Adventures in nature in the Western Cape, South Africa.

The Cape is revered for its abounding nature. The routes start right on your doorstep or a scenic drive away from the luxury of your own exclusive villa in Noordhoek, at NIMANO Hillside.

The one thing that we can always be certain of, whichever routes we choose to traverse or whatever direction the wind is blowing, there are enough nature trails to explore around the Cape, encouraging you to never walk the same path twice. Where beautiful streams flow alongside the footpaths, forming trickling waterfalls as they water the verdant vegetation thriving across the landscape. Where the birdlife sings its Cape chorus in sync with the mountain breeze. A symphony of inspiration that reminds us just how healthy it is to get out into nature. Climb to the cliff tops, swim in the rivers and rock pools. Trapeze across the treetops with the surety of a zip line. Seat yourselves in the saddle of a bike or a horse, and gallop apace in earnest for your next feasting around the table, for when all the stories get told. Just the way a healthy holiday should be.

At NIMANO Hillside - As nature enthusiasts, we love to explore the routes that lead to an active getaway…this is our Cape Town, South Africa.

For those activities that get the heart rates high and the stories around the dinner table flowing, we have a lovely list of suggestions. Fortunately, for those residing at NIMANO Hillside, you have the luxury of leaving the front doors of your own private retreat in Noordhoek, and heading onto the mountain trails, almost immediately. The long beach beckons for those that love a canter on the beach. The cycling routes are aplenty and the easy ambling walking routes offer themselves up for the masses. Whatever floats your boat, the Cape’s Peninsula and all of the surrounding seaside suburbs reveal their nature activities encouragingly. It really is the best way to make the most of your valuable holiday time together, as a travelling team, bonding and exploring the majestic landscapes of the Cape.

Here’s a list of some wonderful adventures to enjoy in Cape Town’s nature…

Elephant’s Eye Hiking Trail – A moderate hike, without a huge amount of shade on the way to the cave, but a beautiful way to explore the mountain routes on your doorstep. There are a number of incredible routes that you can navigate from this pathway, including Chapman’s Peak Drive, The Sentinel, Noordhoek Peak and Constantiaberg.
Silvermine Nature Reserve – Pack a picnic and your swimming gear, together with all of the necessary hiking and even mountain biking kit, and head to the beautiful paths and pools of Silvermine. Spend hours exploring the wanders of Table Mountain National Park from the central section.
Zip lining in the Constantia Forest – A great way to fly through the canopy of the trees with the surety of a sturdy line, assisting you as you zip through the air like the resident eagles of Constantia. Such a fun activity for the whole family, only a 20-minute drive from NIMANO Hillside.
Cecilia Waterfall – A relatively challenging hike through Cecilia Forest up the back of Table Mountain. Swim in the fresh water that’s trickling down from the mountain and enjoy the spectacular views along the way. Will definitely get the hearts racing, and you’ll see some breathtakingly beautiful plants, birdlife, as well as small wildlife.
Horse Riding on Noordhoek Beach – Less than a 10-minute drive from NIMANO Hillside, you can saddle up and gallop off into the sunset. Of course, to return to your beautiful abode at the top of the hill, but for an hour or two of romantic riding or active equestrian exercise this is such a fun activity to bring into the itinerary.
Tokai Forest Walk – Something for the whole family to do, whatever level of hiking you’re inclined to do, there are a number of scenic routes to explore the whole forest area by foot or by bike. There is also a lovely secret café spot tucked away in the trees. Only a 20-minute drive from NIMANO Hillside.