The tranquility of the pipe track at sunrise. IMAGE: @jamofreemantle / IG
Cape Town hiking: Five easy breezy routes to explore this summer
Cape Town is a popular destination for tourists from around the globe and it’s easy to see why. Here are five easy hikes to try this summer.
The tranquility of the pipe track at sunrise. IMAGE: @jamofreemantle / IG
If you’re in the Mother City between now and the end of February, you’d be a fool not try out at least one of these Cape Town hiking routes.
Cape Town is a mecca for hikers, trail runners, beach-goers and lovers of the great outdoors in general. Let’s explore the most accessible routes for beginners.
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Five easy Cape Town hiking routes to explore this summer
LION’S HEAD
If you’re a Capetonian then you’ve probably scaled Lion’s Head at least once this week. There’s no wonder that it’s a popular hiking route, given the sensational views. It’s also relatively easy and only takes up a couple of hours of your time.
KASTEELPOORT
Kasteelpoort is quickly becoming a firm favourite for families. It offers staggering views and the start of the pipe track is just five minutes from the Cape Town CBD. The first three kilometres are flat, and then you ascend Table Mountain, sipping water from streams along the way.
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KIRSTENBOSCH GARDENS INTO SKELETON GORGE
It doesn’t get much more iconic than the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. Meet your pals at the tea room and explore the panoramic beauty that surrounds you. Explore everything that the gardens have to offer including all of the indigenous flora & fauna and then consider your next move on the mountain.
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SKELETON GORGE
If you feel like a proper hike from Kirstenbosch, tackle Skeleton Gorge. It’s doable for the whole family but it certainly elevates the heart rate. At the top you’re greeted by full dams and beach sand. It’s worth the effort.
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THE MISSING LINK
No better feeling than getting out of the busier areas of the Cape Town Atlantic seaboard and hitting the trails. The Missing Link looks back on Lion’s Head and also offers elevated views of Victoria Road and Oudekraal. It’s stunning.
The beauty of exploring Cape Town lies in its inclusivity and accessibility to people of varying fitness levels. First-time visitors to the area, however, may feel a little intimidated by some of the hiking trails. Start with these ones and you’ll never go back. When’s your next trip?
You can get more passion and insights on healthy lifestyle habits from James Freemantle
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