They say an apple a day keeps the doctor away, while we here at Cape Town ETC believe a peaceful stroll along one of Cape Town’s many pathways can have the same effect. Not only does it provide some much needed exercise, but starting your day off with a stroll in nature is also an effective way to clear your mind and prepare it for the day ahead.
To ensure that you always start your day off the right way, we have gathered a list of some of the best pathways and trails around Cape Town for you to explore!
1- Lions Head Pathway
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Lions Head might seem like a daunting trail when looking at from afar, but don’t let this discourage you. Many Capetonians often take to this trail each morning to start off their day, and they’re still able to make it to work on time. The trail is primarily used for hiking and walking and is accessible year-round, and best of all, our K9 friends are also able to use this trail!
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The Green Point Urban Park is easily a favourite for Capetonians all around the city. The park opens at 7am, so there should be more than enough time to complete a lap before you have to start your day. And with the majestic table mountain in one direction, and a refreshing ocean breeze coming from the other direction, this is easily one of the best ways to start your day.
Cape Summer Trail Series 1
Run past a fragrance garden, onto Cecilia Forest along the contour path, back into the gardens, through the #magical cycad forest & onto the #festive finish
when: 15 Jan
where: @KirstenboschNBG
km: 5.8 & 10@wildrunnerza #trail https://t.co/WxlSfoULLX pic.twitter.com/lHxW5cKf6Y— Capestop.co.za (@capestop) January 10, 2019
The Cecilia Contour Path is a section of the Table Mountain National Park on the lower eastern slopes of Table Mountain and has seemingly been made for hikers, joggers and those looking to get out in nature for a bit. The Cecilia Contour Path is around 7km long, but completing it is not essential, especially if you’re just going for a morning stroll. Almost the entire path is shaded, so you won’t have to worry about the sun beating down on you. It is also filled with pine and gum trees, so there is always something stunning to look at while you enjoy your morning stroll.
4- Lagoon Beach
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If there is one thing Capetonians love more than Table Mountain, it has to be one of the many picturesque beaches around the city, and Lagoon Beach is high up on that list. We can’t think of a better way to start your day than with the sand between your toes and the cool ocean breeze hitting cooling you off, especially on hot summer mornings. Best of all, the beach is relatively close to the city, so you’ll have enough time to enjoy a relaxing stroll before your day inevitably starts.
5- Constantia Nek to Kirstenbosch
Its #MountainMonday today – wind down after your day with a easy hike from Constantia Nek to Kirstenbosch. #CapeTown pic.twitter.com/akMSBnyuEb
— Travel Trunk Africa (@TravTrunkAfrica) August 15, 2016
Constantia Nek to Kirstenbosch is a point-to-point trail that features some of the best scenery you’re likely to come across from any location in this list. If you’re an early bird and often wake up before the sun is even up, you can complete the 6.0 kilometer trail with ease. Although much like the Cecilia Contour Path, completing it is not essential to get the full experience, as you’ll be surrounded by stunning floral life throughout your morning stroll.
Keep in mind that all the trails mentioned in this list are completely free to enter. Let us know which of these trails you would love to explore!
Picture: Pixabay