Table Mountain, a youthful 260 million years old and one of the new Seven Wonders of the World, is one of the most iconic attractions in Cape Town. Over 1,000,000 visitors per year take the 5-minute cable car ride to the top of the mountain, while the more adventurous scramble to the top on foot.
Recently, I hiked up a lesser-known part of the mountain via Karbonkelberg, Hout Bay. It was a much-needed excursion as I’d spent the previous few days sampling all kinds of delicacies around the Cape wine estates, and needed to burn off some of the accumulated calories.
We were a small group, made up of humans and dogs, meandering our way through the village of Hangberg , uphill to one of the many unbelievably beautiful viewpoints that are on offer around this mountain. The flat topped view from which the mountain derives its name, usually comes from the Table Bay northerly angle, but we enjoyed the same view from where we sat. With clouds billowing below us and the sun on our faces, we were on top of the world..
Ours was quite an ambitious hike of about four hours. You can run the same distance (phew) or take a shorter route – it’s entirely up to you. Our guide Brent, was a mine of information about local cultures, rock formations and herbs. His tour options are varied and flexible so he can accommodate your preferred route and timing.
Want to flex those leg muscles a bit? Contact Sandy.
