1. Cape Town
Capetonians will experience no relief from the sweltering heatwave this weekend. Peaking at 32°C on Saturday, Cape Town beaches will be packed to the brim. We have created a weekend escape plan that involves very little driving, a lot of relaxing and some adventure.
Dalebrook tidal pool, Kalk Bay
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This Kalk Bay gem makes for a delightful ocean dip. The constant flow of water from the Indian Ocean as a result of the low walls, means that the pool is constantly topped up with fresh sea water. For the early risers, this is the perfect morning swim spot. Head to one of the seaside restaurants that line Kalk Bay’s main road for some post-swimming snacks or browse through the beautiful stores the town has to offer.
The pool is accessible by crossing under the railway line opposite Kalk Bay community centre.
Where: Dalebrook tidal pool, Kalk Bay: Off Main Road, Dalebrook, Cape Town
Picnic in the shade at Buitenverwachting
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This exquisite wine farm is abundant in history and charm. Enjoy a relaxed day under the shade of 250-year-old trees, visit the wine cellar and order a platter to enjoy outside on the lawns. Picnic blankets are provided to guests looking to lounge under the trees. The surrounding views and relaxed energy of the farm makes for the wonderful afternoon escape in the burbs.
Where: Buitenverwachting: 37 Klein Constantia Road, Constantia, buitenverwachting.com
Wander up Lion’s Head
With summer comes earlier sunrises and later sunsets. This means the adventurous at heart can take advantage of the extra daylight and find their way up to the top of Lions Head with a group of family or friends. Lion’s Head does tend to get very busy however this may put you at ease if you are worried about safety on the mountian. The hike is also not very long or strenuous and offers gorgeous views across the ocean, over the Atlantic Seaboard, the city and surrounding suburbs.
2. Johannesburg
Remaining a constant 29°C across all three days this weekend, Joburgers are in for a warm weekend. Remain cool, calm and collected this weekend with our chilled-out day plan.
Wind down at Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens
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Take picnic in the park to the next level with the incredible waterfall within the garden’s parameter. Pack a delicious lunch, lots of water and a picnic blanket. Find the perfect tree to lie under and enjoy a peaceful afternoon. Read a book or bring friends with to enjoy in the serenity of the botanical gardens. The gardens are open from 8am to 5pm daily, so visitors can enjoy an entire day of sunshine, without being hot and bothered.
Where: Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens, Malcolm Rd, Poortview, Roodepoort, sanbi.org/gardens/walter-sisulu/
Also read: Make the most of spring in Joburg with these 7 picnic spots
Wake board at Stoke City Cable Park
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Whether you enjoy wake boarding or not, StokeCity Cable Park has various water activities to help cool you off this weekend. The cable park is perfect for thrill seekers and wake board enthusiasts and the aqua park is an inflatable playground of dreams. For those looking to kick back and really relax, the swim and chill zone is for you.
Where: Stoke City Cable Park, Cnr. R562 & Olifantsfontein Road, Olifantsfontein, Midrand, stokecity.co.za
Unwind with Sunday sundowners at The Living Room
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With witty drink names and exquisite eats, there is no better way to spend your Sunday than at The Living Room. This garden-chic rooftop bar allows visitors to gaze at the city below while enjoying a punchy Pineapple Express cocktail. Feel the heat subside as the sun sets and the atmosphere becomes electric.
Where: 5th Floor Main Change Building, 20 Kruger Street, Maboneng Precinct, livingroomjozi.co.za
3. Durban
With a high of 28°C and a low of 24°C, Duban locals are in for a hot, humid weekend. Whether you want to embrace the heat or not, we have a line-up of exciting activities to help wait-out the warmth.
Eat at Circus Circus Beach Cafe
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Treat yourself to a gorgeous spread and a scenic ocean view at this quaint cafe.If you are looking to have a lazy afternoon with friends or family, opt to sit on the couches and people watch the day away. There is no better way to unwind from the week than with the ocean in sight and a good meal on the way.
Where: Circus Circus Beach Cafe, Shop 1, Snell Parade, Bay of Plenty, Durban, circuscircus.co.za/galleria/
Embrace the sun at Umhlanga Rocks
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Saturday will be summery in Durban and what better way to bask in the sunshine than at Durban’s Umhlanga Beach.
Break out the brolly and the lotion and enjoy the Indian Ocean while soaking up some Vitamin D. Pop on down to any of the restaurants that line the beach for a lazy lunch or sit back and sip on delicious sundowners.
Mountain bike or trail run at Holla Trails, Ballito Bay
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For exercise enthusiasts looking to take on the warm weather, a trail run or bike ride might do the trick.
Designed to suit any level of rider or runner, the trails are made for adventure and fun. A healthy and exciting way to spend the day, Holla Trails are home picturesque landscapes and is an excellent city escape, perfect for clearing the mind after a busy week.
Where: Holla Trails, Ballito Bay, Sugar Rush Park, Esenembe Rd, Ballito, hollatrails.co.za
