As a continuation of the previous blog ‘best places to start your day in Cape Town’ we thought it is nice to tell you more about the best places to finish your day. Especially because a sunset in Cape Town is a rewarding one and needs to be admired… with a glass!
1. The Silo Hotel, V&A Waterfront
Our favourite moment to have a drink here is around sunset. Don’t forget that the sun sets earlier in the City than on the beaches, because of the Mountain. The view from the rooftop offers a very different view over the harbour, City and Table Mountain. It can be windy, but there is glass around the terrace which protects you from the winds. If it does cool off in the evenings, we recommend you to bring something warm. They also have some blankets for you should you forget. Booking is essential.
2. Lionshead & Signal Hil
Lions head and Signal Hill are one of the most popular places in Cape Town. Many locals use Lions Head for their daily work out by hiking/running to the top and back. It is popular for a reason, because when you reach the absolute summit of Lions Head, you are rewarded with an incredible view of the ocean, 12 Apostles, Table Mountain and City. This 360 degrees view over Camps bay, Seapoint and the rest of the beautiful Mothercity is worth every step climbing it. A fit person needs approximately 45 min to reach the top. There is a cafe right at the beginning of the trail, and we recommend you to bring at least a small bottle of water. Or a nice drink to enjoy the view once you are at the top.
If you not feeling like hiking you can go by car to the Signal Hill for a nice sunset. However, we try to avoid sending you to very busy places. Make sure you leave home on time since there is a big chance you get stuck in a traffic jam.
3. The Bungalow, Clifton
Nearby Clifton Beach there is The Bungalow. You will fall in love with the view and this picture perfect place for watching the sun set over the Atlantic. They have often a DJ playing some relaxing music while you can enjoy the view. The open grass field in front of the restaurant is often used by paragliders as landing court, so if you are lucky you can enjoy some extra entertainment.
4. Jerry’s Burger Bar Blouberg, Blouberg
Jerry’s Burger Bar has a nice rooftop overlooking Blouberg Beach and the Mother City in the distance. This is another postcard view of Table Mountain. This is a rare and amazing view since you can see Devils Peak, Table Mountain, Lionshead and Signal Hill all together. This all together is already breathtaking, so can you imagine witnessing the sunset plus a number of kitesurfers in front of you. Actually, Blouberg beach is a world famous place since it has one of the best kitesurf conditions in the world. It is namely almost always windy here.
5. Bakoven Beach & Llandudno Beach
These small hidden beaches are especially popular among the locals. From here you have a nice view over the 12 Apostles, Atlantic Ocean and Lionshead. People coming here take a blanket, their picnic basket full with small bites (thank you Woolworths or Giovanni!) and fantastic local wines. The only thing you need to bring is good company and you have all the ingredients you need to enjoy an amazing sunset. Watch how the colors of the clouds chance to a magical sky while you hear the sounds of the ocean waves crashing against the rocks. The combination with the incredible view and the best taste of your local wine will create unforgettable memories.
6. Chinchilla Rooftop Cafe & Bar, Camps Bay
Chinchilla is an exclusive rooftop venue and the first of its kind in Camps Bay. Touted as the location for both the discerning diner and the sundowner set, Chinchilla rooftop café & bar is a must visit during the summer. Only the view will distract you from the food, music and vibe. Plan your visit on a Saturday and Sunday, since they have live music. Are you a fan of a good cocktail with a relaxed vibe and comfortable lounge seats, then this place will make you more than satisfied.
7. Grand Africa Café & Beach, V&A Waterfront
One of the few places in Cape Town where you can enjoy a drink while you can sit with your feet in the sand is Grand Beach. They offer a variety of delicious cocktails and don’t underestimate the pizzas – they are huuuuuge. They often have live music performances which makes the experience even better. Also have a look in the Grand Gallery, where they offer nice locally designed stuff. We think this place is great to combine with the Oranjezicht market each Saturday and Sunday (9-14) since it is located next to each other.
8. Cape Grace Hotel, Bascule Bar, V&A Waterfront
The gentle chink of ice in whisky glasses mingles with the sounds and energy of Cape Town’s nightlife at Bascule Whisky, Wine and Cocktail Bar. Poised on the water’s edge of the V&A Waterfront yacht marina, Bascule’s breathtaking views are rivalled only by their enticing array of over 400 whiskies from around the globe, together with their exceptional selection of the Cape’s most sublime wines. And wow, the Mountain is totally beautiful from the terrace!
The Bascule bar in the Cape Grace Hotel is located in the V&A Waterfront. Did you know this is considered as the most visited tourist attraction in South Africa? (Even more than the Table Mountain and Kruger National Park!)
9. Harveys at The Mansions, Sea Point
Sip on a delicious sundowner in style as you watch the African sun slowly disappear into the Atlantic ocean. Since its located near the promenade in Sea Point, you can perfectly combine it with a nice evening walk. Make sure you have a quick look in the courtyard, a winner for Sunday Brunch with vibey live-Jazz. Best seats are outside in the front where you can smell the salty air of the ocean.
10. The Lawns at the Roundhouse, Camps Bay
The Lawns nestle against the rump of the Table Mountain National Park. We think it is a must-visit on a clear (and not too windy) day. Only then you take the full advantage of the breathtaking view all the way over across 12 Apostles. It’s a great way to escape to busy city. Moreover the vibe is very relaxed since you have the feeling you are in a park for a picnic. We think this is a great place to have a family day.
11. Chapman’s Peak Drive, Hout Bay
This drive is considered as one of the most beautiful rides in Africa. Partly for that reason you have to pay a small entrance fee when visiting by a vehicle. Since It is not possible to order a drink at this breathtaking spot you have to bring your own drinks and bites. Halfway the drive there is place where you can park your car and walk to a nice spot with a unique view over Hout Bay.
12. The Twelve Apostles, Leopard Bar, Camps Bay
At number 12, last but not least… the 12 Apostles resort.
The perfect place to relax with friends, family and colleagues whilst enjoying live entertainment from Monday to Saturday evenings. Proven to be an extremely popular with locals as well as guests, they offer a fully stocked bar featuring many different cocktails. A fine selection of cognacs and an impressive collection of ports are available, as is a wide selection of cocktails. If you are visiting on a Friday after 18.00 you can join the Gin making experience.
The Leopard Bar is also a great spot to enjoy “Tea by the Sea”, a delicious afternoon tea with all the trimmings including chocolate brownies, cream scones, finger sandwiches and a selection of the best teas and coffee. It’s regarded as something of an institution by the locals.
Has this whet your appetite? Want to explore more of africa? Get in touch with me here and let’s satisfy your wanderlust
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