IT'S
COLD!
But there’s still fun to be had.
Winter months in Cape Town, Stellenbosch and the surrounding areas make you want to go crazy. It’s cold, it’s raining and it’s absolutely miserable. Fear not though, for within this list, something is bound to tickle your fancy. With a change of perspective and a few helpful suggestions, Winter doesn’t have to be so bad. Colder months means fashion layering, warm cups of coffee, a seat by the fire and cuddles with a significant other. Disclaimer: I cannot be held liable if you have no friends to do these activities with or person to cuddle, that may require an entirely different ‘how to’ piece.
Words by: Jordan Fernandez
The Labia Theatre
An obvious one but still a goody nonetheless. The Labia is an old school movie house. Currently showing David Attenborough’s documentary Ocean, amongst other new films like Materialists. From the 19th to the 29th of June, it will be one of the hosts of ‘Encounters’, a South African International Documentary Festival. With a tasteful and intimate atmosphere, you are not just paying for a film, but rather The Labia bar/coffee shop/terrace experience.
False Bay whale watching
From June to November, it is peak season for Southern Right Whales to be coming close to shore due to breeding patterns. Whether sneaking a peek from Clarence Drive in the early morning or going to sit somewhere in Simon’s Town or Kalk Bay, this outing might be mid if you see nothing or could end up being spectacular. It’s less so about the whales, more so about getting out of bed, doing something different and appreciating the nature and beauty which Cape Town has on offer.
Make snow angels
With a little bit of petrol money and your biggest puffer jacket, an hour away from Cape Town, you can see snow. The Matroosberg mountains from June to July has snow days which can allow for all the fun winter activities we don’t get to do often in South Africa. Keep an eye on the weather forecast and when you see snow, you go. If it is going to be this cold, might as well embrace it. Snowreport.co.za has live cam footage of the Matroosberg and Cederberg mountains. You can check for snow yourself to decide if the trek is worth it.
Watch the sunset
Everyone knows sunsets are better in Winter for several weather and geography-related reasons. Whether it’s Signal Hill, the Sea Point Promenade or an unobstructed view from Camps Bay, if there’s one thing that puts the world on pause, it’s a marvellous sunset. Even just sitting on the balcony, cup of tea in hand, watching from the comfort of your home, might bring you more joy than you think. As long as you make the concentrated effort to get outside, this can be an activity which requires 0 additional effort.
That Winter Fest
On the 12th of July, Rock and Roll seems to be on the agenda. Foul Play and Boogy Central are showcasing some incredible acts including Kayla The Crow, Toughguy and The Tazers. Now believe me, this genre isn’t my first pick but upon listening to Fantasy Factory, I think I could get behind headbanging to these dynamic and bass-filled tunes. You don’t know if you’ll like it, till you’ve tried it. So, give this some investigation, and you might have just found something to look forward to in the coming months.
The Philharmonic Winter Symphonies
Cape Town City Hall offers the opportunity to see a world-class symphony on Thursdays in June. Take the opportunity to dress up, put on that coat you do not often get to wear and listen to some classical music for the soul. This might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but for those who do love it, Il Trovatore and Mozart for two is worth every cent. It’s warm, it’s cozy, and it’s safe from the rain. Music gets us through all stages and phases of life, so whether its Hellcats or Mozart, allow yourself to indulge.
Long Street Baths
Alright so, this is kind of weird but for R35 you can have a swim in a heated pool on Long Street. I say weird because to say ‘bath’ feels weird, doesn’t it? However, the concept is pretty cool. Heated pools, saunas, and steam rooms are available and on Tuesdays, ladies get VIP use only. The sky lights create a shimmery water where you and other adults can play mermaids together! Jokes aside, for those who miss swimming in Winter, this is a nice way to get some exercise and claim back what the cold steals.
