Where to Watch The Summer Solstice in Cape Town

Make the most of the longest day and shortest night of the year by taking in a spectacular Cape Town sunset

The 2017 summer solstice takes place on Thursday, 21 December with the latest sunset of the year taking place at 7:57pm.

In Cape Town, there is every reason to celebrate the summer solstice. Blessed with mild summers and spectacular vantage points from which to bid the dipping midsummer sun farewell, the stage has already been set as a high of 26 degrees with sunny conditions forecast for the day.

Here are some great places in the Mother City to observe the 2017 summer solstice.

CHAPMAN’S PEAK
Although this picturesque mountain pass may erratically close for roadworks due to maintenance, there is a scenic vantage point which is accessible 365 days a year, providing views of a gorgeous Atlantic coastline and pristine Noordhoek wetlands. On the southern end of Chapman’s Peak, when approaching from Noordhoek, there is a shoulder on the roadside where motorists can safely park and take in the view. This little spot offers one of the most underrated sunset viewpoints in Cape Town.

VICTORIA ROAD
Victoria Road is already a popular stretch thanks to its close proximity to the four Clifton beaches and Camps Bay, and one of the city’s first-rate walks can be found right here. Start at at the end of Sea Point and make your way south toward Camps Bay – you’ll be in a prime location above the sea with an unparalleled view of the solstice sunset.

LONG BEACH, KOMMETJIE
White sand and a shimmering Atlantic ocean, reflecting the orange splendour of the most drawn-out sunset of the year, forms a fantastic backdrop from which to celebrate the middle of summer. Grab a blanket, picnic basket and enjoy the surrounding of one of the most pristine beaches Cape Town has to offer.

LION’S HEAD
Of course Lion’s Head would make its way onto this list! The world-famous peak sees thousands of visitors annually scale the summit – with a very worthy reward at the top in the form of 360-degree views of Cape Town and beyond. What makes observing the summer solstice from Lion’s Head particularly special is that it is perhaps the finest view of the latest, most lingering sunset of the year from anywhere in the city. 

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Make the most of a summer evening by enjoying a cocktail at one of these sundowner spots around Cape Town. Alternatively, learn more about sunset hikes and Lion’s Head. Fancy dining with a sea view? Try these outdoor restaurants with a sea view.

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