Discover the History and Beauty of King's Blockhouse
Explore the King's Blockhouse, a historic military outpost offering breathtaking views and a unique glimpse into Cape Town's rich heritage amidst stunning natural beauty.
Nestled on the slopes of Devil's Peak, the King's Blockhouse is a remarkable historical site that offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into South Africa's rich military past. This charming monument is perfect for tourists seeking to combine history with the natural beauty of the Table Mountain Nature Reserve.
A brief summary to King's Blockhouse
- Devil's Peak, Cape Town, Table Mountain (Nature Reserve), ZA
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes to fully enjoy the scenic trails leading to the Blockhouse.
- Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities in the area.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure clear views from the Blockhouse.
- Consider combining your visit with other hikes in the Table Mountain Nature Reserve for a full day of exploration.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving, head towards the entrance of Table Mountain National Park via Tafelberg Road. Follow the road signs to the parking area near the Lower Cableway Station. From there, park your car in the designated parking area, which may incur a fee of around R10 to R15 per hour. After parking, head towards the trail that leads to the King's Blockhouse, following the signs for the 'Devil's Peak' trail.
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Public Transportation
Take the MyCiTi bus to the 'Table Mountain' stop. From the bus stop, walk towards Tafelberg Road, and follow the road uphill towards the Lower Cableway Station. The walk will take approximately 15-20 minutes. Once you reach the Lower Cableway Station, you can either hike to King's Blockhouse via the Devil's Peak trail or take the cable car to the top, though the cable car is not necessary to reach the Blockhouse. The bus fare is approximately R20. After arriving at the Lower Cableway Station, you will need to hike about 2 hours to reach the Blockhouse.
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Hiking
From the Lower Cableway Station, take the trail marked for Devil's Peak. The path is well-maintained but can be steep in sections. Follow the signs, and ensure you have good hiking shoes and sufficient water. The hike to King's Blockhouse will take roughly 2 hours, depending on your pace. Ensure to check the weather conditions before you start, as the trail can be challenging in poor weather.
Discover more about King's Blockhouse
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