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Start your journey at the Platteklip Gorge Starting Point—don’t be fooled by its quiet entrance. This is the gateway to Table Mountain’s secret soul. Wildflowers bloom beside the path, birds sing through the canopy, and the air hums with earth and green. Each bend holds a surprise. Each step brings freedom closer. Your adventure begins now.
This hotel is the perfect blend of family-friendly and business-ready! Located in the heart of Cape Town, just a 5-minute walk to Long Street, it offers indoor and outdoor pools and a sauna for relaxation. Treat yourself to spa massages and facial treatments, or enjoy 24-hour room service and French cuisine at the on-site restaurant. Traveling with kids? Children's meals and babysitting services have you covered. Business travelers will appreciate the meeting rooms and express check-in. With free WiFi and airport transfers, it’s ideal for both leisure and work!
This hotel is perfect for both family vacations and business trips! Located just a 5-minute walk from the Cape Town International Convention Centre, it offers free WiFi and an outdoor pool for relaxation. Families will love the childcare services and kids' meals. Enjoy a delightful meal at the North Wharf Restaurant or unwind at the bar, and don’t miss the barbecue option. With airport shuttle services, your stay will be hassle-free.
This hotel is a perfect getaway! Located in Cape Town's waterfront, just 5 minutes from the stadium and Long Street. Enjoy free WiFi, a 24-hour business center, and spa treatments to unwind. Hungry? The buffet restaurant offers local flavors, and the bar is perfect for a drink. Traveling with kids? They'll love the play area and mini-golf! Plus, with airport shuttle and luggage storage, your stay will be seamless and stress-free!
This hotel is a perfect getaway! Located in the heart of Cape Town, it's just steps away from bustling Bree Street and a short walk to Kloof Street. Enjoy spa treatments, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center, plus free WiFi and airport shuttle services. Love water sports? Try diving, snorkeling, or sailing. End your day with delicious meals at the restaurant or unwind at the bar. Don’t miss the daily free reception to mingle with fellow travelers!
Located in the heart of Cape Town, this waterfront hotel is just a 7-minute walk to the International Convention Centre and 11 minutes to Long Street. Enjoy the outdoor pool and fitness center, along with free WiFi and concierge services for a hassle-free stay. Don’t miss the AC Kitchen for delicious meals, or unwind at the bar with your favorite drink. Rooms are well-equipped with smart TVs and complimentary toiletries, plus a 24-hour airport shuttle for added convenience. Perfect for both business and leisure, this hotel has everything you need for a memorable trip!
Everything you need to know about Platteklip Gorge Starting Point
Table Mountain Lodge is ideal for hikers, located just a 5-minute walk from the Platteklip Gorge trailhead. The lodge offers self-catering rooms, 24-hour security, and complimentary parking with breakfast included. Early morning hikes provide panoramic views of Cape Town’s coastline and sunrise over Table Mountain. Additional services include guided hiking tours and outdoor gear rental, making it perfect for adventurers seeking authentic mountain experiences.
Take City Bus 102 or MyCiTi bus service from near the Platteklip Gorge trailhead to Table Bay Station, then transfer to the metro or taxi—about 30 minutes total. A taxi ride takes roughly 20 minutes, costing R80–120. Some hotels like Table Mountain Lodge offer complimentary shuttle services between the mountain and city center. Additionally, the Cape Town Airport Express provides convenient connections to downtown, enabling seamless multi-modal travel.
Beyond hiking the Table Mountain trail, visitors can join native flora guided walks to explore endemic species like Alpine flowers and fynbos shrubs. Evening stargazing sessions are also popular due to minimal light pollution, offering clear views of the Milky Way and Southern Cross. Wildlife photography workshops, led by experts, focus on capturing birds and mammals in their natural habitat. These experiences emphasize conservation education, blending adventure with ecological awareness.
Platteklip Gorge is suitable for experienced families but not recommended for children under 8 without supervision. Bring ample water, sunscreen, and lightweight backpacks, and stay on marked trails. Avoid steep sections and complete the hike before 10 AM to avoid heat exposure. Some tour operators offer family-friendly packages with safety gear and simplified maps. Emergency stations and real-time weather alerts are posted at the entrance, ensuring safety and informed decision-making.
Book certified guides through the Table Mountain National Park official website or Bookings.com, offering multilingual support, map interpretation, and first aid knowledge. All guides hold SAS (South African Society of Mountaineers) certification and carry two-way radios and GPS trackers. Reserve at least three days in advance, especially during weekends and holidays. Some hotels like Table Mountain Lodge provide all-inclusive guided packages with transport, gear, and insurance for hassle-free experiences.
The 'Devil's Eye' rock formation near the Platteklip Gorge trailhead is a favorite among photographers, featuring a natural arch that casts dramatic shadows at dawn. Another prime spot is the 'Stairway to Heaven' section, where vertical cliffs meet winding paths, creating striking visual contrast. Visit during golden hour for long-exposure shots of Table Mountain’s silhouette against vibrant skies. Some guided tours even offer professional photography coaching to enhance composition and lighting techniques.
Near the Platteklip Gorge starting point in Cape Town's Table Mountain National Park, Table Mountain Lodge is a top choice, offering direct access to hiking trails and panoramic views from its skydeck terrace. For budget travelers, Cape Town Backpackers Hostel provides a vibrant, central location just a 5-minute walk from the trailhead. Both accommodations are strategically positioned for easy access to the mountain’s main routes, making them ideal bases for hikers and nature enthusiasts seeking a seamless adventure experience.
Yes, transportation to Platteklip Gorge is highly convenient. Visitors can take Cape Town city buses (e.g., route 14 or 28) to the "Table Mountain Road" stop and walk about 10 minutes to the trailhead. Alternatively, ride-hailing services or self-driving via the M3 highway offers flexibility, with clear signage along the way. Many tour operators also provide dedicated shuttle transfers from downtown hotels, saving time and energy—ideal for early morning hikes to catch sunrise over Table Mountain.
Beyond hiking, Platteklip Gorge offers rich ecological experiences. The trail showcases endemic South African flora, including succulents and fynbos shrubs. Early mornings may reveal sightings of rock hyrax or Cape crows in their natural habitat. Extending your hike via the Tafelberg Trail leads to dramatic cliffside views overlooking the Atlantic coastline. Guided eco-tours are also available, providing insights into local biodiversity and conservation efforts—adding educational depth to your outdoor adventure.
Start your day at Platteklip Gorge before 6:30 AM to take advantage of cooler temperatures. The ascent to the summit takes about 2 hours, with a brief rest at Saddle Pass for panoramic views of Cape Town and the Cape Peninsula. Return via the Skeleton Gorge trail for varied terrain. Enjoy lunch at Table Mountain Restaurant, featuring local cuisine. If time allows, join a guided eco-tour to explore the mountain’s geological history and unique ecosystems—creating a well-rounded, memorable day combining fitness, nature, and cultural insight.
Platteklip Gorge is considered a moderate-difficulty hike, ideal for beginners with average fitness. The path features stone steps and loose gravel, with some steep sections, but is clearly marked. At approximately 2.5 km long, the climb takes about 2 hours to reach the summit. Convenient facilities include public restrooms and water stations near the start. Wear non-slip shoes, carry ample water, and use sun protection. It’s an excellent introductory route for first-time hikers aiming to conquer Table Mountain, balancing challenge with accessibility.
Near Platteklip Gorge, specialty tours include eco-guided walks led by certified naturalists, highlighting indigenous fynbos vegetation and endangered species. Popular options are sunrise hiking tours, designed for early risers seeking breathtaking golden light over Cape Town’s harbor. Photography-focused tours teach visitors how to capture stunning shots of the mountain-city skyline. All tours provide equipment rental and safety briefings, ensuring a secure, enriching experience that blends adventure, education, and creativity.
See what other travelers say about Platteklip Gorge Starting Point
Every time I visit Cape Town, I make sure to stay at The Westin Cape Town—it’s always a fantastic experience. The hotel is incredibly convenient, just a short walk or quick metro ride away from Woodstock, making it easy to explore the vibrant local scene. The staff are warm and attentive, the rooms are spotless and beautifully designed, and the bed is one of the most comfortable I’ve ever slept on. It’s rare to find such a high-quality stay with excellent value—this place truly delivers. I’ll definitely be back.
Staying at Protea Hotel Cape Town North Wharf was an absolute delight! The room was incredibly spacious with a fully equipped kitchen and a washer-dryer—perfect for longer stays or travelers who prefer self-catering. Breakfast was a highlight, offering a generous spread with fresh, delicious fruits that really added to the morning vibe. Located just steps from the metro, getting around Cape Town was super easy. Comfortable, well-located, and great value—this hotel truly delivers on every front.
The hotel is just a 20-minute drive from the airport, making it super convenient for travelers. The surrounding area is clean, safe, and well-maintained—no worries about security at all. Once you arrive at the waterfront, you're surrounded by a wide variety of restaurants and shops, perfect for dining and casual strolling. The room itself was spotless, though basic toiletries weren’t provided—still, cleanliness was excellent. We stayed in a double room with two beds, and while the common space felt a bit tight, it was definitely worth it for the extra sleeping capacity. Great value for families or groups traveling together, and the location can't be beat. Highly recommend this stay.
I always choose this hotel whenever I visit Cape Town because of its unbeatable value, excellent location near the CBD, and convenient access to public transit. The staff are genuinely welcoming and attentive—truly a highlight of my stay. While the rooms are on the simple side, the beds are incredibly comfortable, and the bathrooms are clean and functional. What really stands out is the 24-hour security—feeling safe at all times makes a big difference. This place consistently delivers more than expected for the price, making it my top pick in the area. If you're looking for comfort, convenience, and great service without breaking the bank, this is the one.
Staying at the AC Hotel Cape Town Waterfront was an absolute delight! The staff went above and beyond—friendly, welcoming, and always smiling. Breakfast was outstanding with a great variety of fresh options and excellent quality. Our room was spotless, well-maintained, and offered breathtaking views of Table Mountain and Signal Hill—waking up to that sight every morning was unforgettable. The location is unbeatable, just steps away from the waterfront and easy access to public transit. This hotel truly delivers on comfort, service, and scenery. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone visiting Cape Town.
My stay at the Protea Hotel Cape Town Sea Point was absolutely excellent. The staff went above and beyond—when I arrived a bit early, they kindly offered me access to my room before check-in time, which was such a thoughtful touch. The hotel’s location in Sea Point is perfect: quiet yet close to the beach and local attractions. Breakfast was delicious and well-rounded, though I’d recommend arriving early to beat the morning rush. The overall atmosphere is welcoming, clean, and well-maintained. From the moment I walked in, the service felt personal and genuine. It’s a great choice for travelers who want comfort, convenience, and a warm welcome without the hassle. I’ll definitely be returning next time I visit Cape Town.
This stunning villa is perfectly located in Cape Town—just a short walk from everything we wanted to explore. The host was incredibly welcoming and made us feel right at home. Every room is beautifully designed with thoughtful touches, blending style and comfort seamlessly. It’s clear the attention to detail is top-notch. A truly memorable stay that exceeded all expectations.
Staying at Lion's View Villa & Apartment was an absolute delight, especially for a large family. The penthouse and private villa offered plenty of space, comfort, and real privacy—perfect for gathering with loved ones. The staff were incredibly friendly and attentive, making us feel welcome from day one. Every corner was spotlessly clean, and the attention to detail was impressive. Elize stood out as exceptionally professional—always helpful, calm, and efficient whenever we needed anything. The location is excellent too—close to public transit and just a short ride from major attractions in Cape Town. This place truly delivers on comfort, service, and value. I’d definitely book again and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a relaxed, upscale stay in a beautiful setting.
I was warmly welcomed upon arrival, and the entire stay was incredibly pleasant. The location is perfect—just a short distance from the airport yet tucked away in a quiet, charming neighborhood. It’s an ideal base for exploring nearby destinations like Stellenbosch, with easy access and a peaceful atmosphere. The hospitality, comfort, and overall experience made this a standout choice. Highly recommended for travelers looking for a relaxing, well-located spot in Cape Town.
Staying at Rhonda's Manor Boutique Guest House felt like stepping into a cozy, well-cared-for home away from home. The hosts are genuinely warm and welcoming, making you feel instantly at ease. The staff go out of their way to assist with anything you might need—always polite and attentive. Security is top-notch, which gives peace of mind, especially when exploring the area late in the evening. Just a short walk away, you'll find some fantastic dining options, including NV80 Steak House—a real highlight for meat lovers. It’s no surprise this place has such a loyal following; it’s often fully booked, so securing a reservation early is key. If you're looking for a quiet, charming retreat just outside the bustling city center, this boutique guest house is an excellent choice. A truly memorable stay that exceeds expectations.
This boutique hotel is absolutely stunning from the moment you step in. The staff go above and beyond to make you feel welcome, creating a warm, intimate atmosphere that truly feels like home. The views are nothing short of breathtaking—Table Mountain sits just outside the door, towering over the property, while the ocean vista stretches endlessly beyond. Every morning felt like waking up in a postcard. The breakfast was exceptional—fresh, delicious, and thoughtfully prepared. I couldn’t have asked for more. This stay exceeded all expectations, and I’m already planning my return visit. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a memorable, authentic experience in Cape Town.
Lion’s Eye Luxury Apartments offered an exceptional location in Cape Town—perfectly situated for exploring the city with ease. The staff were incredibly friendly and went above and beyond to help us. When I accidentally left something behind, they kindly arranged to ship it to me at no extra cost. That level of care and attention to detail made our stay truly memorable. It’s rare to find such a personal touch in a modern apartment setting. I’d highly recommend this place to anyone visiting Cape Town.
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