Most travel icons are man made whether structures or something else. For Cape Town’s icon we can thank nature, Table Mountain provide a dramatic backdrop to the city.

Table Mountain

It stands about 3,500 feet in height, as mountains go, quite modest, what makes it stand out is the broad level plateau nearly two miles wide. Another distinguishing feature is the cloud cover, caused as warm air hits and travels up the mountain side where it condenses, it gives the effect of a tablecloth covering the mountain top. Table Mountain is a very apt name.

Being so close to the metropolis, the mountain very popular with hikers and leisure seekers. If walking or climbing to the top is not your thing, there is the cable car. The gondolas rotate to give a 360° view during the 5 minute journey.

Click to find out more about the cable car

Close By

The Table Mountain National Park covers around 85 square miles, it is one of the world’s most important botanical areas. The Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden sits behind the mountain enjoying a spectacular location. The award winning garden of over 1,300 acres is home to many rare and endangered species.

If you want to relax after a long hike, Camps Bay is a good place to head for. Behind the beach of white sand there is no shortage of stylish bars, restaurants and shops to treat yourself.