Unparalleled views of the city and peninsula, including Cape Town's bustling harbour and pristine beaches, can be enjoyed from the summit of the majestic Table Mountain. Home to more than 8500 species of flora, Table mountain was declared a National Park in May 1998. Two cable cars carry passengers to the summit, their revolving floors providing full 360 degree views of Lion's Head, the city and Camp's Bay.

A wealth of sightseeing, entertainment and shopping venues are just waiting to be explored. From old-style markets to sophisticated malls, Cape Town throbs with activity. This is a truly cosmopolitan city from its markets, cafes and active nightlife to its galleries, book stores and museums.

Cape Town displays a rich cultural diversity of English, Dutch and Malay influence which is evident in its architecture, fashion and customs. The city's 18-century history meets the present in a montage of the modern and the traditional. Visit the first mosque in South Africa located on the cobbled streets of Bo-Kaap or explore the Castle of Good Hope, the oldest surviving building in South Africa.

The Victoria and Alfred Waterfront is one the most successful developments of its kind in the world. An entertainment Mecca and working harbour, it offers everything from fine restaurants and stylish shops to hotels, cinemas and live music venues. The Two Oceans Aquarium, an international marine zoo, is a must-see attraction for any visitor to the city.

Robben Island, originally a victualling station and later an asylum and leper colony, became famous as a prison for those considered dangerous to the old South African regime. The island's most famous prisoner, President Nelson Mandela, was imprisoned for more than twenty years on the island. Robben Island, now a National Monument, is reached via a 45 minute boat ride from the V&A Waterfront.

The Cape Peninsula provides an endless coastline of superb beaches and sheltered bays. Sun-bathers relax on the white-sand beaches of Camp's Bay while surfers are offered the wild beauty of Noordhoek Beach. North of the city, one finds Bloubergstrand, with its world-famous view across Table Bay to Table Mountain.

The Cape's natural beauty is world famous. This is one of the richest floral kingdoms in the world, home to thousands of plant species, some of which are found nowhere else on earth. The best way to discover this beauty is on one of the numerous walks and climbs. Of the most scenic, a climb to the summit of Table Mountain, is best taken with a guide or someone familiar with the various routes.

Inland are the many towns of the Winelands including Paarl, Somerset West and Stellenbosch. The grape vines and orchards nestled in the Boland mountains are within 45 minutes drive of Cape Town. Admire the sunsets and enjoy the wine, food, art and culture of the various cosmopolitan towns in the region. The wine route is an unforgettable experience and is not to be missed.

For in-depth details on where to stay, where to eat and things to do while in Cape Town, please visit the various links at the top of this page. As this accommodation and leisure guide grows, we will be adding details on car-rental, shopping, Cape Town's nightlife, special events and more...

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