Chapman's Peak Drive
Chapman's Peak Drive is listed as one of the must-see locations of every photographer, filmmaker and tourist alike. The Two Oceans Marathon and the Cape Argus Cycle Tour also takes place on the scenic drive. Conceptualised by Sir Frederic De Waal, Chapman’s Peak Drive was constructed during the First World War.
The road was opened by means of blasted rock work and became a 9 km stretch of coastal road, carved out on a base of granite rock. The road links the charming fishing village of Hout Bay to the rural beach strip of Noordhoek, and offers magnificent views on each of its 114 curves above seaside cliff faces.
The road comprises of open stretches of road and half tunnels along with rock fall protection measures, including catch fences and slope stabilisation. The road is not always open in full, but access on foot to the viewing points allow dramatic Cape scenery above a steep mountain drop. Indulge in the breathtaking picnic spots and camera shots.
SS Kakapo Shipwreck
On Noordhoek Long Beach you’ll find the SS Kakapo shipwreck, a rigged steamship that was wrecked on the Atlantic coastline in 1900. It is one of many ships that litter South Africa’s treacherous, rocky shores. The SS Kakapo was on her way to Sydney from the United Kingdom with a cargo of coal when she ran aground on the Cape of Storms.
She encountered a north-westerly gale that severely impaired the ship’s crew’s visibility with driving rain. Mistaking Chapman’s Peak for Cape Point, the ship ended up on the beach. Although no lives were lost, no amount of leveraging could get the ship back into the water. The boiler, ribs and rudders that remain resting in the sand provide a fine subject for serious photographers.
All that is left of the vessel’s stern is a vertical, rusted duo pillar. Sand tends to have a life of its own, and, at different times, various parts of the ship are exposed - making it an evolving exhibition.
Hiking Trails
There are various hiking trails in and around Noordhoek that you can tackle. The Chapman’s Peak Trail starts from Long Beach, where you then follow the wooden staircase and cross Chapman’s Peak Drive. This route winds up Chapmans Peak itself, alternating views of the Noordhoek Valley, the Atlantic Ocean and Hout Bay.
After summiting Chapman’s Peak, you can follow the route back down or ambitiously descend towards Hout Bay, where you can spend an afternoon in the charming fishing village, visiting the harbour and local craft shops. The Silvermine Valley is to your left as you enter Noordhoek via Ou Kaapse Weg.
The valley is recovering from a veld fire that raged through a few years back, but fynbos and grasses are slowly but surely reclaiming the land. Apart from magnificent views of the Silvermine Mountain Range (and Noordhoek Valley as you ascend) this easygoing trail also passes ruins of an early stone dwelling, streams, and, after the winter rains, a waterfall.
Surfing
Noordhoek is well-known for its amazing surfing spots, one of them called Dunes. If you are in the Cape Town area, it’s well worth the mission. It’s a favourite spot for advanced surfers who know their way around the waves. In order to get to the beach break, you will have to trek along a mega-stretch of beach, which will take you roughly 30 minutes.
On a good surf day (which requires a south-easterly wind), you can expect solid six to eight foot waves that provides world-class tubes. The Hoek is also a big one surfers love to tackle. You’ll need experience to surf here! Right break waves – best in summer when the south-easterly wind howls – makes the waves epic and super hollow barrels.
You’ll have fabulous views of Chapman’s Peak mountain. Just beware of cold water! Noordhoek Beach has sandbanks that can produce waves of different lengths, shapes and sizes. The swell is good from the north or north east and a good wind direction is from the south west. Be careful of the rips and undertow.
Horse Riding
Noordhoek offers horse riding along the spectacular Noordhoek Beach, combined with a short bush ride. This beach extends for 8 km and remains one of the most pristine and untouched in the country. While long walks on the white sand or days spent sun-tanning under the hot South African sun are idyllic, galloping along the shores on the back of a horse really is quite special. Horse rides in Noordhoek last for around two hours and are suitable for experienced riders as well as for newbies.
These are well-trained horses, which gives you the opportunity to interact with them in very personal ways. The horse rides are guided by experienced riders that know the animals’ individual personalities and quirky characteristics. They also know the areas well and are committed to providing a fun and safe ride for all. Along the way, you’ll see a variety of bird species because the bush ride circles the wetlands.
There are a variety of water birds, including flamingos, cranes and geese. Cast your eyes to the ocean to spot (hopefully) dolphins or, in the latter half of the year, whales. Otters and seals may also make their very cute appearance. Book your ride well in advance to avoid disappointment, particularly during the busy summer months.