Cape Town - When planning a holiday in Cape Town, everyone thinks summer, sunshine and the beach – but there is so much to experience in and around this diverse city during the winter months.
Yes, the bustling, colourful city centre slows down a little bit, but that just makes it all the more appealing for those looking for great off-season deals, beautiful winter days and open tables in all their favourite restaurants.
Here are 5 reasons why you should visit Cape Town between May and September and make your base the Townhouse Hotel in the city centre:
1. Off season deals and specials
The tourist industry slows down a bit, presenting an ideal opportunity for locals to enjoy the off-season prices. Get more bang for your buck at Townhouse by extending your stay beyond two nights and getting a reduced rate for every night you’re there.
2. Museums and galleries
The city boasts many incredible museums, such as the Slave Lodge and District Six Museum, the South African Jewish Museum and the Castle of Good Hope. There are also a number of bespoke art galleries in the city that are well worth a visit.
3. A night at the theatre
Nothing beats dressing up and heading out for an evening of theatre entertainment, especially when it’s cold outside. The Townhouse Hotel is just a few minutes away from the Fugard Theatre, City Hall and the Artscape Centre, where a steady stream of international and local music, theatre, opera and ballet are hosted throughout the year.
4. Table Mountain hikes, runs and MTB trails
Of course, you cannot come to Cape Town without exploring Table Mountain. Named one of the world’s Seven Natural Wonders; this National Park is just a short trip from the City Bowl and winter’s milder weather offers the perfect opportunity to get outside and explore. May to September is “Cableway Kidz Season” where two kids ride the cable car for free with an adult, plus get some great added extras to enhance their experience. Take in the spectacular 1085m ride and explore the top of the mountain, before heading back to Trees Restaurant for a delicious, hearty meal prepared by their Michelin-star chef and his team.
5. Adventure sport perfection
Any surfer will tell you the waves are bigger in winter. For kite surfers, stand-up paddle boarders and kayakers, the combination of wind conditions and warmer sea temperatures makes May to September the best time to give these sports a try. Paragliding from Lion’s Head on a clear winter’s day, when the wind is calmer than in summer, is another must for extreme sport enthusiasts.
Adapted from a press release for IOL