Spectacular trails and scenery right on your doorstep

Cape Town is an outdoor playground and has a lot to offer in terms of staying fit and enjoying nature. The great weather and beautiful scenery make outdoor exercise particularly enjoyable. One of the things that make Cape Town so unique is its proximity to nature. Table Mountain National Park is easily accessible from almost anywhere in the city, and is a great destination for spectacular pre or post-work hikes, trail runs, and epic weekend mountain adventures. There are hundreds of different trails to explore, all with spectacular views of the city, oceans, and mountains. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us for advice and recommendations as are more than happy to share our knowledge, recommendations, and tried and tested Strava routes!

Trail Running

As a visitor, the most practical approach to enjoying the city’s trails is to join one of the numerous local running groups. This not only ensures safety but also facilitates the opportunity to forge new connections with local Capetonians. Given the unmarked nature of the trails, running solo is discouraged as self-navigation can be challenging. Running in groups is always advised, as it adds a layer of security and is helpful in the event of an emergency.

We recommend the following Trail Running Groups in Cape Town:

1. Tuesday Trails: Weekly 6 pm Tuesday run for men & women
2. Chicks Who Trail: Weekly Thursday post-work runs
3. Trail Running in Cape Town: News & events
4. Run Social: Every Thursday and Saturday

Road Running

There are some spectacular road runs in Cape Town, and if hitting the tar is your thing be sure to explore the following routes:

1. Running from your doorstep: If you’re based in Observatory and prefer to kick off your run close to home, we recommend running along the Liesbeek River path towards Rosebank. A loop around the Rondebosch Common will clock in at around 9 kilometers. For those with a thirst for more distance, venture further along Campground Road into the Southern Suburbs of Rondebosch and Claremont. Please note, that we advise against running in the opposite direction, leading towards the city via Salt River and Woodstock.
2. The Sea Point Promenade: A spectacular and flat run along the trendy promenade with beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean, particularly at sunset. If you’re eager to extend your mileage and add a touch of elevation, consider running towards Camps Bay or even the picturesque Llandudno.
3. Chapmans Peak Drive: This is a spectacular run that starts in Hout Bay and provides breathtaking views of the ocean, mountains, and the suburb of Hout Bay below. It’s either up or down on this route, so be prepared for a long climb followed by a long descent.
4. The Cable Way: This run starts on Cable Way Road at the cable car station and provides spectacular views of the city below and the mountains above the trail.

Hiking

Hiking in Cape Town offers breathtaking natural beauty and a variety of trails to suit hikers of all skill levels. The city is surrounded by stunning landscapes, providing a diverse range of hiking experiences. Here are some popular hiking destinations in and around Cape Town:

1. 1. Table Mountain: Various routes, including Platteklip Gorge, Skeleton Gorge, and India Venster, provide stunning views of the city and ocean.
   2. Lion’s Head: A relatively short but steep hike offering panoramic views of Cape Town and the surrounding coastline.
   3. Chapman’s Peak Hike: A scenic hike along Chapman’s Peak Drive with breathtaking views of Hout Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.
   4. Cape Point: Trails within the Cape Point Nature Reserve take you through fynbos and along the rugged coastline, ending at the Cape Point lighthouse.
   5. Silvermine Nature Reserve: Several trails are suitable for various skill levels in the Table Mountain National Park.
   6. Kalk Bay Amphitheatre: A beautiful coastal hike offering scenic views of Kalk Bay and False Bay.
   7. Elephant’s Eye Cave: A moderate hike that leads to a cave with stunning panoramic views over the southern suburbs of Cape Town.
   8. Skeleton Gorge to Maclear’s Beacon: A challenging but rewarding route to the highest point on Table Mountain, Maclear’s Beacon.
   9. Constantia Greenbelt: A network of trails through the leafy suburb of Constantia, offering a peaceful escape.

When hiking in Cape Town, it’s essential to be prepared for changing weather conditions. Never hike alone, and bring enough water, wear appropriate clothing and sunscreen, and check the weather forecast before setting out. Additionally, consider your fitness level and the difficulty of the trail you choose, and let someone know your plans or hike with a group for safety.