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AA leisurely ride on horseback along a desolate beach is the stuff of dreams, but on Cape Town's Noordhoek Beach, at the foot of Chapman's Peak Pass, you'll be able to turn your dreams into reality.
Noordhoek is a long stretch of sand linking the town of Noordhoek with the village of Kommetjie. Soft sand, gentle dunes and the wild approach of the Atlantic Ocean against the backdrop of Chapman's Peak Pass and the mountains towards Simon's Town round off the scene.
A number of local stables offer horse riding at Noordhoek at 9am and 1pm, and another in the late afternoon (time is determined by the seasons). The excursion is a two-hour beach horse ride, which also caters for children from the age of 12 as well as inexperienced riders. Riding schools in the area also offer lessons for those wanting more than just a one-off horse riding experience.
The beach is not popular among bathers, but is often dotted with surfers, bodyboarders and kite surfers when the waves are good. It's also a favourite beach for long walks with dogs.
The rides offer unparalleled scenery, a visit to the wreck of the Kakapo (on the beach) and wonderful birdwatching for twitchers thanks to the indigenous fynbos vegetation that fringes the beach.
Knowledgeable guides and well-behaved horses are the hallmark of the experience, which caters for groups of up to 6 riders at a time.
Apart from Noordhoek horse rides, there are a rich variety of activities, so you can really make a day of it, with an early-morning ride followed by some surfing, cycling or trout fishing. There are also some beautiful nature walks.
Restaurants and curio shops in the area offer fine cuisine and shopping to round off a day spent at Noordhoek.
Did You Know?
Travel tips & planning info
Who to contact
Sleepy Hollow Horse Riding
Tel: +27 (0)21 7892341 or +27 (0)83 261 0104
Imhoff Equestrian Centre
Tel: +27 (0)82 774 1191
How to get here
Drive along the ultra-scenic Chapman's Peak Pass to get from Cape Town to Noordhoek.
Best time to visit
The Cape is at its most sparkling during the autumn and spring months.
Things to do
Noordhoek is on the tourist route so you could include it in your itinerary when paying a visit to Cape Point or planning a trip over the scenic Chapman's Peak Drive.
What to pack
Wear a pair of jeans and shoes with a heel. Hard hats are available at the stables if you don’t have your own.
Where to stay
Noordhoek has a great selection of guest houses and B&Bs nearby
What to eat
The Noordhoek Farm Village is an excellent place to eat. Try the Foodbarn for breakfast or Cafe Roux for lunch.
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