If you are looking to soak in some of the city’s best views, dabble in adventure or indulge in unique food pairings, then the Helderberg region is worth exploring.
Here are five things you need to do when you explore the Helderberg Region:
Plan a Beach Day
Helderberg has some of the most beautiful beaches in Cape Town. Strand Beach is a popular choice for families with its calm, warm waters and soft sand. Kogel Bay Beach in Sir Lowry’s Pass is ideal for surfing and for those who want privacy. Bikini Beach in Gordon’s Bay boasts crystal-clear waters, panoramic views of the mountain and is one of Cape Town’s six Blue Flag Beaches.
Where:
Strand Beach: Strand, Cape Town
Kogel Bay Beach: Helderberg Rural, Sir Lowry’s Pass
Bikini Beach: Gordon’s Bay, Cape Town
Price: Free
Visit the Helderberg Nature Reserve
The reserve is a paradise for nature enthusiasts, showcasing breathtaking views, dramatic mountains, and hiking and biking trails. Here, you can marvel at a variety of wildlife, including baboons, zebras, and antelopes.
Where: Verster Ave, Helderberg Nature Reserve, Cape Town
Price: From R30
Opening Times: 07:30am -7pm
Website: https://helderbergnaturereserve.co.za/
Sip some of the best wines in the region
Spend a day, or book a weekend stay, at some of the region’s many award-winning wine farms. These farms offer guests wine tastings and pairings, cellar tours, and adventure activities. Some of the most popular wine farms in the area include Vergelegen, Lourensford, and Morganster.
Where: All three wine estates are located at Lourensford Rd, Somerset West
Price: From R85 upwards
Opening Times: 8:30am to 6pm
Websites:
Morganster – https://morgensterestate.co.za/
Lourensford – https://lourensford.co.za/
Vergelegen – https://vergelegen.co.za/
Go clay pigeon shooting
Get your heart racing when you dabble in clay pigeon shooting with Clay Pigeon Adventures. With the guidance of a professional, travellers get to shoot a flying clay target in a picturesque setting. There are various packages named after Hollywood movies, including Rambo, The Bond, Terminator, and Jason Bourne.
Where: Lourensford Rd, Somerset West
Price: From R500
Opening Times: 10am to 4pm
Website: www.clayad.co.za/
Visit the Historic Kramat
The Kramat of Sheikh Yusuf Al-Makassari in Macassar is a symbol of resilience and perseverance. Thousands of travellers and locals visit this attraction to hear about the story of Sheikh Yusuf who was exiled to Cape Town from the east by the Dutch in the 17th century.
Sheikh Yusuf is regarded by many, as the founder of the Islamic faith in the Cape and South Africa. Many tour operators like Halal Hopper also offer tours here.
Where: Kramat Rd, Macassar, 7130
Price: Free, but a cost will apply if you book a tour operator
Website: If you opt for a tour, check out Halaal Hopper at halaalhopper.wordpress.com/
