With the Easter holidays soon upon us, it is time again to plunder our beautiful city for some enjoyable and stimulating activities. That they are free of a charge is a welcome bonus!
Company Gardens – this luscious, green enclave, bordered by the hustle and bustle of the city centre, always comes as a beautiful surprise. Peaceful and tranquil, it is perfect for relaxing during your lunch hour, or taking a leisurely stroll amongst the indigenous plants in between shopping and galleries.
Iziko Museums – free days. These are usually, and rather usefully, on Public Holidays. Wonderful diversity, including Iziko South African Museum, Iziko Planetarium, Iziko Bo-Kaap Museum and Iziko Rust en Vreugd and Iziko Slave Lodge.
St. George’s Choir – combine a visit to this fine, Herbert-Baker designed cathedral with listening to a beautiful choral rendition.
The Beach – Cape Town’s beaches and its coastline are amongst the most pristine and audaciously beautiful in the world! More local are Clifton 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th; and Camps Bay. This is not, of course, an exhaustive list. Check online with regard to dog friendliness.
Sea Point Prom – the outdoors gym. You can forget costly membership fees, as this is entirely FREE, and you get a glorious view of the ocean to boot!
Star gazing – ever wondered why Obs is called Obs?
Observatory – enjoy talks, tours and even star gazing. www.saao.ac.za
Table Mountain – in addition to an infinite number of glorious hikes, climb the famous peak between Table Mountain and Signal Hill, Lion’s Head, before sunset and as the moon is waxing. The breathtaking views can be enhanced by a picnic and sundowner.
Centre for the Book
This unit of the National Library of South Africa promotes literacy in all the local languages. There are a host of activities including poetry readings, writing workshops and reading groups.
www.nlsa.ac.za
Greenmarket Square – right in the heart of the CBD, Greenmarket Square has had multiple incarnations, as a slave market, a fruit and vegetable market, a parking lot, and now the ‘go to’ place for curios, fabrics, sunglasses. any number of goods with a particular African flair, and good old banter! Whilst browsing, enjoy the plethora of buskers, musicians and street artists, particularly at weekends and during the tourist season.
Written by Carrie Turner
