The Cape of Good Hope section of the Cape Peninsula National Park, offers some of the finest walking in the Cape. Seldom as steep, and certainly never rising to the height of Table Mountain, nevertheless, the fynbos, the views, the terrain, all offer a fantastic day out.

My favourite full day hike includes a combination of beach, cliff and mountain walking. Thus combining to give the hiker, the best of all Cape Point has to offer.

Starting at Platboom, a small path leads along the top of the dunes, towards Cape Point. At Pegrams cottage the path leads to the shore, and eventually peters out, so you just follow the shore line towards the Cape of Good Hope. Although flat this section is quite hard going over rocks,and on sand. I recommend an early start as for the last 2 km, the road is close by, so later in the day, “civilisation” can begin to indrude upon your solitude.

From Platboom, towards Cape Point

 Once at the Cape of Good Hope, you follow the path up the to the cliff tops. Here a stop to look at the view and take a photograph, is a must.

The cliffs at Cape Maclear

 The path now leads along the cliff tops,  to the steep steps leading down to Dias Beach. It is well worth the effort to go down to the beach, and have an early lunch, or midmorning snack, on the rocks.

Dias beach

Back on the cliff path a gentle climb brings you to the funicular railway and 2 Oceans restuarant. The energetic, can add an hour to their walk, by following the road to the old lighthouse. Otherwise cross the car park and head up towards the path towards Vasco Da Gama Peak. Now on the False Bay side of the point, the path leads up to the highest point of 266m, and continues along a “knife edge” path, with steep drops into the sea below.

Up and over the Peak, you find yourself crossing the main road, and back on the Atlantic side. A final few kilometres along the dunes, returns you to Platboom and your car.

Vasco Da Gama PeakFrom Vasco Da Gama Peak

The view towards Simons Town from Vasco Da Game Peak