We know there is no shortage of things to do in and around Cape Town. From cool eateries that line the streets, many offering magnificent views, to drinking holes that offer both local and international beverages suitable for pretty much any occasions. I’m a big fan of exploring and discovering new hangout spots in the city – no matter the season or temperature, I always find something cool to do.
To prove my point, my bestie and I planned a girls-only weekend away which included a spa treatment. We didn’t have to venture far, with our chosen base being the Protea Hotel by Marriott Cape Town Waterfront Breakwater Lodge. A stone’s throw away from the V&A Waterfront Mall, an excellent shopping, dining and entertainment hub, we were in the middle of the action.
A perfect morning: Our Saturday began with a visit to the Oranjezicht City Farm, which is now in Granger Bay Blvd. This is a gem of a market, which surprisingly has not been over-saturated by all the cool kids (you know what I’m talking about). Offering fresh produce, healthy organic and free-range food and snacks, fresh flowers and plants, this is a perfect start to a morning.
The hotel: A walkable distance from the hotel, the Breakwater Lodge comes with a noteworthy history. In a nutshell, the building used to be a 19th century prison, housing long-term male convicts who were sentenced to work on the construction of the breakwater in Table Bay. Tales of racial segregation and being the birthplace for rehabilitation make up the narrative of the history of the place. Modernly decorated, the room had impressive views of Table Mountain and some of the Waterfront’s many eateries as well as the harbour.
What to do in the area: You are spoilt for choice here, there is something happening in every direction. We chose the organic route and went for a slow walk along the Mouille Point promenade. We passed public art and groups of birds along the way, and got splashed by the ocean bliss.
Eating: We stopped at Sotano for a drink and a bite to eat on the main beach road in Mouille Point. This offers Mediterranean eats, sushi and beers from around the world. It also offers ocean views. We sat in the covered balcony area with heaters on.
Pampering: Our Sunday started on a very relaxing note with a spa treatment at the Breakwater Lodge called Relax Spa. You have an option to have the treatment in your room or visit the spa on the first floor. Prebooking is essential.
Explore: Don’t be scared to venture a little bit outside the hotel and the city to visit neighbouring suburbs. The next day we drove to Table Bay for some scrumptious seafood at the Blowfish Restaurant. After lunch we took a stroll on the beach with a magnificent angle and view of Table Mountain.
Source: Timeslive
