Richard Holmes

If there’s one thing (and of course we could never whittle it down to one) to love about Cape Town, it’s that you’re never far from a beach that’s just right for you. Love warm(ish) waters and a family-friendly vibe? Head straight to False Bay. Prefer a little sun-lounger-glam? Clifton one through four are your friends. Sunsets and a side-order of surfing? Hello, Llandudno! But with so many beaches to choose from – there are 19 on our Best beaches guide! – how do you know which are the best-of-the-best beaches in Cape Town? Well, it's easy. Look for the Blue Flag. Since 2001, South Africa has been a member of the global Blue Flag program, an internationally recognised eco-label awarded to beaches, marinas, and sustainable boating tourism operators that meet strict environmental, educational, safety, and accessibility criteria. First awarded in 1987, Blue Flag aims to promote sustainable tourism and environmental stewardship globally. In South Africa, 18 coastal municipalities are participating to boost tourism, while also promoting environmental education and community involvement. And earning a Blue Flag certainly isn’t easy: there are 33 strict criteria to meet, from the quality of the water to the environmental education that happens. Accessibility and visitor facilities are also taken into account. So it’s incredible news that eight Cape Town beaches have been awarded Blue Flag status for the 2025/26 season, which runs from 1 December 2025 until 28 February 2026. While th

Want to know where the locals love to go? In this exclusive series on Time Out Cape Town, Local Intel taps into some of the city’s best-connected characters to unearth the corners you simply can’t miss in the Mother City. David Kramer is one of South Africa’s greatest modern troubadours: a singer and songwriter, playwright and director who, together with a cast of creative collaborators, turned small-town stories and Cape Flats vernacular into national folklore – and then shared them with the world.  Raised in Worcester and steeped in Boland slang and dancehall rhythms, he made his name with sparse, witty songs that cut straight to the heart, performing in town halls, folk clubs and campus venues, all the while donning his trademark red veldskoen. And who can forget the VW Kombi ad, right? His discography is vast, but it’s on stage that Kramer has really built his legacy. With his late collaborator Taliep Petersen, he created era-defining musicals including ‘District Six’ and ‘Kat & the Kings’; productions that jumped from Cape Town to the West End and Broadway, scooping international awards while sharing the humour, heartbreak and humanity of the Cape.  Kramer’s work is rooted in towns and tales, and recent years have seen him continue that project with musicals and revivals that reframe South African music history for a new generation. When he’s not in the rehearsal rooms shaping cast and crew to create a performance you’ll never forget, South Africa’s favourite minstrel l

It’s been called tennis with training wheels, and squash in the sun, but however you frame it, the game of Padel has become a global sensation. And Cape Town is no exception, with locals and tourists flocking to indoor and outdoor courts across the city. Padel – pronounced 'pa-del', not 'paddle' – is believed to have started in Mexico in 1969, but exploded onto the global stage in the 1990s. The International Padel Federation (FIP) was established in 1991, and today the FIP estimates millions of active players in more than 90 countries worldwide. If you’re new to the sport, here’s the basics. Padel is a racquet sport played on an enclosed court about one-third smaller than a tennis court, with glass and metal walls and Astroturf underfoot. The game is played with a Padel racquet, usually made of foam, fibreglass or (for more expensive options) carbon fibre. Think of an oversized space-age beach bat and you’ll get the idea. Padel balls are 10 percent smaller than a tennis ball and – because they have a lower compression, bounce less. Padel is usually played in doubles, though smaller single courts are sometimes offered. Scoring is the same as tennis – 15, 30, 40, Game – and a match consists of three sets of six games. The first team to two sets wins the match. Sound like fun? It certainly is, and across Cape Town, you’ll often struggle to find a free court on sunny weekends. Luckily, the global Padel booking app Playtomic lists most Cape Town courts, making it easy to find a

Want to know where the locals love to go? In this exclusive series on Time Out Cape Town, ‘Local Intel’ taps into some of the city’s best-connected characters to unearth the corners you simply can’t miss in the Mother City. Leah van Deventer is a globally recognised voice in the drinks industry, working at the intersection of writing, judging, education and public speaking. Internationally, she sits on several competition panels, is the regional Academy Chair for The World’s 50 Best Bars, and regularly presents seminars at leading bar shows around the world. Back home in Cape Town, Leah teaches spirits for the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) and consults across the drinks sector. She also founded the industry sorority SIS in 2022 to promote solidarity and upliftment. All of that hard work has put her in the spotlight at home and abroad, winning a clutch of awards and accolades. But when it comes down to it, Leah is simply passionate about elevating Cape Town’s cocktail and mixology culture, and this year launches Cape Town Cocktail Week as a seven-day celebration of the ‘Mother Sippy’! “Cape Town has an incredible cocktail scene, and Cape Town Cocktail Week encourages locals and holidaymakers to explore it when the city is at its finest,” says Leah. “Cape Town Cocktail Week is not just about discounted drinks, it’s a city-wide celebration that spotlights bartenders and bars, and positions Cape Town as an international cocktail hotspot.” With 33 venues taking part in the

Welcome to Mother Sippy, where we shine a light on the talented winemakers, brewers, distillers and mixologists that make sure the Mother City never goes thirsty! From new wine releases to taprooms pouring perfect pints, Mother Sippy is your guide to all that’s good and great in Cape Town’s world of drinks. We all know that the Western Cape winelands produce some of the world’s finest wines, available at a fraction of the cost you’d pay for similar quality in the Rhône, Rhine, or Russian River.  But did you know that, with an easy drive out of Cape Town, you can also tap into the world’s finest brandy? And that’s no empty superlative either. At the 2025 International Spirits Challenge in London, Paarl-based KWV was named Brandy Producer of the Year for – wait for it – the seventh time. Perhaps even more impressive, the KWV XXO 20-year-old took home the Trophy for Best Potstill Brandy (11 years and over) in the world! But that wasn’t the only silverware returning to the Paarl winelands. KWV VSOP claimed the Trophy for Best Potstill up to five years, while Double Gold awards were awarded to KWV 15 and the KWV XO, along with Gold across the rest of the range (KWV 3, 5, VS, 10, 12).  In a nutshell?  It means some of the world’s very best brandy is made less than an hour from the Mother City. What’s the secret? For KWV’s Master Distiller Pieter de Bod, it all begins with a firm sense of what’s needed when the bottle is uncorked and the amber spirit swirls into the glass. Photogr

Here at Time Out Cape Town, we sure do love a burger. It’s why our expert guide to the Best burgers in Cape Town is at 25 of the city’s best burger joints… and counting! But what’s better than a burger? A Wagyu burger! All the things we love about a great patty are dialled up to 11 when you use Wagyu mince.   What is Wagyu? Wagyu refers to a group of Japanese-origin cattle breeds (Kobe is the poster child) prized for their intense fat marbling. As the meat cooks, the fat melts, basting it from the inside out. It’s heaven in a steak, but in burger form, that means more flavour, more tenderness and more crispy caramelisation on the edges. But using Wagyu isn’t a free pass to going OTT. It’s about balance and technique. The best spots choose the right grind and fat ratio, season just right, and bring toppings that turn up the volume further. Bring me the piquant pickles, proper cheese and a bun that has the chops to hold it all together, and we can talk. Sound good? We think so, which is why we’ve done the hard yards to eat our way across the city to bring you the Cape Town kitchens doing Wagyu burgers the right way. Bring an appetite. Grab extra napkins. This one’s going to be delicious. DON'T MISS: Only in Cape Town will you see such... burgers RECOMMENDED: 😋 The best restaurants in Cape Town🍣 The best sushi in Cape Town🍕 The best pizza in Cape Town🍷 The best wine farms in and around Cape Town📍 The best things to do in Cape Tow🛏 The best places to stay in Cape Town

Want to know where the locals love to go? In this exclusive series on Time Out Cape Town, ‘Local Intel’ taps into some of the city’s best-connected characters to unearth the corners you simply can’t miss in the Mother City. Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen is arguably South Africa’s most famous culinary export: an Mpumalanga-born chef who turned a 20-seat restaurant in the French coastal city of Nice into a Michelin-starred stage for South African flavour and heritage. At JAN, his inventive tasting menus refract South African cookery through a Côte d’Azur lens –  with no shortage of nostalgic nods – earning him a star in the Michelin guide and cementing his reputation for intimate yet carefully imagined hospitality. While France is his home base, his compass still points firmly south. In 2021, he opened KleinJAN at Tswalu Kalahari, serving up a subterranean sense-of-place restaurant shaped by the Northern Cape’s farmers, makers and landscapes. It’s a celebration of regional heritage, pantry traditions and provenance. Beyond the pass, Jan Hendrik is a prolific storyteller. His biannual book-magazine, JAN the Journal, blends recipes, reportage and design across lavishly produced issues, mapping the team’s creative process with the same sense of intuitive style you’ll find in his varied dining spaces. He also brings things closer to Cape Town. JAN Franschhoek offers a seasonal tasting-menu residency on select dates at La Motte’s pretty Veepos cottage, while December 2025 sees t

Welcome to Mother Sippy, where we shine a light on the talented winemakers, brewers, distillers and mixologists that make sure the Mother City never goes thirsty! From new wine releases to taprooms pouring perfect pints, Mother Sippy is your guide to all that’s good and great in Cape Town’s world of drinks. Inzuzo – ‘reward’ in isiZulu and isiXhosa – is a worker-owned wine company rooted in Sir Lowry’s Pass Village (SLPV) in the Helderberg winelands. It’s the product of a partnership between the workers and owners of Journey’s End estate. Following a soft launch into export markets earlier this year, the brand made its South African debut at the CapeWine 2025 trade show. Inzuzo launched in 2024, shifting Journey’s End’s long-running outreach in the nearby village from a place of outreach work via their own foundation and ad-hoc donations towards an ownership-and-profits model.  Inzuzo is majority-owned (51%) by previously disadvantaged ‘BEE’ employees of Journey’s End and is positioned to create a long-term pipeline for funding arts and education in the village. Labels feature artwork created by local youth, and at CapeWine, the team replicated that process with a live mural installation to underscore the connection between the bottle and the community. Winemaking for Inzuzo is led by Kaylin Willscott, who grew up in SLPV and rose through the ranks of the Cape Winemakers Guild Protégé Programme, working harvests at Spier, Warwick and Keermont before being named Protégé of the

When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay and relax in Johannesburg, visitors are spoiled for choice. However, it can be a tricky decision. To make your life a little easier, we've highlighted the best hotels in Johannesburg in this convenient list. From high-end luxury stays to spending a night surrounded by nature, here are Johannesburg's best places to rest your head and set up base to explore the wonders of the City of Gold. RECOMMENDED 📍 The best things to do in Johannesburg🛏️ Where to stay in Johannesburg🍽 The best restaurants in Johannesburg🍺 The best pubs and bars in Johannesburg Follow Time Out Johannesburg on Facebook, TikTok and Instagram! This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here.

There’s no shortage of choice when it comes to finding a bed in Cape Town, and that perfect trinity of comfort, charm and location can be dialled up or down according to the depth of your pockets. If you’re watching your budget, you’ll want to start with our guide to the Best Affordable Hotels in Cape Town, which is filled with pocket-friendly picks. But if you’re splurging a little? Well then, you’ve come to the right place. From glorious urban hideaways that could have been plucked from the streets of Paris or Amsterdam, to seaside escapes with the most unforgettable views, you’ll be spoilt for choice for luxury hotels in Cape Town. There are historic charmers and contemporary creations, and if you’ve been dreaming of a room with a view, you’ve come to the right city. RECOMMENDED:📍 The best things to do in Cape Town😋 The best restaurants in Cape Town🏄‍♀️ The best beaches in Cape Town🛍 The best markets in Cape Town🖼 The best museums and galleries in Cape Town Planning your next trip? Check out our latest travel guides, written by local experts. Time Out makes a small commission from the affiliate links included in this article. These links have no influence on our editorial content, but they do allow us to bring you more recommendations every week. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

Cape Town is – let’s not be coy – the culinary capital of Africa. Whether you’re throwing on a jacket for an evening of world-class fine dining in landmark settings, or hanging with the locals in a neighbourhood mezcaleria where the queue is out the door, the Mother City is one place where you’re always spoilt for choice when it comes to eating out. What makes the city so special? Diversity. You’ll find menus that celebrate Cape ingredients and heritage, others that riff on global trends, and plenty that do both at the same time. It’s a city where casual ramen bars share the spotlight with world-class fine-dining destinations that crack global awards lists. And all at a fraction of what you’d pay overseas But with a city jam-packed with fine food, where do you start? Right here, of course, with the Time Out guide to the best restaurants in Cape Town. And no, it’s not all about expensive multi-course menus and tweezered micro-herbs. On this list you’ll find the best pizza joints, unforgettable sushi bars and – of course – the creative chefs that make Cape Town one of the world’s gourmet heavyweights. It’s a list that evolves as quickly as the city’s restaurant scene, so check back often to see what’s hot this month. Come hungry, explore widely and – our advice? – always leave space for dessert. RECOMMENDED:  🏨 The best hotels in Cape Town🍳 The best breakfast and brunch spots in Cape Town🍷 The best wine farms in and around Cape Town🍕 The best pizza in Cape Town📍 The best

With the Atlantic Ocean on the doorstep and Table Mountain National Park as the ‘back garden’, it’s little wonder Cape Town is hailed as one of the world’s most beautiful cities. But beneath the visual spectacle there’s a rich cultural and historical tapestry to be discovered. Centuries of history as a trading port have given Cape Town a cosmopolitan multiculturalism that fuses warm African hospitality with Mediterranean charm. It’s a city where you’ll spend your days outdoors and your nights enjoying the city’s legendary culinary scene. Not sure where to start? Don’t miss these must-do experiences handpicked by a local writer.  RECOMMENDED: 🛏 A guide to where to stay in Cape Town🍴 The best restaurants in Cape Town🐧 The best beaches in Cape Town🏡 The best Airbnbs in Cape Town🏨 The best hotels in Cape Town At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

Perched on the dunes of Kommetjie’s famed Long Beach in Cape Town’s southern peninsula, Last Word Long Beach feels like it might be Cape Town’s best-kept secret. Once the seaside home of the founder of the Last Word hotel collection – which includes boutique properties in Franschhoek, Constantia and upcountry – Last Word Long Beach brings all the laid-back charm of a private beach house, with the service and facilities of a boutique hotel. And with every suite gazing straight onto rolling Atlantic swells and the white sands of Long Beach right on the doorstep, this intimate hideaway offers an effortless seaside escape in the ‘Deep South’. Why stay at The Last Word Long Beach? In a word? Location. If you’ve been to Cape Town before and want to discover a different side of the city, or are looking to bookend your Cape exploring with a few days of R&R, look no further. And for locals looking for a staycation close to the city, it’s perfect. Although the hotel was just 35 minutes from my own front door in the suburbs, it felt like a complete escape. The setting is certainly what will first hit home, with the sands of Long Beach stretching out right in front of the hotel. The view is framed by superb vistas of Table Mountain National Park, and if you look closely, you can see clear across to the Upper Cableway station. If you’re active, the (chilly) waters here are home to some of the city’s best surf breaks, so you can fit in a sesh before breakfast. Step indoors, and that homely

This Simonsberg estate is celebrated for its hospitality, sustainability, and creative wine-and food experiences. Tasting options Reserve (R95), Premium, and Wine & Fynbos Cupcake pairing (daily). What else can I do? Enjoy cheese platters or seasonal culinary events. Browse the garden restaurant menu for lunch or casual meals. Stay overnight in charming vineyard cottages available on-site.

One of South Africa’s oldest wine estates, dating back to 1685, Groot Constantia blends rich history with wine tasting, heritage attractions, and a choice of dining experiences. Tasting options Standard tasting (5 wines + glass), Chocolate & Wine pairing; premium tastings occasionally available. What else can I do? Follow the Visitor’s Route through historic Manor, cellars, and museum. Lunch at Jonkershuis or Simon’s.

A sixth-generation family estate just outside Cape Town, Diemersdal produces cool-climate wines in the heart of the Durbanville winelands. Its charming tasting room offers curated flights and flexible options. Tasting options Standard and premium flights, plus build-your-own options. What else can I do? Visit during seasonal farm events or enjoy a casual meal at the Diemersdal Eatery.

Renowned for world-class Pinotage and Bordeaux-style blends, Kanonkop offers tastings in a modern facility enriched with heritage. Established by the Sauer family, this estate blends tradition with artistry. Tasting options Standard and premium flights featuring flagship wines; platters available. Private tastings on arrangement. What else can I do? Browse art and historical displays in the tasting space. Collect rare releases from their cellar shop.

One of the oldest estates in the Stellenbosch winelands, established in 1692, Lanzerac blends winemaking with luxury hospitality in the gorgeous Jonkershoek Valley. Visitors can enjoy a modern tasting room, guided cellar tours, and a choice of restaurants. The estate also features a five-star hotel and full-service spa, perfect for guests seeking a genuinely immersive and comfortable Winelands experience. Tasting options Jonkershoek Tasting, Heritage Tasting, Wine & Chocolate pairing; daily guided cellar tours. What else can I do? Dine at Manor Kitchen, Taphuis or Craven Lounge. Unwind in the Lanzerac Spa. Stay the night in one of the elegant rooms or suites at the Lanzerac Hotel.

A family-run estate in Bottelary Hills since 1946, Kaapzicht is famous for Chenin Blanc and its Steytler Reserve range. The relaxed tasting room overlooks vineyards and hosts tastings with optional cheese or charcuterie platters. Tasting options Family Range (R100), Terroir Range (R160), Steytler Reserve (R350). What else can I do? Enjoy a platter while sipping on the serene terrace. Purchase wines, including limited vintages, at the cellar door. No on-site accommodation, but Stellenbosch offers a variety of charming options a short drive away.

Founded in 1988 by Pinotage pioneer Beyers Truter, Beyerskloof highlights the versatility of Pinotage through expressive tastings. The estate features a tasting room and Red Leaf Bistro for relaxed wine pairing. Tasting options Classic (R70), Superior (R100), Grand (R160) What else can I do? Dine at Red Leaf Bistro with vineyard views. Shop for a wide selection of Pinotage styles at the cellar door. While there’s no on-site lodging, nearby Stellenbosch has plenty of options to stay longer.

This compact space on Bree Street packs a flavour-punch across a menu of South Cantonese street-food with a kick. The setting may be minimalist, but the food is front and centre. Owner-chef Andrew Kai delivers punchy plates rooted in childhood memories, without much fuss. It’s the kind of place that rewards lingering at the counter, diving into bold flavours plate by plate. What’s on the menu? TOMSON brings South Cantonese favourites with bold flavours: think wonton noodle soup, sliced Sichuan pork with kimchi kick, sticky roast Cantonese duck, soft‑steamed white fish, salt‑and‑pepper prawns, Hainanese chicken rice, and simple, punchy sides like smacked cucumber and Chinese stem cabbage Is there outdoor seating? Yes. TOMSON is tiny, but it offers pavement‑bench seating that’s a winner in good weather. Inside, a few counter‑seats look directly into the open kitchen, offering a feast for the senses. How do you get there? Head to the buzz of Bree Street from St George’s Mall, Long Street, or buses stopping near Wale Street. Walk‑ins are welcome, but bookings via Dineplan are highly recommended Why go? TOMSON stands small but mighty. It’s a culinary underdog with serious flavour and personality. Few frills, all flavour, in the heart of Bree Street’s vibrant dining scene.

One of the most exciting openings in 2025 reinvents the dining experience at Ellerman House. Set in the hotel’s striking Wine Gallery, Curate is a deeply contemporary space where South Africa’s culinary heritage is reimagined through a multi-course menu from Executive Chef Kieran Whyte. What’s on the menu? Expect a refined reinterpretation of South African staples. Amagwinya (steamed bread) is paired with smoked snoek and caviar; Afrikaans melktert appears as an earthy mushroom course; bobotie is reinvented in shape and texture; and pap is transformed into a fermented dessert. Each dish celebrates the food South Africans know and love, elevated to the standard of world-class fine dining. Carefully considered wine pairings showcase rare wines and single-vineyard selections from the Ellerman cellar. Is there outdoor seating? No. Curate is set within the atmospheric Wine Gallery. How do you get there? Ride-hailing is the most convenient option, as street parking is limited. Guests not staying at the hotel should book ahead via Dineplan. Why go? Curate offers a singular fine-dining experience in Cape Town: a storytelling menu that elevates everyday South African dishes into unforgettable culinary art. Textured stone, moody lighting, and architectural drama create an immersive setting that feels both intimate and artistic.

This buzzy little spot on Sea Point’s Main Road has put premium agave spirits firmly on Cape Town’s map. Opened by brothers Gavin and Sean Binder, it’s equal parts mezcalería and Mexican-inspired eatery, drawing locals and visitors alike for vibrant plates and seriously good cocktails. By the time Friday night rolls around, the queue at the door says it all. What’s on the menu? The kitchen, led by Head Chef Dian Botes, dishes up Mexican-inspired plates made for sharing. Start with guacamole and totopos or the tangy “street corn” ribs, then move on to masa corn tacos – the Jalisco-style beef birria is a must. Empanadas, ceviche and small plates round out the menu, making it easy to linger over a spread. Is there outdoor seating? A handful of pavement tables spill onto Regent Road. Inside, the space is warm, casual, and always buzzing. How do you get there? Una Más is on Regent Road in central Sea Point. Street parking is limited, so ride-hailing is your best bet. MyCiTi buses stop nearby. Why go? With more than 200 agave spirits alongside a food menu that’s as lively as the drinks, Una Más is both a neighbourhood hangout and a destination bar. Whether you’re there for sipping mezcal from clay copitas, a round of margaritas, or a taco-filled dinner, it’s one of Cape Town’s most vibey nights out. Did you know that Cape Town’s favourite Mexican eatery is now open at the Time Out Market Cape Town?

Chef Ryan Cole – the culinary force behind award-winning Salsify at The Roundhouse – serves up a more relaxed take on fine dining at this spot on the water’s edge at the V&A Waterfront. Expect an ocean-inspired menu blended with moody, design-led interiors and postcard views of the marina and Table Mountain. What’s on the menu? The main event is COY’s seven-course ‘COY Experience’ tasting menu, which changes with the seasons and leans heavily into seafood, drawing on local ingredients and techniques. Vegetarian/vegan menus are available on request. Think tuna tartare with caramelised coconut and sugarcane, seared linefish with mussels, peri-peri and askoek [ash bread], and chargrilled squid with pearl barley and rum sauce – plus considered meat courses. The wine pairings and list are as carefully curated as the food. Also look out for their SunDAZE concept menu available in winter. Is there outdoor seating? Yes. A small waterside terrace with a handful of tables, perfect for sundowners and harbour-watching when the weather cooperates. How do you get there? Park at the V&A’s Portswood garage and walk towards the Bascule Bridge from Time Out Market. MyCiTi’s Waterfront/Breakwater stops are nearby. Why go? For a polished but unpretentious take on fine dining with a proud focus on the ‘African pantry’. COY delivers a sense of occasion without any stuffiness and offers some of the best food in Cape Town with views to match.

The countdown is on to Cape Town’s biggest free family-friendly celebration, as the City of Cape Town’s Festive Lights Switch-On comes to the Grand Parade and Adderley Street on Sunday, 30 November. This year the theme is ‘United in Hope’, and whether you arrive in search of hope or you’re just hoping for a lekker jol, you won’t be disappointed. And while the lights are the highlight, until the switch is flipped there's a full roster of top-tier entertainment on offer. This year the stage is headlined by DJ Zinhle, who brings signature house and Amapiano heat to the heart of the city, topping a proudly home-grown bill featuring GoodLuck, Kurt Darren, Tarryn Lamb, Karabo Mogane, Early B & Justin Vega, The Heavenly Quartez and crowd-favourite DJ Masoodah. Keeping the pace are hosts Joe Barber and Carl Wastie, with a special appearance by Bubblegum and Boera Jules. Also on the lineup: the SVNS dancers, the spirited D6 Hanover Minstrel Group, plus winners of the Dance Challenge and TikTok Family Dance competitions.  “I look forward to one of our biggest and most fun celebrations of the whole year as we switch on our festive lights and declare our city open for the best festive season ever,” said Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis. “We have a lineup of musicians that has something for everyone, together with dancers, minstrels, dance competitions and much more. This event really is where Capetonians come together from right across the city and turn the Grand Parade and Adderley Street into

Summer in the Deep South is getting a soundtrack to remember this December, as Cape Open Air returns to Muizenberg Park on Saturday, 13 December 2025. It’s the third edition of this famously-chilled and family-friendly ‘mini-Kirstenbosch-by-the-sea’ concert; a project spearheaded by Muizenberg local and chart-topping musician Jeremy Loops. After spending much of this year on the road, he’s back home and has hit the ground running. Also, heads-up… Loops is set to headline Up the Creek in 2026! At Cape Open Air, you can look forward to a full day of live music, sea breezes and picnic blankets under the trees, all set just above the rollers of Cape Town’s favourite surf beach. This year’s bill is as proudly local as ever, with a five-act lineup that mixes established festival favourites with fresh Cape talent. Indie-rock crowd-pleasers Desmond and the Tutus are on the bill, alongside LUUKHANYO & The Hii Rollers, rising vocalist Giuliette Price, and soulful performer Manny Walters. All of whom will warm up the stage nicely for Loops’ sunset headline set. Gates open at noon and the music runs through to 8pm, so arrive early and take it easy. “Cape Open Air’s turned into this little gem of the Deep South. Each year it grows a bit more, but it’s still got that local heart,” says Loops. “There’s nothing like making music in Muizenberg Park, just above the ocean, surrounded by friends and familiar faces. We’ve got a lineup I’m really excited about - a mix of new names and legends -

Gather your festival friends and floaties and get ready to rock the boat at Up The Creek 2026, which is locked in for 5-8 February 2026. It’s the Cape’s favourite weekend on the water, with fine tunes, colourful floats and cold beers all to be enjoyed on the Breede River near Swellendam. With Early Bird tickets snapped up in record time and Phase 1 options now on sale, what’s been dubbed the ‘happiest little festival on the river’ has announced the first wave of artists, and there are some crowd favourites of note! Headlining the bill is none other than much-loved Cape Town songster Jeremy Loops. He has spent plenty of time performing abroad this year, but is now back for a summer of great tunes and good vibes. Expect sun-soaked folk-pop anthems live with a loop pedal, blending acoustic hooks with hip-hop and global rhythms by the river. Pairing off against the Loops chill is Afrikaans electronic duo Van Pletzen, which pairs producer-vocalist Peach van Pletzen with Matthieu ‘Nik Nax’ Auriacombe and their trademark blend of tongue-in-cheek party starters that fuse electro, alt-pop and hip-hop. Lekker!  Also confirmed are festival veterans Southern Wild, whose muscular, melodic rock has seen them a crowd favourite over the past decade on stage. And there’s plenty more in store, from Jackal & the Wind and Droomsindroom to Nomadic Orchestra and David Derman. And that’s just phase one! Stay tuned for more artist announcements over the next few months. How to buy Up the Creek ti

There’s good news for travellers with an eye on holidays in western Europe – as well as Spanish travellers looking for a dose of African sun – as Air Europa looks to add its first destination in Africa. But, don’t pack your bags just yet. Setting up new flights between countries is a laborious process, and it’s not just about an airline deciding that flying from A to B will make for good business. Instead, flight routes between countries are governed by bilateral air traffic agreements between governments; a process recently kick-started to open a brand-new air route between South Africa and Spain. According to Travel News by TNW, Spain’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation has begun the process of allocating rights for airlines to fly between the two countries, with carriers now allowed to operate up to nine flights per week between South Africa and Spain. In the report by Travel News, Air Europa was granted permission this month to fly up to three flights per week between Spain and South Africa. Not that flights will be taking off anytime too soon, as there is still other regulatory and operational paperwork to be sorted out. It also leaves room for another six weekly flights that could, in theory, be operated by other airlines. So it’s all on paper for now, but it’s good news for both travellers to Mzansi and locals looking to tap into the more affordable corners of Western Europe. Both Portugal and Spain are hot destinations for Rand-spending South Africans, and thi

Controlled falling, likely followed by a rapid unscheduled disassembly. That’s what’s in store for the band of brave aviators who have signed up to compete in the Red Bull Flugtag, which returns to Cape Town in November. Red Bull Flugtag first took flight in Vienna, Austria, in 1992, and since then, this wacky festival of ‘flying’, if we can call it that, has thrilled more than a million fans across 50 countries. But in a delay lasting longer than your last budget flight, it’s been 13 years since 220 000 people last packed Cape Town harbour to watch the Red Bull Flugtag 2012. Happily, this year’s event is shaping up to be the city’s most joyous belly flop of the year.  In 2025, 50 teams will shove their homemade ‘flying’ machines off a six-metre-high platform at Jetty 1, chasing glory, distance and laughs. Teams are judged on three criteria – distance, creativity and showmanship – with prizes awarded to the top three aviator teams. Photograph: Red Bull Content Pool2012 Flugtag winners Bulls Eye DON'T MISS: You can also catch Red Bull in full swing at the Time Out Market Cape Town - get your wings before, during and after all the races.  Here’s the low-down on getting a front-row seat to see these marvellous (wo)men and their flying machines. When & where On Saturday, 2 November, Red Bull Flugtag takes over the V&A Waterfront’s Jetty 1. That’s the pier that sticks out from the central mall, and across from the NSRI base. The precinct wakes up from 10am, flights start 12pm

As summer hits South Africa and the Winelands ‘swallows’ – Europeans who spend summers here and winters in the northern hemisphere – arrive, they’ll be thrilled to find a tasty new addition to the Helderberg. Of course, it’s not just for tourists, as outside guests and locals are only too welcome at Bloom, the brand-new dining destination that’s just opened at Erinvale Hotel & Spa.  Erinvale is arguably as famous for its golf course as its hotel, and with a new chef at the helm of a chic new restaurant, it’s about to draw a hungry crowd too. Bloom has sprouted in the space once home to Stefan’s, where fine dining took on a distinctly European flourish and formality. Now, after a complete revamp and a new menu from Executive Chef Sebastian Smith, diners can expect a more contemporary take on South African flavours that showcases indigenous inspiration in a thoroughly stylish space. That look and feel comes courtesy of Cape Town’s Bone Studio, with the aesthetic built on a muted palette, bespoke art installations and floral accents drawn from the estate’s indigenous gardens. As the hotel’s signature dining destination, it’s a more elegant counterpoint to Erinvale’s existing dining options: Oak Terrace Bistro and Magnolia Social Dining Lounge. In the kitchen, Smith champions seasonality and sustainability, working closely with small-scale farmers and local artisans. Expect modern, light-of-touch takes on South African staples: a delicate sprinkle of Cape Malay spice here, a ce

If you love EDM, dancing or simply a big fat jol, mark your diary for April 2026, when ULTRA South Africa returns with a roster of local and global acts, and a stage rig to make your ribcage rattle. In a first for the local outing of the festival, Johannesburg takes the Saturday slot with Cape Town following on Sunday. Happily, Monday is a public holiday – Freedom Day – so you can bank on a proper lie-in to recover properly.  As any past ULTRA-fan will know, we can once again expect the brand’s trademark off-the-hook production values, with world-class stage design and thunderous sound across both gigs, as tens of thousands of fans descend for Africa’s biggest electronic music event. There’s no word yet on which local and international stars will be taking to the decks, but the 2025 edition certainly set the bar high with record crowds and heavyweight sets from Martin Garrix, Armin van Buuren, ISOxo, KSHMR, Mind Against, Massano and Shmiza, among others. ULTRA says 2026 will dial things up again with elevated production and an electrifying festival experience. If you were there in 2025, you know: it’s a full-throttle, lights-down, hands-up kind of party in the Mother City. When and where Johannesburg: Saturday 25 April 2026, Expo Centre at Nasrec  Cape Town: Sunday 26 April 2026, The Ostrich   Tickets Following last week’s pre-registration, tickets are now live. Pre-registered fans get first crack at limited Tier 1 pricing. Cape Town pricing (VAT included): Tier 1: General

Local theatre fans are in for a treat in 2026 as the smash-hit stage adaptation of the 1990s rom-com ‘Pretty Woman’ saunters into Artscape Opera House. Expect big romance, big hair, bigger tunes, and serious 90s nostalgia for the Gen-Xers out there. And for those who weren’t around to soak up the unlikely romance of a wealthy corporate raider hiring a Hollywood Boulevard sex worker as his week-long escort, you’re in for a tear-jerking, belly-laughing treat. Shopping sprees, opera, and unexpected experiences blossom into love, and as this unlikely pair navigate Beverly Hills society, Vivian discovers self-worth and Edward learns compassion. It’s a modern Cinderella-style romantic comedy, with heart, and the stage version is sure to enthral. The score is by Grammy-winner Bryan Adams – who also brings his world tour to Cape Town in April 2026! – and Jim Vallance, with direction and choreography by Tony Award® winner Jerry Mitchell. And yes, don’t worry: the hit track ‘Oh, Pretty Woman’ is in there too. As Broadway World raved: “Beyond the romance, the show delivered high-energy ensemble numbers, dazzling costumes and sets, and a soundtrack that had the audience taking a trip back in time to the 90s.” The local run features an all-star South African cast, crew and band, and is produced by theatre juggernaut Showtime Management with Crossroads Live North America. “We can’t wait to share this magical production with audiences in South Africa and see them fall in love all over agai

High-octane motorsport is roaring back to the city, with the Speed Classic Cape Town set to turn the Mother City into a petrolhead’s dream on Saturday, 25 October, and Sunday, 26 October. That’s the good news. The bad news? It means some pretty major road closures.  The heart of the Speed Classic is a Hill Climb that will pit (wo)men and their machines against the twists and turns of Philip Kgosana Drive. That’s the freeway on the slopes of Devil’s Peak, and who hasn’t wondered what it would be like to take those curves at speed, right? Those watching the time trials can look forward to timed runs, fan zones and hospitality in the shadow of Table Mountain. But, that course needs to be constructed – it’ll use the concrete and catch barriers from the Formula E race – which is why locals can expect significant road closures this week. And you just know that is going to play havoc with traffic. So here’s the deal... Philip Kgosana Drive The outbound lane will be closed from 7pm - 5am on: Sun 19 Oct Mon 20 Oct Tue 21 Oct Wed 22 Oct Tue 28 Oct Wed 29 Oct Thu 30 Oct  Outbound & Inbound lanes The road will be closed in both directions to all traffic, from Thursday, 23 Oct at 5am until Monday, 28 October at 5am, when the inbound lane (only) will reopen for morning rush hour. That, obviously, includes the race days of Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 October.   What that means for travel To bypass Philip Kgosana Drive during build, race days and breakdown, organisers recommend commuters use

As runners still rue the lost opportunity to earn their 2025 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon medal, the organisers have shared an hour-by-hour breakdown of how the cancellation unfolded. Drawing on notes made by Sanlam Cape Town Marathon Safety Officer, Phil Prinsloo, during meetings in the Joint Operations Committee (JOC), it gives a clear idea of how things went wrong as the wind cranked up, and how the final decision was made. 00h15: First reports of high winds at the Race Village (including two start lines and the finish line) in Green Point, as well as at various points on the route. 02h00: More reports of high winds at Race Village and along the route. 02h15: Safety Walk inspection of Race Village observes damage at Start in Fritz Sonnenberg Road, with some infrastructure blown over. Damage also observed at Finish, with fencing blown over, and in Hospitality Area, where most gazebos and some furniture blown away. Wind meter readings taken of gusts up to 48km/h. 02h20: Race organising team begins removing branding on fencing, repairing infrastructure (where possible) and clearing up race venue, in spite of ongoing strong winds. 02h30: More damage in race venue observed: Stretch tent torn and blown away, Medical Tent brace dislodged. More gusts of 48km/h measured. 02h30: Race Village officially shut down by safety officials and enforced by security staff. Event staff and volunteers as well as vendors not able to access, pass through or set up in any part of the Race Village,

Runners woke to disappointing news on Sunday as the 2025 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon was cancelled at short notice after fierce overnight winds continued into the early hours. The disappointing decision call was made at 4.45am, just 90 minutes before the start gun, with communications to runners going out from 5am via direct WhatsApp messages to all participants and a dedicated running club captains’ group, along with statements on social media, to local radio stations, event media partners and key stakeholders. A record field of 24 000 runners was due to line up for the start at 6.15am, with many already at the Green Point precinct or en route when the announcement landed. On-site, the wind had caused significant damage at the race venue in Green Point, with marquee tents ripped apart and branding torn from fences and scaffolding. That led to emergency meetings between the organising team and the Joint Operations Committee (JOC) that brings together representatives from the City of Cape Town’s Disaster Risk Management and Safety and Security portfolios, medical services and the South African Police Services (SAPS). The event’s CEO, Clark Gardner, acknowledged the gravity of the decision and the disappointment for the running community: “The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon is devastated at the cancellation of our very special event. We have worked for months on planning for all scenarios and conditions, but ultimately a bigger force had the final say, and we are so sorry for the si

As the vineyards of Stellenbosch come alive with fresh leaves, summer is most certainly on its way in the Winelands. And the restaurant at Guardian Peak is leaning in, with a brand-new seasonal menu from chef Willie Mostert that promises bright flavours, long-table energy and that golden Helderberg light. On the new menu, Mostert keeps the crowd-pleasers on tap, but layers in fresh, summery dishes built for lazy lunches and sundowner dinners. Saldanha Bay mussels steamed in white wine and garlic are the perfect pairing with Guardian Peak Sauvignon Blanc, or go meaty (yet light) with venison carpaccio dotted with blueberries, wasabi cream cheese and balsamic. Want a little heat? Curried lamb spring rolls with mint-and-coriander yoghurt bring the crunch. There’s also a local-leaning Caprese – ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, basil pesto and balsamic – finished with crisp sourdough croutons for snap.  Mains stay relaxed, but dial up flavour nicely: basil-pesto penne with pancetta, peas and almond flakes is instant comfort; while grilled venison with charred broccoli and red-pepper pesto brings rustic Winelands flair. Prefer plant-based? The king oyster mushroom with fried polenta chips, courgette and rocket is hearty, wholesome and totally worth it. Order that with the farm’s flagship SMG blend and thank us later. While the new menu is reason enough to (re)visit, part of what makes Guardian peak such a hit is the location. Perched high up o the norther slopes of the Helderberg