Explore the Historic Queen's Blockhouse
Discover the Queen's Blockhouse, a historic gem in Table Mountain Nature Reserve, offering stunning views and a glimpse into Cape Town's military past.
Queen's Blockhouse is a historic site nestled in the breathtaking Table Mountain Nature Reserve, offering tourists a glimpse into the military history of Cape Town amidst stunning natural beauty. This charming structure, built in the early 1800s, is not only a testament to the area's rich past but also a perfect vantage point for panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
A brief summary to Queen's Blockhouse
- Cape Town, Table Mountain (Nature Reserve), ZA
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photographs.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the terrain can be uneven and there are several trails leading to the blockhouse.
- Bring along a picnic to enjoy while taking in the spectacular views from the blockhouse.
- Check the weather conditions before your visit, as the area can be misty, which might obscure the views.
- Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning panoramas and unique architectural features of the Blockhouse.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, head to the entrance of Table Mountain National Park at the Lower Cableway Station. Make sure to park in the designated parking area. From there, take the scenic route via the Tafelberg Road. Follow the road signs that direct you to the top of Table Mountain. After about 15 minutes of driving, you will reach a parking area near the Upper Cableway Station. Park your car here. The Queen's Blockhouse is approximately a 30-minute hike from this point. Follow the well-marked signs towards the hiking trails that lead to the Blockhouse. The hike is moderately steep but offers rewarding views.
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Public Transportation
To reach Queen's Blockhouse using public transportation, take the MyCiTi bus service to the Table Mountain Cableway stop. From there, you can either walk to the Lower Cableway Station or take a short taxi ride if you prefer. At the Lower Cableway Station, purchase a ticket for the cable car (approximately R360 for a round trip). Once you reach the Upper Cableway Station, follow the signs for the hiking trails towards Queen's Blockhouse. The hike takes about 30 minutes and is moderately steep, but the views are spectacular.
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Hiking
If you’re already in the park and prefer to hike, you can start your journey from the nearest trailhead. Follow the signs for the Platteklip Gorge trail, which is one of the most direct routes to the top of Table Mountain. This trail leads you to the Upper Cableway Station. From there, follow the signage to the Queen's Blockhouse. The total hiking time from the trailhead to the Blockhouse will be approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on your pace. Ensure you have enough water and wear appropriate hiking shoes.
Discover more about Queen's Blockhouse
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