Hidden behind the towering, luscious green trees of the Southern Suburbs, Constantia is home to a variety of gems that promise to bring good memories and the best of times. There’s no need to keep it secret: whether you are looking for a sophisticated restaurant meal with stunning views, or kid-friendly, open spaces to explore. Simona Stone reveals some of the magnificent spots nestled in the Constantia valley, and waiting and ready for you to discover and fall in love.
NATURE PLAYS
Nature Plays is the first forest school in South Africa. Here children play, create, learn and explore outside in the beautiful forests of Constantia. Kids have the opportunity to connect to nature, learn about the natural environment, and the freedom to play out in the open with beautiful fresh air and ample space to be young and wild.
These empowering experiences allow children to develop confidence, creativity, resilience, collaboration and problem-solving skills that will help them on their journey through life. The winding path of growing up shouldn’t be absent of bursting colour, the rich splendour of nature, and world-changing friendships along the way.
Nature Plays welcomes children from 2.5 up to 10 years old. It has daily sessions during the week and a nature holiday club over every school holiday. Pay its forest school site a visit for a school outing or plan your little one’s next birthday party with Nature Plays. Nature birthday parties are celebrated at the Constantia Alphen Trail, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, Happy Space, or the Oranjezicht City Farm, but you can also choose an open natural area that best fits your party mood.
These school holidays, keep your kiddies busy and having a blast with Forest School Holiday Club. Week 1 of September’s Holiday Club runs daily from the 28th of September to the 1st of October.
Where: Forest School has sessions in the Constantia forests and Vredehoek area.
When: There are Forest School Sessions throughout the week, and they occur in the morning and afternoon. A new block for Forest School begins in October. See more information about the different available sessions and register on Forest School’s website.
Website: natureplays.com | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 060 947 5067
Facebook: @natureplays | Instagram: @natureplays_sa
EARTH FAIR FOOD MARKET
The Earth Fair Market beams good vibes and family festive fun, featuring live music from local artists and a wide selection of amazing breads, cheeses and cuisine to savour.
If you’re struggling to find ways to spend your weekend, this Suburb-dweller’s dream offers a cool and captivating space destined to provide your next great breakfast or lunch experience. The Earth Fair’s artisanal food vendors serve a wide spectrum of foods from across the world: think delicious Indian curries, ribs, Thai bowls and much more.
At this market, there is a bar serving thirst-quenching beverages, an Origin Coffee stand for the coffee-lovers, and Dr. Juice: fresh juices made with the finest fruit and veg sure to cure the dullest of days.
Peruse the Earth Fair’s wide range of farm-fresh produce, pasture-reared meat, poultry and vegetables. Don’t forget to bring the kids along too: there is children’s entertainment readily available.
The market has great outdoor seating areas and grass patches. Bring your picnic blanket to enjoy the fresh air under the trees or sit in the sun. Tables are available to sit on as well.
When: Wednesdays 4pm to 9pm, and Saturdays 10am to 3pm
Where: Corner of St Joans Rd & Timour Hall Rd, Constantia
Website: www.earthfairmarket.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 067 108 1530 (WhatsApp)
Facebook: @earthfairmarket | Instagram: @earthfairmarket
THE CELLARS-HOHENORT HOTEL
Whether you’re looking for a sophisticated weekend away minutes from home, or an adventurous day out in a splendorous outdoor space, the Cellars-Hohenort Hotel will take your breath away.
The 5-star hotel is tucked away on nine acres of beautifully maintained land in Cape Town’s historical Constantia Valley. It has a proud culture of impeccable hospitality, and boasts a unique location, mesmerising history and splendid design, as well as amenities and services that are second to none.
A short 15-minute drive from the city centre, it is part of The Liz McGrath Collection, and a proud member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World. Each of the 51 elegant guest rooms and suites – including two stunning private villas – boasts breathtaking views of the eastern slopes of Table Mountain and the hotel’s extraordinary gardens. You’re invited to join an unforgettable culinary journey at the hotel’s two award-winning restaurants, Greenhouse and The Conservatory.
Treat yourself to the luxurious High Tea served at The Cellars-Hohenort, as well as picnics set up on the rolling lawns if you’re wishing to take relaxing refuge in the glorious gardens. Stepping in from this lush, natural backdrop, the Fresh Wellness Spa provides a space to unwind and enjoy pampering signature treatments. The Cellars-Hohenort also features two heated pools, a mini-gym and a tennis court to extend a warm welcome to all, including families with children and, well-behaved furry friends.
Where: 93 Brommersvlei Rd, Constantia
When: Select your booking date on The Cellars-Hohenort’s website
Website: thecellars-hohenorthotel.com | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 021 794 2137
Facebook: @TheCellarsHohenort | Instagram: @thecellarshohenort
CAPE TOWN KOREAN MARTIAL ARTS
Cape Town Korean Martial Arts is the perfect opportunity to get active while practicing mindfulness, discipline and of course, having fun! This school invites every human from every walk of life to unite in traditional Korean Martial arts to train you physically, while simultaneously offering the tools to navigate tough challenges of day-to-day life.
Cape Town Korean Martial Arts has a list of core principles: ‘Individuality’, ‘Fun’, ‘Do Your Best’, and ‘Beauty’. This is a safe space offering a celebration of your unique identity, while showing you the way to graceful techniques for self-defence, fitness and disciplined habits.
The school offers multiple classes suited for different types of martial artists, including Kids’ Martial Arts for ages 4 to 7, Adult Martial Arts for physical training and self-confidence boosters, and Korean Sword or Haidong Gumdo for sword-fighting skills development.
The Cape Town Korean Martial Arts school promises to be a guiding light through its precious value system manifested through rewarding self-defence classes and technical training.
Where: 174 Carr Rd, Wynberg | Online classes are also available; registration can be done online
When: Programs run throughout most weekdays and Saturdays.
Website: capetownkma.com | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 072 172 2521
Facebook:@CapetownKMA | Instagram: @capetownKMA
ACROBRANCH
If you’re keen on adventure, Acrobranch Constantia is the perfect way to spend your day. Choose from a selection of three distinct courses, offering you the chance to get your muscles moving in a majestic canopy of trees sitting up above the Constantia Winelands.
All ages are welcome to attempt the available adventure courses. Bring the little ones (from 3 to 6 years old) for the Acro-twigs course, which is an 18 obstacle course getting kids to move and groove while under close safety monitoring. For older adrenaline seekers, try the 17 obstacle Monkey Moves course, which is beginner friendly and with just the right amount of challenge. For those looking for something really tough, try the Swinging Tarzan: an 18 obstacle course that will put your skills to the test. High Flying is another advanced course available for thrill-seekers.
These outdoor activities boast a stunning view of the rolling hills of the Constantia Valley. It’s a fun day out for the whole family. Acrobranch Constantia can host your next birthday party, a school outing, and is the perfect place for team-building tasks too. There is also a restaurant on the premises, to fuel your body after a beautiful day’s adventure in the trees. Alternatively, self-catering is allowed at the park when booking a table with Acrobranch’s Bookings Office. Tables are limited, and available at an additional rate for 3 hours.
When: From September to April, Acrobranch is open Wednesdays through Sundays from 9am to 6pm (last time slot starts at 4pm). From May to August, it is open Wednesdays through Sundays from 9am to 5pm (last time slot starts at 3pm). It is also open on public holidays and public school holidays.
Where: 1 Hout Bay Main Rd, Constantia Nek
Website: acrobranch.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 086 999 0369
Facebook: @Acrobranch | Instagram: @acrobranchza
HEDGE HOUSE
Nestled away not far from Constantia, Hedge House offers one-of-a-kind bed and breakfast accommodation situated between plane trees in the Newlands and Rondebosch area.
For 20 years, Hedge House has opened its doors to provide private comfort and luxurious ease in a small piece of heaven in the Southern Suburbs.
Hedge House has five en-suite rooms waiting for you to come and stay. Each room has its own separate entrance, with warm finishes to make you feel right at home. It’s the small things, like fresh homemade biscuits for guests, that make all the difference.
Guests are ensured to be treated with compassionate hospitality that will keep them coming back. Relax and enjoy the views of Devils Peak mountain from the deck in the lush, leafy garden at Hedge House, next to the saltwater swimming pool.
One wheelchair-accessible room is available, and Hedge House is pet-friendly.
When: Book your room on Hedge House’s website.
Where: 12 Argyle Rd, Newlands
Website: hedgehouse.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 082 305 4578
Facebook: @hedgehouse.co.za | Instagram: @hedgehousenewlands
