Believe us when we say, all you want for Christmas is an enchanting, unforgettable experience at Cape Town’s most fantastic, yet least known, locations. These gems are hidden in plain sight and those in the know, know. So now that you know, go forth and enjoy a day or two of exploring what we like to call Cape Town’s Secret Six.
Sunrise at Kloof Corner
Put on your walking shoes and head for Tafelberg Road. Park at the second parking lot on your left (after the first hairpin bend), cross the road and look for the sign marking the start of the trail. It will only take you about 30 minutes but you will be rewarded with incredible views of Lion’s Head, Camps Bay and the city. And of course, a sense of accomplishment – that wonderful sense of well-being you only get when the mountain breezes of the Cape waft relaxation and fynbos fragrance your way.
Breakfast at the Blue Café
Talking about lesser-known neighbourhood nuggets, the Blue Café is a City Bowl heirloom that you will find at 13 Brownlow Road, Tamboerskloof. It has been trading as a café and deli since 1904. Fresh food and a homey atmosphere will do you for breakfast and if you love people-watching as much as we do, you will enjoy seeing the locals popping in and out. We suggest that you stock up on some deli items to take with you in preparation for the sunset picnic spot we are about to recommend.
Lounge about on Windmill Beach
Head now all the way to the other side of the Peninsula, to Boulders Beach past Simon’s Town (yes, you can go and see the penguins if you have not already) but that is not where we are taking you. If you veer right, instead of left, at the Boulders Beach parking lot and keep on following the walkway to the right you will come across one of our most favourite secrets of the six…Windmill Beach. White sandy coves, beautiful snorkelling in safe little bays, far away from the maddening crowds. Beach perfection. Do not forget your shade – the blazing summer sun will be out in all its glory.
Lunch with the great Gatsby at Cosy Corner
It is safe to say that Cosy Corner is both a Cape Town landmark and an institution. Established in 1973, Cosy Corner was one of Cape Town’s first Halaal eateries and remains one of its most popular. It still operates from the very same corner in Wynberg (119 Ottery Road, Wynberg) and is still owned and run by the family who started it. It is all about the Gatsby here. What is a Gatsby? At its simplest, a Gatsby is a long baguette-filled Cape Malay-style saucy masala steak, fried eggs, chips and salad and the secret ingredient – sticky finger-licking sauces. Do not expect to be wine and dined. This is the food of the people and nothing, NOTHING, compares to the Gatsby for an authentic Cape street food, takeout experience. So go get one, at least once, but do not think it will be a nice, tidy sit-down lunch. Have plenty of napkins on hand.
Exploring Woodstock
Once an industrial area of Cape Town where the vicious South-Easter blasted its narrow streets, Woodstock is now one of the city’s most vibrant, hipster neighbourhoods.
Just 10 minutes from the CBD, here you will find artisan coffee, craft breweries, interesting eateries, super trendy boutiques and hothouse ad agencies – and a thriving street art culture that is definitely worth seeing. Guests can contact the Cape Grace Concierge Team at capegrace.concierge@accor.com to assist with booking a guided graffti art tour with well-known local guide Juma Art Tours.
Woodstock is well worth exploring and you can enjoy a unique shopping experience at the Old Biscuit Mill, Bromwell Boutique Mall and the Woodstock Exchange.
As with all adventures, remember to stay alert and always be aware of your surroundings. Do not roam around after dark and speak to trusted guides about how to get around safely.
Sunset picnic on Chapman’s Peak Drive
We know that Chapmans Peak Drive is a famous tourist attraction in Cape Town, but whereas tourists stop only for the incredible photo ops, locals like to drive up there after a hard day’s work and soak in the sunset with a picnic. Why not do as the locals do? Take your deli purchases from the Blue Café up onto Chapman’s Peak and pay homage to this bucket list city you are fast falling in love with.
After that? Good night. Lekker slaap. Hambani kakuhle. Ulale kamnandi. See you tomorrow.