The Lion Trail: A Half-Day Adventure from Hilltop to Seashore

If you need any proof (or reminding) that Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, this guided half-day outing is all the convincing you need. The stunning diversity of the Mother City’s natural attractions – mountain, ocean, beach, fynbos, forest – are all part of the action during this fun-filled, unique and up-close excursion.

Founder and guide Matt Sterne, a Sea Point local and seasoned travel writer, chose the route for its scenery and sense of adventure. He discovered it by chance on a Sunday morning stroll. “There are not many places in the world where you can pass through city streets, hike up a mountain, through a forest, along a beach and a seaside Promenade in a couple of hours,” he says. And so The Lion Trail was born.

The Lion Trail

The five-hour adventure starts at Green Point Lighthouse and heads through Sea Point and straight up the slopes of Signal Hill, a 5km hike that opens up stunning views of the city on all sides. The hilltop is the perfect elevated perch for a gourmet picnic – mimosas included.

Refreshed and ready to go, you skirt Lion’s Head and descend through the forests of The Glen, stopping for another round of picnic snacks, before heading down to Maiden’s Cove. From here, there’s some rock-jumping along the coast to Clifton for a swim in that enticing (albeit icy) blue ocean. Then hop on an e-scooter for a half-hour jaunt, along the coastal road and Sea Point Promenade, that takes you back to the lighthouse.

Whether you’ve recently arrived in Cape Town, a local who wants to exercise your bragging rights with out-of-town friends and family, or looking for an amazing date idea or group activity, The Lion Trail is the perfect, fully catered, no-hassle choice – and filled to the brim with awesome Insta moments.

Good to know It’s suitable for anyone who is walking fit, minimum age 10 years old.
Times Monday – Saturday, 8am – 1pm
Cost R1 250 per person (minimum two people)
Contact 079 728 6457, info@theliontrail.co.za
Where to find it Green Point Lighthouse, 100 Beach Road, Mouille Point, Cape Town
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