Image Samantha Corbett
Hout Bay has several art galleries to wander through. Take the time to visit the Hout Bay Gallery in Victoria Avenue. Established in 1984, it is a vibrant and energetic gallery featuring many South African artists including David Kuijers, Glen Tong, Paul Du Toit, Robert Slingsby, Vanessa Berlein, Sarah Danes Jarrett, Jan Vermeiren, Richard Scott, Russell Travers, Koos De Wet, Shirley Harris and many more. The barn in beach Crescent and Visions Art gallery are other options.
Narrowing down Cape Town’s galleries is nearly impossible as art is such a subjective pursuit. The National Gallery is rather lovely, located in the Company Gardens and hosting a permanent collection of African, historical, modern and contemporary works, including well-known examples from the likes of Irma Stern, Jane Alexander, Gerard Sekota, Penny Siopsis and Kendall Geers. The Company Garden restaurant is a must. Mingle with the locals and enjoy giant swing seats whilst tucking into tasty morsels. It’s a great morning out.
If you’re more of a contemporary art fan then peruse the World Art Gallery in Church Street, which specialises in managing and marketing South African artists and their work. There’s a definite lean towards urban and pop painting styles and the exhibitions change frequently.
If you’re like me, and simply can’t decide which galleries to visit then why not visit them all? First Thursdays happens on the first Thursday of every month and involves a number of galleries, restaurants and boutiques opening their doors until 9pm to allow the public to browse. There’s plenty of wine and snacks on offer and the atmosphere is always festive making it a pleasant night out. If you happen to be in Cape Town on the first Thursday of the month – then this is an occasion not to miss.
Image Samantha Corbett
Almost local wine estates to revel in:
We are really spoilt for choice if you are a food lover or enjoy a glass of the best Cape wine losing yourself in the mountains and sunshine. Just up the road from Kairos, you can spend hours whiling away the day as you explore:
The Constantia Wine Route is perfect for a fun day out with friends and family – think verdant vines, shady oaks, rolling lawns and sun-kissed harvests. Stop in at Steenberg, the Cape’s oldest registered farm, to sample the estate’s unique terroir including the Nebbiolo and Methode Cap Classique.
Next, head to Constantia Uitsig for outstanding views and vintages, and then drive to Buitenverwachting for a delectable lunch on the mountain-facing terrace, accompanied by award-winning wines. Groot Constantia is another must for the tasting agenda as it is the Cape’s oldest wine producing estate, founded by Simon van der Stel in 1685.
Follow this up with a trip to Eagles Nest where you can taste sumptuous wines in the serene garden, and then drive up the hill to Constantia Glen, which offers wonderful cheese platters, outstanding wines and a breath-taking view of the valley. End your day with tapas and wine at the modern and intimate Beau Constantia.
