Table Mountain
04 January 2007 | Cape Town
Julie
We got up early to climb Table Mountain - before the fog and crowds set in. It was a gorgeous morning and we started up the mountain around 9am. We had heard that it would take anywhere from one to three hours, so I was expecting a leisurely two hour climb.
Turns out it was a pretty rigorous climb, following the Patteklip Gorge which was a well marked path with lots of other hikers. The views were incredible, especially as we neared the top and the gorge narrowed and steepened. The fog had set in which all made for quite a mystical feeling.
We reached the top (1085 meters) after about one and a half hours - exhausted but feeling great and exhilirated. We stopped for coffee in the little restaurant at the summit- also offering fantastic views. Chris decided to hike down while Deni, Mike and I took the cableway. It has a rotating floor and again, more spectacular views.
We had worked up quite an appetite, so went to Royale Burger on Long Street, a very "hip" spot with something like thirty kinds of burgers. Great way to end the morning.
I'd say that Table Mountain is a "must do" for any visitor to Cape Town. An easier choice is to take the cableway up and hike down, or easier yet, take the cableway both ways. I think any way would still be spectacular.
ps - we are having computer problems, so pictures are to come.