Cape Town - As many dog owners may know, the by-laws concerning dogs on the beach are being reconsidered by the City of Cape Town. While matters are in a state of flux, you may want to seek out other areas where you know you are allowed – and welcomed – to play with your pooch.
All the areas listed below are free, no Wild card or other access payment is needed, and they’re relatively easy to get to. Just remember, the usual socially acceptable rules apply – bring a doggy bag to scoop up poop, and don’t let your dog spoil anybody else’s fun. This week, Beatrix Goes Green.
Alphen Trail, Constantia
When we set off on the Alphen Trail last weekend, we were greeted by a very light drizzle as we got out of the Landy. But hey – raincoats are for sissies (especially dog raincoats – we’ve seen them), and the path was beckoning. The start of the walk is just off Alphen Drive – there’s a signpost, so you’ll have no trouble finding your way. Cross a small bridge and then it’s off into the woods, with a gentle stream trickling on one side and a bower of leafy branches overhead. It’s clearly a popular walk and we met many, many dogs of all sizes, including an Italian Spinone, which was quite a rare sight and cause for a quick “ciao” nose rub. We also saw a horse – our first! – and were not quite sure what to do. Basically, its head was bigger than a Boston Terrier body, not to mention those legs that soared up like a stairway to heaven. We settled on staring – a little bit in awe.
The Alphen Trail is around a 20/25 minute loop, but you can go further and explore the Diep River Trail, which is an extension. By the time we had finished the basic loop, which is flattish most of the way, the sun was out and dappling through the trees. A quick drink from the stream and we were ready to jump back in the Landy. Mission accomplished.
Also in this area, a friend recommended the Silverhurst Trail, which starts opposite Peddlars on the Bend on the Spaanschemat Road. She said there’s a beautiful path which runs alongside the Silverhurst Estate and is lined with lush trees and plants. There’s also a stream. We’re going to try it next weekend.
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Great for a pretty walk through lovely big trees. It’s easy on the legs (especially horses, but even short Boston ones) and all the dogs we met were very well behaved and friendly.
Zandvlei, Muizenberg
The Zandvlei Estuary Nature Reserve is a 300 hectare wetland, river system and estuary that empties into the sea at Muizenberg. There’s a whole lot of space for activities within this eco-system, including yachting, picnicking and bird watching, but we like to walk in the area that’s predominantly a dog zone. We follow the bank of the vlei on the Marine Estate side, with Muizenberg Mountain looming above. (The Zandvlei Caravan Park is also on this side). What we LOVE about this area is that when the tide is low we can splash for ages in the clear shallows, and even terrorise tiny fish if we’re feeling fierce like a Direwolf from Game of Thrones. What’s magical is that there is a flock of flamingos which regularly hang out, doing weird disco steps to churn up snacks in the mud. And what’s fabulous are the names you hear people calling their dogs – this is Muizenberg, after all, where the percentage of bohemians, surfers, artists and writers is somewhat higher than elsewhere. We’ve heard “Banjo”, “Kelly”, “Virginia”, “Dali” and “Marley”. Beatrix fits right in.
Oh, and she met her BEST FRIEND EVER here on the vlei. Chilli the Chihuahua. Say no more... The only downside is that most people don’t pick up their dog poos. Which can be pretty unpleasant at times.
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Perfect for running, splashing and chasing balls off the leash and in safety. Just a pity about those people who don’t bring doggy bags.
De Waal Park, Gardens
Flanked by Upper Orange, Camp and Molteno roads, De Waal Park has long been a dog-friendly institution in Cape Town. Enclosed on all sides, with a kid’s playground, fountain and even a bandstand, it’s a very safe and social space for humans and canines alike. We’ve had picnics here, most memorably being when Beatrix was a puppy and entranced seven adoring children, who sat in a circle and handed her around like a game of Pass the Parcel. It’s generally a mellow spot, but we keep an eye out for larger, more boisterous dogs. They can get kind of busy.
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In summertime the Friends of De Waal Park host live music concerts – possibly the only place in town where you can bring your dog to an outdoor gig.
The Sea Point Promenade, Sea Point
Stretching along the seaside from the public swimming pool right down past the Mouillie Point lighthouse, there’s loads of space to exercise on this popular promenade. Serious sporty types (humans and dogs) make use of the paved path to stretch their legs, while others stroll, sit, push babies in prams and enjoy snacks on the green grass. It’s wheelchair friendly, family-friendly, and so spread out you’re never in anybody’s way. Sunset, when the sky flames orange and pink and the sea releases a kelpy perfume, is a special time.
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We really appreciate the dog water fountains dotted along the way. Confession: sometimes we even bathe in the bowl.
Cape Times