a company that can organise adventure-seeking activities like ziplining and rafting. The new zipline is right next to the rustic and organic winery, Silvermist.
