We woke up on Saturday, said our goodbyes to Dana, then set out on an epic hike up Table Mountain. We had read that the Platteklip Trail, also known as the “highway” up Table Mountain, would be more challenging than our hike up Lion’s Head but we had a perfect, clear day and were feeling ambitious. Not wanting to hike on an empty stomach, we went back to Liquorice & Lime for lunch then began the long walk up.
We managed to get ourselves off the path at one point, though this detour only cost us 20 minutes or so. Other than that, it was smooth sailing to the top. And by smooth sailing I mean one of the hardest hikes we’ve ever done. I don’t know how we were able to do it in only two hours, but once we got to the top we were both exhausted. Fortunately the views were stunning and there was a great café with lots of water (and maybe a beer) for us to rehydrate!
Our reward for the long hike up Table Mountain.
We got another hiker to take our photo at the top – I think he was happy to find another couple that had struggled through the hike since most of the people at the top had just taken the gondola up (weaklings!).
Sunset from Table Mountain.
Looking down the peninsula toward the Cape of Good Hope.
Cape Town at dusk.
Like everyone else on the mountain after dark, we waited in line patiently for the gondola down to the road the ride only took about a minute vs. our two hour hike up! We found a Greek restaurant on the way home and had a hearty dinner before we passed out at our hotel. The hike was super challenging but we both felt a huge sense of accomplishment after we’d finished – definitely a must-do when visiting Cape Town!