When travelling to a place for the first time, it’s important to visit the well-known tourist spots at least once. One shouldn’t shy away from the experience just because it’s where the crowds like to gather. They are, after all, given the esteem and revered reputation for a reason.
Cape Town is brimming with an abundance of hidden gems, that discreetly chaperone the Big Urban Five, or the Top Blockbusters of the Town. Escorting you on a unique journey around the Mother City. Revealing more layers of the cultural diversity and what the residents and locals deem as something sacred to the Cape’s cosmopolis. We love a new discovery. A reacquaintance with an old friend that we used to frequent in its former years. Traversing the lesser-beaten tracks and sharing all of these hidden treasures with our guests. The places that show a different side of Cape Town. Giving you the opportunity to go out, seek, and discover an entirely new perspective of one of the most visited cities in the world. Connecting with the Mother City’s natural beauty and inimitable street culture.
We’ve compiled a list of little spots that showcase the personality of the Cape. From tranquil sunset spots that deliver magnificent views, to charming stores in the heart of the city. As well as a few health and wellness tips that should always be woven into your holistic holiday. Either a brief or scenic drive away from Labotessa’s front doors.
- Witness the sun heading west from Signal Hill’s magnificent sundowner spot situated in the gravel parking of the Kramat…unforgettable views and a quieter alternative to Camps Bay or the beaches of Clifton. Its sweeping vistas of the city and ocean are absolutely stunning at dusk.
- The look-out sunset cave on Chapman’s Peak Drive…as you explore the beautiful coastal drive south of Hout Bay, stop off at the sheltered sandstone cave that boasts magnificent views of the ocean and surrounding mountains.
- For a decent dose of film and storytelling culture, head to The Labia Theatre in the heart of Cape Town – just a 10-minute walk from Labotessa. An independent cinema that showcases both international blockbusters and cult classics, as well as local films and documentaries. Its laidback, vibrant interiors add to the inspiration.
- Visit Clarke’s Bookshop on Long Street, for an invitation into an enthralling literary world. What began as a secondhand book store in 1957, has evolved to a rich compendium of contemporary Southern African literature and International libraries. You could literally spend half a day in Clarke’s, perusing the shelves and flipping through the historical pages of this Cape Town treasure trove.
- The Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden for those that would like to meander around some extraordinary gardens whilst admiring the works of the esteemed South African artist, Dylan Lewis. This is situated just outside of Cape Town, in Stellenbosch.
- Take the steam train to Elgin and enjoy a relaxing railway ride through the Cape’s countryside. The three-and-a-half-hour journey to Elgin departs from the Foreshore and travels up and over Sir Lowry’s Pass – one of the steepest rail lines in South Africa – winding your way around the mountain, through the fynbos-covered hills, the apple and pear orchards, and all the way to the Steampunk Market in Elgin.
- For a moment of relaxation as well as reformative restoration after a long-haul flight or a day’s adventures that took its toll on your limbs, head to BODYROLL for a 45-minute session of lymphatic drainage massage and an infrared sauna. The best things you can do for yourself whilst travelling and moving and consuming. The health benefits are endless.
- Whilst we’re on the health train, another lovely nutrient-nurturer that Cape Town offers is IV Treatments – Intravenous Vitamin Therapy. One of the best way to revitalise on holiday, ensuring you absorb those necessary nutrients.
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