Things to Do in Llandudno

If you are visiting Cape Town with kids then a stopover at the World of Birds is sure to be a big hit. This bird and wildlife sanctuary is home to over 3 000 birds in natural surroundings. Scrutinize some curious species in semi-tropical aviaries – it’s a very colourful and noisy experience!Visitors are able to walk through the large aviaries and come into contact with flamingos, crowned and blue cranes, guinea fowl, tiny squirrel monkeys and even meerkats, hawks, owls and eagles. You can see them feeding their youngsters, socialising, singing, nest building or incubating eggs depending on the season.The sanctuary is also a breeding centre for endangered species and cares for injured birds.

Hout Bay Beach extends from the beginning of Chapman's Peak curving around to the Hout Bay Harbour with its numerous fishing boats and yacht marina. Hout Bay beach is an awesome family beach, but it's also popular with horse riders, dog walkers and kayakers. One of the iconic Cape Town Beaches, Hout Bay Beach is yet another beautiful beach with powdery white sand that stretches almost a kilometre in length and half a kilometre in places. There's ample space for a game of beach volleyball, touch rugby, beach cricket, jogging or flying kites. The Hout Bay River cuts through the middle of this beach after meandering from the top of Table Mountain down to the Hout Bay wetlands and beach estuary. Horse riders have easy access to Hout Bay Beach for early morning rides from stables close by. The protected bay is almost always calm and offers safe swimming and a range of water sports from paddling to kite surfing and sailing. This tranquil playground is perfect for sun tanning, just chilling and savouring the sweetness of doing nothing whilst taking in the exhilarating beauty of the surrounding mountains, white sandy beach and sapphire bay. Dolphins, whales and seals can often be spotted in the bay. Hout Bay beach is perfect for the whole family and after a day well spent its essential to grab an ice cream from the Italian ice cream shop on the main road. There are also lots of good family friendly restaurants in close proximity – Dunes restaurant is a great option for young kids.

Salty sea dawgs, venerable captains, fishermen, locals and trendy visitors all hang out at Mariner's Wharf. En route to Cape Point from Cape Town, Mariner's claims to be the first harbour emporium in Africa and is a worthwhile stopover to have lunch, sundowners or do a bit of shopping. Overlooking the bay and Chapman’s Peak, the restaurants, shops and markets exude a maritime atmosphere and even the seagulls look like part of the decor.

The Hout Bay Harbour is the main attraction in Hout Bay and also one of the busiest harbours in the Western Cape with a thriving tuna, snoek and crayfish industry. Within the working harbour is the Hout Bay Yacht Club which provides moorings for recreational, fishing and sailing boats alike. Several seafood restaurants are situated within the harbour. Next to the harbour is a long white stretch of beach that is popular with tourists, locals (and their dogs) as well as horse riders.

Voted ‘Top Wine Retailer’ by Wine Magazine, the Chapmans Peak Wine & Spirits boutique features a large selection of local and rare wines, port, liquers, imported beers and cigars. It also has one of the largest selections of malts in Cape Town. Guests can send their favourite wines home, using the Export Facility.The small deli allows you to combine food and wine, featuring a range of local and international delicacies, including cheeses. You can also buy the best home-made ciabatta bread in town! And if you looking for ‘biltong’, look no further for the tastiest beef.

The perfect place to relax with friends, family and colleagues!From the moment you walk through the door, you will feel like part of the family. Warm leather sofas invite you to take your time and relax. Enjoy the warmth of the fire place during the cooler months or enjoy the breath taking view across the bay and beach on those balmy evenings.Looking for somewhere to watch South Africa rugby at its best? Chappies is the place!

Chapman’s Peak Drive is an exhilarating nine kilometre road cut into the mountainside with sheer cliffs dropping into the sea. The route snakes its way between Hout Bay and Noordhoek along the rocky Atlantic Coast. Close to the most south-western tip of South Africa, it is one of the most magnificent ocean drives on the planet. A number of viewpoints and picnic spots allow you to stop and gaze at the breathtaking panoramic seascape and landscape of Hout Bay and the Sentinel. During whale watching season the high points are often excellent spots to watch the Southern Right Whales in the bay. Constructed during the First World War, the route is now operated as a toll-road after extensive safety upgrades were made. It has advanced security equipment, surveillance cameras monitor conditions and it is also patrolled regularly. If the weather is dodgy it is best to phone before making the trip as it could be closed. This is not an easy trip for anyone who suffers from acrophobia!

Pieter Toerien's beautifully intimate Theatre on the Bay offers all the latest and best shows in town. Theatre goers can enjoy a good mix of local and international drama, musicals, comedy, cabaret, music and dance.The theatre is also home to the Act I Theatre Café, a fabulous restaurant that is open for dinner before and after the shows. Enjoy a pre-show drink at the Coffee Lounge or the theatre bar. Dietrich's Bar, in the main foyer, is also open after each performance, so you can round off your evening by joining the actors for a nightcap.Need to know? Individual, credit card bookings for Theatre on the Bay can be made by calling +27 (0) 21 438-3300, or visit the Computicket site at www.computicket.com Outlet/Box Office Hours: Monday: 9.30am - 5pm, Tuesday to Saturday: 9.30am - start of show

Situated in one of the most beautiful locations in South Africa, Camps Bay 'golden mile', St Yves Beach Club, is ready for you – and the summer! St Yves overlooks one of the most breath-taking ocean views of Cape Town’s Atlantic seaboard. Not only is it a landmark for fabuluous celebrations and entertainment, the club has become the party playground for the local elite, jet setters, VIP’s and international celebrities. Guests have the option of mingling with the who’s who while enjoying a cocktail or dancing the night away on a fabulous dance floor. In addition, St Yves has various areas that have been designed to cater to specific requirements. The Promenade, Victoria Road, Camps Bay +27 (0) 21 438 0826.

The stunning setting, pristine white sands and dazzling blue waters leave no doubt as to why Camps Bay Beach was awarded Blue Flag Beach status. One of the few Cape Town beaches on the Western Seaboard that is not protected from the south east wind, Camps Bay Beach is still very popular and quite frenetic with families, stylish singles, tourists, the lot.Camps Bay Beach is really wide, backed by a row of palm trees, a busy road and a bank of fashionable restaurants and coffee shops that overlook the beach. And it's one of the best sunset spots. In the summer months it’s not uncommon to spot famous faces who are regular visitors to Cape Town with the paparazzi lurking incognito behind beach umbrellas.Mediterranean and vibey, the ultra wide Camps Bay Beach hosts numerous events like the international beach volleyball tournaments and the popular Summer Beach Festival. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer and beach vendors stroll about supplying beach bums with ice creams and cold drinks.If you have young kids or just hate munching sand with your picnic, then grab a spot on the lawn next to the tidal pool – you can even braai here and children can swim safely without fear of being swept off to Australia. And if you’re feeling energetic, there’s a great walk from Camps Bay Beach to neighbouring Glen Beach, a stunning little cove with good surf. From there you can stroll past Maiden's Cove, Bachelor's Cove and finally to Clifton 4th Beach. Take Victoria Road for a brisk march back to Camps Bay beachfront.At the end of a tough day soaking up the sun’s rays, wander over to one of the many stylish beachfront restaurants and bars for sun-downers and the spectacular sunsets.

One of Constantia's 'Big Five' wine estates, this grand daddy of the Cape Winelands lays claim to a fascinating history. At the gate of Klein Constantia Estate is the Kramat (shrine) of Sheik Abdurachman Matebe Shah, linked in oral traditional to the last Sultanate of Malacca. Banished to the Cape after capture by the Dutch in Sumatra in 1661, he and his companion Sheikh Mahmoud, were confined to the forests of Constantia. Situated on the eastern slopes and foothills of Constantiaberg, Klein Constantia Estate has idyllic conditions for producing grapes with ample fruit flavours. Klein Constantia produces an array of varietally labelled premium wines – Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Riesling, and small quantities of Semillon, Pinot Noir and Shiraz. Blends include flagship red Marlbrook and flagship white Mme Marlbrook. Try their most famous and admired wine – the Vin de Constance, a re-creation of the legendary sweet Constantia.

Glen Beach is a gorgeous snow white sandy beach set in an tiny enclave flanked by massive granite boulders on the Atlantic Seaboard. These rocky outcrops not only amplify the picturesque cove-like setting but also provide a windshield from the South Easter. This intimate beach is nestled in the middle of the famous Camps Bay Beach and glamorous Clifton beaches yet is relatively un-crowded. It’s a great little walk from Glen beach via Maidens Cove and Bachelors Cove to the Clifton 4th Beach. Backing Glen Beach is a small number of houses with uninterrupted sea views and the awesome backdrop of Lion’s Head and the Twelve Apostles. Glen Beach is a popular hangout for young local surfers and bikini clad girls. The surf breaks from the left and the right points with a bit of oomph, but beware the fiercely territorial resident surfers whose ‘locals only’ graffiti decorates the beach wall. Glen Beach is conveniently situated within easy walking distance to the local shops, trendy restaurants, cocktail bars and the brilliant Theatre On The Bay.

The sugar-white sand of Clifton 4th Beach is usually sardine packed with beautiful people everywhere. Of all four spectacular Clifton beaches, this is the top beach spot for people watching, sunbathing, beach volleyball, frisbee and barbecues. On calm days you’ll see a flotilla of yachts anchored close to shore – braaing their catch of kreef (crayfish or Cape rock lobster) with a glass of Cape bubbly in hand. If you’re brave enough to venture into the frigid water there are some crashing waves to bodysurf. Clifton 4th Beach is conveniently just a stroll away from La Med, one of the Mother City’s best outdoor bars and clubs. If the South Easter is howling then Clifton 4th Beach is your best beach option with wind protection from the spectacular backdrop of Table Mountain and the Twelve Apostles. Awarded Blue Flag Beach status, Clifton 4th Beach is the most southerly beach of a series of small sandy coves in this upmarket suburb on the western seashore of Table Bay. Be prepared for a little exercise – access to the beach is down a series of steep, winding, narrow stairs that make it inaccessible for disabled visitors.

Appropriately named Buitenverwachting, which means "beyond expectations", this stunning farm is steeped in history and forms part of the original Constantia Estate which was founded by Governor Simon van der Stel. Buitenverwachting captivates with an alluring blend of the Cape, outstanding cuisine and handcrafted wines. Buitenverwachting’s internationally acclaimed wines boast great complexity with unique aromatic profiles. Overlooking the vineyards and Constantiaberg Mountains, Buitenverwachting Restaurant matches the winemaking excellence and is consistently rated amongst the top ten restaurants in South Africa. The menu changes daily and only the finest, fresh produce is procured. During the summer months visitors can indulge in a pre-booked picnic basket served under the old oak trees in the beautiful gardens. Wine tasting and sales: Monday to Friday 09:00 – 17:00 and Saturday 09:00 – 13:00.

Retrieving a six may involve something of a grapple with a grape in this little corner of Constantia Uitsig where they play cricket. Situated on the Constantia Uitsig Wine Estate, several hectares of lush vineyards and the Constantiaberg define the boundaries of Constantia Uitsig Cricket Oval and Pavilion.

Originally part of Simon van der Stel’s original grant of Groot Constantia, the award winning Constantia Uitsig Wine Estate is one of Constantia’s ‘Big Five’. Not only does it produce superb wines but it is also the home of three world-renowned restaurants, a private cricket oval, spa and a small luxury hotel. Need to know? Situated at the entrance to the Estate, the Wine Shop offers informal tastings of the Constantia Uitsig Wines throughout the day, Monday to Sunday, free of charge. Opening times are Monday to Friday 09:00 – 17:00 Saturday, Sunday and Public Holidays 10:00 – 17:00.

Get aerial and go up in the cableway for awesome panoramic views of Cape Town - the most spectacular sights are seen from the top of Table Mountain. The Cableway takes you to the summit in under 10 minutes and the cable car's rotating floor ensure that all passengers get a 360 degree aerial view of the city. The cable cars depart every 10-15 minutes weather dependant. What to see Your ascent to the top of Table Mountain takes just under 10 minutes and offers you a 360 degree view of the city. Once on top there are over 2km of pathways leading you to views over Cape Town, Table Bay, Robben Island the Cape Flats and the Cape Peninsula. There are also short walks available or you can join one of free guided tours daily at 10h00 and 12h00. Walks on top of Table Mountain Dassie Walk Offers you spectacular views north, west and south. Agama Walk This popular route has been specially chosen to give you spectacular 360 degree views of Cape Town and Cape Peninsula. Klipspringer Walk This walk offers wonderful views, along the plateau edge to above Platteklip Gorge. In summer you can see the sunshine conebush in full flower. Table Mountain Café Situated right on top, Table Mountain Café offers a trendy menu that caters for the changing demands of the Cableway's visitors. Menu items include pizzas, gourmet burgers, and harvest rice bowls (meals of the day) that showcase Traditional South African cuisine. A selection of pre-packed light meals are available from the gourmet deli. Meals may be complimented with a selection of fine wines. A wide variety of pastries, speciality teas and coffees are also on offer from the coffee bar.

On the road to Noordhoek's Long Beach and tucked away under the ancient milk wood trees you will find the Red Herring restaurant. Above it is Skebanga’s Pub - a place so laid back that shoes are not essential and baggy shorts are fine. Skebanga’s is loud and always packed and very popular with horse riders, surfers and locals just chilling out, but there is always room for one more. In the winter a roaring fire will keep the chills at bay, but for most of the year one can enjoy the truly spectacular views of Long Beach from the outside wooden deck. Noordhoek faces West and it is known for breathtakingly beautiful sunsets and nowhere can one enjoy them more than the deck of Skebanga’s pub. Sunny winter afternoons can be spent on the deck watching whales mating off the beach in the cool Atlantic. Deservedly reputed to be one of Cape Town’s great pubs, Skebanga’s serves great pub fare at modest prices, but locals know that the best nosh is the wonderful thin based Pizzas cooked in a wood fired oven, and said to be the best in the Southern hemisphere. Enjoy the multi-choice pizza menu or order one made to your own specification, but be warned - their pizzas are huge and best shared with another. A range of beers is available on tap as well as the usual pub offerings. Don’t be alarmed if you find yourself hooked and keep on returning. That is what Skebanga’s does to you!

Local is “lekker” they say. Well, it can’t get much better than Noordhoek farm village; a thatched Cape Dutch yesteryear complex with farm stall, excellent restaurants, a pub, artist studios, antiques and African collectibles and curios. This charming village complex of shops, galleries and handicraft shops is situated at the start of famous Chapmans peak scenic drive - clustered under ancient oak trees. This favorite relaxing spot for the locals always has a busy vibe, but is generously shared with visitors to this enchanted valley. The restaurants begin their busy days serving wonderful country breakfasts which you can enjoy our fresco or under the thatched patio of the food barn. The Food Barn is presided over by famous chef Franck Dangereux, who offers cooking demonstrations with his always popular Bistro menu. The Food Barn also offers a wide range of organic vegetables, baked goods, preserves and cheeses for you to take home and enjoy the best of the Cape.Amongst the shops you will find a wine shop – open seven days a week – which will give you an excellent the opportunity to try a range of Cape wines including the prestigious output of our local Cape Point winery. Spend a couple of hours browsing in the art galleries sharing the inspiration that the many artists who live in the valley have gained from the beauty that surrounds Noordhoek, or shop for truly African clothes and crafts.There is no reason to be worried about the children being bored while you shop or just browse because there is a large playground area equipped with swings, slides and jungle gyms to keep them occupied. Perhaps you might join the locals at the end of your outing in the local pub “The Frog” for a cool couple of points or even an enjoyable pub meal.

Heaven on horseback is cantering through the surf on a fine thoroughbred horse with whales and dolphins leaping in the bay. That's what the brochure says but this dream can easily become a reality at The Dunes in Noordhoek. The stables are built right on the sand of Noordhoek Beach – the longest, whitest and most spectacular beach in Cape Town. Stroll or canter along the shoreline of this five-mile long beach, then explore the ancient shipwreck. Splash through the seasonal lagoon and trot through the grassy sand dunes. Advanced riders can gallop on the race horse training track parallel to the beach, while beginners admire the exquisite views of Chapman's Peak and the Atlantic Ocean. Apart from offering beach horse rides, The Dunes stables about forty thoroughbred horses who are in training and compete at Cape Town's two race courses every week. You could be taking a beach ride on a retired winner who now has a more leisurely life as a trail riding horse. Your ex-race horse will go as fast as you like, but they are quite happy to plod along at a walk, trot or canter. The horses are regularly featured in the photo shoots and films – not only could you be riding a winning race horse, but your mount could be a movie star too! Contact Mike Stewart +27 (0)21 789 1723 +27 (0)82 784 8699 www.horserides.co.za