CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

Justin Hawthorne

The busy month of February had numerous highlights off the mountain, and plenty happening on it as well. Red Disa orchids were blooming, joined by the Yellow and Blue Disa orchids too, and the emergance of South Africa’s national flower, the King Protea.

King Protea in flower on Table Mountain.

A Table Mountain upper plataeu hike with Katherine got us walking the minor tracks that I don’t often guide on – all about getting to unique and interesting spots. Along the way we caught sight of a magnificent King Protea which had just come into flower and the thick cloud on top ofthe mountain created the perfect composition. A fast hike back to the Western Table ensured we caught the last car down with Table Mountain Aerial Cableway.

Stunning view over Camp’s Bay.

Another Table Mountain summit evening had us enjoying a summer evening up in thick cloud, picknicking on the rim. We hung about in the wifi lounge after sunset, waiting for the queue to dissipate and by doing so it ensured that we caught a moment when the cloud parted and we had the most incredible view over Camp’s Bay!

Golden hour light over Kalk Bay.

Sunrise hikes are a big favourite – nothing quite like sitting on a mountain peak, sipping on steaming coffee while watching the sky light up. It gets your day off to a great start.

The turquoise water, coupled with the golden light made for an incredible sight!

Chapman’s Peak Drive is definitely a go-to for winding down your day. Always epic views, and endless possibilities in terms of spots to take it all in from. In this case we chose a viewspot with walking access only, and the result shows for itself!

The month had other highlights, when we (Table Mountain Treks and Tours) took Love Cape Town on a hike at Silvermine – our playground. The write up can be seen here: It was a super windy day, but hey, this was summer in Cape Town and we all know about the Cape Doctor!

A lowlight occured in late February when while guiding on Table Mountain we discovered a mountain fatality. A situation not wished upon anyone, but it was a sobering reminder to respect the Mountain.

*A monthly series of four highlights from my work and play, shared via all social platforms.