There’s nothing more primal than cooking meat over a fire – and there are few things more satisfying. Here in South Africa, the braai is a national past-time, and if we had to have a national smell you can bet it would be that unmistakable aroma of boerewors sizzling over the coals.
Cape Town has no shortage of suitable braai spots. We’ve rounded up the finest places around the city to celebrate National Heritage Day this Sunday.
Silvermine Dam, Table Mountain National Park
Located at the top of Ou Kaapse Weg and part of the Table Mountain National Park, this popular braai spot is a hit for locals during the warmer months. Silvermine’s large dam offers visitors the oppurtunity to have a refreshing swim while you wait for the coals to be ready.
Newlands Forest
For a peaceful setting under pine trees well over 100 years old, Newlands Forest is the place to get your braai on. The eastern slopes of Table Mountain, where this spot is located, finds itself perfectly sheltered from the south-easterly gales which the Cape is so famous for.
Oudekraal, Camps Bay
Oudekraal, a braai-friendly beach spot located roughly between Camps Bay and Llandudno, has the perfect backdrop for those who wish to celebrate National Braai Day with a seaside setting. Fantastic views of Lion’s Head and the Twelve Apostles are visible while you gather around the fire in the warm afternoon sun.
Kogel Bay
Kogel Bay is an exquisite beach on the far side of False Bay, nestled on the coastline between Gordon’s Bay and Rooi Els. Kogel Bay Resort offers braai-making facilities with unparalleled views of the bay. This is one of the finest places in Cape Town to watch a lingering sunset and unplug in a rugged seaside locale.
Tokai Forest
Another tranquil braai environment under towering pine and exotic trees, Tokai Forest is a firm favourite for not only braai and picnic enthusiasts, but for hikers too. The area is a paradise for outdoor-lovers with its numerous hiking and MTB trails, but it’s the braai element we’re after and even before you enter the forest gate, you’re greeted with a haze of braai smoke wafting through the pines.
Wynberg Park
One of the most well-known public braai areas in Cape Town, Wynberg Park, with its landscaped surrounds and plenty of shade provided from oak trees, lends to a picturesque setting where families have been enjoying braais and picnics for generations.
Featured Photography Unsplash / Highbury Media