ATTRACTIONS
Hiking Trails Near Camps Bay Retreat
Lion's Head
Perhaps the most famous Cape Town hiking trail, the trail up Lion’s Head is popular for good reason. The trail to the top of the mountain is not too strenuous, which means that hikers of any level will be able to conquer the Lion. The hike to the top is one of the most rewarding in and around Cape Town, as the summit offers expansive views of the Atlantic Seaboard and the Mother City herself.
Pipe Track on Kloofnek
Nestled between the top of Kloofnek Road and Camps Bay, Pipe Track is a more treacherous track - but a must for those who love a hiking or trail running challenge.
Named after a pipe track that carried water from Disa Gorge to Camps Bay in the 1800s, this beautiful track is intricate and challenging, yet rewarding. It offers stunning views, lush, indigenous fynbos and an abundance of ups-and-downs. The trail can be done in about two hours and starts at the junction between Kloofnek Road and Tafelberg Road.
Platteklip Gorge
The most renowned of the Table Mountain hiking trails, Platteklip Gorge is an absolute gem - and it's easy to see why it is a local favourite.
The trail is more strenuous than others, and there is some proper hiking involved. However, this should not deter you from tackling this beautiful hiking trail. The trail starts at Tafelberg Road, close to the cableway station. The hike is smooth but steep, and doesn’t offer much shade on the way up, which is why this hike is recommended in cooler months.
It takes between two to three hours to reach the summit of Table Mountain, and once you’re up there you will be rewarded with stunning views of Table Bay, the harbour, and Cape Town city bowl.
Kasteelpoort
One of the most beautiful routes up Table Mountain, Kasteelpoort treats hikers to stunning views, beautiful, natural fauna and flora as well as passing by the site of the old cable car cableway.
The Kasteelpoort hike is strenuous, but not so much so that only seasoned hikers will be able to take it on. It takes you up the Twelve Apostle side of Table Mountain, gifting you with breathtaking views of Camps Bay and surrounds and the never-ending, far-stretching Atlantic Ocean.
The hike lasts about 3 hours, but it can be done in more or less time. Remember to pack sunscreen and hats - even in the colder months - as this route does not offer a lot of shade.
