Top Day Trips from Cape Town

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Explore with Carl and Emsie from Somerset View Guest House, Cape Town

Hello from Somerset View Guest House! We’re Carl and Emsie, and we’re thrilled to help you discover the best of Cape Town. Our guest house is ideally located just 20 minutes from the city, offering easy access to iconic sights and hidden gems, as well as a chance to unwind in a peaceful setting.

We’re always pleased to share our favourite recommendations to help you make the most of your stay. If you need assistance getting around, don’t worry—we offer a shuttle service to take you to all these destinations, including tours and more personalised excursions. Our shuttles are private, safe and affordable.

As locals who absolutely love Cape Town, we’ve put together a list of our favourite day trips to inspire your adventure during your stay with us:

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1. Table Mountain – An Iconic Cape Town Experience

No trip to Cape Town is complete without visiting the iconic Table Mountain. Whether you choose to hike up (for the adventurous) or take the cable car (for a more relaxed experience), the views from the top are breathtaking. And the best part? You can easily reach Table Mountain from Somerset View in just about 30 minutes. You’ll get the thrill of the city in the morning and can unwind back at our guest house in the afternoon.

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2. Robben Island – A Journey Through History

For a meaningful and historical day trip, Robben Island should be on your list. This UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for being where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, offers guided tours that dive into South Africa’s history. It’s a short ferry ride from the V&A Waterfront, and from Somerset View, it's an easy drive into the city before hopping on the ferry.

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3. Franschhoek Wine Tram – Sip and Explore

If you’re a wine lover, you can’t miss the Franschhoek Wine Tram experience. This charming tram takes you through the stunning vineyards of Franschhoek, allowing you to hop on and off at various wine farms for tastings. It’s about an hour’s drive from Somerset View, and trust us—it’s worth every minute! You’ll be able to enjoy the best of the Cape Winelands without rushing, and of course, return to the comfort of your room after a day of indulgence.

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4. Cape Point Road Trip – Scenic Drives and Adventure

For those who enjoy road trips with unbeatable views, Cape Point should be on your list. The drive from Somerset View Guest House to Cape Point is filled with stunning scenery—winding coastal roads, beaches, and mountains. You’ll pass through small coastal towns like Simon’s Town (home to the famous penguin colony at Boulders Beach) before reaching the rugged beauty of Cape Point Nature Reserve. It’s the perfect adventure for a day out, and you'll be glad to come back to the calm of Somerset View Guest House afterward.

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5. Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens – Nature at its Best

If you’re looking to slow things down and immerse yourself in nature, the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens offer a serene escape. Stroll through the gardens, admire the indigenous flora, or even catch an open-air concert if you’re visiting during the summer months. It’s less than 30 minutes from Somerset View Guest House, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon.

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6. Bo-Kaap – A Cultural Exploration

For a vibrant splash of colour and culture, a visit to Bo-Kaap is a must. Famous for its brightly painted houses and rich history, Bo-Kaap is one of Cape Town’s most photographed spots. Stroll through the streets, visit the museum and even take a cooking class to learn about Cape Malay cuisine. It’s a short drive from Somerset View Guest House and well worth a visit.

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7. Weekend Markets – A Taste of Local Life

Cape Town is known for its lively weekend markets and Somerset View Guest House is close to some of the best! The Root 44 Market and Blaauwklippen Market are just a short drive away and offer everything from local food and drinks to crafts and live music. If you want a fun way to spend your Saturday or Sunday morning, these markets are a great option.

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‍8. Boulders Beach – Meet the Penguins

Boulders Beach is home to a colony of African penguins. This unique experience lets you get up close to these adorable creatures in their natural habitat. The beach is pristine and you can enjoy watching the penguins waddle across the sand before heading back to Somerset View Guest House for a relaxing evening and stunning sunset views.

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Why Stay at Somerset View Guest House?

Somerset View isn’t just a place to rest your head—it’s your home away from home while you explore the best of Cape Town and beyond. Whether you're looking to tick off famous landmarks like Table Mountain or discover quieter gems like local markets and wine farms, Somerset View provides the perfect base for your adventures.

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We hope to welcome you soon and help you create lasting memories of your Cape Town journey!

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