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19 September, 2023
Here comes the sun… make the most of summer in Cape Town
The Silo Hotel
The joys of summer
The first signs of the coming summer are already on show in Cape Town, which means it’s time to start planning your next trip to the Mother City. South Africa’s most vibrant city is a wonderful destination at any time of year (it was recently voted the ‘Best City in the World’ at the 2023 Telegraph Travel Awards), but it really comes into its own in summer.
If you’ve been to Cape Town, you’ll know it boasts an iconic location between Table Mountain and the ocean, and scenery ranging from golden beaches to rugged mountains. The city has a vibrant arts scene, and is often described as heaven for foodies. The Western Cape region is renowned for its produce, seafood – and most of all, its wine.
There’s more than enough to keep you entertained in the city itself, and then of course there are the Winelands, fynbos, mountains and beaches beyond.
In summer, Cape Town is blessed with wall-to-wall sunshine, and long, balmy evenings that are just made for al fresco dining and beach walks. However, you like to enjoy your time off, Cape Town has something for everyone, and it’s at its most magical in summer.
Here’s our guide to the best things to do in Cape Town this summer:
Pictured: Table Mountain by Oscar Orpen
Beaches
Summer in Cape Town is all about those perfect curves of sand… hang out with the beautiful people while you work on your tan, or head out to sea on a stand-up paddle board or surfboard. Boat cruises let you enjoy the sea air as well as spectacular views of the Cape Peninsula, while the oceans are alive with wildlife, including dolphins and migrating whales.
Winelands
The valleys and hills around Cape Town are home to some of the world’s most beautiful vineyards, which in turn produce wines ranging from easy everyday drinking to simply spectacular. A chauffeur-driven tour of the Cape Winelands is a treat for all the senses – many of the wine estates offer wine tastings (often paired with artisanal cheeses and other delicacies), as well as some of the region’s finest restaurants.
Pictured: Clifton Beach
Sunsets
Sunsets come rather later in Cape Town than in the rest of South Africa – sometimes as late as 8:30 or 9pm. But trust us, they are worth the wait! The combination of ocean and mountains makes for some spectacular iridescent ends to the day, with watching the sunset from Table Mountain being particularly worth watching, as the ocean glows and shadows creep across the City Bowl, with the lights twinkling from apartments, bars and restaurants.
Hiking
If you prefer a more active vacation, Cape Town is a hiker’s paradise. Some of the trails start from within the city itself, and the views from peaks such as the iconic Lion’s Head are literally breathtaking.
Pictured: Lion’s Head Hike
Markets
For a more leisurely walk, stroll around Cape Town’s many markets for the opportunity to sample local delicacies, enjoy a food truck lunch, or find unique gifts and mementoes of your time in the Mother City. Our favourites include the Oranjezicht City Farm Market (OZCFM) for food, Greenmarket Square for curios, and the Neighbourgoods Market for organic produce. The markets are also great for people-watching!
Kirstenbosch
If you’re a gardener or Nature enthusiast, you will love the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. Nestled on the slopes of Table Mountain, this is a giant garden that amply rewards a meander. Kirstenbosch is also a great place to learn more about the indigenous fynbos vegetation.
Pictured: Oranjezicht City Farm Market
Peninsula Tours
Jutting out into the Atlantic, the long, rugged figure of the Cape Peninsula is rich in history, scenery and spectacular sea views. Visit iconic locations including the Cape Point Lighthouse, and the naval port of Simon’s Town, with the must-visit Boulders beach with its resident penguin colony.
Escape to the Cape
During your stay at The Silo Hotel, chat to our Concierge Team for advice on the best ways to make the most of your summer stay in Cape Town: concierge@thesilohotel.com
Pictured: Boulders beach by Oscar Orpen
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Art & Culture
The experience at The Silo Hotel is focused on the art, food and culture of Cape Town while celebrating the exquisite natural beauty of South Africa’s Mother City.
The Silo Spa
An oasis of peace and relaxation offering a regenerative journey towards healing your physical and spiritual well-being.
Cape Town
Surrounded by dramatic mountains and sandy beaches, Cape Town is certainly one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
Art & Culture
The experience at The Silo Hotel is focused on the art, food and culture of Cape Town while celebrating the exquisite natural beauty of South Africa’s Mother City.
The Silo Spa
An oasis of peace and relaxation offering a regenerative journey towards healing your physical and spiritual well-being.
Cape Town
Surrounded by dramatic mountains and sandy beaches, Cape Town is certainly one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
Art & Culture
The experience at The Silo Hotel is focused on the art, food and culture of Cape Town while celebrating the exquisite natural beauty of South Africa’s Mother City.