Whale Route

Link to whalesightings for 2008

WHAT IS A WHALE OF A HERITAGE ROUTE?

It is an initiative to package and market as a niche destination and Route approximately 400 historical attractions, associated events and businesses with Southern Right whale watching an additional feature in season.

The whale sightings log, whale sighting map and events are used as a lever to generate visibility, interest, excitement and knowledge.

The Route aspires to become accredited by the end of 2009.

ROUTE DESCRIPTION

Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens – a mere 20 minutes drive away

Elsie’s Peak, situated just at the end of the road for various walks and hikes

The historical section of the Route starts immediately north of and either side of of Albertyn Road in Muizenberg and ends at the Cape Point lighthouse. Also available is a Muslim Trail, the Stone Age & Quena Trail. The whale spotting section of the Route starts at offshore Strandfontein

The Muizenberg section of the Route offers a guided walking tour of historical Muizenberg ie the old Village. A second walk incorporates Main Road with emphasis on The Historical Mile. A slow trip from Kalk Bay to Muizenberg on a traditional fishing boat offers a unique offshore platform to view attractions.

In Muizenberg you will have the opportunity to experience quaint and in some cases unique heritage dating from the stone-age through to 1673 and the 1930s. The Muizenberg walks are about 2 hours each and start near Surfer's Corner where according to legend, surfing started in South Africa during World War 1.

Guided walks are also available in Kalk Bay, Fish Hoek Valley, Glencairn and Simon's Town.

Also available is a Muslim Trail, the Stone Age & Quena Trail. The whale spotting section of the Route starts at offshore Strandfontein

UNIQUE ATTRACTIONS

• An ochre grind - stone (Muizenberg).
• Two pre-fabricated whalermen's houses in Muizenberg (1898).
• Beach villas in Muizenberg (1930s).
• A perennial spring/horse drinking trough set in a boundary wall of an old property on Main Road, Muizenberg (1914). A great setting for a family photo.
• Gurgling perennial springs either side of the latter
• An original milestone (pre 1820) in St James
• A Victorian posting box in Kalk Bay
• The smallest Mosque in South Africa in Kalk Bay (c 1898).
• A beautiful stained-glass window at the back of a shop in Kalk Bay (by appointment only).
• In Glencairn, the remains of a Flour Mill (1820).
• In Simon's Town, the spot where Just Nuisance took his afternoon nap!!

VISION FOR THE ROUTE

To be a world class heritage Route and an alternative whale spotting destination.