Western Cape Article - South African Vacations

Hiking: Many mountain walks start at Fish Hoek, including Jagger’s Walk, a path that followsthe coastline.ARCHAEOLOGY AND PALAEONTOLOGYBurial sites and Fossils: Peers Cave houses nine ancient burial sites and is the place whereVictor Peers discovered the famous Fish Hoek Man in 1927. To reach the cave, follow thesigns from 20th Avenue that leads into 21st Avenue. The path to the cave is only a shortclimb up the dunes.HISTORY AND ARCHITECTUREClovelly Fire Museum: The museum is situated at 48 Clovelly Road and features a largedisplay of fire-fighting equipment.Fish Hoek Valley Museum: The museum is located at 59 Central Circle and exhibitsphotographs of the Fish Hoek Valley, as well as various Stone Age implements. This newdevelopment is run by volunteers and also features an Environmental Room with displays onwhaling, dolphins and the Elsies Peak Conservation Project.HOUT BAYHout Bay is primarily a fishing village andfreshly caught fish are sold daily from thequayside and in the fine seafood restaurants.In earlier times, thick forests grew along themountain slopes, giving it its name (WoodBay). For a small donation which goes tocharity, visitors can buy a “passport”proclaiming themselves citizens of theRepublic of Hout Bay, an indication of thepride with which the inhabitants have longsince viewed their occupancy of Hout Bay.ADVENTURE AND SPORTAngling: The ocean waters of the village are an angler’s dream. Yellowfin, tuna, swordfishand marlin frequent these waters. Visitors might even get a chance to see how the localfishermen catch their fish. Their age-old fishing method is called ‘trekking’, whereby heavynets are hauled to the shore.Walking: Surrounded by the peaks ofSentinel and Chapman’s Peak, this beautifularea is also ideal for taking relaxing walks.Water-sport: The 1-km beach ispopular among hobie-cat enthusiasts,wind-surfers, paddle skiers and surfers.81ART AND CRAFTSArt and craft shops: Exploration of the villageis a rewarding experience, not only becauseof the natural surroundings but also becauseof its atmosphere and its many arts and crafts