South Africa - Cape Town - Kalk Bay

 

Wondering what to do or where to go when you have a few hours free one day?

Take a slow drive over Boyes Drive from Muizenberg to Kalk Bay. Boyes Drive was built in 1929. In bygone days goods would have been delivered to the Deep South by wagons. Then progress happened when the railway reached Muizenberg in 1833. Boyes Drive is only 7km long but it offers spectacular views over Muizenberg and the coastline beyond. There are stopping places if coming from Muizenberg side towards Kalk Bay - do stop and take in the sweeping views across the village, sea and the far distant mountains.

Kalk Bay Harbour is the place to people watch, buy fresh fish, enjoy the sea breeze, and wander down the quayside. The lighthouse, with its red and white stripes stands proudly at the end of the quay. It is a perfect spot for photos but beware in winter when the waves will come crashing over that wall! Waves can be huge and the "Cape of Storms" reputation is well renowned. 

Families, young fishermen, older folk all try their hand at catching that elusive fish from the harbour wall. Its a favourite pastime in Kalk Bay and it remains a great place to meet the locals of all shapes and sizes. Once known as a whaling station, now a thriving fishing port with many colourful boats, coming or going or just at rest over a week-end. 

With many restaurants in and around the harbour and in the village, you won't go hungry. Prices vary and will suit various pockets from the laid back Kalky's to the expensive Harbour House. 

The village itself is fascinating and an absolute must to view art & antique galleries, bookstores, quaint cafes, bric-a-brac shops, more restaurants, cobbled side streets and historic buildings.

It is no wonder that this "not so sleepy" anymore village has been named by Forbes Magazine as one of the coolest neighbourhoods in the world!

Based on various reports by Forbes and its features, here are some of the top-rated coolest neighborhoods around the world:

• "Kalk Bay (Cape Town, South Africa): Described as a vibrant seaside harbor neighborhood, it is known for its quaint cafes, quirky boutiques, and rustic charm.
• Seongsu-dong (Seoul, South Korea): Often referred to as the "Brooklyn of Seoul," this area is a hub for industrial-chic cafes and artist workshops.
• Plekhanov (Tbilisi, Georgia): Known for its restored historic buildings and merging of tradition with modern trendy spots.
• Getsemani (Cartagena, Colombia): A lively, artistic area known for its street art, colorful streets, and bustling nightlife.
• Amsterdam Noord (Amsterdam, Netherlands): A trendy former industrial area known for its industrial design, creative industries, and cafes.
• Pilsen (Chicago, USA): Known for its vibrant Mexican-American culture, colorful murals, and strong community focus.
• Keramikos (Athens, Greece): An ancient neighborhood turned into one of the city's trendiest spots for nightlife and dining.
• District 5 (Saigon, Vietnam): A historic area popular for its bustling markets and traditional Chinese medicine shops.
• Casco Viejo (Panama City, Panama): The historic district of Panama City, known for its mix of renovated homes, plazas, and rooftop bars.
• Arroios (Lisbon, Portugal): A multicultural, diverse neighborhood noted for its artistic, creative atmosphere. 

These neighborhoods were selected for their ability to offer a unique, local experience and their rapidly rising, trendsetting status"

Visit once, visit twice, visit many times - there is always something to see and do.

 

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                         For Accommodation Cape Town, South Africa

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South Africa - Paternoster - West Coast

Paternoster - West Coast - South Africa

 Paternoster remains one of the cutest and oldest villages along the West Coast of South Africa.

Originally a fishing village, one can still watch the boats come and go from the beach.

Be prepared to bargain with the fisherfolk as they come ashore with their daily catch of either crayfish or fish. Don't drive too hard a bargain - this is their living and its not an easy life.  

The vendors wander the lanes with the daily catch until all is sold or they take it home for dinner!

Just beware of buying under-sized crayfish!

The beach is one of the major attractions here - ideal for long runs or relaxed walking, the sand just goes on and on as far as the eye can see. The water is cold so swimming is for the hardy souls who enjoy the bracing cold water. 

Paternoster, along with many other towns along the West Coast, has expanded rapidly. With many homes as holiday houses, the week-end vibe is busy. You will hear the week-enders greeting their fellow week-enders in the supermarket and planning a braai or two. With hugs and smiles, it's fun to listen to them chatter like long-lost friends. 

Restaurants are plentiful so take a wander and choose what appeals at that moment. 

Just out of town on a gravel road you will find an outdoor restaurant and the entrance to Cape Columbine Nature Reserve and Tieties Bay. The lighthouse was the last manned lighthouse built in South Africa and it had light, fog signal and radio beacon simultaneously in 1936. There is a camping area that is very popular and the name is apparently for the 2 hills that look like breasts when seen from offshore! 

The hiking path wanders along the shoreline and fishermen can often be seen fishing off the rocks.

Horse rides along this beautiful beach are available as are kayaks. The shops are cute and beg to be explored. The Panty Bar at the Paternoster Hotel is legendary! Just outside of town is the Paternoster Brewery - a must for beer lovers.

An ideal week-end getaway!

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                For Accommodation Cape Town, South Africa

                                  www.bradclin.com