Archive for July, 2009

Table Mountain

Table Mountain, the massive sandstone plateau rising up above the Cape Flats has always been a welcome sight to seafarers. Rising over a kilometre out of the ocean, on a clear day it’s visible from 200 kilometres out to sea. The summit is approximately 3km wide and at Maclear’s Beacon, its highest point, rises to a height of 1085m.

Over the centuries it has become one of South Africa’s most famous landmarks. Although there are numerous hiking trails to the top of the mountain, for the less energetic, the revolving cable car is a less strenuous way of making the ascent. There are over 2 kilometres of paths and numerous view sites on the summit.

Facilities

A gift shop and restaurants are available at the upper cable station, for a breakfast with a difference, or a choice of hot or cold buffet, the Self Service Restaurant offers a varied choice. If you prefer to sit and watch the sun set over the city, the Cableway Cocktail Bar is ideal, the facility can also be booked for functions. The Summit Boardroom accommodates up to 80 guests and offers a different venue for staff training or entertaining VIP guests.

Accessibility

The Cableway is freely accessible to people with disabilities. There are dedicated parking bays near the lift entrance at the lower cable station. Guide dogs are welcome aboard and most seem to enjoy the ride.

Visiting The Mountain

The weather is unpredictable on the mountain and can turn cold very quickly, so take adequate warm clothing, no matter how warm the day. The cable car operating times vary according to the season with the first car up at 08h00 year round. Last car down is between 17h30 and 19h30, contact the cable station for details and prices: 021 424 0015.

Source: DiscoverTheCape

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