7 Things to do this week(end)

Eat at a bucket-list worthy steakhouse + take the kids out camping this weekend

A clear and sunny weekend ahead calls for days jumping in and out of tidal pools, cocktails by the ocean, a picnic lunch or an activity-filled camping weekend with the kids. Why not take a walk around Nelson Makamo’s latest exhibition and catch the last few days of the dazzling light art exhibition at Spier Wine Estate? 

LAST CHANCE TO EXPLORE A DAZZLING LIGHT EXHIBITION 

The Light Art Festival at Spier Wine Farm is back this year with an array of wondrous light installations and playful interactive pieces that will delight adults and children alike. Plus, you'll get to paint with your phone, thanks to a robot named Lucy. You can visit this magical exhibition that showcases award-winning local artists for the night or stay overnight at the 4-star Spier Hotel to fully appreciate the Light Art exhibition. 

Date: 19 March 2021 - 18 April 2021
You may also like: having a relaxing night or two at Spier Hotel in Stellenbosch
 

NEW ACTIVITIES ADDED AT WOLFKOP CAMPING VILLAGES

And you won’t find a better escape, or deal, than at Wolfkop Camping Villages and Nature Reserve in Citrusdal in the Cederberg. The camping villages are set up on the Olifants River banks, which has water so clean you can drink it. It’s amazing to swim in and safe for kids. There are five cottages set on the hill at the reserve with gorgeous views of the Olifants River valley below.
Camping Villages:
Weekends: R350 per person.  Minimum of 6 people. Minimum 2 nights.
Weekdays: Sunday night to Thursday night. R250 per person, minimum of 2 people.
Wolfkop Nature Reserve: 
Weekdays: Sunday night to Thursday night. R300 per person, minimum 4 people. You could do something different every day at Wolfkop Camping Villages and Nature Reserve.
Date: Monday - Sunday
You may also like: finding more awesome adventures at some of Cape Town's top camping sites. 

BRING THE KIDS, AND PETS, TO FICK’S POOL

Fick's tidal pool is carved into the rocky shore of Hermanus, and just above it, set on decks built into the cliffs, is Ficks Pinchos & Wine. Here you're treated to incredible views over the pool, breaching whales, dolphins, seals, birdlife and the occasional yacht. Plus, Ficks has an excellent menu designed for seaside snacking. There are cocktails (fantastic alcohol-free ones, too), pinchos (the Spanish version of tapas) and hot-from-the-oven flammkuchen at Ficks Pinchos & Wine.

Date: every day, 11am-9pm

FALL ASLEEP TO THE SOUND OF CRASHING WAVES

Hermanus Guest House, placed just above Fick’s tidal pool, is having a Local is Lekker special (up to 30% off) throughout the year. Think never-ending ocean views, the sound of crashing waves, tidal pools and a drink on the house every evening. Plus, Hermanus is surrounded by some of South Africa's top wine farms, the Hemel-en-Aarde valley. Take the weekend to recharge at Hermanus Guest House.

Date: Booking required online via www.hermanusguesthouse.co.za.
Price: Price from R2 500 per room (without Local is Lekker rate)

EXPLORE A FRESH PRODUCE MARKET IN STELLENBOSCH

Visit the Fresh Produce Market in Stellenbosch (or two other venues closer to the city) and save up to 50% on the cost of vegetables and fruit. The produce comes from Greendrop Farms, which uses hydroponic methods to grow crops, relying on materials like nutrient-rich water instead of soil. It's farming for the future, and you can save up to 50% of your usual vegetable and fruit if you buy from the Fresh Produce Market.

Date: Every Saturday, 8am- 1pm

VISIT NELSON MAKAMO AT THE EVERARD GALLERY 

Internationally renowned South African artist Nelson Makamo (whose most famous patron is Oprah Winfrey) is showcasing his latest work at the Everard Read Gallery at the V&A Waterfront. Makamo's Human Grace exhibition focuses on the joyful and intimate moments of his subjects' lives through a series of exquisite close-up portraits. Space is limited due to Covid regulations, so be sure to book your place to see Nelson Makamo at Everard Read.

Date: 31 March - 30 April, Monday to Friday between 9am - 5pm and Saturdays between 9am - 1pm
You may also like: getting your creative fix and finding more free exhibitions at Everard Read Gallery

Photo credit: Michael Hall

EAT AT A BUCKET-LIST WORTHY STEAKHOUSE  

This off-beat and edgy steakhouse should be on every meat eater's bucket list. Char'd Grill is best known for its selection of dry-aged, traditional steaks, including the lesser-known steak cuts of spider, brisket and bavette. The cuts most restaurants wouldn't usually put on the menu. But one of its house favourites is entirely vegetarian: the smokey potato rosti patty burgers. Vegetarians and meat-eaters alike will love Char'd Grill's menu.

Date: Monday - Sunday, 10:30am - 8pm

FIRST THURSDAY IS THEE SOCIAL EVENT FOR ART LOVERS 

First Fridays are Hermanus’ version of First Thursdays. On this evening, you can wander through various galleries and see the work on their walls. You’ll also be able to chat and engage with some top artists, such as wildlife artist Leon Müller and jewellery designer Geta Finlayson, as well as some emerging, contemporary artists. There are over 20 galleries to get through, so you may want to stop for a glass of wine or two on your way through the Hermanus Art Walk.

Date: Every Friday, 5pm - 8:30pm
You may also like: heading out on a boat ride and spending an afternoon whale watching in Hermanus

WORK AND PLAY AT A CHIC DIGITAL HUB

The Old Foundry Hotel has both private and intimate spaces that ooze old-world charm. Plus, it's in Cape Town city with its rich culinary and wine scene and active arts and culture sector, which means it's a destination that gives visitors plenty of entertainment choices. The Old Foundry's rooms are luxurious, spacious and peaceful. You can also have self-sufficiency, as some suites have a small kitchen at the Old Foundry Hotel.

Date: Monday - Sunday

GETAWAY TO A LUXURY LODGE & VILLA IN HERMANUS

Whale Rock Luxury Lodge is an all-rounder haven for families, kids, couples and friends. The kids will love the large, crystal-clear pool, while parents can kick back and enjoy brunch in the beautiful glass breakfast room. There's also a private villa, which has ample space for families with small kids. But you'll want to take part in some of the nearby activities close to Whale Rock Luxury Lodge.

Date: Monday - Sunday

HAVE LUNCH IN A PRIME WHALE-WATCHING SPOT 

Burgundy Restaurant in Hermanus is in a prime spot for whale-watching. The open veranda in the front gets a clear, uninterrupted view of the ocean, the craft market and the promenade dotted with bold and striking sculptures. Plus, its varied menu includes beer-battered hake and chips, a famous seafood pasta and a speciality abalone dish, making Burgundy Restaurant a popular choice.

Date: Monday - Sunday, 8:30am - 9pm

DIGITAL NOMADS WILL LOVE CARTEL HOUSE HOTEL

Cartel House Hotel in Cape Town's bustling CBD is the contemporary, upmarket hotel built for the rising breed of digital nomads looking to visit different destinations, working while they go. It's part of the Ideas Cartel group, which has three sites. Take your can pick between 33 suites across Loop Street, Sand Hill Road and Main Road in Muizenberg. If you're looking for the best option for work-life and accessing city nightlife, Cartel House Hotel is where you want to be.

Date: Monday - Sunday

RELAX UNDER THE STARS WITH AN OUTDOOR MOVIE

The Galileo Open Air Cinema is back with two fantastic experiences:  the exclusive Galileo Royale and the Drive-in. Royale shows movies every Wednesday at exclusive venues, such as the romantic Casa Labia, in Muizenberg, or Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront, in Granger Bay. It’s an elegant experience, with good food available from the restaurants on-site. The Drive-in is more relaxed, good for chilled outings with friends and family, and runs from Fridays to Sundays in Durbanville, Rondebosch, Gardens and Constantia, so book your parking spot at The Galileo.

Date: Every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday
Plus: From 11 March until the end of April you can have Galileo picnics and movies at Kirstenbosch Gardens

RELAX TO BREACHING WHALES AT THE WINDSOR HOTEL

Wake to the sound of crashing waves and views of breaching whales in Hermanus with an incredible room special. From now until August, you can book a stay at the Windsor Hotel at a discounted price and kids under 12 stay for free. Set right in front of the ocean right above the cliff rocks, you are treated to restaurants, galleries, museums and nature trails within walking distance to the Windsor Hotel.

DIVE IN THE GREAT WHITE SHARK CAPITAL OF THE WORLD

Whether you are an adrenaline junkie or a nature lover, seeing a shark in its natural habitat is an exciting experience. It's why people come from all over the world to see the great white sharks in Gansbaai, aka the great white shark capital of the world. White Shark Diving Company is running spectacular specials for shark-cage diving. Prices are up to R700 less than usual and don't forget to ask for the CapeTownMagazine.com reader's special when you book any Shark Cage Diving Tour Packages.

Date: Every day
You may also like: petting an animal that’s a bit safer, and friendlier looking, than the toothy great white shark at vredenheim-animal-farm. 

ENJOY THE LAST BITS OF SUN WITH A PICNIC 

Picnic Cafe & Deli at Montebello Design Centre in Newlands has a novel concept. When you order your food from the deli counter, it'll come in a picnic basket. You can choose to have it at one of the tables under the trees (some with couches, others with chairs) or you can take a blanket and find a more secluded spot around the centre. There is also a play area for kids and games for the older crowd to play at the Picnic Cafe & Deli.

Date: Mondays to Sundays, 7am till 4pm
You may also like: discovering hidden sculptures and playing in a giant bamboo fort at Little Stream Farmhouse Deli

STAY THE NIGHT AT AN ITALIAN MONUMENT  

The crashing of the waves, the big green lawn, the authentic Italian aesthetic and rich heritage makes the Casa Labia the perfect escape from the bustling city life. Be it for a stay-cation or work-ation, you have quick access to the beach and nearby cafés and restaurants. Plus, there's an exceptional menu and an excellent wine-and-gin list at the restaurant in the beautiful Casa Labia Hotel in Muizenberg.

Date: Monday - Sunday, 8am - 10pm

EVER MADE YOUR OWN GIN BEFORE? 

Gin lovers, listen up! Try your hand at crafting the perfect gin. Distillers & Union offer a gin-making course where you can personalise everything from your favourite fragrant botanical spices to the alcohol level and even the logo. The co-founders Simon Von Witt and Warren Harries-Jones have some award-winning vodkas, rums and a spicy, fiery ginger-beer range ready for you to sample at Distillers & Union.  

Date: Monday to Saturday, 10am - 6pm
You may also like: finding out what other spectacular selection of gin tastings Cape Town has to offer

ZONE OUT IN A GIANT KELP FOREST 

Take a trip to Two Oceans Aquarium for everyone's favourite: penguins. It's hard to resist spending time with these adorable seabirds in tuxedos. This is just one of the aquarium species, which has about 8 000 fantastic sea creatures, including jellyfish and other incredible invertebrates. There are even some creatures that don't have a brain or heart at the Two Oceans Aquarium.

Date: Daily, 9:30am - 6pm weekdays & 9am - 6pm weekends
You may also like: treating the little ones to a friendly alpaca, a visit to the space agency and other free and cheap things you can do with the kids

THE FOODIE TALENT IS GROWING AT MAKER’S LANDING

If you haven't gone to the new district of the V&A Waterfront for young local foodie talent, you're missing out. Makers Landing is a food community where the brightest minds in food can hone their skills. Think shisanyama, samosas and a gatsby sandwich – classic, simple South African food with a gourmet twist. The market has also started doing delivery boxes stocked with gourmet burgers, crispy samosas and more. If you're planning your summer holidays, make sure you don't miss Makers Landing.

Date: Thursday to Saturday: 10am-7pm, Sunday: 10am - 5pm
You may also like: exploring the beauty of little towns through more outstanding and out of town markets.  

SCALE TO THE TOP OF TABLE MOUNTAIN IN A CABLEWAY CAR

Table Mountain Aerial Cableway offers a full year of unlimited visits with their Cable Card (limited to one ride per day). If you've had a birthday during lockdown, you can claim a free ride. You can also treat the kids to an interactive learning experience with Table Mountain Aerial Cableway's Class in the Clouds programme. Take the weekend and scale to the top of Cape Town's most treasured natural wonder and explore over 1 500 plant species on Table Mountain.

Date: Daily, weather permitting

WOULD YOU BELIEVE THERE’S A FARM IN THE CITY?

The site of South Africa's first windmill, Millstone Farm Stall & Cafe at the Oude Molen Eco Village in Pinelands, is home to an idyllic garden complete with a huge tree perfect for climbing. The kids can explore the spacious treehouse and swing or even pet the pigs, horses and bunnies onsite, while parents can have lunch and a coffee at Millstone Garden Café and Farm Stall.

Date: Every day, except 25 December
You may also like: letting the kids find more fun activities at Imhoff Farm

HAVE A DIP AT THE BEST POOL FOR KIDS

Maiden's Cove is the perfect spot for families, and the tidal pool is great for kids because it's on the shallow side and sandy. Between Clifton and Glen Beach's beaches, the pool has stunning views of Table Mountain and the Twelve Apostles. You can watch the sunset from the grass nearby, plus there's a braai area. But, you're spoilt for choice with 12 more tidal pools to explore in and around Cape Town.

Date: Every day

---

MORE TIPS ON UNIQUE THINGS TO DO IN CAPE TOWN:

• Hey parents! Here’s a list of 37 things to do you can do with your kids. 
• Do you use kabeljou, snoek, or hake in your pickled fish recipe?
• Why friends, couples and families alike all love Whale Rock Lodge.
• How to find the best bargains in Cape Town, according to locals.
• Weekends call for exciting days out to (re)discover Cape Town with Kiff Kombi Tours.
• Seaside views, a sushi bar + more at Barstaurant.
• Discover the trails and biodiversity of CapeNature reserves.
• Enjoy a glamorous escape at One&Only Cape Town.  
• Check out this adorable miniature version of the 7de Laan set.
• They’re serving up a brand new menu with fresh pasta and fresh produce at Bacini’s.
• Treat yourself to a fine-dining experience at Templehof’s new Constantia restaurant beyond.

 

ALWAYS SOMETHING YOU DONT WANT TO MISS 
For more updates on Cape Town and coronavirus (COVID-19), including some of the good news we all need during this trying time, subscribe to our weekly newsletter. 

STAY UP TO DATE ON ALL THINGS CORONAVIRUS-RELATED
The situation is ever-changing and our team is committed to bringing you all the latest updates on COVID-19 in Cape Town. Find out which places have closed and get notified when they reopen. Keep tabs on the governmental restrictions in place. And treat yourself to some moments of joy we have found during these challenging times.