On Cape Town's front porch

Sometimes you just want to unwind right on your own doorstep. Miller's Point is wide open, welcoming and ready for everyone.

- Words and photos Leon Botha

Simon's Town is one of the brightest gems in the Cape's tourism crown, a place that's welcomed some remarkable visitors and witnessed major moments in world history.

Charles Darwin, the father of evolution, dropped anchor here a couple of centuries ago to study the region's geology, and today you can snap a photo of his bronze statue on the quay. Also in these waters lies the wreck of HMS Pelorus, a Second World War warship that went down just off Miller's Point campsite.

That's exactly where you're headed for the weekend: Miller's Point, where it feels like you're perched on a stage above the sea with sweeping views across False Bay.

Slow but steady

Miller's Point lies barely 45 km from Cape Town's city centre, along a route known to cyclists as part of the annual Cape Town Cycle Tour, formerly the Argus.

It's less than 30 km before you reach Muizenberg, and the 5 km stretch from there to Fish Hoek feels thoroughly suburban - though what really strikes you is the sudden presence of so many other travellers. You'll notice it firsthand when you stop to stretch your legs at the Seaside Coffee & Snack Bar.

As you drive into Simon's Town, watch for the Long Beach sign at the Drie Gebroeders road. It may look like a narrow alley, but don't hesitate to turn In with your caravan hitched - just 50 m further on is a wide parking area. Many fishermen also launch their boats here, which means there's plenty of room to turn your rig around before you continue your journey.