The beauty of Cape Town

It’s really quite rare that you stumble across somewhere that seemingly has it all; but Cape Town certainly is one of those places. The Mother City boasts arguably Africa’s most famous landmark in Table Mountain; an ever present in the Cape Town landscape. With its towering appearance and seemingly endless stretch across the skyline, you can’t help but feel at ease within its shadow. Lions Head and Signal Hill play backup to the main event that is Table Mountain, but in reality are a supporting cast comparable only to the Goodfellas lineup- if they were anywhere else in the world; they too would be the star of the show. With an alternating, 360 degree view of Cape Town it’s difficult not to get lost in the clouds when atop one of these natural marvels- but in honesty, that applies to your everyday life in Cape Town. 1000 metres above the sea, you’re a figure amidst the cartoonish style clouds and sky blue surroundings- yet it’s just as easy to get lost in your own world on ground level, every corner turned is a postcard worthy scene. 

The orange rock acts as a guide for your Atlantic hugging journey over Chapmans Peak, the radio becomes background noise and your phone irrelevant as you get truly lost in the natural beauty that is Cape Town. Every swooping corner offers up another perspective of mountains, sea and nature. In a world of such impatience and anger when driving, this road provides a welcome sanctuary when navigating the undulations and bends that are uniquely entrancing yet challenging. The road forces you to take your time, absorb your surroundings and forget any problems you may have- all your personal issues fade away into insignificance and you’re left with a sense of calm. Whether you’re driving, walking or running, Chapmans Peak is a tonic for any stress you may be burdened with.

As you pass through Cape Town, you begin to discover more of its secrets and hidden spots, none more apparent than the famed markets. The Harbour Market in Hout Bay is as authentic as it is fulfilling. With an array of local food stalls offering near enough any cuisine you can think of, coupled with the various wine and cocktails vendors, you’d be satisfied if your evening finished there- but that doesn’t even begin to scratch the surface of this gem. Every change of direction is met by local workmanship, displaying their art and creations- with homegrown produce, handmade clothing and artefacts, paintings, drawings, instruments and all served by the friendliest most genuine and passionate of people. With your evening soundtracked by an array of local musicians, set in a working harbour and overlooked by the magical mountains of Chapmans Peak the Harbour Market has an unrivalled vibe. It is unapologetically itself, not designed to look perfect on an Instagram filter; but to provide happiness and put smiles on the faces of all that pass through its vibrant doors. 

What’s so amazing about Cape Town is how its natural beauty has not only been allowed to remain intact, but actively encouraged and shown off. Unlike the rest of the world, which bulldozes green spaces in favour of skyscrapers- Cape Town has maintained its connection with nature. With over 900 vineyards in the Western Cape alone, if you’re not gazing at the sea and the mountains, your eyes will be drawn to the rolling green hills that the wineries call home. Tranquil, serene and each one as spectacular as the last- it’s not just the world leading wines on offer that grab your attention; nearly every vineyard comes complete with fairytale like gardens and grounds. Native flora kept to a standard only seen at flower shows, immaculate presentation throughout the wineries- the hard work and attention to detail required from all the grounds people is encapsulated by the sights you become so accustomed to throughout Cape Town. 

Which is a measure of the people here, in short; they’re happy. They work tirelessly, in the heat to create works of art for visitors to enjoy, who in most cases won’t even acknowledge them, yet they do it with a smile on their face. They’re polite beyond imagination and always so interested in your life and opening conversation and what is so special, is that it’s genuine, it’s not a facade, it’s just how they are. The beauty of Cape Town knows no bounds, the sights are endless, scenery unfathomable and people so happy. It’s a place that never gets old, that still stirs the same level of excitement and optimism every time you visit, quite simply it’s the best place in the world.