Hiking to the lighthouses of Cape

Point

Some of the best hiking in the Table Mountain National Park is to be found in Cape Point. This rugged stretch of coastline with towering cliffs and raging seas has a variety of hikes from gentle and isolated strolls to tough long day hikes. Whichever hike you choose to do it is worth incorporating a visit to the lighthouses at Cape Point itself into your day. Although a little crowded during season the history of the lighthouses and the views from both are well worth it.

The view of the old lighthouse and the road leading to it from Vasco Da Game Peak

The view of the old lighthouse and the road leading to it from Vasco Da Game Peak

To get there enter Cape Point and follow the road that leads through the reserve right to the end. (+/- 40 minute drive) At the end of the road is a large car park, shops, restuarant etc. Park in the main area and follow the cement road leading towards the lighthouse which is clearly visible above you. The earlier you can be here the better to avoid the crowds. This road takes you steeply up hill for about 20 minutes. Regular stops to enjoy the views of the Cape of Good Hope and Diaz beach are a must.

The Cape of Good Hope and Diaz Beach from the viewpoint at the old lighthouse

The Cape of Good Hope and Diaz Beach from the viewpoint at the old lighthouse

 After the first 15 minutes up hill take the detour to some look out points overlooking the new lighthouse. Here the cormorants wheeling in the wind and nesting on the cliffs below are mesmorising. Continue up the hill to the old lighthouse. This was built in 1857 and is 238m above sea level. At first sight it seems the ideal place to have placed it, however its altitude meant that is was frequently shrouded in cloud and thus not visible to shipping passing in bad weather.

 

The Old lighthouse at Cape Point

The Old lighthouse at Cape Point

Whislt many people make the trek to the old Lighthouse. (there is even a funicular railway for those unable to walk the whole distance) very few follow the path to the new light house. This is situated some 100m below the old one and getting there involves a further half hour walk on a small path overlooking the False Bay side of the Peninsula. To get to this path you retrace your steps down the final flight of stairs to the old lighthouse and take the gate that passes the old lighthouse keepers cottages. Follow the path through a gate on your right and follow the path. It leads down initially and then levels out to lead you along the cliffs to the look out point. (Access to the new lighthouse is not allowed). From here during nesting season you can actually see the cormorant chicks on their nests on the cliffs.

The new lighthouse as seen from the old lighthouse

The new lighthouse as seen from the old lighthouse

 Retrace your steps and return to you car. This entire hike should have taken you around 2 hours. There are a number of routes you can now take away from the crowds and into the pristine fynbos of the area.

 https://www.ridgwayramblers.co.za/index.php/hiking-options/walks-at-cape-point/