DAY 1

DELVILLE WOOD MEMORIAL

DELVILLE WOOD MEMORIAL

Start your trip by familiarizing yourself with the historical core of Cape Town – The company’s garden. This was the first fruit and vegetable garden established in the 1650’s by the Dutch East Inda Company when they set up the Cape Colony as a refreshment stop on the way to the East. Within this garden lies the Delville Wood memorial, which was unveiled in 1930 and commemorates soldiers who fought in Delville wood France and other battles of World War I. It features two male figures either side of a horse resting on eight classical style columns. During this battle 2245 allied soldiers lost their lives. This beautiful memorial to them stands at the centre of this beautiful garden.

Now rose gardens grow next to this poignant reminder, and are overlooked by the centre of the Book, the SA National Museum and the National Art Gallery. See numerous landmarks either side of these historic gardens which are open 7:00-19:00 in Summer, and 7:00-18:00 in Winter. Located on Queen Victoria Street.

ALSO SEE:

Visit GLOSSY-MAGAZINE for more most exciting places to take toddlers in Cape Town. Visit RAINBOWLEARNER for an exciting new range of learning materials for early-learning. Visit the link GLITZYMAGAZINE for more things for the whole family to do on weekends in Cape Town.

TOWN HALL

TOWN HALL

Aided by a good map and comfortable shoes, a fit person should have no trouble walking from the Company’s Garden to the city square called the Grande Parade and Town Hall adjacent to it. This is a significant building in that it reminds us of the colonial past and the liberation. A statue of Nelson Mandel was unveiled in 2018, and stands on the balcony to encourage the nation to walk in all the paths of unity and forgiveness that he stood for. The building is made of limestone imported from Bath in England and was constructed in the early 1900’s. On February 11, 1990, after Nelson Mandela was released from prison, he gave his first public address from the balcony of City Hall. Previously a civic office building, the City Hall is now used for public events, art exhibitions, and concerts. Once a year the building is lit up in colourful lights, known as the festival of lights.


YOU MIGHT LIKE: Go to GLOSSY-MAGAZINE for an itinerary for travel to Franschhoek that focuses on family friendly venues. Go to GLITZYMAGAZINE to find out about Cape Dutch houses and gardens - a style endemic to South Africa.

CASTLE OF GOOD HOPE

CASTLE OF GOOD HOPE

To the east of the Grande Parade, lies the Castle of Good Hope. One of the earliest significant structures constructed by the early settlers. During the early 1600’s the Dutch settlers felt the need to protect themselves from the crew of some English ships. For this purpose, slaves were imported from Malaysia because the Khoisan people declined to labor for the Europeans. Increasing global trade and transportation brought individuals from all over the world together, creating a melting pot whose stories are interlaced throughout the intricate history.

Built between 1666 and 1679, the Castle is known as the oldest surviving building in South Africa, although it was not the first fort to be built here. It has five bastions each with their own story, and was painted yellow to reduce glare.

The castle now houses, the William Fehr Art Collection managed by Iziko Museums of South Africa, a ceramic exhibition (FIRED) and the Castle Military Museum.

CASTLE OF GOOD HOPE
Image sourced from Wikipedia

These museums also commemorate the Khoi people many of whose lives were disrupted by the arrival of the settlers.

Today the Castle stands not only as a memory of our colonial past but as a beacon of an inclusive and integrated tomorrow. More and more South Africans are embracing and accepting this citadel as part of their collective heritage. Support local chefs within the castle by enjoying local cuisine such as koeksisters, samosas and Cape Malay Curries in this era of peace.

Through events, festivals, celebrations, commemorations, concerts, workshops and exhibitions, the Castle of Good Hope has become a castle for all…

It has been designated as a National Monument and is a valuable asset to the Rainbow Nation.

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You might also enjoy GLITZYMAGAZINE to discover more natural and built attractions in the Cape Winelands. Visit GLOSSY-MAGAZINE for more of this kind of built attraction. Visit GLOSSY-MAGAZINE for plenty stunning tourist attractions in the Winelands region of South Africa.

DINE IN CAMP'S BAY

DINE IN CAMP'S BAY

Take a break from reflecting on history as you head out to this beautiful beach that is lined with tall palm trees. Choose from bustling restaurants to enjoy your dinner and sundowner, overlooking the azure waters of the Atlantic Ocean, with the Twelve Apostle Mountain range towering in the background.

INTERESTING LINKS:

You might also like GLOSSY-MAGAZINE which focuses on built landmarks that tourists visit when the come to Cape Town. Click on the link GLOSSY-MAGAZINE to find out about the best places to go sightseeing when you are in the Cape Winelands. You might also enjoy GLITZYMAGAZINE to discover more natural and built attractions in the Cape Winelands.




DINE IN CAMP'S BAY



OF INTEREST:

See TOP-ARCHITECTS for architects designing contemporary houses in the area. Click on the link GLITZYMAGAZINE for a list of exciting activities for toddlers and older children. You may also enjoy the site GLOSSY-MAGAZINE where you can find architecture attractions such as the Cape Dutch style manor houses that were built about 400years ago.

DAY 2

KIRSTENBOSCH BOTANICAL GARDENS

KIRSTENBOSCH BOTANICAL GARDENS

Image taken by Discott CC BY-SA 4.0 and sourced from Wikipedia WIKIMEDIA COMMONS.

In 2015, the International Garden Tourism Awards Body bestowed the title of International Garden of the Year upon Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. Cape Town's Kirstenbosch botanical garden sits at the foot of Table Mountain. The garden, one of ten similar establishments in South Africa, is supervised by the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI). The six biomes found in South Africa are mirrored in these gardens. At Kirstenbosch, a premium is placed on growing native species. The first botanical garden in the world, Kirstenbosch, was established in 1913 with the aim of preserving the local flora of South Africa's area. This was during a time when invasive species were not perceived as a threat to the environment.

A large conservatory within the garden, the Botanical Society Conservatory, displays flora from a range of ecosystems, including as savanna, karoo, and fynbos. Outdoors, the most striking features are the protea collections, which are native to the Cape region and serve as the centerpiece.

The gardens provide a safe sanctuary for native and endangered plant species of the Cape Floristic Area. Kirstenbosch has won 29 gold prizes in 33 appearances at the Chelsea Flower Show.



PIN-CUSHION PROTEAS IN KIRSTENBOSCH GARDENS
Image taken by Discott CC BY-SA 4.0 and sourced from Wikipedia WIKIMEDIA COMMONS.

Starting in the gardens, a network of trails winds its way up and down the mountainside, drawing both hikers and mountaineers. Up Skeleton Gorge is a well-trodden and easy route to the summit of Table Mountain. Smuts' Track is another name for this trail because Prime Minister Jan Smuts used it often. In order to reach Constantia Nek in the south, a contour road meanders through the forest that covers the hillsides that surround the garden's agricultural regions.

The Boomslang, a huge pedestrian bridge that snakes its way through a forest canopy, is a picturesque aspect of the gardens.

Over the course of the summer, the gardens are the site of a beloved outdoor concert series that takes place every Sunday night. The Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra, Mango Groove, Johnny Clegg, The Parlotones, Ike Moriz, Arno Carstens, and countless other well-known local artists have performed here. Cliff Richard and Michael Bublé are just two of the many famous performers that have graced the Kirstenbosch stage in recent years.

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Click on GLOSSY-MAGAZINE to see top parks and gardens in and around the Mother City. Go to GLOSSY-MAGAZINE for more Cape Dutch Houses and their beautiful gardens. Also visit GLITZYMAGAZINE for stunning photographs of parks, gardens and hiking trails in and around Cape Town.



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RHODES MEMORIAL

RHODES MEMORIAL

The monument overlooks the botanical gardens and can be accessed from the same roads that lead to the University of Cape Town. It clings to Table Mountain, the highest and most significant building on the foothills. It was erected in honor of Cecial John Rhodes. and Sir Herbert Baker was the architect, a renowned man, who was responsible for a number of buildings for Rhodes,

Sir Herbert Baker is himself an important historical figure having designed many notable buildings South Africa such as the Union Buildings in Pretoria, St. Andrew's College, Grahamstown, St. John's College, Johannesburg, the Wynberg Boys' High School, and Groote Schuur in Cape Town. He also designed the Rhodes Cottage on Boschendal Farm. Born in England, he also designed some public buildings in India.

Baker understood the potential of the project to create an architectural masterpiece of lasting beauty. The small roof span and colonnade create a pleasant architectural composition, and is well ornamented with sculptures of lions, horse and rider. The series of steps deals with the slope and enhances the views.

From 1890 to 1896, Rhodes served as the prime minister of the Cape. He is a major character in South African history, having founded the mining business De Beers, which had a prominent economic influence. Rhodes was born in 1853 and passed away in 1902. Ten years after Rhodes's death in the memorial was finished.


RHODES MEMORIAL PANORAMIC VIEWS

In addition to its historical importance, the memorial's panoramic views of Groote Schuur, the Hottentot's Holland Mountains, and the Cape Flats make it a popular tourist destination. Not only that, it's a rare spot where you can see both the Atlantic and the Indian Oceans from the same spot.

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Go to GLITZYMAGAZINE for an itinerary of the best things for kids to do in the holidays. Go to GLOSSY-MAGAZINE for more Cape Dutch Houses and their beautiful gardens. You might also like GLITZYMAGAZINE to read more about tourist day trips and travel guide to great sightseeing landmarks in the Western Cape.

DINE AT SEAPOINT

DINE AT SEAPOINT

Descend the mountain and head toward the ocean for your evening stroll along the Sea Point Promenade. If the weather is hot, enjoy a swim in the magnificent large fresh water pools. Take in the lively atmosphere and eat-out at one of the many cosmopolitan restaurants. The Mojo is a vibrant market just one street inland, where you can shop for souvenirs and choose from all the flavours on offer.



ALSO GO TO:

Press on the link GLITZYMAGAZINE to find out about the menu of top landmarks and sightseeing attractions in Cape Town and Winelands. Click on < a href="http://www.capetownsplendour.com/activities-on-a-sunday-in-cape-town.html">CAPETOWNSPLENDOUR to learn more about other weekend activities for the whole family. Click on ARCHITECTCAPETOWN for more about natural attractions in Franschhoek.

DAY 3

THE TWO OCEAN'S AQUARIUM

THE TWO OCEAN'S AQUARIUM

This is a magnificent attraction with breath-taking large tanks, some of which have tunnels through them, enabling you to experience the under-water world of life along the South Africa coast. See ragga-toothed sharks, rays and schools of fish. The aquarium is an important bastion of education and conservation, championing sustainable fishing practices and recuperation of rare and endangered species. See rescued African and Rockhopper penguins, or book an encounter with one of these intriguing animals.

Smaller tanks display tropical fish, jelly fish, crabs, lobsters, star fish, and a host of other under sea life. The clean, well-maintained facilities are well worth their reputation as an international tourist destination.

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Go to ARCHITECTCAPETOWN for more on things to do with kids on the weekends in Cape Town. Press on CAPETOWNSPLENDOUR for the best things to do in Cape Town with kids and toddlers.

THE CAPE WHEEL

THE CAPE WHEEL

A massive observation wheel that provides a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of Cape Town and the lively V&A Waterfront precinct. From here you can see Cape Town Stadium, Paarl Mountains, Cape Town City skyline, Table Mountain, and Robben Island.

The Cape Wheel provides 30 fully enclosed air-conditioned cabins that will transport you 40 meters above the earth for four revolutions.


DUTCH VISITORS AT THE CAPE WHEEL
Image Published with Permission

• OPERATING SCHEDULE (2025)

Summer Times (Sept to April): Monday to Sunday 10:00 to 22:00. Weather dependent.

Winter Times (May to August): Monday to Thursday 11:00 to 21:00 Friday to Saturday 10:00 to 22:00 Sunday 10:00 to 21:00

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Go to CAPETOWNSPLENDOUR for all the architecture attractions in Cape Town. You might also like ARCHITECTCAPETOWN with modern and traditional Cape Dutch homes.

NOBEL SQUARE

NOBEL SQUARE

The public square known as Nobel Square is located in Cape Town, South Africa's Victoria & Alfred Waterfront neighborhood. It debuted in December 2005 and features statues of Nelson Mandela, Albert Lutuli, Desmond Tutu, and F. W. de Klerk, the four recipients of the country's Nobel Peace Prize. The square was an idea of former Western Cape premier Marthinus van Schalkwyk and current premier Ebrahim Rasool (who served from 2004 to 2008).


NOBEL SQUARE - MANDELA

Following discussions with Lutuli's relatives and the living Prize recipients—who were present for the unveiling with Lutuli's daughter and the Norwegian ambassador to South Africa—the project was officially launched with the backing of the Western Cape government. Set in a semicircle facing away from Table Mountain, the sculptures are marginally higher than the four figures they portray. Inscribed on the ground in front of each figure are quotations from that person.

PRESS ON THE LINKS FOR MORE:

Press on the link ARCHITECTCAPETOWNfor more about toddler activities and sightseeing with the whole family. See also CAPETOWNSPLENDOUR for all the best hiking trails in Cape Town.

GROOT CONSTANTIA

GROOT CONSTANTIA

This noteworthy Cape Dutch-style structure is situated on a wine estate on the southern side of Table Mountain. In 1925, the house was restored to a state that exceeded its former splendor after the roof was destroyed by fire. Simon van der Stel constructed the Neoclassical gable design in approximately 1685.


GROOT CONSTANTIA CELLAR

While serving as one of the inaugural governors of the youthful Cape Colony, he resided there. Simonberg and Stellenbosch are both named in his honor. Viewing this manor residence on the same day as the Botanical Gardens or the Rhodes Memorial Monument, which are situated on the Southern slopes of Table Mountain, is effortless. It is situated a mere stone's throw from the city center. Simon’s restaurant and a wine tasting center make your visit all the more enjoyable. Bought picnics also available.

Open from 10:00 to 17:00 daily, with last ticket at 16:00. (2025)

OF INTEREST
For more on how to design luxurious homes on smaller erven in various popular South African architecture styles, visit ARCHITECTCAPETOWN

You might also like CAPETOWNSPLENDOUR to learn about the greatest landmarks in the region.

DAY 4

ASCEND TABLE MOUNTAIN

ASCEND TABLE MOUNTAIN

Ascend via cable car to the summit of this emblematic flat-topped mountain, a symbol of Cape Town. Observe the magnificent city bowl, Twelve Apostles, and Robben Island from this breathtaking perspective. The cableway officially opened on 4 October 1929, and has taken millions of visitors to the top, saving their energy for walking around the top of the mountain – which has many small lizards, birds and fynbos to see.


A VIEW FROM TABLE MOUNTAIN

Balustrades are carefully placed to not be visible from the ground, and enable visitors to get fantastic photos of the panoramic views. Once on top of the mountain you can walk to Maclear’s Beacon and Smut’s monument on the far side of the Table Top. There is also a restaurant and Curio shop near the Upper Cable Station.

In season there can be long queues for the cableway, be sure to plan in advance in order to find parking and not wait too long.

Prices until 30 June 2025:
All-day adult return (8:00 till close): R490
Afternoon adult return (13:00 till close): R420
SA senior citizen return (8:00 till close): R130
All day Child 4-17 yrs (8:00 till close): R245
Afternoon Child 4-17 yrs (13:00 till close): R130

The Plattekloof Gorge hiking trail ascends to the summit in a more affordable way for the more intrepid. This zig-zag pathway gives you more direct contact with the mountain. Be sure to be prepared for a morning of hiking with adequate water, clothes and go in a group.

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Press on the link CAPETOWNSPLENDOUR for other parks and gardens. Also see ARCHITECTCAPETOWN for best playparks for kids in Cape Town. Click on the link ARCHITECTCAPETOWN for more weekend activities.

RELAX AT GREEN POINT

RELAX AT GREEN POINT

The park was developed in 2011, by the municipal council after the soccer world cup was held in the stadium adjacent to it. What makes the park exceptional is that landscape architects, urban planners, and ecologists collaborated to make a meaningful park that benefits the environment. The park has a biodiversity garden, which protects and promotes the indigenous flora and fauna of the Cape Floral Kingdom.

The park has several aquatic elements, such as a wetland, a stream, and a lake. The water features are both visually appealing and ecologically significant, offering habitats for several aquatic species.

The children’s playpark is jam-packed with interesting play equipment for kids to climb on and get exercise. Green Point Park contains various art projects, such as sculptures and murals.

RELAX AT GREEN POINT

The tea park is a café that provides light meals and refreshments if you wish to sit down to eat. You are also welcome to bring your own picnic.

The following activities are welcome in the park: Jogging, cycling and dog walking. Numerous indigenous birds are attracted by the fynbos, and it is a great spot for bird-watching right near the city center.

The area is vast, encompassing some 13.5 hectares, making it an important tourist attraction in Cape Town.

MOUILLE POINT LIGHTHOUSE

MOUILLE POINT LIGHTHOUSE

Built in 1824 Originally built as the first operating lighthouse in South Africa, this famous historical structure is still in use today as such. It is just a stone's throw away from the V & A riverfront and quite close to the Cape Town Stadium at Mouille Point. The bright red and white chevron design makes for great photos. The lighthouse is located near to Green Pont Park.


OF INTEREST
See luxury architects and modern estates which might interest you. Go to CAPETOWNSPLENDOURfor a sightseeing itinerary of Franschhoek. More information at ARCHITECTCAPETOWN on the Cape Dutch houses of Franschhoek. For more on South African architects visit... TOP-ARCHITECTS for some of the best designers in the country.

DAY 5

TOUR ROBBEN ISLAND

TOUR ROBBEN ISLAND
Image sourced from Wikipedia

At the V&A waterfront lies the Gateway to Robben Island. Make sure you have booked online in advance at www.robben-island.org.za to avoid standing in line. From here a ferry will take you to tour the island, disembarking at Murray Harbour. The entire tour including travel time takes approximately 3.5 hours.

From there buses with knowledgeable tour guides transport visitors to the various important sites around the island including the army and navy bunkers, the lime quarry where Nelson Mandela laboured, Robert Sobukwe’s house, the Bluestone Quarry and most significantly the high security prison where Nelson Mandela was held, including his prison cell.

Along the way, you are likely to see African penguins, Cape Fur Seals, and possibly Steenbuck. The penguins were hunted to extinction off the island after the settlers arrived, but the colonial restarted again, and today there is a thriving penguin colony. The seal population on the island is also well established. Beautiful views of Table Mountain can be seen in the distance.




ROBBEN ISLAND LIGHTHOUSE
Image taken by Prasad Pillai, CC BY 2.0 and sourced from WIKIMEDIA COMMONS.

The Robben Island lighthouse was completed in January 1865 and is located on the highest part of the Island, Mintoheuwel. Before the construction of the lighthouse, fires were made on the hill to warn sailors of the island's location and the hill was then also known as Vuurberg.

The lighthouse, which was erected in 1865, is the only lighthouse in South Africa that flashes and does not rotate. The lighthouse is 18 meters high and was electrified in 1938. The light can be seen 25 kilometers away. The tours generally do not stop at the lighthouse.

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DINE AT WATERFRONT

DINE AT WATERFRONT

You may want to relax at the waterfront after the thought-provoking trip to Robben Island. Enjoy a glass of wine paired with great cuisine at one of the many fine dining establishments located on the bustling harbour. If you have time, go shopping at the Victoria Wharf Mall, or see a few more attractions such as the Chavonne Battery Museum, MOCAA museum of contemporary art, Nobel square, the dry docks, or hunt for gems at Scratch Patch and mineral world.


WATERFRONT WITH VICTORIA WHARF MALL IN THE BACKGROUND



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Find also... ARCHITECTCAPETOWN with more on 3-day historical itinerary of Franschhoek town. You may also enjoy... TOP-ARCHITECTS for more about the Characteristics of Cape Dutch architecture. Click on CAPETOWNSPLENDOUR for the full history of Cape Dutch Architecture.