While the warm breeze and weather are a wonderful change from winter’s cold grip, it can be hard to cool down in the city. Not everyone lives near the stunning sandy shores of Cape Town’s beaches, so you’ll need a few urban alternatives to take on the hot summer in style.
Which places will allow you to take a break from the heat in the city? Take a look at a few spots that will ensure you stay cool for the summer.
Explore the museums
What better way to beat the heat than by remaining in a space with air conditioning and learning a thing or two? Cape Town has a wide range of museums to choose from and provides instrumental educational facilities for people looking to discover the history of South Africa and other regions.
From the variety of exhibits at Iziko South Africa Museums to the peak into the hardships of individuals at the District Six Museum, these spaces are perfect for waiting out the heat.
Spend the day at a rooftop pool
With stunning views of the city and dedicated poolside service to cater to your cocktail needs, a rooftop pool is the perfect choice if you’re looking for something on the fancy side. Many rooftop pool options for visitors are located in luxury and boutique hotels.
If you’re not staying at the hotel, you’ll either have to pay a fee or some establishments require you to spend a minimum amount to use this facility. This includes spaces like:
- Cloud 9 Boutique Hotel & Spa
- The Ghibli Bar & Pool at the Radisson Blu Hotel
- Park Inn by Radisson
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Hike in the Steenbras Nature Reserve
While a hike might seem like an odd choice as a chance to cool down, the sweat is worth it when you stumble upon the clear-watered gem hidden in the paths of this reserve. The Crystal Pool Hiking Trail has a few swimming spots and mountain pools to dip and relax in for the day.
However, you’ll need to book and pay for a permit to hike on these trails. It is well worth the effort, as the mountain pools also feature a majestic waterfall where you can cool off from the hike.
Sip sundowners in Camps Bay
If you’re not a fan of getting your hair wet to cool down, a cocktail and a stunning view should do the trick. Camps Bay is filled with hot spots and beach views where you can sip and enjoy the last rays of the day.
From staples like Cafe Caprice to the innovative cocktails from Cause Effect, you’ll have the ultimate opportunity to toast the day away in a luxurious fashion.
Be sure to check if the spot you’re planning to visit offers a Happy Hour to ensure you get more bang for your buck while cooling down with a drink (or two) in hand.
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First published on: Getaway
Compiled by: Louise Bell
Also see: Why South Africans are packing up for new provinces
