Day-to-day life in Cape Town can be busy and many of us get caught up in thinking about work, forgetting to pay attention to our significant others. Having regular dates is good for de-stressing, improves communication and strengthens relationships. Creating memories together through experiences has been proven to solidify a bond and keep the romance alive long-term.
Fortunately, Cape Town has no shortage of ideal date spots for any special occasion, be it a birthday, anniversary, Valentine’s Day, or even a surprise trip just for the fun of it.
Try these ideas for romantic experiences in the city, from sunrise to sunset:
Explore Cape Point
Cape Point is an ideal location for a couple’s retreat. With so much wide open space, even in tourist season, it can feel like it is just the two of you exploring the edge of the world.
Stroll along the walking paths, encountering a wide variety of flora along the way. Swim in the Buffels Bay tidal pool or enjoy a walk along the secluded Diaz beach. Visit the lighthouse and learn about the history of the site. Pack a picnic or utilise the designated braai areas. Or simply enjoy an intimate meal, oysters and all, at the Two Oceans Restaurant. If you do not think you will be able to tear yourself away, you and your love can even stay overnight at the Olifantsbos Guest House or the Eland and Duiker guest cottages; in the morning, you will be well-placed to get up early and enjoy one of the most amazing sunrises in the city.
Soar sky high
Love is truly in the air when you are soaring up high with your partner, looking down at the world beneath you.
Taking a trip in a hot air balloon is a bucket list activity for many, and you can do it right here in Cape Town with Wineland Ballooning. Take an exhilarating trip over the countryside to experience the Winelands scenery from an entirely new perspective, something you and your partner will remember forever. Departing from Paarl in the early morning, you will enjoy an exciting one-hour flight over vineyards, fields, mountains, dams, and homesteads, followed by a full hot breakfast back on solid ground.
This activity is weather dependent, so it is advised that you make a few days available to do it. You will find out early enough in the morning if you will be able to take the trip that day.
Wind down with wine
The Cape has wine tasting venues in every direction, be it Constantia, Noordhoek, the Northern Suburbs, the West Coast, or the well-known Paarl, Stellenbosch and Franschhoek regions among others.
Most estates have open tasting rooms, so it’s easy to make a day of it; just pick an area and head off to explore. This way, you might find yourself at beautiful vineyards you may never have heard of before ‒ in incredible underground cellars, caves, or overlooking stunning scenery. Of course, if you’d like to lunch at a well-known estate then booking ahead would be advised. Many wineries also offer food and wine-pairing experiences, featuring chocolate, cheese, biltong, macarons, cupcakes, or even pizza paired perfectly with selected wines.
Ride off into the sunset
What could be more romantic than horse riding along the beach? The picturesque Noordhoek Beach features 8km of soft white sand, beautiful views as far as the eye can see and even a shipwreck located on the shore.
Imhoff Equestrian Centre offers three guided rides along the beach daily, catering to a variety of ages (from 12 and up) and skill levels (from those who have never sat on a horse before to experienced riders).
No galloping is allowed on the beach, so expect a slow and scenic ride during which the experienced guides will share their knowledge of the local surroundings and wildlife.
Enjoy sensational sundowners
When was the last time you went to the top of Table Mountain? Pack a picnic and surprise your date with sundowners and snacks on top of one of the world’s New 7 Wonders of Nature.
The Table Mountain Aerial Cableway runs its Summer Sunset Special from 3 January until 28 February, offering half-price return tickets (R145 for adults or R72.50 for children) for locals from 6pm daily. Take advantage of the longer days and the discounted rate (provided you have a valid South African ID). Just don’t forget your camera to capture the special memories with your love, not to mention the truly spectacular scenery.
Picture: Pixabay