Cape Point Nature Reserve offers visitors an exciting adventure where nature leads the way! Located at the southwestern tip of Africa, Cape Point unveils nature in its most raw and breathtaking form.
The Legendary Lighthouses of Cape Point
Cape Point Nature Reserve offers visitors an exciting adventure where nature leads the way! Located at the southwestern tip of Africa, Cape Point unveils nature in its most raw and breathtaking form. Towering cliffs rise above pristine beaches, creating a dramatic landscape where the beauty of the natural world takes centre stage.
Beacons of the Cape
Standing over wild, rugged cliffs where two mighty oceans meet, Cape Point’s lighthouses are more than just navigational aids—they’re iconic symbols of history, resilience, and adventure. Whether you’re a local explorer or an international traveller discovering the Cape Town Big 6 Attractions, prepare to be captivated by the tale of these coastal beacons.
The Cape of Storms: A Treacherous Legacy
Long before GPS and satellite navigation ruled the seas, the treacherous waters around Cape Point were the stuff of maritime legend. In 1488, Portuguese explorer Bartolomeu Dias aptly named it the “Cape of Storms”—a name that resonated with every sailor who dared to round its coast. By day, Cape Point served as a vital navigational landmark. While at night and in fog, its jagged rocks and violent storms turned it into a maritime menace, claiming countless ships whose wrecks still litter the coastline.
The Birth of a Beacon
Fast forward to 1816, when the governor of the Cape granted John Osmond ownership of Buffelsvlei and Uitershoek farms, nestled in Cape Point’s rugged embrace. But there was a catch—Osmond had to allow access for the construction of a lighthouse, a beacon that would offer hope to sailors battling the untamed seas.
After much debate and planning, Cape Point Peak, soaring 238 metres above sea level, was chosen as the perfect site. In 1850, construction began under the guidance of Alexander Gordon, who not only designed the lighthouse but also journeyed from England to oversee its creation. By 1859, the first lighthouse proudly lit the way, standing tall as a symbol of safety and progress.
A Tale of Two Lighthouses
Though impressive, the original lighthouse’s lofty perch had a flaw—it was often shrouded in mist and cloud, making it invisible when sailors needed it most. This led to the construction of a second lighthouse, strategically positioned much lower down the cliffs. Today, the older lighthouse has found a new purpose as the centralised monitoring point for all South African coastal lighthouses.
An Adventure to Remember
Visiting Cape Point’s lighthouses isn’t just about history—it’s an adventure in itself! Hop aboard the Flying Dutchman funicular, a thrilling, wheelchair-accessible ride that whisks you from 127 metres above sea level to the upper station near the old lighthouse. The panoramic views along the way are nothing short of breathtaking.
Cape Point: A Natural Wonderland
Situated within the Cape of Good Hope section of Table Mountain National Park, Cape Point is part of the Cape Floral Region—a World Heritage Site famed for its extraordinary biodiversity. Here, visitors are met with an endless expanse of the Cape Peninsula’s coast, a picture-perfect attraction woven together with valleys, bays, and beaches.
Plan Your Visit
Cape Point isn’t just a stop; it’s a journey through time, nature, and magnificent scenery. Whether you’re following in the footsteps of ancient mariners, admiring the craftsmanship of historic lighthouses, or simply taking in the beauty of the surroundings, Cape Point offers an unforgettable experience.
Ready to explore one of the Cape Town Big 6 Attractions? Pack your spirit of adventure and let Cape Point’s lighthouses guide your way!
Share your top Cape Town Big 6 moments with us!
Connect with us via our Cape Town Big 6 Facebook or Twitter page. Better yet, tag us on Instagram of your favourite outdoor moment and tag @CapeTownBig6 #CapeTownBig6
ONE DESTINATION, SIX UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCES
There is no one way to explore all of the Cape Town Big 6, and much of what makes each of them so special is the variety of things to see and do at each. So if possible, take your time to explore each of the city’s most visited tourist attractions in as much depth as possible – as any local will tell you, you can spend a lifetime at each of the Big 6 and still not tire of them. Find the 3 and 4 day itineraries and tips here.