Visiting Cape Town With Kids

• 1

  The Vineyard Hotel

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  I always stayed at the Vineyard when I visited Cape Town. Its on the land facing side of the mountain so its leafy-botanical garden not sea-and-beach. However, its privately owned, brilliantly run and nestled in at the foot of table mountain. There is an enclosed full service pool and once the kids are in the front gate the can only get lost in the sprawling ground and not outside.

• 2

  Franschhoek

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  Franschhoek is my favorite wine growing region only 45 minutes drive outside Cape Town. You cannot come to Cape Town and not go here! It has a fascinating history as it was founded by the French Huegenots and you will see that plenty of French influence remains. It is completely different to Sonoma and Napa so don't fall into the trap that if you've been there you do not need to go here!

  
  

  I would recommend staying for one or two nights. There are plenty of up-market Inns and Cottages to accommodate you. I last stayed at the Auberge Clermont which is on the outskirts of the town and was really awesome and reasonably priced. I have also stayed at Le Quartier Francais which has now become a must on the gastro tourist map so it has also got much more expensive. However, its still a lovely place and its right in the town.

  
  

  The Hotels will have all the information on the wine estates. Try to take in about 6 estates over the two days but don't miss La Motte and try to catch a dinner or lunch at their famous restaurant. 

  
  

  While you are in Franschhoek another must is lunch at La Petite Ferme, a restaurant owned and run by my old varsity friend Mark Denny Young. It is only open for lunch and you should pick a date and book right away because they are very popular. The idea here is not to rush your lunch. Simply sit back, enjoy some fabulous food and let the little rugrats run around on the huge lawn right in front of you. The restaurant has an amazing view over the valley with vineyards all around you. 

  
  

  When you make your way back to Cape Town swing by Warwick and Mark Lew to pick up your final stocks before leaving town. Both produce lovely wine and are next door neighbors. 
  
• 3

  Beaches

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    Llandudno Beach

  The Hippest Beaches would be the 4 Clifton beaches but with the kids I would recommend giving these a miss only because there are lots of stairs to negotiate to make your way down from the road to the beach. An easier choice is Camps Bay. However, in season i.e. December to March. The Beauty of Camps Bay is no secret so it can get a little congested. 

  
  

  Another quieter option in Llandudno, a beautiful clean quite beach nearer the Hout Bay side of the mountain.

  
  

  If people try to steer you towards Muizenburg, resist. Its a rustic fishing village type of place which sounds great but in reality its dirty, a little rundown and there are more interesting things to do.
• 4

  Jonkershuis

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    Jonkershuis

  Located on the Groot Constantia Estate, this place is worth a visit for lunch or tea. Its in suburbia Cape Town in Constantia and it has stunning views, rolling lawns and ancient oak trees. Jonkershuis was the residence of Simon Van der Stel, the first governor of the Cape of Good Hope.  Its a lovely area and is over 300 years old.

• 5

  Kirstenbosch Gardens

  If you are interested in Botany then be sure to spend half a day here at Kirstenbosch Gardens which is one of the most famous Botanical gardens in the world. Also check out the summer concert schedule as this is an amazing backdrop for some very civilized entertainment. Personally I would rather do Kirstenbosch this way than walk around for hours looking at plants.

• 6

  The Waterfront

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    V &A Waterfront

  The Waterfront is an area which is definitely good for a day. Yes it is a central, large shopping Mall but it is also full of restaurants, boats, music and generally festive. It also has a fantastic aquarium that the kids will just love.

• 7

  Chapman's Peak

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    Chapmans Peak

  There is a drive that you simply must do when you come to Cape Town. You can start off wherever you hotel is and then head for Chapman's Peak which is in Hout Bay. The locals will be able to direct you. This drive will take you right around the mountain and depending where you start can take about an hour but it is truly spectacular. Remember to take you camera and either go early morning or late afternoon. 

• 8

  The Mount Nelson

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  The Mount Nelson is an amazing uber luxury old colonial hotel right in Cape Town. I mention it mostly for the afternoon tea or "high tea". This is code for a fantastic huge feast of muffins, cakes and cream scones and all while lolling back over looking the lovely old pool surrounded by palm trees. 

• 9

  Table Mountain

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    Table Mountain

  If you are visiting Cape Town going up Table Mountain is a must do. Go early and allow for the best part of half a day. Take a jacket as it can get cold and windy up there even on a hot day.

• 10

  Safety Tips

  I have always felt safe in Cape Town but its not Conneticut or Surrey. Always be aware who is around you, don't wave your cameras etc around and don't let strangers help you at the ATM machine. Stay on the beaten path and be aware and you will be fine. 

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