At 34°21´24˝ south, 18°29´51˝ east, Cape Point itself may be the most spectacular feature of the entire African coast and is easily one of the greatest landmarks in the world. Jutting like a rocky knife into the Atlantic Ocean, its sheer cliffs plunge 200m into a turbulent white sea. The old lighthouse provides panoramic views of the point and of both coastlines.
Cape Point Nature Reserve is perhaps the most scenically spectacular park in South Africa. It stretches over the fynbos-covered mountainous land of the Cape Peninsula. Cape Point itself juts out like a rocky knife into the treacherous Atlantic Ocean. It was here that Bartholomew Diaz, the Portuguese navigator, first rounded the Cape in 1488, searching for a trade route to India and the East. The large stone cross in the reserve commemorates his achievement. The reserve protects many endangered animal and plant species, including four whale species, three dolphin species, four tortoise species, 250 bird species and 1016 species of fynbos – ‘fine bush’ You will see many beach-nesting birds strutting on the sand, sedentary lizards sunbathing on the rocks and tortoises trudging around softly in the bush. The clear fragrance of the Fynbos and the gentle atmosphere of tranquility in the park is very relaxing and rejuvenating. The Two Oceans Restaurant serves delicious meals while providing excellent views of the ocean.
At Cape Point you will view many whales in season with occasional sightings of Bryde’s whales and humpback whales. Dolphin species in the region include the Bottlenose dolphin, the Dusky dolphin, and the Heaviside’s dolphin (which is endemic to the west coast of Southern Africa). The air at Cape Point is reported to be some of the purest in the world.
Let us at Body and Wellness Escapes share this precious treasure with you.
